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Weilang terminal block configuration software accelerates switchgear manufacturing

2026-04-06 08:16:43 · · #1
Every operator knows that designing switchgear is extremely expensive. Selecting the correct terminal types, accessories, markings, load-bearing beam structure, parts list preparation, drawings, and ordering documents—all of this often takes longer than expected. Furthermore, the implementation of projects faces significant time and cost pressures, posing a considerable challenge to designers and project engineers. Switchgear also requires a compact structure, meaning optimal use of existing space while maximizing wiring flexibility. All of this significantly increases the workload of compiling product data and assembling related equipment, further complicating project implementation. This necessitates expert systems and services that can be easily integrated into the entire process. Wieland Electric's terminal block configuration program, Wieplan 3.0, provides such a tool. Wieplan 3.0 can connect to Eplan's engineering tool, Electric P8, or its older software, Eplan 5. This software is used for terminal block configuration. The program guides the user step-by-step towards the goal. Confidentiality queries eliminate various errors. This allows electrical designers to more effectively manage their workflow in electrical engineering. The switchgear design process begins with determining a terminal point in Eplan Electric P8, at which point the characteristics of that terminal must be defined. Users can, but are not required to, select a specific terminal. After installation, the starting point for data output is defined by the icon built into the Eplan interface. Clicking this starting point initiates the terminal block output according to Wieplan 3.0. The product is automatically configured according to the corresponding data using a configuration file. Standard configuration files are available as a preferred option, but users can also create their own. Using this file, the corresponding accessories (such as intermediate pads) and bridging are configured based on the determined terminal point characteristics. This reduces design costs . Now, all completed terminal blocks and all data are defined in the software, such as terminal model, part number, accessories, and marking characters. Designers only need to return this data from Eplan Electric P8 or Eplan 5. If the designer wants to use their own part number in Eplan, they can input and configure it in Wieplan beforehand, allowing both systems to work and communicate using the same system at any time. Since Eplan does not manage terminals by load-bearing beam, Wieplan configures these terminals to Eplan. This allows for the configuration of a completed load-bearing beam to be installed in the switchgear. The configuration process guides the designer step-by-step: initially, the load-bearing beam can be selected, and its length and drilling diagram can be used for fabrication. Dimensions and data for reusable load-bearing beams can be saved. Now, the designer can install the terminal blocks on the load-bearing beam, modifying the identification characters as needed. Once the project is complete, the terminal blocks will look exactly the same as they will be in the switchgear. At this point, a parts list (also as an Excel file), a bridging list, an identification character list (also as an Excel or *.csv file), an attachment list, and color drawings of the terminal blocks (also as a *.dxf file) can be output. After the design phase, the switchgear manufacturer can fabricate the terminal blocks and load-bearing beam and begin assembling the switchgear. With a single click, Wieplan generates a quotation from Wieland for a complete set of assembled terminal blocks. Pre-fabricated, labeled, ready-to-install terminal blocks are available upon request. If users wish to assemble the terminal blocks themselves, labeling becomes one of the biggest challenges. Standard labels prevent customization. Therefore, Wiemarc labeling software and Wieplott 500 labeling system are available. These allow for labeling of terminal block names of various sizes, as well as various labels and cable markings. Terminal block markings can be generated directly from Wieplott by switchgear manufacturers. Using Wieplott, manufacturers can choose to install a milling unit to engrave lettering on two-layer plastic labels, such as for marking switchgear or distribution boxes. Terminal blocks with three connection technologies are available . Hardware terminals must also be synchronized with the software. Therefore, Wieland Electric offers a wide variety of terminal blocks with selectable connection technologies. Screw-in connectors are the most well-known and popular connection technology worldwide. The SEROS series is designed for this connection technology, enabling cabling from 0.14 to 240 mm². It features a large contact area, low resistance, and contact force independent of cross-sectional area. For those who prefer a flexible connection, the FASIS series is available. This terminal block is divided into the WKFN series and the BIT-S series. The former uses relay spring technology, suitable for industrial applications; the latter uses snap-fit ​​spring technology, suitable for building installations. The shock-resistant contact technology is applicable to connection ranges from 0.14 to 35 mm². With the SEROS series, IDC (Insulation Displacement Connection) technology allows for direct connection without pre-treatment of the wires or removal of the core end sleeves. This is considered an economical connection technology in terms of manufacturing. This terminal design is suitable for connection ranges below 2.5 mm². Compared to traditional cabling technologies, this technology saves up to 60% of the time. Seven advantages of the after-sales service and technical support design: 1. Connectable to Eplan's CAE tools, Eparn5, and Electric P8; 2. Eplan-Engineering-Tools is available worldwide; 3. The terminal block configuration software wieplan is now an open solution; 4. Enables bidirectional data exchange; 5. Provides intuitive user guidance; 6. Enables comfortable and efficient design of switchgear; 7. Online updates keep wieplan always up-to-date.
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