Limit Switches
Limit switches are reliable equipment components that detect the absence or presence of an object. Their operation is vital to everything from automatic control circuits to high-speed production equipment and conveyor systems. Limit switches are encased by design, which protects them from the elements, water, dirt and oil, making them perfect for use in any piece of equipment or job site. At Global Electronic Services, we specialize in Allen-Bradley safety limit switches for every size product.
What Is a Limit Switch?
Limit switches are used in electronic equipment to detect whether an object’s movement limit has been exceeded. They work by changing an electrical switch’s state when triggered by an actuator plunger, which then triggers the built-in base switch and changes the state of the electrical circuit. The most straightforward example of a limit switch in action is found in a refrigerator door – as the door opens, a limit switch detects the absence of an object and turns on the light.
There are generally four types of limit switches – whiskers, rollers, levers and plungers. These types of switches can be customized for both open and closed configurations. Limit switches comprise the following components:
- – Actuators: The actuator is one of the most important parts of a limit switch. Actuators transfer the external force of the switch to the built-in switch, which alters the electrical circuit.
- – Connectors: The connector secures the external connection cables to the inside of the limit switch.
- – Built-in basic switch: Once the actuator is activated, it reaches the built-in switch, which switches the current of the electrical circuit.
- – Enclosure case: Enclosure cases protect your limit switches from the elements, cold, heat, force and corrosion.
- – Seals: A limit switch’s seal protects the built-in switch and internal mechanisms from external factors.
Most limit switches are mechanical and use heavy-duty contacts to switch to higher currents. Some common alternatives to limit switches include capacitive or inductive proximity sensors and photoelectric sensors.
Benefits of Using a Limit Switch
Limit switches are beneficial for use in high-speed production equipment, automatic control circuits, cranes, conveyors, pumping systems and more. Using limit switches has the following advantages:
- – Easy installation process
- – Small size for constrained spaces
- – Straightforward and simple to implement
- – Capacity to operate at high voltages
- – Ability to switch between multiple loads
- – High repeatability and accuracy
Limit Switches and Limit Switch Repair From Global Electronic Services
Global is home to hundreds of Allen-Bradley limit switches for use in your company’s electronic projects. Whether you’re engineering a conveyor or elevator or are looking to outfit an entire high-speed production line, we have you covered. We can also perform expert repairs on your current switches to maximize the life span of your business’s investments.
We keep thousands of parts in our warehouses for rapid shipping, meaning you can get the limit switches your company needs in as little as one to five days. We even carry obsolete units. When you choose Global, you’ll get tight turnaround times, an 18-month in-service warranty and free 24-48 hour rush service. Contact us online for information on repairs or assistance finding the right limit switch to see the difference our equipment can make.
