What Are Foot Switches?

Foot switches are simple electronic components. They have two main functions. The first function is to activate a circuit, and the second function is to deactivate a circuit. These kind of switches react to movements, and will only function when its button or actuator gets pushed or returns to its default state.

Foot switches contain electrical contacts that close or open circuits, and those contacts can be usually found on the body of those switches. Conversely, the foot actuator can be found on the top of the switch. Whenever a foot touches the actuator, the switch will perform its function.

Benefits of Foot Switches

The main benefits of using Foot switches are their reliability, ease of installation, and the fact that they can be used in a wide assortment of applications and environments. In addition, the parts of these kind of switches are easy to maintain and replace.

Foot switches are very widely used. They can be found in a regular house-hold items. A good example of a foot switch can be found in a sewing machine. Whenever the foot switch is pressed the machine will operate. Applications where the hands may not be avilable for use then the foot becomes the operator.

The switch on the Sewing Machine is categorized as a spring return foot switch. Spring return switches need physical contact with the target for it to function. Once it loses contact, the spring will set the actuator to its default state.

Another type of foot switch is called a maintained contact switch. This type of switch is almost the same as a spring return switch in that it needs physical contact with the target. However, it needs constant contact, and it will only change state depending on the head’s action. The sewing machine foot switch can be also a maintained contact switch.

Standardized Foot Switches

Standardized foot switches have different styles. Few of them are open, and some have footguards. Most of them can be usually found on bigger machines used in factories. Additionally, some can be found in supermarkets at the checkout conveyors, presses, and industrial sewing machines. Because of their usability, they can be also found in grinding machines, radial drills, milling equipment, boring equipment, transfer machines and much more.

Electricians and engineers must know all the things about simple electrical components. Even purchasing agents, construction workers, and maintenance mechanics should have basic knowledge about the functions of these type of common electrical components. If you are not sure about what sort of switch mees your needs, feel free to contact us