
Selector Switches

Pilot devices provide control and condition monitoring of different types of processes, equipment and machinery in industrial and commercial applications. They are used for communication from a machine to an operator or from an operator to a machine. Pilot devices can be an audio or visual indicator, or an actuator that is used to control the flow of energy to a process. Visual indicators are: pilot lights, signal towers, strobes and beacons. Audio indictors are: buzzers and sounder horns. Actuators are: push buttons, selector switches, toggle switches and potentiometers.
Selector switches are devices that have a handle that can be rotated in two, three or more positions. As the handle rotates, a plunger is pushed inward to make or break contacts that are mounted on the back. Selector switches can be used to switch a process on or off, switch from low speed to high speed, switch from auto to manual and many more depending on the application. Selector switches come in a wide variety of colors, shapes and materials. The mounting diameter can be between 16mm to 30mm and are generally either plastic or metal. Key-operated selector switches are used for safety-related applications. The key can be removed in various positions. Once the key is removed, no other action can be performed.
Products
Cutouts are very common when modifying enclosures for push buttons, indication lights, conduit entries or mounting hardware. Cutting into an enclosure runs the risk of eliminating the protective nature of the NEMA rated attributes. Proper steps must be followed in order to preserve the NEMA rating of an enclosure.
Devices mounted to the enclosure must have the same NEMA rating as the enclosure. This means that if the devices are installed to the manufacturer's specifications, they will be able to maintain the NEMA rating of the enclosure.
Water tight conduit hubs must be used when running wire through a cutout in an enclosure. There are many different types of conduit hubs that are used to secure conduit to an enclosure. However, only certain conduit hubs are rated for a watertight seal. By using water tight hubs, the NEMA rating of the enclosure is maintained.
Bonded washers are necessary when mounting hardware to an enclosure. If standard mounting hardware is used, the NEMA rating of the enclosure will no longer be maintained. Bonded washers have rubber gaskets that make a watertight seal around the drilled hole. It is also important to make sure the material used for the bonded washer matches the material of the enclosure. Stainless steel enclosures require stainless steel bonded washers.