Compare list full


Limit switches are a contact proximity sensor device that consists of an [actuator](/web/c/pneumatics-hydraulics-power-transmission/electric-actuators/) mechanically linked to a set of output contacts. When an object comes into contact with the actuator, the device operates the contacts to make or break an electrical connection.

**Limit Switch Makeup**

Limit switches are made up of three key components:

- Actuator Head - The actuator is the part of the switch that makes physical contact with the object. In some limit switches, the actuator is attached to an operating head which translates a rotary, linear, or perpendicular motion to open or close the electrical contacts of the switch.
- Switch Body – The switch body is the component containing the electrical contact mechanism, the contacts within the body open or close the electrical circuit when the actuator is activated.
- Receptacle/Terminals - The component containing the terminal screws or screw/clamp assembly necessary for wiring purposes.

**Actuator Types**

Limit switches are available with a wide range of actuator types. The type of actuator used can be determined by the mounting position, force required and objects to be detected.

- Rotary Lever - with lever actuators, a cam or plate hits the end of the lever arm which in turn rotates a shaft and operates the contacts in the switch. The rotation may be spring returned (momentary) or maintained.
- Plunger - Plunger types are best where short controlled machine movements are present or where mounting space does not permit a lever type.
- Cat Whisker or Coil Spring – Longer actuators with a coil wire that can be moved/bent in multiple directions. Typically used in conveying applications to count objects as they pass by.
- Forked – Used with maintained contacts, consisting of two roller levers. One roller will trip the switch and when the second is moved to the opposite direction it will reset the switch.


Shop our range of Limit Switches supplies & accessories. Free Next Day Delivery. Browse our latest Limit Switches offers.

Limit Switches, Rotary Lever & Plunger Limit Switch | RS

Limit Switches

Shop our range of ABB Limit Switches. Free Delivery Available.

ABB Limit Switches | RS

Shop our range of Crouzet Limit Switches. Free Delivery Available.

Crouzet Limit Switches | RS

Shop our range of Eaton Limit Switches. Free Delivery Available.

Eaton Limit Switches | RS

Shop our range of Honeywell Limit Switches. Free Delivery Available.

Honeywell Limit Switches | RS

Shop our range of Omron Limit Switches. Free Delivery Available.

Omron Limit Switches | RS

Shop our range of Siemens Limit Switches. Free Delivery Available.

Siemens Limit Switches | RS

Shop our range of Steute Limit Switches. Free Delivery Available.

Steute Limit Switches | RS

Buy Bartec Limit Switches. Browse our latest Bartec Limit Switches offers. Fast and hassle free delivery.

Bartec Limit Switches | RS

Buy from our selection of Limit Switches from Schmersal. At RS, we strive to give you the best offers from our supplier and to promptly deliver in the shortest time.

Schmersal Limit Switches | RS

Buy Schneider Electric Limit Switches. Browse our latest Schneider Electric Limit Switches offers. Fast and hassle free delivery.

Omron Limit Switches

Popular Searches