subject: Procuring Waterproof Sealed Switches For Your Applications [print this page] Quality components like waterproof operations are critical for operations so it is important that you procure these from top-of-the-line manufacturers. You need to research the suppliers, discuss with them your specific requirements and they will come up with the right product.
Waterproof sealed switches designed for industrial or military applications have an inherent ability to survive environmental conditions. They can withstand conditions which conventional weatherproof or wash-down resistant switches cannot survive. These switches operate under exposure to oil, water, sand, dirt, humidity, temperatures, shock and vibration.
There are several types of waterproof switches momentary contact switches, maintained contact switches, limit switches, plunger switches, ball switches, switch panels, etc. All of these components are meant for different purposes.
Momentary contact switches are totally a submersible switch product line. These switches can be incorporated into the limit switch brackets and actuators, and also specified as stand-alone sealed pushbutton switch. It utilizes an extremely robust snap-action contact mechanism. A manufacturer would usually provide normally open, normally closed and SPDT pushbutton switches. Industrial grade switches are encased in santoprene cover, while military grade switches that meet the requirements of MS39058 have neoprene cover. These switches are designed for manual actuation applications, and for use in limit switch and panel switch brackets.
Maintained contact switches physically keep the circuit in the actuated position. These switches are available in extremely durable construction in a compact package, making these effective problem solvers. Commercial grade switches come in a santoprene cover, while military switches have neoprene cover with positive tactile actuation.
Limit switch brackets come in varied designs combining mounting and actuators into hundreds of configurations. Top standard switches offer an economical and easily customizable limit switch solution. Different types of brackets can be coupled, providing a wide array of application solutions. A reputable manufacturer will offer several combinations of roller lever mounting configurations, travel parameters and endurance capabilities. They would also make available modifications to standards and completely custom brackets. All quality brackets and actuators are made of stainless steel.
Plunger switches are an extension of the basic ball switch design, leveraging the robustness of the ball switch with hardened actuators, making them a rugged switch meant for harshest applications. Many of these switches are based on ball carrier design that prevents contaminates from jamming the ball. Most of these switches have stainless steel construction, ultra high-temperature and submersible capability, normally open and normally closed versions, and hardened actuator configurations.
Switch panels feature rugged snap-action switches mounted on standard and custom face plates constructed of stainless steel. These panels can resist oils, solvents, salt spray, UV and temperature cycling. The panels are designed for long-term outdoor exposure.
When procuring waterproof or weatherproof switches, you must make sure that these are all produced by top-of-the-line manufacturers. Quality components are critical for operations, so you just cannot afford sub-standard products. You need to research the manufacturers, discuss with them your specific requirements and they will suggest which products fit in perfectly. They will even be willing to manufacture a custom product for you.
Switches of reputable manufacturers are designed to deal with adverse conditions. Having high shock and vibration immunity, these can function effectively in harsh environment. The switches can be easily mounted. All the products will be backed by an adequate guarantee as well.
