Microswitches

Micro switches – switching core of the foot switch for the tail lift

Micro switches are the actual switching component inside a foot switch and translate the movement of the footplate into a clean electrical switching action. They are small components, often working on the snap-action principle, with defined switching travel, precise actuation force and a long switching cycle count. At SULEJ Ladebordwand you will find micro switches in different connection and lever variants, matched to the respective installed component – for reliable switching action in daily truck operation.

Contact design, actuation force and lever variants

Inside the micro switch a pre-tensioned spring blade works against a movable contact plate. When the switching point is exceeded, the spring snaps over abruptly – this produces a clean, low-bounce switching action without prolonged intermediate switching. Different contact designs are available, such as normally-open, normally-closed or changeover, combined with lever variants from short pin actuation to roller lever versions. Connection is realised via solder tags, blade terminals or screw terminals. Different lever lengths and actuation forces are precisely matched to the mechanics inside the foot switch housing.

What to look out for when replacing a micro switch

When changing, the switching voltage, contact design, actuating lever and the housing dimensions are decisive. Check the old switch for burnt contacts, sticking switching points and worn levers – a switching action that no longer snaps causes arcing and rapid follow-up wear. After fitting, make sure that the lever reaches the switching point exactly at the intended step position and returns completely to its rest position when released.

Benefits at a glance

• Low-bounce snap contacts for clean switching actions
• Contact designs and lever variants for common foot switch mechanics
• High switching cycle counts for the high step frequency in distribution operation
• Connection variants suitable for different operating peripherals

A correctly chosen micro switch secures switching accuracy inside the foot switch and ensures a noticeably consistent step actuation over long service intervals.