Flexible Terminal Blocks for Smarter Signal Marshalling in Process Automation

Published by Pacific Automation on 9th Jan 2026

A late instrument addition, a control philosophy update, or a scope adjustment can quickly turn a clean marshalling design into a source of delays and rework.

 

Signal marshalling is often one of the first areas to feel the impact when automation projects change direction.

A late instrument addition, a control philosophy update, or a scope adjustment can quickly turn a clean marshalling design into a source of delays and rework.

The Weidmüller Klippon Connect W2C and W2T terminal block range, supplied by Pacific Automation, is designed to reduce that friction by allowing marshalling systems to evolve without dismantling what’s already been built.

 

When the Design Changes but the Wiring Is Already Installed

In traditional marshalling systems, changing function often means rewiring. The W2C (single-level) and W2T (multi-level) terminal blocks take a different approach.

Both ranges support the common marshalling functions required in process automation, feed-through, disconnect, fuse, and protective earth (PE). With the W2T multi-level variants, multiple functions can be combined into a single terminal block, such as feed-through with fuse or feed-through with disconnect.

If requirements change late in the project, disconnect and fuse functions can be altered by replacing or reversing the functional element, while leaving the existing wiring untouched. This preserves installed cabling and avoids unnecessary rework during commissioning.

 

Making Commissioning Less Disruptive

Loop checks and testing are unavoidable, but they don’t have to interrupt wiring integrity. Every W2C and W2T terminal block includes integrated test taps at each connection point, allowing standard probes to be inserted without loosening terminals or disturbing field wiring.

On fuse terminals, testing can be carried out before and after the fuse, regardless of whether it is open or closed. This simplifies fault finding, improves safety, and supports consistent testing across large instrumentation systems.

 

Protecting Signals Where It Matters Most

In process environments, signal quality is just as critical as connectivity. The W2C and W2T range supports flexible shielding strategies, allowing cable shields to be bonded directly to protective earth via the DIN rail or connected to a potential-free busbar.

This flexibility helps engineers manage grounding schemes more effectively and reduce the risk of ground loops in sensitive analogue and digital circuits.

Fuse variants are also designed with low leakage current, limited to 500 µA at nominal voltage in BFI circuits, helping maintain signal stability in critical measurement paths.

 

Designing Marshalling Panels Digitally First

Modern automation projects increasingly rely on digital planning to reduce risk. The W2C and W2T terminal blocks are fully supported in the Weidmüller Configurator (WMC), allowing marshalling layouts to be designed, validated, and documented before panel construction begins.

This supports clearer documentation, fewer on-site changes, and smoother transitions from design to build and commissioning.

 

Marshalling That Works With the Project, Not Against It

Rather than locking systems into fixed decisions, the W2C and W2T range supports a more flexible approach to marshalling:

  • Multiple functions supported within a single terminal family

  • Functional changes possible without rewiring

  • Built-in test access for efficient commissioning

  • Shielding options to protect signal integrity

  • Digital design tools to support modern workflows

For projects where change is unavoidable, these terminal blocks help ensure the marshalling strategy remains an asset, not a constraint.

Contact Pacific Automation to discuss how Weidmüller W2C and W2T terminal blocks can support flexible, future-ready signal marshalling in your next process automation project.