In industrial applications, switches provide the initial input to start the process. In some cases, assurance the switch will function under fault conditions provides a significant safety advantage. In other instances, sealing or some means to keep out dust and contaminants provides a level of ruggedness for reliable operation under a diverse range of conditions. When safety is involved, different agency approvals come into the picture such as Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Underwriters Labs. (UL), Canadian Standards Assoc. (CSA) or International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). Additional features can include illumination or some type of locking mechanism. These three rugged switches contain both of these features and more. Let the games, or this case, the work begin.
Safety Switches
IDEC's 30 mm XN E-stop Series deliver safe operation and a variety of functions. The switch's Safe Break Action design ensures NC contacts will open even if the contact block is damaged or separated from the operator due to excessive force. In addition, if the contacts are welded, Direct Opening Action ensures the force applied on the button will directly open the contacts. The XN series has a Safety Interlock Mechanism that keeps contacts open when the operator is locked. Up to 20 personal padlocks prevent unauthorized or accidental resetting of latched emergency stop switches. A push ON LED illuminates the switch when latched. With gold-plated silver contacts, the XN4E complies with OSHA and ISO 12100-2:2003, as well as meeting aspects of IEC60947 for the Direct Opening Action and Safety Lock mechanisms.
http://rbi.ims.ca/5406-562
Pushbutton Switches
Designed for both industrial applications and consumer electronics, NKK Switches' KB series are miniature, illuminated and non-illuminated pushbutton devices. Molded-in terminals lock out flux, dust and other contaminants. The switch's snap-action contact mechanism ensures long life and high contact reliability providing a minimum of 100,000 operations. Available circuit options include single and double pole in momentary or alternate configurations. A latch down position in alternate circuits instantly indicates circuit status, while standard audible and tactile feedback on all units ensures operators of a switch status change. With UL recognition and CSA certification, all models feature UL94V-0 case material and a choice of silver or gold contacts. Power models are rated at either 1A at 125/250V or 1A at 30V dc and logic level devices are rated at 0.4 VA maximum at 28V ac/dc maximum.
http://rbi.ims.ca/5406-564
Sealed Rocker Switches
When used with an integrated connector with twin locking tabs, Carling Technologies fully sealed W-Series (View W-Series Sealed Rocker Switch PDF) are completely submersible. Up to 10 individual wires can be connected below the panel and still have IP68 level protection. The Tri-Seal Design protects the switch including the terminal and connector. The switch's butt-action contacts come in a wide variety of circuitry and plating options. Illumination options include dual-level and multi-color LEDs. In addition, the switches are available with progressive and hazard warning circuits, ratings up to 10A 24V, choice of paddle, rocker, locking or laser-etched actuators. Using a roller pin mechanism that is lubricant free, the switches can operate at temperatures from -40 to 85C.
http://rbi.ims.ca/5406-563
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