The Beckhoff KL9080 Separation Terminal is a simple yet essential accessory for modular automation systems built on the Bus Terminal platform. Designed as a placeholder with K-bus transmission capability, the KL9080 ensures uninterrupted signal continuity within terminal blocks while providing physical separation or organisational structuring of Bus Terminal assemblies.

Functionally, the KL9080 serves as a separation terminal that transmits the K-bus through to subsequent terminals without assigning any process data. This means it has a bit width of 0 in the process image, allowing it to be included in the terminal block without consuming valuable system resources. For engineers and system designers, this feature provides flexibility to structure terminal groups logically without impacting performance or memory usage.

With a slim 12 mm housing width, the KL9080 is designed for compact installations where space efficiency is a priority. Its minimal footprint makes it well suited for modern control cabinets where high-density wiring and modular expandability are key considerations. Despite its small size, the terminal is robust and built to the same standards of durability as other Beckhoff terminals.

The KL9080 is often used in scenarios where system separation, grouping, or future expansion is required. For example, it can be placed as a placeholder between functional terminal groups, providing clear organisational separation while maintaining the continuity of the K-bus. This is particularly valuable in complex automation systems where different subsystems or machine modules need to be distinguished physically but still connected electrically.

From a practical standpoint, the KL9080’s lightweight design (approx. 50 g) and wide operating temperature range of -25 to +60°C ensure reliable operation in a variety of industrial environments. Whether deployed in standard control cabinets, harsh factory settings, or temperature-variable conditions, it offers consistent performance as part of the Beckhoff modular system.

The terminal’s special feature of K-bus transmission makes it unique compared to simple blank spacers. It ensures that power and communication signals are seamlessly passed along the Bus Terminal string, allowing designers to build modular and scalable systems without interruption to the fieldbus communication chain.

In summary, the Beckhoff KL9080 Separation Terminal provides a simple but highly practical function within the Bus Terminal ecosystem. By acting as a placeholder with K-bus transmission, it allows system designers to organise, separate, and plan for expansions without sacrificing cabinet space or process image capacity. Compact, durable, and easy to integrate, the KL9080 is a valuable tool for maintaining structured and flexible automation solutions.