At Omega we pride ourselves on offering a wide range of quality products to meet all our customers’ needs. That is why we are pleased to introduce the lever switch range from APEM, a leading manufacturer in the field of industrial electronics.
Toggle switches are mechanical devices used to switch an electrical circuit by operating a lever. They are particularly useful in industrial applications where a toggle action is required to switch a circuit. APEM offers a wide range of toggle switches, available in a variety of configurations and with optional insulated levers for applications requiring increased electrical safety.
In this article we will detail some of APEM’s range of toggle switches, how they work and their various uses. We will also show you how to choose the right toggle switch for your application, as well as the mounting and installation options available. We hope this article will help you to better understand toggle switches and to choose the right products for your projects.
Apem s 600H-600NH toggle switch
Industrial toggle switches s 600H-600NH are designed for use in industrial applications requiring high current.
General characteristics :
- Single, double and triple pole versions and offer many different configurations.
- Outputs can be solder, clip or screw, and the contact is soldered directly to the output/contact carrier assembly, improving mechanical strength.
- Switching capacity up to 15A and are UL, CSA and NF-VDE approved.
- Maximum torque is 1.50 Nm when applied to the nut
- Maximum panel thickness is 4.5 mm between the two nuts.
Toggle switch series 1000
This is the economical range from the manufacturer Apem. It is the ideal choice for those looking for a simple and affordable solution to switch an electrical circuit between two states. Easy to use and install, this switch is perfect for both domestic and commercial applications.
General characteristics :
- Solder/clip or screw terminals
- Optional insulated levers for additional protection against electric shock
- Switching capacity from 2A to 6A
- Silver or silver plated copper contacts
- Sealing caps
- Maximum torque: 1.50 Nm when applied to the nut.
- Maximum panel thickness: 5mm between the two nuts.
5000 series toggle switch
Apem’s range of 6.35mm diameter miniature switches is the most comprehensive on the market and offers a wide variety of actuators, contact materials and electrical functions.
General characteristics :
- 17 actuators
- 5 contact materials
- 7 electrical functions
- 1 to 4 poles
- 12 types of outputs
- 6 and 6.35 mm diameter barrels
- 3 types of coating
- 4 approvals: UL, CSA, VDE and CECC
- 4 types of sealing
- Numerous accessories
- Maximum tightening torque: 1.25 Nm when applied to the nut.
- Maximum panel thickness: 2.5 mm between the two nuts and 4 mm with one nut.
- Mechanical life: 100,000 cycles.
6000 series toggle switch
The industrial toggle switch range is designed to meet the requirements of military applications. The range is available in single, double, triple and quadruple pole versions to suit all requirements.
General characteristics :
- Screw, solder or clip terminals
- Silver contacts
- Matt black lever and barrel
- Sealing and locking lever options
- Neoprene protective caps
- Breaking capacity up to 7A with resistive load
Further information on toggle switches
Operation of a toggle switch
A toggle switch works by breaking or closing an electrical circuit when it is operated. When it is in the “off” position, the circuit is open and no current can flow. When it is in the “on” position, the circuit is closed and current can flow. Lever switches are usually operated manually by pushing or pulling, but they can also be operated automatically by an electrical or mechanical signal.
Types of lever switches
There are several types of toggle switches, which differ in shape, size and mode of operation. The most common toggle switches are :
- Toggle switches: This type of switch is operated by turning a lever on the side of the device. It can be used to switch a circuit between several states, depending on the number of lever positions.
- Toggle switches: These switches are operated by flipping a lever from one side to the other. They are often used to switch a circuit between two states, usually on and off.
- Push-button toggle switches: These switches are operated by pressing a pushbutton on the side of the device. They are often used to switch a circuit quickly and easily.
Mounting and installation of lever switches
The assembly and installation of toggle switches depends on the type of switch and the application in which it is used. Here are some general steps to follow when installing a toggle switch:
- Switch off the power supply: Before starting any electrical installation, it is important to switch off the power supply to avoid the risk of electric shock.
- Prepare the circuit: Check that the electrical circuit is in good condition and that the cables and connections are in good condition and tight.
- Install switch housing: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing the lever switch housing in the desired location.
- Connect the cables: Connect the electrical cables to the switch housing according to the manufacturer’s instructions and the colour coding of the wires.
- Attach the lever: Attach the lever switch to the housing according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Check operation: Check that the switch is working properly by operating the lever and checking that the electrical circuit is switched off or closed.
It is recommended to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure correct assembly and installation. It is also important to comply with the electrical and safety standards in force in your area and to seek the advice of a qualified professional if you have any doubts about the installation of the lever switch.
Care and maintenance toggle switch
It is important to maintain and service toggle switches to ensure optimal operation and a long service life. Here are some tips for the care and maintenance of toggle switches:
- Regularly clean toggle switches with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and debris that may accumulate on their surfaces.
- Regularly check electrical connections and tighten terminals as necessary to avoid problems with poor contact.
- Replace defective or damaged toggle switches immediately to avoid electrical hazards.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the care and maintenance of toggle switches, which may include specific measures to consider depending on the type of switch and the application in which it is used.