Plastic Rotary Switches
Description
Plastic rotary switches are devices used to control the flow of electricity in a circuit by rotating a knob or actuator. They are designed to manage multiple electrical circuits, allowing users to select different circuit paths or settings by turning the switch to various positions.
Working Principle
Plastic rotary switches operate by rotating a shaft that moves a contact arm across a series of terminals. This movement either makes or breaks connections between the terminals, thus controlling the flow of electricity. The usefulness of these switches lies in their ability to manage multiple circuits with a single device, offering a compact and efficient solution for circuit control. The contact style can be either shorting (make-before-break) or non-shorting (break-before-make), which affects how the switch transitions between positions and can prevent arcing during operation .
Applications
Plastic rotary switches are used in a variety of applications. For instance, they are found in navigation and communication equipment for the avionics industry, precision measurement equipment gauges, and test and measuring equipment. They are also utilized in commercial sound mixing and editing consoles, military voice and data communications, radios, and transmitters and receivers .
Advantages over other Rotary Switches
One advantage of plastic rotary switches is their resistance to dust, which can be crucial in environments where dust accumulation could affect performance. Additionally, they can be configured to provide coded outputs, such as BCD or Octal, which can be beneficial in applications requiring specific output configurations .
Limitations
Plastic rotary switches may have limitations in terms of mechanical life compared to other materials like metal. The mechanical life represents the maximum life expectancy, and often, the electrical life expectancy is less than the mechanical life. Therefore, it is important to consult the manufacturer for specific life expectancy details .
Considerations
When considering plastic rotary switches, factors such as initial costs, operating expenses, durability, accuracy, and replacement and maintenance costs should be evaluated. The actuator material, which can be plastic, thermoplastic, or metal, may influence the switch's durability and cost. Additionally, the choice between shorting and non-shorting contact styles can affect the switch's performance and longevity .
from Altech Corp.
Altech 22mm Push Buttons offer ideal cost-effective solutions for control circuits utilizing both direct and remote management applications. Ease of assembly has been engineered into the design; the only tool necessary for installation is a screwdriver. Features: 22mm. Extended Selector [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 10.0
from OTTO Controls
Used in the heavy equipment, marine, process control and instrumentation markets, the R2 rotary switch is an excellent replacement for rocker switches, offering improved visual position indication, additional lighting options and different styling opportunities on front panels. The R2 is a sealed,... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- AC Voltage Rating: 1000
- Mechanical Life: 100000
from Altech Corp.
Altech 22mm Push Buttons offer ideal cost-effective solutions for control circuits utilizing both direct and remote management applications. Ease of assembly has been engineered into the design; the only tool necessary for installation is a screwdriver. Features: 22mm. Non-Illuminated. Metal Switch... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 10.0
from Altech Corp.
Altech 22mm Push Buttons offer ideal cost-effective solutions for control circuits utilizing both direct and remote management applications. Ease of assembly has been engineered into the design; the only tool necessary for installation is a screwdriver. Features: 22mm Selector [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 10.0
from ZF Electronic Systems Pleasant Prairie, LLC
Wireless, maintained two-position selector switches feature an internal electrodynamic energy generator. No battery required. Displacement of the actuator generates power to send a unique, coded telegram to one or more compatible, easily-programmed Receivers. If pushbutton switch does receive the... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Construction: Single
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
from Panel Components & Systems, Inc.
The M221 switch is designed for main and auxiliary circuits operated. by hand as ON/OFF, code, gang, changeover, multi-step, instrument or motor switches. The modular design offers different switching stages which can be easily assembled and disassembled. Spring pressure keeps the bridge closed and... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 20.0
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
- Current Rating: 12.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
from Eaton Corporation
KNOB LEVER TYPE. 22.5 MM SIZE. 3NO CONTACT CONFIGURATION. MAINTAINED OPERATION TYPE. 600 VAC 10 AMPERE, 600 VDC 2.5 AMPERE CONTACT RATING. UL 508, CSA, CE, MTTA, LLOYDS APPROVAL. NEMA 3/3R/4/4X/12/13, IP65 ENCLOSURE. GLASS FILLED NYLON BODY MATERIAL. 3 POSITION(S). CHROME PLATED BRASS BEZEL... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- AC Voltage Rating: 600
- Current Rating: 10.0
- DC Voltage Rating: 600
from Schneider Electric, Automation & Control
PowerLogic CMA and CMV panel mounted (48x48) selector switches. Acti 9 iCMA and iCMV DIN-rail mounted selector switches. The 48 x 48 selector switches are designed for flush-mounted installation on doors, wicket doors and front plates of enclosures and cubicles: CMA - The ammeter selector switch... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Current Rating: 20.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- AC Voltage Rating: 500
from RAFI GmbH & Co. KG
The LUMOTAST 25 is extremely compact, with a surface area of 25 mm x 25 mm, yet it provides a significantly larger actuating surface. In addition to pushbuttons and signal lamps, the series also includes selector and keylock switches as well as an emergency stop. The elements can be front-mounted... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 0.1
from R. STAHL, Inc.
Versions. Control switch with 2, 3 or 4 pole. Load switch 3 pole + 1 auxiliary contact. Up to a maximum of 4 poles. NC contacts with positive opening, suitable for EMERGENCY STOP functions. Latching or spring-return versions available. The control switch of the Series 8008 can be used for EMERGENCY... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 16.0
from Carling Technologies, Inc.
The R135-Series rotary switches are AC/DC rated single pole, single throw switches. They are "L" rated up to 3 amps, and feature an On-Off repeating action. They are available with a black or white nylon actuating knob, nylon snap-in bracket or nickel plated brass bushing. [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 3.0
from ITW Switches USA
SUB-MINIATURE T-05 SPACE SAVER ROTARY SWITCHES. This sub-miniature rotary switch has up to 8 positions in a T-05 can. Gold contacts deliver long life and reliability. Contacts are glass to metal sealed to prevent solder flux penetration. The Series 030 can be used for manually programming a single... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Construction: Single
- AC Voltage Rating: 125
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. Multi-pole and multi-position. Positive detent. Shorting & non-shorting contacts. Panel and PCB mounting. RoHS Compliant. Typical Applications. Automotive. Major and small appliances. Industrial equipment [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Bare Shaft (optional feature); Flush Actuator (optional feature)
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 5.0
from Panel Components & Systems, Inc.
The M225 switch is designed for main and auxiliary circuits operated by hand as ON/OFF, code, gang, changeover, multi-step, instrument or motor switches. The modular design offers different switching stages which can be easily assembled and disassembled. Spring pressure keeps the bridge closed and a... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 25.0
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
- Current Rating: 12.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
from Eaton Corporation
KNOB TYPE. 22.5 MM SIZE. 1NO CONTACT CONFIGURATION. MAINTAINED OPERATION TYPE. 600 VAC 10 AMPERE, 600 VDC 2.5 AMPERE CONTACT RATING. UL 508, CSA, CE, MTTA, LLOYDS APPROVAL. NEMA 3/3R/4/4X/12/13, IP65 ENCLOSURE. GLASS FILLED NYLON BODY MATERIAL. 2 POSITION(S). BLACK GLASS FILLED NYLON BEZEL MATERIAL. [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- AC Voltage Rating: 600
- Current Rating: 10.0
- DC Voltage Rating: 600
from RAFI GmbH & Co. KG
LUMOTAST 75 illuminated pushbuttons and signal lamps have been in use for decades. They are the most successful mono-switches in RAFI history. The wide range of collar shapes in classic design and the established terminal and legending concept make the LUMOTAST 75 series one of your most reliable... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Construction: Multideck
- Current Rating: 4.0
from R. STAHL, Inc.
Switch function. many switching arrangements (latching or spring-return) possible via coding. easy change of the coding possible on site. max. 2 pole. For max. 6 A. With flexible lead or spring cage terminal. The mounting of control switches Series 8003 is extremely simple. The patented fixing... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Keylock; Knobbed Shaft
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 6.0
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. PCB or hand soldering versions. Bushing mounting. Multiple poles. Decimal and hexadecimal codes. Screwdriver slot or extended actuator. RoHS Compliant. Typical Applications. Appliances. Electronic alarm systems. Medical. Building automation. HVAC air conditioning [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Bare Shaft (optional feature); Flush Actuator (optional feature)
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 5.0
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
- Current Rating: 12.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
from RAFI GmbH & Co. KG
There are nine different actuators and indicators in this control series. You can choose between a round, square, or flush-fitting square collar shape, which seamlessly aligns the actuating elements in a row. The mounting hole diameter for RAFIX 16 is a standard 16.2 mm. As design alternative for... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 0.0
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. Multi-pole and multi-position. Panel and PCB mounting. Positive detent. Value added capability. RoHS Compliant. Typical Applications. Small appliances. Testing fixtures. Safety equipment [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Bare Shaft (optional feature); Flush Actuator (optional feature)
- 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: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Current Rating: 12.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
from RAFI GmbH & Co. KG
The RAFIX 22 FS+ control component series is distinguished by its diversity and modularity. That results in almost unlimited combination and individualization options. Different actuating and indicator elements ensure ideal operation of your machine or device. A modern and variable design concept... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 4.0
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. Multi-pole and multi-position. Positive detent. Power switching up to 12 AMPS. Value added capability. RoHS Compliant. Typical Applications. Small appliances. Industrial equipment. Elevators [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Bare Shaft
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 12.0
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
- Current Rating: 12.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
from RAFI GmbH & Co. KG
Dust, dirt, lubricants, moisture, heat, and freezing temperatures: special solutions are required for tough conditions. RAFIX 22 FSR meets the challenges. We specifically developed this series for your applications in the field. Adverse conditions reveal how far actuators and switching elements can... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 4.0
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. Multi-pole and multi-position. Positive detent. Panel and PCB mounting. Enclosed. RoHS Compliant. Typical Applications. Ceiling fans. Industrial equipment. Portable tools [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Bare Shaft (optional feature); Flush Actuator (optional feature)
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 5.0
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: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Current Rating: 12.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
from RAFI GmbH & Co. KG
The classic control component series RAFIX 22 QR is predominantly used in mechanical and system engineering as well as automotive manufacturing. The actuating elements are available in two collar shapes. These are the classic round shape or our special RAFI “square-round ” design. This... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 0.0
from C&K Components
FEATURES AND BENEFITS. Subminiature design saves space. Screwdriver slot or extended shaft. Positive detent. TYPICAL APPLICATIONS. Audio & visual equipment. Consumer electronics. Telecom equipment [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 0.5
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
- Current Rating: 12.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
from RAFI GmbH & Co. KG
RAFIX 30 FS+ control components are not only real eye-catchers. They ’ll also impress you with the proven advantages of FS technology. With the two switching element models “Quick Connect ” (QC) flat terminal and printed circuit board assembly (PCB), you can achieve very flat... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 4.0
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. 8 and 10 positions. SMT version. Subminiature design. Features/Benefits. Digital cameras. Audio & visual equipment. Consumer electronics. Selector dial interface [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Bare Shaft (optional feature); Flush Actuator (optional feature); Knobbed Shaft (optional feature)
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 0.1
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
- Current Rating: 12.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
from RAFI GmbH & Co. KG
The RAFI key switch series with mounting hole diameters of 22 and 30 mm is perfect for simple integration in your application. This is ensured thanks to the low overall height and mounting depth as well as the RAMO EDGE mounting bracket and the Plug & Play M12 terminal. RAMO AT A GLANCE. [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Construction: Single
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
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
- Current Rating: 12.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
from RAFI GmbH & Co. KG
The keylock switches in this series offer up to 4 switching positions each. Due to the special shape of the key, this enables up to 10,000 different locking positions. The priority switch model comes with different switching positions depending on the key. According to authorization level, the key... [See More]
- Actuator Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
- Actuator Type: Keylock
- Construction: Single
- Current Rating: 0.1
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
- Current Rating: 12.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
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
- Current Rating: 12.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
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
- Current Rating: 12.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
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
- Current Rating: 12.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
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
- Current Rating: 16.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
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
- Current Rating: 16.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
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
- Current Rating: 16.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
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
- Current Rating: 20.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
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
- Current Rating: 20.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
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
- Current Rating: 20.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
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
- Current Rating: 25.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
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
- Current Rating: 25.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
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
- Current Rating: 25.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
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
- Current Rating: 25.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
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
- Current Rating: 25.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic
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
- Current Rating: 25.0
- Actuator Type: Knobbed Shaft
- Base Material: Thermoplastic / Plastic