Only a few people would know what DIN rail systems do, but they have an important function in the electrical devices. DIN rails bind together the essential electrical components. When designing electrical devices, DIN rail systems are used to support the structure. But, what would support the DIN rails? For that, DIN rail enclosures have been designed. DIN rail enclosures are protective housings that secure and shields electrical components mounted on DIN rails. 

Here’s a guide to DIN rail systems that would help you choose the right one for your electrical equipment and devices. 

What are DIN Rails? 

DIN is the short form for Deutsches Institut für Normung, which in English means German Institute for Standardisation. Originally, it was this institute that set regulations for these rails. After recognising the need to standardise electrical component installation, this organisation developed the DIN standard. Published in 1928, the DIN standard has undergone various changes owing to developments in the electrical industry, without much change in its main design. 

DIN rails are metallic structures that are used as mounting components to organise electrical devices within junction boxes, control cabinets, etc. These mounting components offer compact construction that enables the setting up of electrical elements in a given wiring layout. Depending on the needs and applications, DIN rails can be made up of a variety of materials. The most common materials for constructing these are steel, aluminium and stainless steel. 

Types of DIN Rails:

There are four main types of DIN rails, which come in various shapes and measurements. 

1) Top Hat Rails

Also known as TS35 rails, the top hat rails are one of the most common DIN rails, measuring 35mm. Most of the modern electrical devices use this as a mounting platform. These rails have uniform flanges on either side to align the electrical components.  

2) C Rails

These are 32mm rails that present the C letter shape. It is basically the reverse side of the top hat rail. The flanges of a C rail face inside, offering extra assistance to heavier components. Though they were the most common types, it’s no longer used frequently. 

3) Mini Top Hat Rails

The shape of these rails is similar to TS35 rails. The only exception is their edge-to-edge width is 15mm instead of 35mm. Hence, the miniature ones offer smaller sizes than TS35 top hat rails. The depth of these rails is 5.5mm, like that of the TS35 ones. However, they are shallower than the TS35 rails. The mini top hat rails are used to hold smaller components like relays and compact junction boxes. 

4) G Rails

Also known as TS32 rails, G rails present an asymmetrical G-shape. The G rails are used to attach larger and heavier components owing to the additional support they offer. These rails also ensure that electrical components are fitted correctly. 

What is the Importance of DIN Rails?

The design of DIN rails is simple, but they play a crucial role in electrical components. The importance of DIN rails are as follows: 

- They offer easy installation of electrical equipment rather than mounting individual elements directly to the enclosure’s body. 

- DIN rails make wiring designs simply by providing central area connectors and wiring to pass through. 

- These systems make installation and uninstallation easy for electrical components. 

• - They offer uniform standards for most PLCs, circuit breakers and terminal blocks. DIN rails enable device designers to utilise parts from diverse manufacturers, guaranteeing that they will fit the DIN rail. 

Applications of DIN Rail Enclosures:

Along with the DIN rails, the DIN rail enclosures have a variety of applications. Here are a few of them. 

- Ensure to secure house data monitoring systems. The housings offer easy-access panels and ventilation to protect the electrical systems from overheating. 

• - DIN rail enclosures can be integrated into building management systems. These come with customisation options. 
• - DIN enclosures offer an organised setup for passing of cables, which helps create clean and powerful distribution systems. 
• - The customisable options of DIN rail enclosures enable mounting electrical components for light controls and heating.

Conclusion

DIN rails have the potential to bring about a change in any sector by arranging and managing electrical components. To ensure protection of the electrical components mounted on DIN rails, it is essential to use DIN rail enclosures. 

Mech Power is also offering the Italtronic’s DIN Rail enclosure on the website. The Modulbox is designed for electronic components of various sizes and they come in different customisation options. To protect your electrical device from any physical damage, you can use rail box and modulbox options like Modulbox XTS, Modulbox XT PLC, Modulbox XTS Compact, Modulbox Special and more.