SINGLE PLUNGER
PUSHBUTTON SWITCHES
DEFINITION


A pushbutton switch is a mechanical device used to make and/or break one or more electrical circuits. They are designed to be solely operated by human hands.
OPERATION
These single plunger pushbutton switches have contact arrangements from one normally open contact or one normally closed contact to two normally open contacts plus two normally closed contacts. By pushing the plunger (by hand) the contacts will change state and either start or stop the cicuit they are connected to. When the plunger is released, the contacts of the momentary style switches will return to their normal at rest state. The maintained and latching style will stay as pushed until they are either pulled open or the latch is released to allow the plunger to return to its normal position. Another type shown is the keylock style which takes the added action of turning the key to lock the plunger in the depressed position and then turning the key back again to release the plunger.

SELECTION
The selection and use of a pushbutton switch involves knowing the details of the particular installation. The following questions should be answered in order to make the proper selection.
Does a circuit need to be made and/or broke?
Are there multiple circuits?
What operating force is desired?
What color plunger is required or requested?
What style plunger is necessary?
Does the button need to be guarded from unintentional operation?
What is the switch environment? (Exposed to weather?)
INSTALLATION
Every installation is unique, therefore there are only a very few hard and fast rules to follow. First of all, observe all safety requirements, procedures, and local codes. To mount these devices it will be necessary to have a suitable enclosure. These are available from REES or they will mount on Condulet© "FS" style cast enclosures. If the switch is to be mounted on a larger enclosure, the required switch mounting information can be found with dimensional drawings at the end of this section in the REES specifier's guide. On pages 16 through 24 you will find almost seventy-five different models of single plunger pushbutton switches that should satisfy any installation requirements. They cover a full range of functions and operating forces from ~2.0 lbs to 6.0 lbs. In the fourth section of this catalog you can find a number of accessory items to facilitate in the installation or operation of these switches. These switches, as all mechanical devices, will wear out and eventually need to be replaced. The estimated minimum mechanical life is 1,000,000 operations. Regular scheduled preventative maintenance inspections are strongly recommended for these switches. Some items to look for are:
Physical damage to the switch
Loose connections or components
Broken or weak springs
Burnt or very worn contacts
REES pushbutton switches are designed and manufactured to surpass the minimal standards of industry. On the facing page is a brief look at some of these regulations and how our switches conform. The testing done by independent facilities is the minimum requirement that the REES switches far exceed. If other assistance is desired, please contact the factory.
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