If you're employed with electrical machinery, then you’ve
most likely detected the term “limit switch” before. However what specifically
is it? And what's the operation of a limit switch? Below, we offer you with a
basic summary of what limit switches are, their applications and the way to use
them.
What is Limit Switch?
A limit switch is a part of electromechanical equipment
that’s made up of an actuator connected to a series of contacts. These contacts
permit the limit switch to detect the presence and proximity or absence of a
material or object, usually in industrial settings. Depends on what the contact
detects, the sensor moves an actuator, which in turn changes the state of an
electrical circuit. This movement signals that some preset or fixed ‘limit’ has
been reached.
Just because Limit
Switches automatically detect preset limits, they eliminate the need
for human workers to monitor those levels. This change makes operating
everything from heavy machinery to industrial conveyor belts more precise and much
easier but also much more reliable. As a result, production becomes more
efficient, and work environments become safer and easier.
Application and
Functions of Limit Switches
Uses of a Limit
Switch
Limit
switches are often used to tally items or materials so that when a
limit is reached, the switch open or closes. This condition is frequently the case
in industrial applications like assembly lines. For example, when the limit
switch in a specific piece of instrument detects that it has added a
predetermined number of components to a product, the switch moves the actuator,
which in turn moves the piece of instrument away, and the product goes on to
the next station.
Limit switches can also be used as safety interlocks to
prevent machine parts from moving any further when a specific fixed point is
reached. A good example of limit switch is an automatic garage door. Without a
limit switch that stops the door when it reaches the bottom rail, the door
would keep moving downwards and eventually crash into the ground, causing any
kind of serious damage.
Limit switches can also be used as important part of a larger
control system. When a specific limit is reached, the actuator can de-activate
or activate a device to prevent malfunctioning or emergencies.
Operating Principle –
How to Use a Limit Switch
The operating principle of Limit switch is rather simple,
but as you can tell from the examples above, it’s integral to a host of commercial
and industrial mechanical operations. Its most basic use is to slow down, stop,
start or speed up operations in equipments. You can also integrate a limit
switch into a wide range of electromechanical applications ranging from
residential garage doors to material handling in warehousing and distribution.
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