Temperature switches are employed in machine building along with other industrial applications for limiting temperature. They monitor the temperature and react at a predefined point. To safeguard from overheating they either switch the gear or machine off or activate a fan for cooling. With respect to the task at hand, temperature switches operate as either normally-closed or normally-open switches. Three switch types are considered for industrial applications:
Electronic switches
Example: Electrical WIKA temperature switch TSD-30
Where a higher accuracy is requested, the operator should resort to an electronic switch. With this instrument, it is possible to change the limit values yourself and set several switch points. Electronic temperature switches may be used beyond their actual function ? yet another analogue output (e.g. 4 ? 20 mA) enables further processing of the signal and therefore continuous temperature monitoring aswell.
Furthermore, switches of the type could be fitted with digital communication (IO-Link). The benefits of these are an even faster parametrisation alongside extended diagnostics functions and integration into automated processes. Convenient , an on-site indication may also be provided.
The wide usability of the electronics is reflected in the purchase costs. It also sets limits on the operating temperature. Its maximum value is, typically,150 �C, which is sufficient for the majority of applications, however. So that Courage can fulfil their tasks, electronic temperature switches need, in addition to a power source, an additional contactor since their transistor only switches suprisingly low power.
Dial thermometers with switch contact
Example: WIKA expansion thermometer with switch contact SB15
The outstanding feature of dial thermometers with switch contacts is the wide temperature range. Generally, expansion thermometers are employed for industrial applications. They cover ? with regards to the version ? temperatures up to 400�C.
This instrument type also offers the operator the chance of selecting multiple switch points and setting them independently. It is also ideal for switching in the low-voltage range (250 VAC). An additional contactor is not needed. Dial thermometers with switch contacts function without additional power supply and, furthermore, offer an on-site display. Up-sell of the signal isn’t possible, however.
With regards to price and performance, the switch solution described here is situated in the mid range.
Bimetal temperature switch
Example: WIKA bimetal temperature switch model TFS35
Bimetal temperature switches have become compact, cost-effective and also have been designed for an array of applications. These instruments can also switch with low voltages around 250 VAC, and with this they can manage with no additional contactor.
Bimetal temperature switches operate with lower accuracy. Working exclusively as switches, they neither provide a local display, nor do they enable any processing of the signal. Their compact design also only permits a restricted temperature range (max. 200 �C), since the plug connection is very near to the hot area.
Note
Further information on the TSD-30 electronic switch, on the SB15 dial thermometer with switch contact and on the TFS35 bimetal temperature switch can be found on the WIKA website.
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