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Reed Switch Protection

Reed Switch Protection

Reed Switch Protection

Product catalog summary
Overview: This document provides technical specifications and guidelines for the use of hermetically sealed magnetic reed switches in GEMS level and flow switches. It emphasizes the importance of adhering to current capacity limits to prevent damage and ensure longevity.
Specifications: The reed switches are designed for use with various loads, including inductive and capacitive types. They are available in SPST or SPDT configurations with ratings of 10 VA or 20 VA at 120 to 240 VAC for pilot duty. The document warns against exceeding the current capacity, which can lead to contact welding or erosion.
Procedures: Users are advised to check the current capacity on the unit label before installation. For inductive loads, contact protection is necessary to prevent arcing, which can damage the switch contacts. Recommended protection includes using a 1N4004 diode for DC applications and a resistor-capacitor network for AC applications.
Recommendations: It is recommended to use specific part numbers for protection components, such as Gems P/N 134579 or 59690 for DC and P/N 134580 for AC. Users are encouraged to consult with electrical engineers or GEMS for guidance on specific applications.
Warnings: The document cautions against being misled by resistive or wattage ratings, as many applications involve high inductive loads. Failure to use the unit within its proper current capacity can result in faulty operation and reduced switch life.
Contact Information: For further assistance, users can contact Gems Sensors Inc. at their Plainville, CT location.
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Catalog excerpts

Reed Switch Protection-1

Gems Sensors Inc. One Cowles Road Plainville, CT. 06062-1198 TEL: 860-747-3000 FAX: 860-747-4244 - Reed Switch Protection Bulletin No. 133702 CAUTION! Read This Before Installing Unit! Failure to use this unit within the proper current capacity will result in faulty operation! The “heart” of all GEMS level and flow switches is a hermetically sealed, magnetic reed switch within the unit stem. If used within its current carrying capacity, the reed switch will last many years - 2 million cycles under ideal conditions. Reed Switch DON'T COOK YOUR REED SWITCH!!!! Check the current capacity shown on the label of the unit you have purchased, to be sure you are within proper ratings! (See "Switch Ratings - Max. Resistive Load" chart on reverse of this sheet.) Don't Be Misled: . . . . By the resistive ratings of the switches. Most applications involve inductive or capacitive loads. If the reed switch is hooked up directly to the load, it will likely weld the contacts or erode the contact surface; thereby shortening switch life. Incandescent Bulb (High Inrush Load**) . . . . By the wattage ratings of loads. Low wattage loads are often high inductive devices, making contact protection very important**. **See reverse side of this sheet for information on contact protection required when switching inductive loads such as relays, solenoids, motor starters and transformers. Ask about our solid-state relays for loads of 5 - 10 amps. Consult your local electrical engineer or GEMS, if in doubt. Hermetically Sealed Magnetic Reed Switch Permanent Magnet SWITCH WILL WELD! **6 to 7 Times the Normal Operating Curren

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