branch terminals

Tapping the main conductor without interruption – compact, standards-compliant, for large cross-sections

Branch connectors enable tapping from the main conductor to one or more outgoing conductors – without interrupting the main conductor. They have an asymmetric design: the main conductor (e.g. 25–150 mm²) passes through or is fed in, while the outgoing conductors (e.g. 1.5–35 mm²) are tapped off laterally. This makes branch connectors the ideal solution for power distribution in sub-distribution boards, machines, and industrial plant – wherever multiple loads need to be supplied from a single main cable. At WATT24 you'll find branch connectors for all common main conductor cross-sections.

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What is a branch connector?

A branch connector is a power distribution terminal for tapping from the main conductor to one or more outgoing conductors – without interrupting the main conductor. The design is asymmetric: the main conductor has a significantly larger cross-section than the outgoing conductors. The type code specifies the permitted cross-section combination directly – for the Pollmann HLAK 25-5/10, for example: main conductor 25 mm², outgoing conductors 5 and 10 mm².

Branch connectors are mounted without a DIN rail, directly in the installation – on cable trays, inside distribution boards, or directly at the cable. They are not a substitute for rail-mounted terminals inside control cabinets, but are designed for the main conductor level: wherever large cross-sections need to be branched without complex connection technology.

Important: The type code of a branch connector always specifies the permitted cross-section combination – both the main conductor and the outgoing conductors must be within the stated ranges. Over- or under-sized wiring is not permitted.

Branch connectors at a glance

Type	Main conductor	Outgoing conductors	Typical application
Branch connector – small	16–35 mm²	1.5–10 mm²	Sub-distribution boards, machine outgoing circuits
Branch connector – medium	35–70 mm²	4–25 mm²	Industrial plant, building services
Branch connector – large	70–150 mm²	10–35 mm²	Main distribution, large power outgoing circuits

Selecting the right branch connector

Three criteria are key:

Main conductor cross-section: The cross-section of the main conductor must fall within the permitted range of the connector – if in doubt, select the next size up
Outgoing conductor cross-sections: All outgoing conductors must also fall within the permitted cross-section range – the type code specifies the combination directly
Number of outgoing conductors: Branch connectors are rated for a defined number of outgoing conductors – for additional outgoing circuits, use multiple connectors in parallel

Tip: Always cross-check the rated current of the branch connector against the actual operating current of the main conductor – not just the cross-section. Especially on long cable runs, the connector's rated continuous current can become the limiting factor.

Frequently asked questions about branch connectors

What is the difference between a branch connector and a splicing connector?

Splicing connectors connect multiple conductors of the same cross-section on equal terms – all poles are internally linked conductively. Branch connectors are asymmetric: a main conductor passes through or is fed in, while smaller outgoing conductors are tapped off laterally. Branch connectors are designed for power distribution; splicing connectors are for field wiring in junction boxes.

Is the main conductor interrupted in a branch connector?

No. In most branch connectors, the main conductor passes through without interruption – the outgoing conductors are connected conductively without the main conductor needing to be cut. This is the key advantage over conventional distribution via terminal strips.

What cross-sections are typical for branch connectors?

The main conductor typically has a cross-section of 16 mm² to 150 mm², the outgoing conductors from 1.5 mm² to 35 mm². The exact combination is specified in the type code – HLAK 25-5/10 means main conductor 25 mm², outgoing conductors 5 and 10 mm².

Where are branch connectors used?

Branch connectors are used wherever multiple loads or sub-distribution boards need to be tapped from a main cable – typically in industrial plant, machine controls, sub-distribution boards, and building services.

Which standard applies to branch connectors?

Branch connectors for power distribution must comply with IEC 60947-7-1 (in Germany: VDE 0611-1). The key requirements relate to rated current, rated voltage, and mechanical connection strength for the relevant conductor cross-sections.

Buy branch connectors at WATT24

At WATT24 you'll find branch connectors for all common main conductor cross-sections – from compact versions for sub-distribution boards to heavy-duty connectors for large cross-sections, available for fast delivery at fair prices for electricians and commercial customers.

Questions about selection? Our team is happy to help – by phone, email, or via our contact form.

branch terminals

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KATHRIN BRANDT

OMAR NASER

RAINER SEIDEL

What is a branch connector?

Branch connectors at a glance

Selecting the right branch connector

Frequently asked questions about branch connectors

Buy branch connectors at WATT24

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branch terminals

Filter

Filter

Categories

KATHRIN BRANDT

OMAR NASER

RAINER SEIDEL

What is a branch connector?

Branch connectors at a glance

Selecting the right branch connector

Frequently asked questions about branch connectors

Buy branch connectors at WATT24