Weidmuller USA, a leading provider of smart industrial connectivity and automation products and solutions, recently relied on its Snap In technology, and many busy hands, achieve an official Guinness World Records listing, creating a completely new record title that had not existed before: fastest time to connect 500 terminal blocks into a single chain by a team. The record attempt took place during a celebration marking Weidmüller Group’s 175th anniversary in Germany. Below, Frank Polley, Weidmüller’s vice president of business unit terminals, explains why the group took their shot at a record and what it proves for their customers.
MPT: This is not just a new world record, but one that’s never been attempted before. What came together to make this possible?
Frank Polley: Using Snap In connection technology, invented by Weidmüller, a team at the global headquarters in Detmold, Germany, wired 500 terminal blocks with a total of 1,000 connection points in a verified time of 2 minutes 55 seconds. The record was achieved by employees from Development, Product Management, and other specialist departments who were directly involved in developing the groundbreaking technology.
The record attempt was overseen by official Guinness World Records adjudicator Lena Kuhlmann, who evaluates and certifies record attempts worldwide. Drawing on her experience from numerous national and international record projects, she monitored compliance with all requirements and officially confirmed the result.
MPT: Is speed the main takeaway from setting this record, or does this achievement say something about the technology itself?
Frank Polley: For us, this record is far more than a measured time. It demonstrates what is possible when technological innovation, experience and teamwork come together. With Snap In, we have developed a technology that fundamentally simplifies industrial wiring. Our CEO, Randy Sadler, believes that this achievement sends a powerful message to the market: the future of industrial wiring is faster, simpler, and more productive.
Snap In technology can reduce wiring time by up to 75 percent, helping customers gain valuable time, improve efficiency and stay competitive. So congratulations are due to the team in Germany for turning breakthrough engineering into a Guinness World Records achievement.
MPT: Setting a Guinness World Record has long been a way to get people’s attention, so now that you have it, what do you want your customers to know?
Frank Polley: The Snap In connection technology developed by Weidmüller represents a new generation of electrical connection technology. It enables the direct, tool-free connection of conductors without requiring any additional action from a clamping mechanism, resulting in fast, safe and convenient wiring processes. The connection is confirmed visually by the green pusher popping out and audibly by a clear clicking sound.
With this Guinness World Record achievement, Weidmüller underscores its expertise in electrical connection technology and its commitment to translating technological innovation into practical applications.
Weidmuller USA, headquartered in Richmond, Virginia. for more than 50 years, is a pioneer of innovation in smart industrial connectivity and automation products and solutions. As part of the globally renowned Weidmüller Group, the company leverages a rich legacy and expertise that spans across production sites, sales offices, and representatives in over 80 countries. Weidmuller USA’s commitment to industrial transformation and developing future-ready products tailored to customers is unwavering. Weidmuller USA’s mission is to power the pioneers of industry with cutting-edge and sustainable technology. For more information, visit www.weidmuller.com.