Combined Type Switch Terminal Block Manufacturer

Do You Know About Combined-Type Switch Terminal Blocks?

A combined type switch terminal block is an integrated component that merges the standard function of a wiring terminal with the switching action of a electromechanical switch. This combination creates a more efficient and compact interface point within a control panel.

Function and Design Integration:

At its core, this device serves two primary purposes. It acts as a standard terminal block, providing a secure and reliable point to terminate and connect electrical wires, typically using a screw clamp or spring cage connection. Second, it incorporates a built-in switch mechanism, often activated by a lever or plunger. The electrical switching circuit is internally connected to the terminal points, creating a self-contained unit. This integrated design eliminates the need for separate components and the external wiring that would traditionally be required to connect a switch to a terminal, saving significant space on the DIN rail.

Space Saving and Wiring Reduction:

The immediate advantage is the drastic reduction in physical footprint and wiring complexity. Instead of mounting a terminal block and a separate switch and then running wires between them, a designer can specify a single combined unit. This approach can cut the required space in half and removes at least two wires and connection points from the system. This not only makes the panel more organized and less cluttered but also accelerates the installation process. Fewer connections also mean fewer potential points of failure, contributing to overall system reliability.

Common Applications:

These combined blocks are exceptionally useful in applications where a signal needs to be manually interrupted or monitored. A classic example is in a control system where a "maintenance off" or "manual override" function is required. The switch can be wired to cut power or send a signal to a PLC when activated. They are also used as "door switches" in control cabinets, where the act of opening the door activates the switch to cut power, enhancing safety for maintenance personnel. Their versatility makes them a valuable component for adding manual control points directly into a wired circuit.

What Are Micro Switch Terminals?

Micro switch terminals represent a specific and highly useful category of combined switch terminals. They integrate a precise, snap-action micro switch into a terminal block housing.

1. The Role of the Snap-Action Mechanism:

The defining feature of a micro switch is its quick, snap-action mechanism. This means the switch changes state abruptly at a specific point of actuator travel, regardless of the speed at which the actuator is moved. This provides clean, reliable, and bounce-free switching, which is crucial for sending accurate signals to digital controllers like PLCs. The terminal block housing provides the convenient wiring points, while the micro switch itself, often activated by a lever, roller, or push-button, provides the high-reliability switching action.

2. Signal Indication and Interface Control:

A primary application for micro switch terminals is in interface between manual actions and automated control systems. For instance, they are commonly used as position sensing terminals on the doors of control cabinets. When the door is opened, the switch actuator is released, changing its state and sending a "door open" signal to the safety circuit or PLC to initiate a controlled shutdown. They are also ideal for manual control stations on a panel, where an operator can flip a lever to change a state or trigger an action, with the resulting signal connected directly through the terminal for a simple and robust solution.

3. Enhancing Safety and Feedback:

The reliability of the micro switch mechanism makes these terminals well-suited for safety-related and feedback functions. Their consistent performance ensures that a limit is detected or a manual command is registered every time. This provides critical feedback to machine control systems about the state of guards, doors, and positioning, helping to prevent unsafe operations. By embedding this reliable sensing directly into the terminal strip, system designers gain a powerful tool for creating safer, more interactive, and more intelligent machines without complicating the panel layout.