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Pressure switches are devices that sense changes in fluid pressure and activate electrical contacts when a set pressure is reached. They are used for controlling and monitoring systems that rely on pressurized fluids, such as pumps, compressors, valves, boilers, and HVAC systems.
There are many types of pressure switches available, each with different features and specifications. Choosing the right pressure switch for your application can be challenging, but here are some factors to consider:
The pressure range is the span of pressure values that the switch can measure and operate within. It is important to select a pressure switch that can handle the maximum and minimum pressures of your system, as well as any fluctuations or surges that may occur. The pressure range should also match the units of measurement that you use, such as psi, bar, kPa, or mmHg.
The setpoint is the pressure value at which the switch activates or deactivates the electrical contact. Some pressure switches have fixed setpoints that are pre-calibrated by the manufacturer, while others have adjustable setpoints that can be changed by the user. Adjustable setpoints offer more flexibility and customization, but they may also require more calibration and maintenance.
The differential is the difference between the setpoint and the reset point of the switch. The reset point is the pressure value at which the switch returns to its original state after being activated or deactivated. A larger differential means that the switch will stay on or off for longer after reaching the setpoint, while a smaller differential means that the switch will respond more quickly to changes in pressure. The differential can affect the stability and efficiency of your system, depending on your application.
Snap Action Low Pressure Switch
High Pressure Switch
Electronic Pressure Switch
OEM Compact Switch
The contact type is the configuration of the electrical circuit that the switch controls. There are two main types of contacts: normally open (NO) and normally closed (NC). A NO contact is open when the switch is inactive and closes when the switch is activated by reaching the setpoint. A NC contact is closed when the switch is inactive and opens when the switch is activated by reaching the setpoint. Some pressure switches also have double-throw (DT) contacts, which can switch between two different circuits depending on whether the switch is above or below the setpoint.
The enclosure is the protective casing that covers the switch and its components. The enclosure protects the switch from environmental factors such as dust, moisture, corrosion, vibration, and impact. The enclosure also determines the level of ingress protection (IP) and explosion protection (NEMA) that the switch has. Different applications may require different levels of protection depending on the operating conditions and safety standards.
The material is the substance that makes up the parts of the switch that come into contact with the fluid being measured. The material should be compatible with the fluid type and temperature, as well as resistant to wear and tear. Common materials for pressure switches include brass, stainless steel, aluminum, zinc, plastic, and glass-reinforced polyester.
These are some of the main factors to consider when choosing a pressure switch for your application. However, there may be other factors depending on your specific needs and preferences. To learn more about pressure switches and how they work, you can visit our other articles.
We hope this article has helped you understand how to choose the right pressure switch for your application.Â
Anfield Sensors is a leading manufacturer of pressure sensors, offering various types to suit many applications. If you are unsure about the right pressure switch for your project, our technical specialists are available to assist you. Contact us today! To get a free sample, you can click the button below.
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