Switch technology has changed so much in the 80 years since its introduction that many common beliefs about switches are no longer true. Here are 7 of the most widespread – and false – myths surrounding them.
Device Type: Electromechanical Switch
How LNG Facilities Can Systematically Design Their Instrumentation for Leak Detection
In this two-part blog post, we take a look at how United Electric Controls’ instrumentation technologies can help LNG facilities enhance their leak detection capabilities. In this first part, we review some considerations for a systematic instrumentation approach to detect leaks in LNG storage tanks. Oil and chemical operators have been adopting a systematic approach
Machine Safety in OEM Product Design
Machine safety should be an important consideration for OEM product designers. So, what is machine safety and how can designers lean on performance standards and vendors to ensure compliance? What is machine safety? Simply defined, machine safety is the work of implementing safeguards to protect personnel from injury by understanding the inherent risks associated with
Electronic Switches create efficiency opportunities
There is a growing demand for electronic switches in industrial plants. Operations, maintenance and instrumentation personnel are attracted to how electronic switches combine the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of a mechanical switch with the comparative intelligence of a transmitter. There are 3 types of efficiencies that can be realized from this: 1. Cost efficiency Equipment manufacturers
Dual Switch or DPDT Switch? What is the difference?
A Dual Switch has (2) independent micro-switches in one housing. Most commonly, a dual switch contains 2 SPDT (Single Pole, Dual Throw) switches. The key point is that there are two independent set points, each switch with its own mechanical actuator. A Dual switch is chosen if two independent set points are needed, or the user
How to wire a SPDT mechanical switch
Determining the wiring configuration (Normally Open or Normally Close) to a SPDT mechanical switch can seem confusing at times. However, the concept behind it is relatively straightforward. Wiring arrangement depends on 2 things: Whether the application is on the rise (i.e., trip above setpoint) or on the fall (i.e., trip below setpoint) Whether the load
The role of mechanical switches in a cybersecure environment
Back in 1681, Denis Pepin designed the first pressure relief valve to keep his experimental steam chamber from exploding. His idea was simple – to use the process’ own power as the safety operator, rather than an external system. Fast forward to 1931 when the modern rupture disc was invented using the tensile strength of
SIL 101 – A quick overview
When looking for different instruments to place in your application, it is always important to understand the safety requirements of your environment. You will often hear of the requirement to use an explosion-proof or an intrinsically safe device. Another requirement often thrown into the ring is the term “SIL”, an acronym for “Safety Integrity level”.
Selecting the right pressure switch for your application
Pressure switches are widely used within many applications in industrial facilities. The basic function of a pressure switch is to detect a pressure change and convert it into an electrical function – typically on/off or off/on. These products have been around for decades but sometimes customers still need help when looking to select a pressure switch to solve a problem or
