Metallic Rotary Switches
Description
Metallic rotary switches are devices used to control the flow of electricity in a circuit by rotating a knob or actuator. These switches are designed to open or close electrical contacts, allowing or interrupting the current flow. They are typically constructed with metallic materials for the electrical contacts, which help maintain low electrical contact resistance due to their resistance to oxidation.
Working Principle
Metallic rotary switches operate by rotating a shaft or knob to different positions, each corresponding to a specific circuit configuration. The rotation of the actuator moves the internal contacts to either make or break connections within the switch. This mechanism allows for the selection of different electrical paths or settings. The use of metallic materials for the contacts, such as gold or silver, ensures durability and reliability by preventing oxidation, which can otherwise increase electrical resistance and reduce performance. These switches are useful because they provide a simple and reliable means of controlling multiple circuits with a single device.
Applications
Metallic rotary switches are used in a variety of applications where precise control of electrical circuits is required. Specific examples include:
- Navigation and communication equipment in the avionics industry, where reliable switching is crucial for safety and performance.
- Precision measurement equipment gauges, which require accurate and repeatable settings.
- Test and measuring equipment, where multiple configurations may be needed for different tests.
- Commercial sound mixing and editing consoles, allowing for the selection of different audio channels or effects.
- Military voice and data communications, where robust and secure switching is essential.
- Radios and transmitters and receivers, where they help in selecting different frequencies or channels.
Advantages over other Rotary Switches
Metallic rotary switches offer several advantages over other types of rotary switches. The use of precious metals like gold or silver for contacts provides superior resistance to oxidation, ensuring low contact resistance and high reliability over time. This makes them particularly suitable for applications where long-term durability and consistent performance are critical.
Limitations
One limitation of metallic rotary switches is their potential cost, as the use of precious metals can make them more expensive than switches using less costly materials. Additionally, while they are resistant to oxidation, they may still be susceptible to wear and tear over time, especially in high-use applications.
Considerations
When selecting metallic rotary switches, several factors should be considered:
- Initial Costs: The use of precious metals can increase the initial cost of these switches compared to those made with less expensive materials.
- Operating Expense: While generally low, operating expenses can include maintenance and potential replacement costs due to wear over time.
- Durability: Metallic rotary switches are durable due to their resistance to oxidation, but mechanical wear can still occur.
- Accuracy: These switches provide accurate and repeatable settings, which is crucial for applications requiring precise control.
- Replacement and Maintenance Costs: Although they are durable, the need for occasional maintenance or replacement should be factored into the overall cost of ownership.
from TE Connectivity
Body Features. Actuator Material : Brass. Actuator Orientation : Top. Actuator Profile : Recessed. Actuator Travel : 90 °. Body Material : Zinc Alloy. Key Changes : 25 Standard. Configuration Features. Configuration (Pole-Throw) : Single... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Current Rating: 1.0
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Base Material: Metallic
from TE Connectivity
Body Features. Actuator Material : Brass. Actuator Orientation : Top. Actuator Profile : Recessed. Actuator Travel : 80 °. Body Material : Zinc Alloy. Configuration Features. Configuration (Pole-Throw) : Double Pole - Double Throw. Number of... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Current Rating: 3.0
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Base Material: Metallic
from TE Connectivity
Body Features. Actuator Material : Brass. Actuator Travel : 80 °. Seal Type : Terminal Seal (Epoxy). Configuration Features. Configuration (Pole-Throw) : Single Pole - Double Throw. Number of Keylock Switch Positions : 2. Operating Function : On... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Current Rating: 3.0
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- AC Voltage Rating: 125
from TE Connectivity
Body Features. Actuator Material : Brass. Actuator Travel : 80 °. Seal Type : Terminal Seal (Epoxy). Configuration Features. Configuration (Pole-Throw) : Single Pole - Double Throw. Number of Keylock Switch Positions : 2. Operating Function : On... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- AC Voltage Rating: 125
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- DC Voltage Rating: 20
from TE Connectivity
Body Features. Actuator Material : Brass. Actuator Travel : 80 °. Seal Type : Terminal Seal (Epoxy). Configuration Features. Configuration (Pole-Throw) : Double Pole - Double Throw. Number of Keylock Switch Positions : 2. Operating Function : On... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Current Rating: 3.0
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- AC Voltage Rating: 125
from TE Connectivity
Body Features. Actuator Material : Brass. Actuator Orientation : Top. Actuator Profile : Recessed. Actuator Travel : 90 °. Body Material : Zinc Alloy. Key Changes : 25 Standard. Configuration Features. Configuration (Pole-Throw) : Single... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Current Rating: 1.0
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Base Material: Metallic
from TE Connectivity
Body Features. Actuator Material : Brass. Actuator Orientation : Top. Actuator Profile : Recessed. Actuator Travel : 90 °. Body Material : Zinc Alloy. Key Changes : 25 Standard. Configuration Features. Configuration (Pole-Throw) : Single... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Current Rating: 1.0
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Base Material: Metallic
from TE Connectivity
Body Features. Actuator Material : Brass. Actuator Travel : 90 °. Key Changes : 25 Standard. Configuration Features. Configuration (Pole-Throw) : Single Pole - Single Throw. Number of Keylock Switch Positions : 2. Operating Function : Position 2... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Current Rating: 15.0
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- AC Voltage Rating: 115
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. Multi-pole and multi-position. Shorting and non-shorting contacts available. Low level and power capability. PCB mounting. Typical Applications. Security alarm systems. Medical equipment. Computer servers [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 5.0
from Digitran Division
Made in USA, high reliability, contact factory custom configurations [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Bare Shaft; Knobbed Shaft (optional feature)
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 1.0
from BACO Controls, Inc.
A worldwide reputation of know-how for more than 50 years. A range from 10A to 63A (panel mount or enclosed). More than 50,000 different electrical diagrams available. Numerous specific functions and special engravings [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Current Rating: 12.0
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
from Appleton Electric
KNOB TYPE. 1/2 INCH SIZE. 1NO-1NC CONTACT CONFIGURATION. MAINTAINED OPERATION TYPE. 600 VAC 10 AMPERE CONTACT RATING. CLASS I DIV 1 AND 2 GROUP C D, CLASS II DIV 1 AND 2 GROUP E F G, CLASS III, NEMA 3/7C/7D/9E/9F/9G ENCLOSURE. 3 POSITION(S). ALUMINUM ACTUATOR MATERIAL. APPLETION[R] BRAND. COVER... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- AC Voltage Rating: 600
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
from OMEGA Engineering, Inc.
The 30.5 mm selector switches features a zinc die cast construction with chrome-plated housing and mounting nut. The contact blocks feature enclosed silver contacts with pointed "reliability nibs" for reliable performance from logic level up to 600V. To ensure reliable switching, nibs bite through... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Current Rating: 0.5
- Actuator Type: Keylock (optional feature); Knobbed Shaft
- AC Voltage Rating: 120
from Grayhill, Inc.
Grayhill is the leading manufacturer of single and multi-deck rotary switches with extremely rugged construction and virtually limitless configurations. Many of our rotary switches are MIL qualified to exacting electrical, mechanical and environmental standards. We offer many options including... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Bare Shaft
- Construction: Multideck
- Current Rating: 1.0
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. Multi-pole and multi-position. Positive detent. Low level and power capability. Typical Applications. Computer servers. Point-of-sale terminals. Cash registers [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 4.0
from Digitran Division
All military spec materials, RoHS compliant, MIL-DTL-3786 (M option) [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Bare Shaft
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 3.0
from BACO Controls, Inc.
A worldwide reputation of know-how for more than 50 years. A range from 10A to 63A (panel mount or enclosed). More than 50,000 different electrical diagrams available. Numerous specific functions and special engravings [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic; Metallic
- Current Rating: 63.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
from Appleton Electric
KNOB TYPE. 1/2 INCH SIZE. 2NO-2NC CONTACT CONFIGURATION. MAINTAINED OPERATION TYPE. 600 VAC 10 AMPERE CONTACT RATING. CLASS I DIV 1 AND 2 GROUP C D, CLASS II DIV 1 AND 2 GROUP E F G, CLASS III, NEMA 3/7C/7D/9E/9F/9G ENCLOSURE. 2 POSITION(S). ALUMINUM ACTUATOR MATERIAL. APPLETION[R] BRAND. COVER... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- AC Voltage Rating: 600
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
from Grayhill, Inc.
Grayhill is the leading manufacturer of single and multi-deck rotary switches with extremely rugged construction and virtually limitless configurations. Many of our rotary switches are MIL qualified to exacting electrical, mechanical and environmental standards. We offer many options including... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Construction: Multideck
- Current Rating: 5.0
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. Snap-together assembly allows for pre-wiring of switch. Wire lead terminations available. 4 Tumbler lock with positive detent. Typical Applications. Cable TV connectors. Automotive accessories. Computers [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 4.0
from BACO Controls, Inc.
A worldwide reputation of know-how for more than 50 years. A range from 10A to 63A (panel mount or enclosed). More than 50,000 different electrical diagrams available. Numerous specific functions and special engravings [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Current Rating: 12.0
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
from Appleton Electric
KNOB TYPE. 1/2 INCH SIZE. 1NO-1NC CONTACT CONFIGURATION. MAINTAINED/MAINTAINED/MOMENTARY OPERATION TYPE. 600 VAC 10 AMPERE CONTACT RATING. CLASS I DIV 1 AND 2 GROUP C D, CLASS II DIV 1 AND 2 GROUP E F G, CLASS III, NEMA 3/7C/7D/9E/9F/9G ENCLOSURE. 3 POSITION(S). ALUMINUM ACTUATOR MATERIAL. [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- AC Voltage Rating: 600
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
from Grayhill, Inc.
Grayhill is the leading manufacturer of single and multi-deck rotary switches with extremely rugged construction and virtually limitless configurations. Many of our rotary switches are MIL qualified to exacting electrical, mechanical and environmental standards. We offer many options including... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 0.2
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. Anti-static switch —exceeds 20 KV DCstatic resistance. Momentary models available. Wire leads and harnesses available. Typical Applications. Point-of-sale terminals. Cash registers. Computers [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 4.0
from BACO Controls, Inc.
22mm and 30mm sizes. Excellent modularity for a large choice of combinations with a minimum number of items. Customized products to meet the most specific needs [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Stop Style: Fixed Stop
from Appleton Electric
KNOB TYPE. 1/2 INCH SIZE. 1NO-1NC CONTACT CONFIGURATION. MOMENTARY/MAINTAINED/MAINTAINED OPERATION TYPE. 600 VAC 10 AMPERE CONTACT RATING. CLASS I DIV 1 AND 2 GROUP C D, CLASS II DIV 1 AND 2 GROUP E F G, CLASS III, NEMA 3/7C/7D/9E/9F/9G ENCLOSURE. 3 POSITION(S). ALUMINUM ACTUATOR MATERIAL. [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- AC Voltage Rating: 600
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
from Grayhill, Inc.
Grayhill is the leading manufacturer of single and multi-deck rotary switches with extremely rugged construction and virtually limitless configurations. Many of our rotary switches are MIL qualified to exacting electrical, mechanical and environmental standards. We offer many options including... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Construction: Multideck
- Current Rating: 0.2
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. Cost-effective security. Custom cams available. Typical Applications. Office furniture. Cash registers. Copy machines [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Construction: Single
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
from BACO Controls, Inc.
22mm and 30mm sizes. Excellent modularity for a large choice of combinations with a minimum number of items. Customized products to meet the most specific needs [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Angle of Throw: 45
from Grayhill, Inc.
Grayhill is the leading manufacturer of single and multi-deck rotary switches with extremely rugged construction and virtually limitless configurations. Many of our rotary switches are MIL qualified to exacting electrical, mechanical and environmental standards. We offer many options including... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Bare Shaft
- Construction: Multideck
- Current Rating: 5.0
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. Snap-in mounting. Multi-pole and multi-position. Positive detent. Typical Applications. Computers. Point-of-sale terminals. Instrumentation [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 4.0
from BACO Controls, Inc.
22mm and 30mm sizes. Excellent modularity for a large choice of combinations with a minimum number of items. Customized products to meet the most specific needs [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Angle of Throw: 45
from Grayhill, Inc.
Grayhill is the leading manufacturer of single and multi-deck rotary switches with extremely rugged construction and virtually limitless configurations. Many of our rotary switches are MIL qualified to exacting electrical, mechanical and environmental standards. We offer many options including... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Bare Shaft
- Construction: Multideck
- Current Rating: 0.2
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. International agency listings. Snap-in mounting. Wire lead terminations available. 5 Tumbler lock with positive detent. Typical Applications. Computers. Point-of-sale terminals. Marine equipment [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 4.0
from BACO Controls, Inc.
22mm and 30mm sizes. Excellent modularity for a large choice of combinations with a minimum number of items. Customized products to meet the most specific needs [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Angle of Throw: 45
from Grayhill, Inc.
Grayhill is the leading manufacturer of single and multi-deck rotary switches with extremely rugged construction and virtually limitless configurations. Many of our rotary switches are MIL qualified to exacting electrical, mechanical and environmental standards. We offer many options including... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Bare Shaft
- Construction: Multideck
- Current Rating: 0.2
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. Multi-pole and multi-positions. Panel and PCB mounting. Stainless steel actuator. Non-shorting contacts. RoHS Compliant. Typical Applications. Test equipment. Industrial equipment. Medical equipment [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Bare Shaft (optional feature); Flush Actuator (optional feature)
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 6.0
from Grayhill, Inc.
Grayhill is the leading manufacturer of single and multi-deck rotary switches with extremely rugged construction and virtually limitless configurations. Many of our rotary switches are MIL qualified to exacting electrical, mechanical and environmental standards. We offer many options including... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Bare Shaft
- Construction: Multideck
- Current Rating: 4.0
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. Low profile design. Multi-pole and multi-position. Panel and PCB mounting. Variety of termination styles. RoHS Compliant. Typical Applications. CATV. Low cost security devices. Lawn equipment [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 4.0
from Grayhill, Inc.
Grayhill is the leading manufacturer of single and multi-deck rotary switches with extremely rugged construction and virtually limitless configurations. Many of our rotary switches are MIL qualified to exacting electrical, mechanical and environmental standards. We offer many options including... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Bare Shaft
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 15.0
from Grayhill, Inc.
Grayhill is the leading manufacturer of single and multi-deck rotary switches with extremely rugged construction and virtually limitless configurations. Many of our rotary switches are MIL qualified to exacting electrical, mechanical and environmental standards. We offer many options including... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Bare Shaft
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 1.0
from Grayhill, Inc.
Grayhill is the leading manufacturer of single and multi-deck rotary switches with extremely rugged construction and virtually limitless configurations. Many of our rotary switches are MIL qualified to exacting electrical, mechanical and environmental standards. We offer many options including... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Bare Shaft
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 0.2
from Grayhill, Inc.
Grayhill is the leading manufacturer of single and multi-deck rotary switches with extremely rugged construction and virtually limitless configurations. Many of our rotary switches are MIL qualified to exacting electrical, mechanical and environmental standards. We offer many options including... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Bare Shaft
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 1.0
from Grayhill, Inc.
Grayhill is the leading manufacturer of single and multi-deck rotary switches with extremely rugged construction and virtually limitless configurations. Many of our rotary switches are MIL qualified to exacting electrical, mechanical and environmental standards. We offer many options including... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Bare Shaft
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 0.2
from Grayhill, Inc.
Grayhill is the leading manufacturer of single and multi-deck rotary switches with extremely rugged construction and virtually limitless configurations. Many of our rotary switches are MIL qualified to exacting electrical, mechanical and environmental standards. We offer many options including... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Bare Shaft; Flush Actuator; Knobbed Shaft
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 0.2
from Grayhill, Inc.
Grayhill is the leading manufacturer of single and multi-deck rotary switches with extremely rugged construction and virtually limitless configurations. Many of our rotary switches are MIL qualified to exacting electrical, mechanical and environmental standards. We offer many options including... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Bare Shaft
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 0.2
from Grayhill, Inc.
Grayhill is the leading manufacturer of single and multi-deck rotary switches with extremely rugged construction and virtually limitless configurations. Many of our rotary switches are MIL qualified to exacting electrical, mechanical and environmental standards. We offer many options including... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Metallic
- Actuator Type: Bare Shaft
- Construction: Multideck
- Current Rating: 1.0