Snap Action, Limit Switches

Part Number	Description / PDF	Quantity
51.452R Altech Corporation	FOOT SWITCHFL1U1RUSTDCLRGD 1NO/1	0
608.3000.252 Altech Corporation	LIMIT SWITCH BODY ONLY IN81 M20	10
601.6169.053 Altech Corporation	SAFETY INTERLOCK SWITCH SK-A2Z F	0
606.1700.004 Altech Corporation	FOOTSWITCH F1-U2Z UN	0
51.606B Altech Corporation	FOOT SWITCHFM1SU1RF2BK SPDTMAIN2	0
601.9490.059 Altech Corporation	SWITCH SAFETY HINGE SHS3Z-U1Z-SR	0
606.9200.007 Altech Corporation	FOOT SWITCH KFM2-SU2/SU2 SW	0
600.8804.027 Altech Corporation	LIMIT SWITCHPLASTIC BODY C2-A2Z	10
618.8189.023 Altech Corporation	LIMIT SWITCHPLASTIC BODY TI2-SU1	3
609.6197.030 Altech Corporation	FOOT SWITCH EX F2-SU1ZSU1Z EX UN	0
601.6409.150 Altech Corporation	SAFETY INTERLOCK SWITCH SKT-SU1Z	14
608.8117.013 Altech Corporation	LIMIT SWITCH TI2-U1Z RIW 90GR	0
601.6169.061 Altech Corporation	SAFETY INTERLOCK SWITCH SK-UV15Z	0
51.109R Altech Corporation	FOOT SWITCHFS1U2STDCLR 2NO/2NCSL	0
51.458R Altech Corporation	FOOT SWITCHFL1SU1RSUSTDCLRGD 1NO	0
616.1000.608 Altech Corporation	FOOT SWITCH SINGLEPEDAL F1-SU1ZH	2
600.8351.002 Altech Corporation	LIMIT SWITCHPLASTIC BODY C2-SU1Z	3
51.702B Altech Corporation	FWSTFM2SU1(2X)K1BK SPDTMOMTERMNO	0
51.401R Altech Corporation	FOOT SWITCHFL1U1STDCLR 1NO/1NCSL	0
608.3000.289 Altech Corporation	LIMIT SWITCH IN65-U1Z M12	10

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