Air-actuated switches

Nov. 6, 2003
Advances in controls and networks combined with components that pack more punch have opened the door to more-precise, durable, and economical pneumatic systems.

A new group of air-actuated electrical switches from Clippard Instrument Laboratory, Cincinnati, is suited for applications where pneumatics must remotely pilot electrical switches.

The pressure actuator has a spring-biased piston with a U-cup seal that actuates either a subminiature or miniature electrical switch with air pressure as low as 5 psig. The electrical switches are available in a variety of current ratings and terminal styles. The product is also offered with a manually operated stem that can be combined with any of Clippard's mechanical valve actuators: roller cam, ball actuator, or push button.

The pneumatically actuated models have a 5/8-32 external thread and the mechanically actuated models feature a 15/32-32 external thread mounting. All models are available without a switch, for use with existing switches.

About the Author

Kenneth Korane

Ken Korane holds a B.S. Mechanical Engineering from The Ohio State University. In addition to serving as an editor at Machine Design until August 2015, his prior work experience includes product engineer at Parker Hannifin Corp. and mechanical design engineer at Euclid Inc. 

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