WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF ELECTRICAL SWITCHES USED FOR?

Ignition switches (or starter switches) serve multiple purposes. They are used to start a machine or provide power to specific areas of the machine like the engine, power windows or other electronic accessories.  

Like the movement of a rocking horse, rocker switches rock back and forth: one side is raised while the other side is lowered when the switch is on, and vice versa when the switch is off. There might be symbols present, such as a circle indicating ‘off’ at one end of the rocker switch and a vertical line indicating ‘on’ at the other to indicate whether the switch is on or off. Of course, there are many different ways to show this on different switches.

A rocker switch with independent circuitry might have a light activated on the face of the switch in both the ‘on’ and ‘off’ positions. This is perfect for light switches – it makes them much easier to find in the dark.

With compact designs and integrated mounting brackets, steering column switches can be installed directly onto the steering columns of industrial machines or vehicles. Steering column switches are often used to control indicators and wiper unit actuators, as well as headlights, horns and other functions.

Microswitches are found in almost every type of industrial machine. They play essential roles in the functioning of tiller heads, steering columns, seats, control panels, foot pedals and many more applications.
 

The microswitches available at TVH are high-precision, snap-action microswitches. They offer:

• high ratings and small dimensions;
• very short travel (the distance or angle of the actuator movement);
• low operating force;
• highly reliable travel and force values;
• long lifespan;
• a large range of actuators for easy adaptation to a wide variety of applications.

Limit switches are operated by the movements of a machine or are tripped by the presence of a specific object. They are used as part of a system for controlling machinery, as safety interlocks, or to count objects as they pass a specific point. Much like microswitches, limit switches are common switches that are installed in all types of industrial machinery, all over the world. 

A toggle switch (or tumbler switch) is an electrical switch that is manually operated by a mechanical lever or handle. The name ‘toggle switch’ applies to any switch with a short handle and a positive snap-action, whether it actually contains a toggle mechanism or not.

Battery switches are used to connect or disconnect electrical devices from an electrical system. They help prevent batteries from draining when they are not in use.

It is important to make sure a battery switch can switch the correct load. If not, there is a risk of unintentionally supercharging the battery switch.

An emergency switch (or ‘kill switch’) is a safety mechanism used to shut down a machine. It quickly disconnects batteries and other power supplies.

Most of the emergency switches available at TVH are intended for use with battery-powered vehicles, but we also offer emergency switches that can be used with static power systems.

Need to replace an old emergency switch? Make sure you have the right part. You can find the part number on the label of the existing switch.

We work with all the best brands to offer you a wide range of electrical switches, including Albright, Bosch, Carling Technologies, Cobo, Crouzet, Honeywell, IFM, Microprecision, Omron, Panasonic, REMA, Schaltbau, Schneider Electric, Telemecanique, ZF Electronics, and more.

Also read:

• How is a micro switch used?