Types of Micro Switches and Their Applications

Looking to understand the different types of micro switches available for your next electronics project? Micro switches come in a variety of types, each with unique characteristics that make them suitable for different applications. From pin plunger to flexible rod, each type has its own set of advantages and limitations. In this article, we will explore the various types of micro switches and their applications to help you determine which one is right for your project. Read on to learn more!

Types of Micro Switches

Micro switches have various types. Some of them are:

1. Pin plunger micro switch

A pin plunger micro switch is a type of electrical switch that is commonly used in various industrial and consumer applications. It consists of a spring-loaded plunger or button, called the “actuator,” that protrudes from the top of the switch body. When the plunger is depressed or released, it activates or deactivates the electrical contacts inside the switch allowing or interrupting the flow of electricity through the circuit.

Pin plunger micro switches are named for the shape of their actuator which resembles a small pin or nail. The plunger typically has a small diameter and short travel distance making it ideal for applications where precise and reliable actuation is required.

Application: Pin plunger micro switches are used in heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to detect when air filters need to be replaced. When the airflow is reduced due to a clogged filter, the plunger is depressed which activates the switch and signals the HVAC system to alert maintenance personnel.

2. Spring pin plunger micro switch

A spring pin plunger micro switch is a type of electrical switch that is activated by a spring-loaded plunger mechanism. The switch consists of a small, rectangular housing with a plunger protruding from one end. When the plunger is depressed, it activates the switch and completes an electrical circuit.

The “spring pin” refers to the type of plunger used in the switch which typically has a small, cylindrical shape with a spring-loaded mechanism that allows it to compress and then spring back to its original position. This design allows for reliable and precise switching action in a compact form factor.

Application: Spring pin plunger micro switches are used in automotive applications such as door locks, trunk latches and hood releases. They are also used in various control systems like cruise control and brake light switches.

3. Spring short pin plunger micro switch

A spring short pin plunger micro switch is a type of electrical switch that is commonly used in various electronic devices and appliances. It consists of a spring-loaded plunger that moves in and out of the switch body to make or break an electrical connection.

The “short pin” refers to the short metal pin that extends from the plunger which is used to make contact with other components in the device. The spring inside the switch ensures that the plunger returns to its original position when released, breaking the electrical connection.

Application: One example of an application for a spring short pin plunger micro switch is in a door or window alarm system. The switch can be mounted on the door or window frame and the plunger can be depressed when the door or window is closed, completing the circuit and activating the alarm. When the door or window is opened, the plunger is released and the circuit is broken, deactivating the alarm.

4. Panel mount pin plunger micro switch

A panel mount pin plunger micro switch is an electrical switch that is designed to be mounted onto a panel or surface. It features a plunger that extends from the switch body and when activated, the plunger depresses to make contact with the switch contacts.

The “pin plunger” refers to the type of actuator used in the switch which is a thin metal pin that extends from the plunger. This type of plunger is ideal for use in applications where a small and precise actuator is needed.

The overtravel is the largest of all plunger types. The switch is mounted to a panel using a hexagonal nut and locknut (the mounting position can be adjusted by adjusting the nuts). The plunger can be operated either manually or mechanically and usage in combination with a low-speed cam is also possible.

Application: Panel mount pin plunger micro switches can be used in industrial automation equipment to detect the position of parts or products on a conveyor belt or to detect the presence of a machine component. For example, in a manufacturing plant, a panel mount pin plunger micro switch can be used to detect the presence of a product on a conveyor belt and stop the belt if no product is detected.

5. Panel-mounted (cross) roller pin plunger micro switch

A panel-mounted (cross) roller pin plunger micro switch is an electrical switch that is typically used for automation and control applications. It is designed to be mounted on a panel or surface and its operation is triggered by the movement of a cross-shaped plunger with a roller on top.

A roller is attached to a panel mount pin plunger switch and is operated with a cam or dog. The mounting position can be adjusted the same as a panel mount pin plunger switch but the overtravel is slightly smaller. Cross rollers are also available that run parallel to the switch.

Application: In the aerospace industry, micro switches can be used in the control systems of aircraft where they can be used to detect the position of flaps, landing gear or other moving parts. The roller plunger mechanism allows for precise actuation even in the presence of vibration or turbulence.

6. Leaf spring micro switch

A leaf spring micro switch is a type of electrical switch that is actuated by a leaf spring. A leaf spring is a flexible, thin strip of metal that is used to provide tension or support in a variety of mechanical applications. In a leaf spring micro switch, the leaf spring is used as the actuator that controls the switching mechanism.

The stroke is larger because of a powerful leaf spring making this actuator suitable for low-speed cams or cylinder drives. The bearing point is fixed, so the overtravel must be maintained within the specifications in the application to prevent damage.

Application: They are used in arcade games and pinball machines to detect the movement of objects such as flippers and bumpers.

7. Roller leaf spring micro switch

A roller leaf spring micro switch is a type of electrical switch that is commonly used in various electronic and mechanical devices to detect the presence or absence of an object or to trigger an action based on a mechanical movement.

The switch consists of a spring-loaded lever arm that is mounted on a base with an electrical contact at one end and a roller at the other end. The roller is designed to move along the surface of the object being detected while the spring-loaded arm ensures that the roller maintains constant contact with the surface.

Application: Here is an example of how a roller leaf spring micro switch can be used in a vending machine:

When a product is selected, the vending machine’s dispensing mechanism activates causing the product to fall onto a platform below. As the product falls, it comes into contact with a roller attached to the roller leaf spring micro switch. The roller pushes down on the spring, causing the switch to make contact and send a signal to the vending machine’s control system that the product has been dispensed.

The roller leaf spring micro switch is a good choice for this application because it is small and can easily fit into the tight spaces of a vending machine. It is also reliable and durable, able to withstand the repetitive use of the vending machine without failing. Additionally, the roller on the switch ensures that the switch will be activated every time a product is dispensed ensuring accurate tracking of inventory and revenue.

8. Leaf lever micro switch

A leaf lever micro switch is a type of switch that uses a lever with a flat metal spring, or “leaf,” to make contact with an electrical circuit. The lever is typically actuated by a mechanical force such as a pushbutton or a cam.

A bend in the lever is used to create a large stroke. Suitable for detecting cams or dogs as well as various other moving objects.

Application: In an automated welding assembly line, the leaf lever micro switch can be used to detect whether a metal plate is properly in place before the welding process begins. The switch’s lever can be positioned to detect the presence or absence of the plate, and when the plate is detected, it triggers the switch and sends a signal to the control circuitry, allowing the welding process to proceed. If the plate is not in place or is not properly aligned, the switch’s lever will not be triggered and the control circuitry will prevent the welding process from starting, preventing errors and damage to the machinery.

9. Simulated roller leaf lever micro switch

A simulated roller leaf lever micro switch consists of a lever that is attached to a metal leaf which is in turn connected to a set of electrical contacts.

When the lever is pushed or pulled, it moves the leaf which causes the electrical contacts to open or close. This action can be used to turn a device on or off or to trigger other electronic components.

A leaf lever with the end bent into a curve to enable application as a simple roller type.

Application: The switch can be wired to control the conveyor motor so that when the object reaches a specific position, the switch will trigger the motor to stop or start. This helps ensure that the object is properly positioned before the next operation takes place and also prevents collisions or other mishaps in the machine.

10. Hinge lever micro switch

A hinge lever micro switch, also known as a snap-action switch, is an electrical switch that is actuated by a very small amount of physical force. The switch is made up of a lever that is hinged at one end and has a contact at the other end. When the lever is moved, the contact either opens or closes depending on the design of the switch.

Used with a low-speed, low-torque cam, the shape of the level can be changed to match the operating body. Steel is mainly used as the material for the lever.

Application: Hinge lever micro switches are used in security systems to detect when doors and windows are opened or closed and to trigger alarms or other security measures.

11. Simulated roller lever micro switch

The simulated roller lever micro switch gets its name from the fact that it uses a simulated roller mechanism to actuate the switch. This mechanism typically consists of a small wheel or roller that is mounted on the lever and is used to make contact with a stationary component in the switch when the lever is moved. When the lever is pivoted, the roller moves along the stationary component which causes the contact mechanism to move and make or break the electrical circuit.

A hinged lever with the end bent into a curve to enable application as a simple roller type.

Application: Arcade games require fast and accurate button responses to provide players with an immersive and exciting gaming experience. Simulated roller lever micro switches can be used in arcade buttons to detect the player’s input quickly and accurately.

12. Hinge roller lever micro switch

A hinge roller lever micro switch is a type of electrical switch that uses a small lever with a roller at one end to actuate the switch. When the lever is moved, the roller rotates and the switch contacts are opened or closed depending on the direction of the movement.

The “hinge” in the name refers to the pivot point of the lever which is attached to the switch body. The hinge allows the lever to move up and down while the roller at the end of the lever moves in a circular motion as it rolls along a surface.

A hinged lever with a roller attached. Suitable for high-speed cam operation.

Application: Hinge roller lever micro switches are used in printers to detect the position of the paper tray. When the paper tray is empty, the roller lever is activated and the switch sends a signal to the printer’s control system to stop printing until more paper is added.

13. Reverse operation hinge lever micro switch

A reverse operation hinge lever micro switch is a type of switch that is designed to activate when a force is applied to the lever in the opposite direction to the usual operation. In other words, the switch is activated when the lever is pushed back towards its resting position, rather than away from it. This type of switch can be useful in a range of applications where it is important to detect when a force is being applied in a particular direction.

Used with a low-speed, low-torque cam, the shape of the level can be changed to match the operating body. Steel is mainly used as the material for the lever.

Application: A reverse operation hinge lever micro switch can also be used in elevator doors to detect when they are closed completely. The switch can be positioned so that the lever is pushed back toward its resting position when the door makes contact with it indicating that it is fully closed. This helps to ensure the safety of passengers and prevent any accidents that may occur if the elevator is not properly secured.

14. Reverse operation hinge roller lever micro switch

A reverse operation hinge lever with a roller attached. Suitable for cam operation.

15. Rotating operation micro switch

A low-torque actuator with a rotating operation. Suitable for detecting lightweight objects such as coins and paper currency.

16. Flexible rod micro switch

Can be operated in any of 360° (but not in the direction running along the center of the rod). The operating force is small. Effective for detecting when the direction or shape is not consistent. The overtravel is absorbed by the actuator providing a large leeway in operation object play.

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