Description

Foot switches are switches that are foot actuated by a pedal or air bulb (bellows). Foot switches are available in many configurations including:

• Multi-pedal
• Snap action switch
• Slow action switch
• Potentiometer
• Variable speed control
• Explosion proof
• Waterproof
• Fully-guarded 

Specifications

Switch Specifications

Switch specifications to consider when searching for foot switches include:

• Pedals - Foot switches can have one, two, or three pedals. 
• Switch or Actuation Method - Choices for switch or actuation method include:
  • Snap action - In a snap action switch the action speed of the switch contact is independent of the actuator speed.
  • Slow action - In a slow action switch the contact points move at a speed proportional to the activating motion and are typically used for lower voltage applications.
  • Air switch - An air switch uses a foot actuated air bulb for actuation to a remote switch.
  • Potentiometer - Some switches contain an integral potentiometer.
• Function - Choices for switch function include:
  • Maintained contact
  • Momentary contact
  • Single stage
  • Two stage
  • Three stage
  • Mechanical interlock
  • Variable 

Electrical Switch Specifications

Electrical switch specifications to consider when searching for foot switches include:

• Pole and Throw - Pole and throw specification choices include:
  • Single pole, single throw (SPST)
  • Single pole, double throw (SPDT)
  • Double pole, single throw (DPST)
  • Double pole, double throw (DPDT)
• Configuration - Switch configuration can be normally open or normally closed.
• Contact Style - The contact style can be single break, double break, shorting, or non-shorting.
• Maximum Current - The maximum current is the maximum nominal, or nameplate current capacity of a device.
• Maximum AC & DC Voltage - The maximum AC and DC voltage capabilities are also important to consider.

Physical Specifications

Important physical specifications to consider when searching for foot switches include:

• Construction Material - The switch base material can be thermoplastic or plastic, PVC, or metal. Choices for actuator or pedal material include thermoplastic or plastic, PVC or metal.
• Terminal Type - The terminal type on foot switches can be wire leads or cords without plugs, wire leads or cords with plugs, solder terminals, screw terminals, and quick connects or blades.

Features

• Protection Features - Common protection features found on foot switches include no guard, full guard, anti-trip mechanism, dustproof, explosion proof, and weather resistant or waterproof.
• Certifications - Certifications granted include CE certification, CSA certification, and UL listing or registration.

Environment

The operating temperature is an important environmental parameter to consider.

Standards

FORD ES15 - Foot switches

References

Image Credit:

Linemaster Switch Corporation