What Are Pressure Switches?
A pressure switch is a type of switch mechanism that is designed to initiate an electrical connection when a certain amount of pressure is placed on the switch. There are many different types of pressure switches, although all types can be classified under two specific categories, known as the pneumatic and the hydraulic. Switches of this kind are used in pools, various types of appliances, machinery in factories, and a number of other applications.
Pneumatic pressure switches are helpful in the proper charging of different types of batteries; in particular, designs that use a combination of nickel and some other metal. Essentially, the switch helps to regulate the rate of charge, preventing the battery from receiving too much current. This is an example of a switch that functions based on rising pressure, since the function will activate in order to begin the charging process, but will also stop when the pressure reaches a certain level.
Another application of a pneumatic switch of this type has to do with regulating the function of a gas compressor. In this application, the pressure serves as the means of determining when to shut off the flow of electricity into the compressor, thus preventing an overload situation. From this perspective, a pressure switch can be thought of as a safety measure.
Hydraulic pressure switches are used in a variety of ways. Switches of this type found on cars and trucks are a classic example. The switch causes the activation of a warning light if the oil pressure in the vehicle drops to a level that is likely to cause problems for the engine. Hydraulic switches built into the brake system activate the brake lights when the pressure rises due to the driver depressing the brake pedal and increasing the pressure found in the hydraulic brake pipes. Other pressure switches throughout various components, including air filtration and conditioning systems, also activate and shut down according to the presence of various levels of pressure.
Pressure switches are also present in pool systems that help to regulate the temperature of the water. This makes it possible to enjoy heated pools in winter months while also enjoying a pleasant temperature even in during the height of the summer season. While the switches come in a variety of sizes and designs, they all serve the useful purpose of making it possible to control the level of pressure within a given device, thus making it safer to operate the device without fear of any type of malfunction.
Written by Malcolm Tatum
