Limit switch boxes

Limit switch boxes for real-time feedback and control of industrial systems.

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Limit switch boxes for real-time feedback and control of industrial systems

Limit switch boxes for real-time feedback and control of industrial systems

Limit switch boxes are electrical or electromechanical components that detect the current switching status of an actuator or valve and display it optically or electrically. They are typically mounted on pneumatic actuators for industrial valves.

The main functions of limit switch boxes are:
 

  • Position detection: They signal whether a valve or actuator is open or closed (e.g. via microswitches, inductive sensors, proximity switches).
  • Feedback: They transmit this information to a control system (e.g. PLC) in order to monitor the system status.
  • Automation: They are part of an automation chain and serve as an interface between the mechanical process (e.g. valve movement) and the electrical control system. Depending on the design, the pilot valves of the pneumatic actuator can be connected directly to the switch boxes so that only one line needs to be routed to the valve.

The structure of a limit switch box

A limit switch box consists of a robust housing that is made of plastic or metal, depending on the area of application, and is often designed to be weatherproof or explosion-proof (e.g. to IP65 or ATEX). Inside are switching elements that operate either mechanically (e.g. microswitches) or contactlessly (e.g. inductive sensors). Terminal strips or plug connections are provided for the electrical connection, via which the connection to the control unit is made. An optical display - usually in the form of a visual indicator or dome - enables the valve position to be recognised locally. This allows the operating status to be read directly on site.

Areas of application for limit switch boxes

Limit switch boxes are used in numerous industrial sectors:

Process industry: chemicals, food and pharmaceuticals,

Water and waste water technology,

Oil and gas industry as well as energy and power plant technology,

And wherever automated valves or flaps are used.

Selection criteria for a limit switch box

Compatibility with the actuator

The limit switch box must be mechanically compatible with the actuator (e.g. pneumatic quarter-turn actuator). The TRI-SWITCH i-box and TRI-SWITCHBOX WAVE limit switch boxes can be installed on all pneumatic actuators with a standardised interface in accordance with VDI/VDE 3845. The mounting brackets of the WAVE switchboxes can be easily adapted to the actuator size.

Type of switch

On the one hand, mechanical microswitches in limit switch boxes are a robust and cost-effective standard solution. On the other hand, inductive sensors are contactless and wear-free, which makes them ideal for frequent actuation or use in harsh environments. Inductive sensors are of course also suitable for use in potentially explosive atmospheres. The TRI-SWITCHBOX Wave ATEX limit switch box is ATEX and SIL-certified.

Protection class and environment

Limit switch boxes for outdoor use or industrial environments should have at least protection class IP65. IP67 is also frequently used. In potentially explosive areas such as refineries or chemical plants, ATEX or SIL certifications are required. The temperature range must also be taken into account The WAVE switch boxes are also available in special low-temperature versions down to -55°C.

Feedback type

A limit switch box can be signalled in various ways. Electrically, it is binary and potential-free, e.g. to a PLC controller for further processing. Limit switch boxes with IO-Link position sensors are also available, which can be flexibly parameterised and have various diagnostic functions. In addition, many switch boxes offer visual feedback via a visual indicator for manual checking on site.

The TRI-MATIC range enables customised solutions for your specific application. The TRI-SWITCH i-Box limit switch box is a space-saving limit switch box that is mounted directly on the pneumatic actuator without a mounting bracket. It is usually used for simple applications and has an attractive price/performance ratio. The WAVE switch boxes are robust limit switch boxes with plenty of space. Up to 4 limit switches (inductive, mechanical or proximity switches) can be accommodated in the housings and connections for Namur valves can be realised. The TRI-SWITCHBOX Wave ATEX limit switch box is also ATEX and SIL-certified. All limit switch boxes can be combined with various switch, connection or display options.

FAQs

What is a limit switch box?

A limit switch box is an electrical or electromechanical component for detecting and providing real-time feedback on the position of valves or actuators in process control systems. It recognises whether a valve or actuator is open or closed. The detected signals are transmitted to a control system (e.g. PLC) to monitor the system status.

What function do limit switch boxes have?

Limit switch boxes detect the valve or actuator position. This is done using microswitches, inductive sensors or proximity switches. The detected position is forwarded to a higher-level control system (e.g. PLC). This allows the current status of a system to be reliably monitored. In addition, limit switch boxes form an interface for automation between the mechanical process (e.g. valve movement) and the electrical control system.

 

Where are limit switch boxes used?

Limit switch boxes are used in various industries to monitor and control the position of valves and actuators. They are often found in the process industry, the oil and gas industry and in water and wastewater technology.

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