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What Is Micro Switch And Sealed Micro Switch

2024-10-31

Micro switches are often used around us, but sometimes we can't tell the difference between them. Micro switches and sealed switches are one of the hot-selling products of China's sealed micro switch supplier Unionwell. They can be used in many different applications and are suitable for various industries. This article will help you better understand micro switches and sealed micro switches.

What Is Micro Switch?

Micro Switch Definition

Micro switches are electrical switches that can be triggered by very small operating forces. They are compact and responsive, and are widely used in monitoring and control of household appliances, automobiles, etc. This type of switch is very common in control panels of household appliances, automobiles, etc. This type of switch is compact, inexpensive, and has a long service life, usually up to 100,000 times.

Working Principle Of Micro Switch

The micro switch has a simple structure, consisting of a button, contact, pressure rod, spring and terminal. There are also two working modes: normally open and normally closed. When the pressure rod is pressed, the internal contact can be easily triggered, and the signal transmission is completed. Usually, a "click" sound is emitted when the micro switch is pressed. Of course, the Clip Type Silent Sealed Micro Switch uses a silent press, which is smoother to operate.Micro-Switch-Construction

Common Applications

Micro switches are widely used in various industries for their efficient trigger response and reliable electrical connection. You may have never seen them, but they are never far from your life. Common application scenarios include:

Kitchen appliances: such as washing machines and microwave oven door detection switches, the type used is the G5 basic micro switch type.

Household sanitary equipment: such as smart cleaning robots, vacuum cleaners, etc., using the G10 Subminiature micro switch.

Industrial control: In automated production lines, for detecting mechanical movements, positioning, etc., the G12 limit micro switch type is used.

Advantages Of Using Micro Switches

Micro switches are widely used in many industries due to their durability, low operating force, and high reliability. Its advantages include:

Quick response: Even a slight press can achieve a quick response, and quick response is a major advantage of micro switches.

Strong durability: High-quality micro switches can withstand millions of operations, suitable for high-frequency use, and reduce maintenance times.

Anti-interference performance: Maintain stability in complex electromagnetic environments, improving the safety and reliability of equipment

High cost-effectiveness: Compared with other control components, micro switches have lower costs, are easy to install and maintain, and are simple, fast, and inexpensive to replace.

What Is a Sealed Micro Switch?

Sealed Micro Switch Definition

    After talking about micro switches, what is the difference between sealed micro switches? Sealed micro switches are actually a type of micro switches. The difference is that they are treated with protection to make their sealing performance better. They have an IP40 or IP67 level of protection and can effectively resist dust, moisture and other damage. Therefore, they are widely used in industrial automation, outdoor equipment, automotive industry and medical equipment, and are suitable for switch applications exposed to external environments or moisture.

    If you'd like to learn more about IP67 waterproof microswitches, you can read 《IP67 vs. IP68: Which Waterproof Rating Suits Your Application Better?

    Features of sealed micro switches

    Sealed switches have the general characteristics of basic micro switches, in addition to which four main features are summarized:

    High protection level: usually dustproof (IP40) and waterproof (IP67) and even corrosion-resistant marine equipment (IP68) levels, effectively preventing dust and moisture from penetrating.

    Sealing process: Sealed switches are all sealed, generally with a sealing rubber ring on the top and a glue seal on the bottom to achieve complete sealing, so the price is also higher than that of ordinary switches.

    High temperature resistance: Sealed micro switches can work normally in the temperature range of -40℃ to 85℃, and can cope with most working scenarios.

    Sturdy shell: The sealed shell made of special materials can withstand high-intensity vibration and impact.

    Common Applications

    Sealed micro switches are often used in applications that require high reliability and protection level, such as:

    Automotive industry: used for car door locks, hood locks, seat belt detection switches, etc., such as our G20 car seat belt reminder switch.

    Automotive charging gun: The charging gun of an electric car mainly relies on the sensitive response and durability of the micro switch to detect and control the charging and discharging functions of the charging gun. A typical use case is our G10B Subminiature sealed micro switch.

    Industrial control: suitable for production environments that require waterproofing and dustproofing, such as position detection switches, safety detection switches, etc.

    Consumer electronics industry: can also be used in electronic equipment, such as game console control systems, claw machine joysticks, mouse or keyboard switches, etc.

    • The Difference Between Sealed Micro Switches And Micro Switches

      Sealed micro switches and ordinary micro switches differ in structure and application:

      Structural differences: Sealed micro switches have a higher level of protection, special sealing treatment, and some structural differences.

      Application environment: Sealed micro switches can work in humid, dusty or corrosive environments, while ordinary micro switches are mostly used in ordinary indoor environments. Both play a significant role in their respective fields.

      Cost differences: Sealed micro switches have a higher manufacturing cost, so the price will be higher than ordinary micro switches, but the quality and durability are also improved accordingly.

      IP Ratings Explained

      Since we mentioned IP ratings above, let's also explain how IP ratings are divided. IP ratings are not standards we set ourselves, but are based on the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) to develop ingress protection rating standards. Different ratings represent different protection capabilities and are applicable to the entire electronics industry.

      IP XX—— First Digit

      The first digit of IP indicates the protection level against solid foreign matter (such as dust). Generally, there are the following protection levels:

      ip-ratings

      IP XX—— Second Digit

      The second digit of IP indicates the level of protection against liquid foreign matter (such as moisture), which is generally divided into the following levels:

      ip-ratings

      Take the commonly used IP40 and IP67 ratings of micro switches as an example. IP40 is ordinary dustproof but not waterproof, while IP67 is dustproof and waterproof. In fact, sometimes there is a third digit in the IP rating, but for our industry, it is enough to know the first two digits. If you are interested, you can click the link below to view the article revealing the third digit!

      Types of micro switches

      Classification by operating lever

      According to different application scenarios, common micro switches can also be divided into the following types by lever type:

      Button type micro switch: This type is the most common and common micro switch. The micro switch can be triggered by pressing the button.

      Roller type micro switch: It is triggered by pressing the roller. The roller is installed on the operating lever. The switch is triggered by rolling. It can reduce wear or apply special control buttons.

      Lever type micro switch: This switch is easier to identify. It usually has a long lever and is suitable for occasions with longer stroke triggering.

      Push button micro switch: It triggers the internal contacts of the structure by pushing the button. It is suitable for application environments with limited space and is mostly used in industrial environments.

      Sealed Micro Switch Switch Environment Classification

      There are also different types of sealed micro switches, which are adapted to specific environmental requirements according to different environments:

      Standard sealed micro switch: has basic waterproof and dustproof functions, suitable for outdoor appliances

      Underwater sealed micro switch: has a higher protection level and can be used for a long time in underwater environments

      High temperature resistant sealed micro switch: suitable for extreme high temperature environments, such as car engine compartments

      Corrosion-resistant sealed micro switch: adapts to marine and chemical environments, prevents salt spray and chemical corrosion

      Unionwell Sealed Micro Switches

      Unionwell is a well-known sealed micro switch manufacturer in the industry. Its products are widely used in various harsh environments due to their reliable performance and high protection level. The features of Unionwell's sealed micro switches are as follows:

      Reliable protection level: It reaches IP67 protection level, ensuring working in high humidity and high dust environment. After certification and testing by professional organizations, relevant certification certificates can be provided.

      Widely used: It is widely used in automobiles, home appliances and industrial equipment, such as car door locks, engine compartments and control systems of industrial equipment

      Customer customization: Unionwell provides OEM and ODM services, and can customize the development of switches according to customer needs. We have many years of experience and strength in customization.

      Cost-effective: Unionwell focuses on improving product performance and quality, providing competitive prices, and giving your brand an absolute price advantage in the market.

      Automated production: Unionwell adopts automated mass production to meet your mass production. You only need to place an order, and we guarantee on-time delivery!

      FAQ About Sealed Basic Switches

      micro-switch-FAQ

      Can Sealed Micro Switches Be Used Underwater?

      Most sealed micro switches with IP67 or IP68 ratings can be used for short periods of time or shallow underwater, but are not recommended for long periods of time or in deep water environments. For specific underwater applications, it is recommended to consult the manufacturer to determine whether a special waterproof design is required.

      What Is The Life Of a Sealed Micro Switch?

      Generally speaking, the life of a sealed micro switch is 100,000 to 1 million times, depending on the use environment and operating conditions. Choosing a high-quality brand such as Unionwell can ensure a longer service life.

      Can Sealed Micro Switches Be Customized?

      Yes, many manufacturers provide customized services for sealed micro switches, including shape, size, operating force and electrical specifications. For example, Unionwell provides OEM and ODM customization to suit different application requirements.

      What Is The Temperature Range Of Sealed Micro Switches?

      The temperature adaptability range of common sealed micro switches is between 40℃ and 85℃, and high-end products even support higher temperatures. For applications with extreme temperatures, it is recommended to choose high temperature resistant sealed micro switches.

      How Much Do Sealed Micro Switches Cost?

      Sealed micro switches usually cost more than regular micro switches because they require more complex sealing and durable designs. For large volume orders, contacting the supplier directly can get preferential pricing.

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    Mark Song

    Hello, I'm Mark Song, CEO and founder of Huizhou Unionwell Sensing & Control Electronics Co., Ltd. With over 30 years of experience in the micro switch industry since 1993, I have cultivated a deep expertise from R&D to the founding of Unionwell. Our company boasts strong teams in development, production, quality, and service. I would like to share my knowledge on this website, which will be helpful to you, and I am committed to meeting your needs with our professionalism and dedication.

    Mark Songjgi

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