BN40W Terminal Block Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The BN40W is a 2-position feed-through terminal block connector manufactured by IDEC, designed for screw termination of electrical conductors in the 8-16 AWG range. This component operates at 600V UL and carries a maximum current rating of 40A. The BN40W is classified as obsolete, necessitating identification of functionally equivalent alternatives for ongoing system maintenance and new designs requiring compatible terminal block solutions.

Substiute Parts

BN40W

IDECIn Stock: 1189BN40W Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

BN50W

IDECIn Stock: 1215BN50W Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The BN40W belongs to the IDEC BN-W series of 2-position feed-through terminal blocks with screw termination. Substitution eligibility is determined by the following critical parameters:

Compatibility Criteria:

• Number of positions: 2 (fixed requirement)
• Number of levels: 1 (fixed requirement)
• Termination style: Screw (fixed requirement)
• Type: Feed through (fixed requirement)
• Voltage rating: 600V UL (minimum requirement)
• Insulation material: Polyphenylene Ether (PPE)
• Color: Black
• Series: BN-W

Variable Parameters Allowing Substitution:

• Wire gauge range (may be broader than original)
• Current rating (may be equal or higher)
• Terminal width (may vary within mechanical compatibility)

The BN50W qualifies as a substitute because it maintains all fixed compatibility criteria while offering enhanced electrical specifications within the same product series.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The BN50W is the manufacturer-recommended substitute for the obsolete BN40W. Both components share identical mechanical form factors within the BN-W series and maintain equivalent voltage and insulation specifications. The BN50W provides enhanced electrical capacity with a 60A current rating compared to the BN40W's 40A rating, and accommodates a broader wire gauge range (6-16 AWG versus 8-16 AWG). The BN50W's active product status ensures ongoing availability and supply chain continuity.

Selection of the BN50W is appropriate for applications where the original BN40W specifications are met or exceeded. The increased current capacity and expanded wire gauge compatibility present no functional limitations for circuits designed for the BN40W. Mechanical integration requires verification of terminal width tolerance (15.5mm versus 14.0mm) within the specific mounting or panel configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the BN50W directly replace the BN40W in existing installations?

A: The BN50W is mechanically and electrically compatible with applications designed for the BN40W. Both components feature identical 2-position, single-level feed-through configuration with screw termination and 600V UL rating. The BN50W's 60A current capacity exceeds the BN40W's 40A rating, and its 6-16 AWG wire gauge range encompasses the BN40W's 8-16 AWG specification. Verification of terminal width accommodation (15.5mm versus 14.0mm) in the specific mounting location is required.

Q: What is the significance of the wire gauge range difference?

A: The BN40W accepts 8-16 AWG conductors (8mm² cross-section), while the BN50W accepts 6-16 AWG conductors (14mm² cross-section). The BN50W's broader range accommodates larger diameter conductors. For applications using only 8-16 AWG wire, both components function identically. The expanded range in the BN50W provides design flexibility for future modifications without component substitution.

Q: Why is the BN40W classified as obsolete?

A: The BN40W is no longer in active production by IDEC. The BN50W represents the current-generation equivalent within the BN-W series, offering improved electrical specifications and broader application compatibility. Procurement of the BN40W is limited to existing inventory; new designs and replacements utilize the BN50W.

Q: Are there any packaging differences between these components?

A: The BN40W is listed with unspecified packaging, while the BN50W is supplied in bulk packaging. Both components share identical electrical and mechanical specifications. Packaging format does not affect functional performance or compatibility.

Q: What certifications apply to both components?

A: Both the BN40W and BN50W carry identical export control classification (ECCN: EAR99) and harmonized tariff code (HTSUS: 8536.90.4000). Both maintain Moisture Sensitivity Level 1 (Unlimited), indicating no moisture-related handling restrictions during storage or installation.