Language
Country/Area
No result found
The Origin of Chocolate Bars: Why do the British call screw terminals "chocolate bars"? What's the story behind this?
In the world of electrical connections, screw terminals are a common connection method, mainly used to fix wires under screws. These electrical components are widely used because of their reliability and simplicity, and they have a special nickname in the UK - "chocolate bar". This name is not unfounded, but is related to its history, shape and materials.
Application of screw terminals
In construction, screw terminals are often used in electrical distribution, especially to connect power to various devices such as lighting fixtures and appliances. Maybe you've seen these connections somewhere in your home, providing vital support in your daily life. Not only that, they are often used to connect speakers in public address systems, showing their ubiquity in electrical engineering.
Generation of multi-channel version
Screw terminals are more than just connectors, they often appear in the form of "chocolate chunks". This connector consists of multiple strips of metal and insulating material, each equipped with a pair of screws, and is designed to connect different conductors. This allows users to easily and safely connect multiple conductive threads, and is shaped much like a small piece of chocolate. This design has become popular since it was developed by the British company GEC in the 1950s.
"The origin of the name chocolate bar, in addition to its shape being similar to chocolate, also conveys a simple and practical design concept."
Installation requirements and precautions
Although screw terminals are relatively simple and easy to use, you must pay attention to the process requirements of plugging during the installation process. Properly remove insulation from wires to ensure all wires are properly secured, and avoid over-tightening to prevent metal wires from being severed. This process requires skill and professional installation tools to ensure a safe and reliable connection. Especially for large electrical equipment, it is critical to properly adjust the tightening torque of screws.
Analysis of advantages and disadvantages
The advantage of screw terminals is that they are low cost and can be used for circuit connections in a variety of current ranges. They are also more reusable than other types of connectors. However, installing screw terminals still takes time, and the correct operating direction must be ensured when connecting, otherwise poor contact may occur.
Future direction
In the field of electrical engineering in recent years, with the development of new connection technologies, the frequency of use of screw terminals has gradually declined. Alternative technologies to promote screw terminals such as crimp, push-in and twist-type connectors are gradually becoming mainstream. However, it is still quite meaningful for every electrical engineer to learn and understand the history of screw terminals and the story behind their naming.
“As technology evolves, should we still cherish those classic designs and the history they carry?”
