Standard DIN Rail and Clips Specifications

Understanding the specifications of a standard DIN rail is essential for ensuring compatibility and stability in electrical and industrial control panels. These metal rails provide a standardized mounting system for a wide range of components, from circuit breakers to power supplies. The precision of these specifications guarantees that equipment from different manufacturers can be installed seamlessly within the same enclosure. This guide focuses specifically on the technical details of common DIN rails and the DIN rail clips used to secure components.

Standard DIN Rail Types and Dimensions

DIN rails come in several standardized shapes and sizes, each designed for specific applications and load requirements. The most prevalent types are the Top Hat (TS35), Miniature Top Hat (TS15), C-section, and G-section rails. Each type adheres to strict dimensional standards to ensure modularity and interoperability across the industry.

Top Hat (TS35) – The Industry Standard

The TS35, or Top Hat rail, is the most widely used standard DIN rail in industrial automation and electrical installations. Its “hat-shaped” cross-section provides a secure and versatile platform for mounting a vast array of devices. It is defined by the IEC/EN 60715 standard.

TS35 rails are available in two primary depth profiles:

1. 35 mm x 7.5 mm: This is the standard profile, suitable for mounting most low-power devices like relays, terminal blocks, and compact circuit breakers.
2. 35 mm x 15 mm: Known as the “deep” or “high hat” version, this profile offers greater depth to support heavier or bulkier components, such as large power supplies, motor controllers, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs).

TS35 Standard DIN Rail Specifications Table

G-Type (TS32) Specifications

The G-type rail, often designated as TS32, is characterized by its asymmetrical “G” shape. This design provides exceptional support for heavier and higher-power components. Equipment is typically hooked over the deeper bottom lip and then rotated to clip onto the shallower top side, ensuring a very secure fit.

G-Type Standard DIN Rail Specifications Table

DIN Rail Clips

DIN rail clips are fundamental accessories used to attach components securely to a standard DIN rail. These clips are often integrated into the housing of DIN rail-mountable devices, but they are also available as separate adapters for equipment not originally designed for rail mounting. They come in various materials and designs to suit different needs.

Types of DIN Rail Clips and Adapters

• Mounting Adapters: These are used to mount items that don’t have a built-in DIN rail mount. They attach to the device and then clip onto the rail. Adapters are available in single-clip and double-clip versions for added stability with larger items.
• Spring Clips: These are simple, spring-loaded metal clips that provide a quick and easy way to attach lightweight components. They snap onto the rail and hold the device in place through tension.
• Stops (End Brackets): These are small clips that slide onto the rail and can be tightened with a screw. They act as bookends, preventing a row of terminal blocks or other components from sliding along the rail, especially in high-vibration environments.
• Spacers: Spacers are clip-on components that create a physical gap between devices on the rail. This is useful for improving airflow and cooling, organizing wiring, and preventing electrical interference between adjacent modules.

Materials and Selection

DIN rail clips are typically made from steel, stainless steel, aluminum, or durable plastic.

• Steel clips offer excellent strength and are the most common choice for industrial applications.
• Stainless steel clips provide superior corrosion resistance, making them ideal for outdoor or harsh environments.
• Plastic clips are lightweight and cost-effective, suitable for lighter components where high mechanical strength is not a primary concern.

When selecting a clip, consider the weight of the component, the type of DIN rail it will be mounted on (e.g., TS35 or TS15), and the environmental conditions.

Installation and Best Practices

Proper installation is key to leveraging the full benefits of a DIN rail system.

1. Cutting the Rail: Use a dedicated DIN rail cutter for clean, burr-free cuts. This prevents sharp edges that could damage wires or cause injury. If using a hacksaw, be sure to file the ends smooth.
2. Mounting the Rail: Secure the rail to the back panel of the enclosure using screws. If using a perforated rail, the slots provide mounting flexibility. For solid rails, you will need to drill your own mounting holes. Ensure the rail is level and securely fastened.
3. Attaching Components: Most DIN rail devices are designed to be hooked onto the top edge of the rail and then snapped down into place. A distinct “click” usually confirms that the device is securely latched by its integrated DIN rail clips.
4. Using Stops and Spacers: Once all components are mounted, place end stops at both ends of the component assembly to prevent movement. Use spacers as needed to manage heat and wiring.
5. Grounding: While a standard DIN rail is metallic, it should not be used as a primary grounding busbar. However, it can provide a chassis ground connection if properly bonded to the enclosure’s main ground point. Specific grounding terminal blocks are available for this purpose.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1: What are the standard lengths of DIN rails?
A1: DIN rails are typically sold in standard lengths of 1 or 2 meters (approximately 3.3 to 6.6 feet). They can easily be cut to any required size for custom panel layouts, making them highly flexible for various project scales.

2: What is the maximum weight a standard DIN rail can support?
A2: The weight capacity depends on the rail’s material, profile, and installation. A standard steel TS35 rail can generally support around 15-20 kg per meter. For heavier loads, using a deep-hat (15 mm) rail or a G-type rail is recommended.

3: What types of devices can be mounted on DIN rails?
A3: A wide variety of electrical and electronic components can be mounted, including circuit breakers, relays, terminal blocks, power supplies, PLCs, motor starters, and contactors. The standardized system allows for easy mixing and matching of devices from different brands.