Microswitches and aspects to consider when using them

Do you know what is common among vending machines, printers, refrigerators, air conditioners, microwave ovens, and photocopiers? It is a technology called micro switch. This technology is not limited to these machines and you will find many of them in almost every home or office. Let’s find out more.

Some people also refer to this technology as snap action switch or basic action switch. Taking a closer look at this term and the characteristics of this technology, it can be stated that this technology has been named so due to its miniature structure that is activated with minimal force.

Let us now go into more details and functionalities of this technology. It is an automated development that does not always require human interaction and is usually complemented by the movement of the equipment on which it is installed. One thing that sets it apart from other switches is its activation at predefined positions. Micro switches are available in the market with a wide range of sizes these days, but to keep things simple, we can classify them based on their size into three categories:

1. Miniature (approximately 28mm wide)

2. Subminiature (approximately 20mm wide)

3. Ultra-subminiature (approximately 13 mm wide)

These sizes are then matched with relevant terminals and actuators. Therefore, it is essential to choose the right terminals and actuators. In terminals, we have wires, pins, and other connections, while in actuators, we have plungers, levers, and rollers.

When operating these switches, it is important to keep a few considerations in mind for a safe and reliable experience. First let’s talk about the type and size of the load. Load is an important factor when it comes to switches because all loads have different capacities to draw current when initially turned on, such as the starting current of a motor will always be higher than that of a relay.

That said, it is also important that high current micro switches are not used to switch small-medium loads and that is why experts always recommend using gold plated connections when installing them. Ingress Protection Ratings (IP Ratings) are international standards that define the levels of effectiveness by which the mechanical enclosure is protected.

An IP rating of up to IP67 is recommended for these switches, which will keep them durable even in wet or dirty conditions. Another key consideration is the use of circuits They have the ability of contact protection. These circuits are specially designed to neutralize load and current surges. The next important point is switch shape. If the shape is round, it will be useful to avoid hitting the actuator. And there is one last tip that suggests the switch pins should don’t be too tight or in other words, the screws must not affect the switch body through their rigidity.

The micro switch is, in fact, a technology that we cannot take our eyes off, as it plays an important role in the management of numerous household appliances that surround us. I hope that these recommendations will help our readers to choose the right set of switches and plugins associated with this technology.