Rocker switches On Off On

Commonly, rocker switches are described in terms of number of poles and throws ie single pole, double throw (SPDT) or double pole single throw (DPST)

The number of poles on a switch relates to the number of circuits the switch can operate. So, a single pole switch controls one circuit and a double pole controls two.

Throw refers to the number of positions each switch pole can be connected to.

Rocker switches on off on are double throw switches.  They have three positions compared to the standard on off switch which has two. The third switching position is in the centre of the switch and is in the “OFF” position.  This is why they are also known as Centre Off switches.

Switch Action
The switch action for all switches is either latching (maintained) or momentary.

• Latching – stay in the same position when activated and remain there until the switch is pressed again.
• Momentary – only remain in position when pressed.  As soon as released, the switch returns to the original position.  On a circuit diagram a triangle is used to denote the momentary action.  Brackets are used in written descriptions i.e. (on)-off-(on) = momentary both sides, as shown in the below diagram:

At Alan Butcher Components we offer both latching and momentary on-off-on switches –  https://www.abcomponents.co.uk/product-category/switches/rocker-switch?filter_switch-function=264

Rocker Switches – Alan Butcher Components
Our on off on rocker switches can be split into four groups based on panel cut-out size:

A1 Series 13x19mm A11561100000 – black, latching Rating: 10(2)A/250VAC Approvals: ENEC, UL, CSA, CE, IECC, CQC Terminals: 4.8mm fast-on		B1 Series 11x30mm Momentary and latching versions are available in this series. B115C11000000 – black, latching B11D411000000 – black, momentary B115C11290000 – black with 1011 marking SX81115811000000 – black, latching Rating: 16(6)A /250VAC Approvals:  ENEC, UL, CSA, IECC, CE Terminals: 6.3mm fast-on
B4 Series – 22x30mm B419C11000000 – black, latching B419C118A0000 – black, latching with I0II marking in red B41J411000000 – black, momentary both sides Rating: 16(6)A /250VAC Approvals:  ENEC, UL, CSA, IECC, CE Terminals: 6.3mm fast-on		B4MASK Series – 22x30mm IP65 rated B4MASK19C1129000 Rating: 16(6)A/250VAC Approvals: ENEC, UL, CSA, CE Terminals: 6.3mm fast on
ABRR Series – 20mm ABRR003 – black, latching with I0II marking in white ABRR008 – black, latching with I0II marking in red ABRR026 – black, momentary both sides ABRR030 – black, latching Rating: 6(2)A /250VAC Approvals:  ENEC, UL, CQC Terminals: 4.8mm fast-on

The above items are all in stock at Alan Butcher Components.  We are able to source the switches in alternative body and marking colours however, minimum order quantities will apply.  Please call us on 01258 456360 to discuss this further or email sales@abcomponents.co.uk

Our rectangular on off on switches are manufactured by Everel – www.everelgroup.com  Everel is an Italian manufacturer of electronic and electro-mechanical components, with a strong presence in the European domestic appliance sector.  With over 100 years within the industry, the Everel brand has established a reputation for excellence.  The level of expertise, innovation and quality ensures it is a leading supplier within the household appliance and industrial equipment fields.

We “own brand” our round rocker switches and have developed a strong working relationship with our supplier.  This ensures we are confident in the quality of the products we sell and have the expertise available should technical queries arise.  This relationship enables us to respond to enquiries quickly, particularly regarding lead-times and customised products.

For your information, our switch products are also supported by our range of panel indicator lights.  Please click on the following link for more information – https://www.abcomponents.co.uk/product-category/signal-lamps-and-indicator-lights/

Applications for rocker switches on off on

Centre off rocker switches are excellent for switching two separate operations on an application and therefore, have many applications.  They are however, particularly suitable for the following:

HVAC equipment:

• Heaters
• Fan speed controllers
• Changing from hot to cold temperatures

Cleaning equipment:

• Changing suction strengths on vacuum cleaners
• Pressure washers
• Steam cleaners

Other:

• Motor control within various applications as you can have forward, off, reverse positions
• Pump controls
• Control panels for various applications including medical equipment & small appliances

How a centre-off rocker switch works
This image shows a DPDT, 30x22mm switch.  This switch snap fits into a panel and is connected using the 6.3mm fast on terminals.  There are six contact terminals.  The marking on the actuator denotes the on off on positions.  The actuator rocks from the central position to either of the two on positions, depending on which side is pressed.  The rocker switch housing material is PA 6.6 and the contact terminals are silver plated copper.  The accessory terminals connect to the load of the circuit.  This is what the rocker switch turns on when it’s switched for example a fan, heater, motor etc.  An on off on rocker switch consists of movable & stationary contacts, springs and other mechanical parts.  When a switch is pressed, the spring causes the moveable contact to connect with the stationary output contact, closing the switch circuit for that side.

Example of an actuator with spring for central “off” contact. Springs are also used to activate the accessory contacts.

Moveable contacts which are placed in the bottom of the switch housing. The moveable contacts connect with the stationary fast-on terminals.

Splash proof caps for rocker switches on off on

The majority of our on-off-on switches are IP40 rated.  For applications that need a higher IP rating, we supply splash proof caps which snap fit over the switch.  When fitted correctly, the caps increase the switch rating to IP65.  Following is a link to our website which provides details of the caps available for the various switch ranges – https://www.abcomponents.co.uk/product-category/switches/switch-accessories/

For more information on centre off switches, please contact us at Alan Butcher Components.  Our sales and technical personnel are ready to assist with your enquiry.  Customer service is fundamental to our business and the telephone is always answered by one of our team.

Call – 01258 456360
Email – sales@abcomponents.co.uk

If there is a particular product you are interested in, you can also use the “enquire about this product” form located on each product page on our website.  You can use this form to request a quotation or free sample.