3-way connection block

A 3-way connection block, also known as a terminal block, lever connector or splicing connector, is a type of electrical connection device that is commonly used in the United Kingdom and other countries around the world. They are designed for terminating or connecting cables of the same insulation colour, up to a certain amperes rating, also known as amps. Some older installations where old phase colours are still in use, such as the old red line (live) you could therefore connect to the new harmonized brown coloured cable. The same protocol can be used with the old neutral wire, which was black, this old black cable can only be connected to the new harmonized blue cable. Allowing for the safe and efficient connections of electric cable, these 3-way connectors are commonly used by electricians in a wide range of applications such as in industrial or commercial settings, as well as in domestic installations. They come in different sizes, designs, and colours.

A 3-way terminal block lever connector, such as a 32amp QL3322 is one such versatile product that can be used to connect and terminate copper cables of different gauges and types, whether stranded or solid conductor. They are manufactured from high-quality plastic and feature an interlinked three-way copper terminal, each of which can accept a single copper conductor. The terminals are not labelled given they will normally be identified by the cable insulation colour terminated into them. Electricians will need to take extra care however when connecting older phase colour cables to the newer harmonized cables.

One of the main benefits of 3-way splicing connectors, such as the 32amp 221-413, is that they offer a safe and reliable way to terminate a conductor safely. They provide a secure connection that can help to prevent wires from becoming loose or disconnected, which in turn can prevent electrical fires through arcing, short circuits, or electric shock.

Another benefit of 3-way terminal blocks is that they are easy to install and require little or no maintenance once installed, provided they are accessible. They typically feature a simple and user-friendly design that makes them easy to install for electricians and are often installed within a plastic or metal panel, enclosure, or adaptable box. Additionally, they can be easily disconnected and re-connected, thus making maintenance, and troubleshooting tasks more manageable.

3-way terminal blocks are also suitable for many other applications. They are commonly used in industrial settings, such as in factories and warehouses to connect or extend electrical cables safely. They are also used in commercial settings, such as offices and retail spaces, for similar reasons.

They can also be used in domestic settings by electricians to terminate groups of cables together or to extend cables at the rear of socket outlets. Electricians also use 3-way terminal blocks for installing additional lighting off existing circuits, where safe termination is required. Central Heating engineers will also use 3-way terminal blocks for connecting pumps, three-way valves and wall mounted thermostats, as well hot water tank thermostats. 

Measured in amps, 3-way compact splicing connectors are available in different current ratings, such as the higher rated 41amp 221-613. Any type of cable connection device should only be installed by a qualified electrician.