Materials and Construction of the Limit Switch Boxes
1. Lexan 143 (Switchmaster)
Application: all Switchmaster models M2, D2, N2.
Temperature: –20 °C to +70 °C.
Advantages: the polycarbonate Lexan 143 with anti-static coating provides high impact resistance, transparency for visual position verification and IP67 protection. The colour-coded cam furthermore enables remote reading of the valve position.
Limitations: sensitive to aromatic solvents and concentrated alkalis.
2. Polypropylene PP (EB300-PP, EB300-PE)
Application: standard applications without explosion hazard.
Temperature: –20 °C to +60 °C.
Advantages: low weight, chemical resistance, competitive price and IP67 protection. The PE version with stainless steel bridge furthermore provides increased mounting stability.
Limitations: not ATEX-certified. Not suited for hazardous areas.
3. Conductive Vestamid / Polyamide 12 (EB300-VP, VE, VE-DB)
Application: ATEX areas Zone 1/2 and Zone 21/22.
Temperature: –20 °C to +60 °C.
Advantages: conductive polyamide 12 ensures dissipation of electrostatic charges in hazardous areas. Weight is consequently significantly lower than aluminium with the same ATEX certification.
Limitations: mechanical robustness lower than aluminium. For extreme mechanical loads, the aluminium versions are recommended.
4. Aluminium (EB300-AP, AE, AE-DB)
Application: ATEX areas Zone 1/2 and Zone 21/22 with increased mechanical loading.
Temperature: –20 °C to +70 °C.
Advantages: maximum mechanical robustness, heat resistance and ATEX certification. The aluminium housing furthermore provides increased protection against vandalism and mechanical impact.
Limitations: higher weight and cost than Vestamid versions.
5. Switching Elements – Mechanical, Inductive, Pneumatic
Mechanical (microswitches): gold-plated contacts, 4V DC to 250V AC, proven and cost-effective. Standard for Switchmaster M2 and all EB300 models.
Inductive (proximity switches): contactless detection without wear, high service life, ideal for vibration environments. Standard for Switchmaster D2.
Pneumatic: purely pneumatic signal transmission without electrical wiring. Standard for Switchmaster N2.
All three technologies are consequently available in ATEX versions.
