Snap Action, Limit Switches

Part Number	Description / PDF	Quantity
618.6821.261 Altech Corporation	LIMIT SWITCHPLASTIC BODY I88-A2Z	0
600.8116.013 Altech Corporation	LIMIT SWITCH 10A/240V AC C2-U1Z	13
51.951N Altech Corporation	FTSWFK1SU1LUGYREDGD SPDTMOMNOCAI	10
51.101R Altech Corporation	FOOT SWITCHFS1U1STDCLR 1NO/1NCSL	0
608.7821.009 Altech Corporation	LIMIT SWITCH METAL BODY ENM2-A2Z	3
606.2610.014 Altech Corporation	TWOPEDAL FOOT SWITCH F2-U1Z/U1Z	1
602.2500.416 Altech Corporation	LIMIT SWITCH SWITCH BODY ONLY GC	0
51.903B Altech Corporation	FOOT SWITCHFK1SU1FBK SPDTMOM2MCA	0
604.1818.741 Altech Corporation	LIMIT SWITCH METAL BODY D-A2Z RW	0
614.1103.627 Altech Corporation	LIMIT SWITCHPLASTIC BODY D-U11Z	0
608.7387.019 Altech Corporation	LIMIT SWITCH METAL BODY ENM2-SU1	0
608.6321.100 Altech Corporation	LIMIT SWITCHPLASTIC BODY I88-UV1	2
51.712G Altech Corporation	FOOT SWITCHFM2SU2(2X)K1GY DPDTMO	0
601.8119.067 Altech Corporation	SAFETY SWITCH LATCH -F-NC-55-R1-	0
608.9185.066 Altech Corporation	LIMIT SWITCH I49-SUIZ AH (VERTIC	0
608.9167.052 Altech Corporation	LIMIT SWITCH I49-SUIZ RIW (HORIZ	19
603.3371.006 Altech Corporation	LIMIT SWITCH METAL BODY SN2-SU1Z	0
601.6169.039 Altech Corporation	SAFETY INTERLOCK SWITCH SKC-A1Z	2
608.5103.100 Altech Corporation	LIMIT SWITCH BI2-U1Z W	12
608.3000.253 Altech Corporation	LIMIT SWITCH I81-M16 NORM	0

Snap Action, Limit Switches

1. Overview

Snap-action switches and limit switches are critical electromechanical components that enable precise control of electrical circuits through mechanical motion. Snap-action switches feature a rapid-acting contact mechanism that ensures quick response to positional changes, while limit switches specifically detect the presence or absence of objects at predefined positions. These devices are fundamental in automation systems, safety circuits, and equipment interlocking, providing reliable feedback for process control and machine protection.

2. Main Types and Functional Classification

Type	Functional Features	Application Examples
Standard Snap-Action Switch	Fast contact actuation, compact size, tactile feedback	Appliances, control panels
Heavy-Duty Limit Switch	Metal housing, high mechanical endurance	Industrial machinery, conveyor systems
Sealed Snap Switch	IP67-rated enclosure, resistant to dust/moisture	Outdoor equipment, washdown environments
Miniature Snap Switch	Sub-10mm dimensions, low operating force	Medical devices, IoT sensors

3. Structure and Components

Typical construction includes: - Actuator Mechanism: Lever, plunger, or roller assembly for motion detection - Contact System: Silver alloy contacts with snap-action spring for rapid switching - Housing: Thermoplastic (UL94 V-0) or metal enclosure with mounting features - Terminal Options: Quick-connect terminals, PCB pins, or screw terminals - Environmental Seals: Optional EPDM gaskets or molded-in sealing lips

4. Key Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical Range	Importance
Rated Current	0.1-15A	Determines load capacity and contact lifespan
Operating Voltage	12-600VAC/DC	Affects insulation requirements and arcing resistance
Mechanical Life	10 -10 operations	Indicates durability under non-load conditions
Electrical Life	10 -10 operations	Measures contact longevity under rated load
Actuation Force	0.5-20N	Affects sensitivity and mechanical interface design
Response Time	1-10ms	Critical for high-speed automation applications

5. Application Fields

Industrial Automation: CNC machine tool positioning, robotic end-effectors
Building Systems: HVAC damper control, automatic door systems
Medical Equipment: Diagnostic analyzers, infusion pump occlusion detection
Consumer Electronics: Smart home devices, gaming console controllers
Transportation: Elevator door safety systems, railcar detection

6. Leading Manufacturers and Products

Manufacturer	Product Series	Key Features
Omron	D4MC Series	IP67 rating, 10 mechanical operations
TE Connectivity	Micro Switch TL Series	UL-certified, 15A rating
ABB	PLS Series	Adjustable actuator, explosion-proof design
OMRON	Z-15 Series	0.1A low-current switching capability

7. Selection Guidelines

Key considerations include: - Environmental conditions (temperature range, presence of contaminants) - Actuation force requirements vs. mechanical interface limitations - Contact configuration (SPDT/DPDT) and circuit requirements - Certification needs (UL, CSA, CE marks) - Mounting constraints (panel cutout dimensions) Example: For an automatic door system, specify a sealed IP65 switch with 10A/250VAC rating and lever actuator to ensure reliable operation in dusty environments.

8. Industry Trends

Current development directions include: - Integration with IoT systems through embedded sensing and wireless communication - Miniaturization for wearable and portable device applications - Enhanced material science for extended lifespan in harsh environments - Development of hybrid switches combining snap-action with proximity sensing - Increased focus on RoHS-compliant and recyclable materials - Smart diagnostics capabilities with condition monitoring sensors