83279612

Snap Action, Limit Switches

83279612 is a type of snap action, limit switches. Depending on its construction, a snap action switch can be classified as either a momentary switch, a toggle switch, a maintained contact switch, and a reed switch.

Application Field

Snap action switches have a wide range of applications in industry, such as in power systems, elevator control systems, automation systems, home appliances and control panels.

In these applications, a snap action switch is usually used to detect operation status or the current position of a moving part, such as a roller, of a machine.

Working Principle

The basic working principle of a snap action switch is based on a pair of metal contacts which cooperate to form an electrical circuit. As a plunger or rotor is moved into or out of the contacts when broken, the contacts snap open and closed. The snap action helps to ensure that the contacts remain firmly in place following activation.

During activation, the plunger or rotor compresses a coil spring which then drives the contacts open. The contacts remain open until the plunger or rotor is released and the spring drives the contacts closed. The resulting action is rapid and results in a distinctive audible “snap” sound.

Subtypes

Snap action switches are further divided into two main types depending on their construction. These are:

• Basic Snap Action Switches – also known as plunger type switches, these switches consist of a metal plunger which is pushed into the contacts to make or break the circuit.
• Reed Switches – these switches consist of two metal reeds arranged in such a way that when they come into contact they form a circuit. When a magnetic field is activated near the reeds, the polarity of the magnetic field causes the reeds to either make or break the circuit.

Regardless of the type of snap action switch, they all have the same basic construction and principle of operation. This makes them simple to install and use. It also makes them very reliable in operation and gives them a long service life.