Minature Microswitches

The size is 20mm x 10mm x 6mm. I need some of these micro switches which are good quality and have a high reliability.

I have tried several sources and I am not impressed with reliability. So can anyone give me a named manufacturer that could supply the goods?

I just need a simple changeover switch, solder tags and no lever.. The standard 3 amp at 240V type will do just fine.

Andrew.

That size seems a bit odd. For makes: Honeywell, Omron Panasonic. See https://uk.farnell.com/c/switches-relays/switches/microswitch-snap-action-switches?

Robert.

I'm pretty sure that a microswitch from any of the well know manufacturers will be of good quality and highly reliable.

Could it be that your switches are having to handle a current or voltage outside their specifications?

Ian P

Have you had a look on RS/ Farnell or Rapid. RS used to stock them. The name of Burgess is one manufacture that comes to mind. Alarm suppliers will stock micro switches, they ought to be reliable. John

Just rechecked my dimensions and they are correct to the odd mm. It is certainly a standard size. Thanks for the "names". I have been out of the field of electronics / electrics. for 30 years. The companies quoted are familiar as good manufacturers. I am always bothered by companies being taken over and their products downgraded. Glad this hasn't happened to the "old stagers".

The existing micro switches that i have are failing mechanically. The contacts are fine but the actuating buttons seem to wear and no longer operate the contacts.

Thanks everyone,

Andrew.

The operating buttons are not designed to have any significant sliding relative to the surface they contact. For that type of application you should use one with a lever or roller lever.

Robert.

Now that is interesting. I copied the set up from the one used on the Danfoss valve actuators (central heating, 3 port valve).

I made the assumption that Danfoss would know what they were doing. They use a rotating metal cam to operate the microswitches, so there is sliding contact with the microswitch button. Seems they don't know about sliding contact being a potential problem.

The V4 microswitches in the Danfoss unit that I examined had no manufacturers mark, which I found very puzzling.

Andrew.

P.s. Omron V4 microswitches now .ordered

Edited By Andrew Tinsley on 12/02/2023 19:54:43

Many modern consumer items are only designed to meet their expected life at minimum cost. Danfoss may have specified a special button material. For the very large quantities they use it may have been more cost effective.
There is always an exception to the rule.
What is your application?

Robert.

If you are going to switch low voltages and want a long term reliable switch, than you should select a low voltage switch, not a 240V switch.

I have had two failures of Danfoss ch actuators after 8-10 years - specifically the cam operated microswitch, which enables the circulation pumps when the valves have opened. Repaired with ebay sourced pattern items and no failures since (but I now keep a spare in stock). Danfoss valves used to have a UK address, but lately eastern europe. The failed switches had no useful markings, so source not apparent.