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Snap action switches, sometimes referred to as limit switches, are a type of electrical contact switch used in many industrial and commercial applications. These switches are designed to quickly and accurately detect and activate when an object, such as a lever arm or a micro-switch, moves into one of its predetermined positions. Snap action switches have different names depending on the type of application they are used for, such as micro-switches, pushbutton switches and limit switches.

These switches have commonly been used in applications such as conveyor systems, safety switches, circuit breakers and even pressure and temperature control systems. In these uses, when a preset limit or action is reached or passed, the switch will trigger, activating and sending out a signal to the system. This activates a programmed action, such as stopping the conveyor system if an obstruction is detected, or tripping the circuit breaker if an overload occurs.

Snap action switches work through the combination of two main components: a spring and a contact element. At the center of each switch is a spring, which is designed to be delicate but very powerful. When an outside force is applied on the spring, it will compress until the predetermined limit has been reached, after which the spring will snap back into its initial shape.

This movement causes the second component of the switch, the contact element, to also move. This element is typically composed of two metallic plates that move together along the same axis as the spring and touch when the spring snaps into its initial shape. This causes an electric current to be sent through the system and create the programming action that was intended.

In addition to the basic function of switching off and on, snap action switches can also be used to detect the exact speed or current level of a system. This is made possible by calibrating the spring’s sensitivity to measure changes in current and speed. For instance, adjustable speed limit switches can be used in motor control systems to ensure that the motor never runs faster than the spring-set limit.

Snap action switches are also used in security systems to detect unauthorized access and to switch off a system in case of an emergency. For instance, a limit switch can be connected to an Intrusion Detection System (IDS) and activated when it detects any unexpected movement within a set range. This can trigger an alarm or shut down the system entirely.

Snap action switches are highly reliable, accurate and easy to use, making them a popular choice of switch in many industrial applications. They are used in a wide range of industries, including automotive, robotics and consumer electronics. Because of their simplicity and accuracy, they are often used as the primary switch when it is important to quickly and reliably detect changes in voltage or current levels.