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Limit switches are a contact proximity sensor device that consists of an [actuator](/web/c/pneumatics-hydraulics-power-transmission/electric-actuators/) mechanically linked to a set of output contacts. When an object comes into contact with the actuator, the device operates the contacts to make or break an electrical connection.

**Limit Switch Makeup**

Limit switches are made up of three key components:

- Actuator Head - The actuator is the part of the switch that makes physical contact with the object. In some limit switches, the actuator is attached to an operating head which translates a rotary, linear, or perpendicular motion to open or close the electrical contacts of the switch.
- Switch Body – The switch body is the component containing the electrical contact mechanism, the contacts within the body open or close the electrical circuit when the actuator is activated.
- Receptacle/Terminals - The component containing the terminal screws or screw/clamp assembly necessary for wiring purposes.

**Actuator Types**

Limit switches are available with a wide range of actuator types. The type of actuator used can be determined by the mounting position, force required and objects to be detected.

- Rotary Lever - with lever actuators, a cam or plate hits the end of the lever arm which in turn rotates a shaft and operates the contacts in the switch. The rotation may be spring returned (momentary) or maintained.
- Plunger - Plunger types are best where short controlled machine movements are present or where mounting space does not permit a lever type.
- Cat Whisker or Coil Spring – Longer actuators with a coil wire that can be moved/bent in multiple directions. Typically used in conveying applications to count objects as they pass by.
- Forked – Used with maintained contacts, consisting of two roller levers. One roller will trip the switch and when the second is moved to the opposite direction it will reset the switch.


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Limit Switches, Rotary Lever & Plunger Limit Switch | RS

Limit Switches

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<p>Honeywell offers a broad range of limit switches including heavy-duty, general-purpose and miniature limit switches. With a wide variety of actuator types, mounting styles, electrical specifications and terminations, Honeywell limit switches offer superior flexibility and performance as standard.</p><h2>What is a Limit Switch?</h2><p>A limit switch is essentially a position sensing device commonly used in industrial automation systems. Made up of three key components, a switch body, actuator and contact terminals, they work by making and breaking an electrical connection when an object makes physical contact with the actuator. Limit switches have a wide range of different actuator types designed for different applications including roller lever, roller plunger, hinge lever or lever arm to name a few. </p><h3>Type of Honeywell Limit Switch</h3><p><strong>Compact Precision Limit Switches</strong> - Series features small metal or plastic package size, side or flange mounting, booted and unsealed actuators, and low-temperature options.</p><p><strong>General Purpose Limit Switches</strong> - Switches feature IEC standards, EN50041 & EN50047 mounting, plug-in/non-plug-in, plastic or metal housings, 3 conduit options, & a range of sealing choices.</p><p><strong>Heavy-Duty Limit Switches</strong> - Three series sealed to NEMA 1, 3, 4, 4X, 6, 6P, 12, 13 and IP65/66/67; Type 316 case stainless steel option and multiple mountings and actuators.</p><p><strong>Miniature Limit Switches</strong> - Series offer compact switch size, booted and unsealed actuators, multiple configurations, and snap-action, positive break contacts.</p><p><strong>Hazardous Area Limit Switches</strong> - For harsh and explosive environments, switch options include non-sparking actuators, captive cover screws, grounding screws, & silver/gold contacts.</p><p><strong>Specialty Limit Switches</strong> - Unique switches for special applications with metal and plastic housings along with various switching characteristics and switch mechanics.</p><h4>What can a Limit Switch be used for?</h4><p>With reliability and repeatability as standard, limit switches can be used in a number of applications including material handling, printing machinery, machine tools, agricultural equipment, overhead cranes and hoists, packaging and earth-moving, stamping, conveyors, surface transportation and textile, and printing machinery.</p>

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<p>Pioneering quality solutions for numerous industries has allowed Honeywell to become a name synonymous with engineering expertise. This expertise offers their roller lever limit switches trusted reliability, with designs compliant with exacting quality standards.</p><h2>What is a roller lever limit switch?</h2><p>Limit switches are switch devices operated by the exertion of mechanical force onto an actuator. As an object exerts this force onto the actuator, it operates the switch by changing the configuration of contacts inside the switch mechanism. Roller lever limit switches feature a lever with a roller. An object operates the switch by moving the lever, with the roller serving to reduce the friction needed to do so.</p><h2>Comparing plunger, roller lever, and roller plunger limit switches</h2><p>These limit switches can be differentiated by their respective actuator types. Various actuator configurations exist to offer limit switches compatibility with specialised applications. Requirements of an individual project or installation should be considered, as some actuator types may be better suited than others.</p><h2>Choosing a Honeywell roller lever limit switch</h2><p>Consider connection type, housing material, and normal state configuration when choosing a roller lever limit switch. Our expertly selected product range features options from Honeywell's trusted GLA, GLC, and NGC series.</p>

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<p>Telemecanique Sensors Limit Switches are vital control devices used in industrial automation to detect the position or presence of objects and machinery. These switches play a crucial role in various industries, including manufacturing, automotive, packaging, and conveyor systems, ensuring precise control and safety.</p><h2>Features of Telemecanique Sensors Limit Switches:</h2><ul><li><strong>Diverse Actuator Options:</strong> Telemecanique Sensors offers a range of actuator types, including plunger, roller, and lever, to suit different applications.</li><li><strong>Compact and Robust:</strong> Designed for durability, these switches can withstand harsh industrial environments.</li><li><strong>Adjustable:</strong> Many models feature adjustable settings for precise positioning and sensitivity.</li><li><strong>Multiple Contact Configurations:</strong> Available in various contact configurations, including SPDT and DPDT, for versatile applications.</li><li><strong>Safety Compliance:</strong> Compliant with safety standards, enhancing machinery safety and reliability.</li><li><strong>Easy Installation:</strong> Straightforward installation with standard mounting options.</li><li><strong>Long Lifespan:</strong> Built for reliability, ensuring a long service life.</li></ul><h2>What are the benefits of Telemecanique Sensors Limit Switches?</h2><ol><li><strong>Precision Control:</strong> Enable precise control of machinery and processes, ensuring accuracy in positioning and monitoring.</li><li><strong>Safety Enhancement:</strong> Contribute to safety by triggering emergency stops or safety measures when preset limits are exceeded.</li><li><strong>Durability:</strong> Designed for harsh industrial environments, they withstand wear and tear, reducing maintenance needs.</li><li><strong>Versatility:</strong>Available in various actuator types and contact configurations, suitable for a wide range of applications.</li><li><strong>Reliability:</strong> Telemecanique Sensors Limit Switches are known for their reliability, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.</li><li><strong>Cost-Efficiency:</strong> Long lifespan and minimal maintenance translate to cost savings over time.</li><li><strong>Compliance:</strong>Adherence to safety standards ensures they meet industry requirements for safety-critical applications.</li></ol>

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<p>Limit switches are one of the unsung heroes of electrical engineering. Found virtually everywhere in both industrial and domestic settings, these electromechanical components can be used to:</p><ul><li>Control machinery</li><li>Increase safety by creating an interlocking system</li><li>Count passing objects</li></ul><p>In simple terms, limit switches are an actuator that's mechanically linked to an electrical switch. When the actuator is activated, the switch will open or close depending on how it is set, and another action will occur.</p><h2>Types of Limit Switch</h2><p>There are four main types of limit switch based on the actuator used:</p><ul><li>Rotary/Roller Limit Switch</li><li>Plunger Limit Switch</li><li>Cat Whisker/Coil Spring Limit Switch</li><li>Forked/Lever Limit Switch</li></ul><p>Which one you choose for your application will depend on how the actuator needs to make contact with the object in question. For example, a plunger type limit switch might be used to control the light on a fridge door as the closed door pushes the plunger into the switch. A roller lever might be used to control the motion of electronic gates.</p><p>Although there are other types of switches and sensors that can perform the same tasks, the big plus of using a limit switch is its reliability and strength. OMRON are known worldwide for engineering and supplying quality products that you can depend on, so it makes sense to choose OMRON when looking for a limit switch for your task.</p><h2>OMRON Safety Switches</h2><p>The D4B-N series of safety switches features strong metal housings for use in industrial or other tough locations and includes a choice of lever and plunger actuators. They are part of a comprehensive range of safety solutions offered by OMRON that includes switches, scanners, emergency stop devices and interlocks.</p><h2>SPDT Switches - A Type of Micro Limit Switch</h2><p>As a variety of micro switch, Single-Pole Double Throw Switches (SPDT) use two limit switches that share a common terminal. One limit switch is generally set to "normally open" and the other is set to "normally closed". When the actuator or trigger is activated, the device will switch between open and closed or, depending application, on and off. This type of switch is commonly found in lighting, power supplies and safety systems. Which SPDT toggle switch you choose will largely depend on application and configuration.</p><p>The OMRON Z-series features a large switching capacity of 15 A and represents excellent value for money due to its high repeat accuracy. The plastic housing is perfect for use in less harsh environments or when encased in part of a larger system.</p>

Eaton Limit Switches

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