Switch Boots

Switch boots protect switches from contaminants such as dirt, dust, gas, and liquids.  They are generally tough, pliable silicone rubber devices for toggle, pushbutton, rocker and rotary switches. Switch boots protect a switch and seal its mounting hole against the ingress of washdown, salt water, lubricants, cleaning solvents, dust, dirt, grease, and other environmental elements. Switch boots are designed for a variety of commercial, industrial, and military applications. They are available in two configurations: half boot and full boot. Half boots are designed to allow the switch actuator to protrude from the seal. Full boots completely protect and cover the switch actuator.

In addition to protecting toggle, pushbutton, rocker, and rotary switches, some types of switch boots are specially-designed to protect circuit breakers. Other types of switch boots can protect handset switches and or telecommunications devices. Circuit breaker boots can be used for lever, rocker or pushbutton switches. These switch boots are designed to seal out dust, dirt, and moisture without compromising breaker tripping, manual operation, or position-status viewing. Handset switch boots are specially-designed products that are used for handset switches in telecommunication applications.

Some switch boots adhere to specific standards or ratings specifications, especially if they are designed for specialized applications. Some switch boots are manufactured to military specifications (MIL-SPEC). Others are shielded, armored, or contain a secondary inner seal. Shielded switch boots provide protection against electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI). Shielded switch boots guard against spurious electronic signals that enter or leave electronic equipment through the switch mounting hole. Armored switch boots are designed for demanding applications where mechanical abuse is expected. These switch boots are also suitable for medical and food processing applications. Secondary inner seal devices protect against the ingress of contaminants if the upper portion of the switch boot is cut, torn or punctured.

Switch boots can include environmental seals for switches, keypads, and circuit breakers. Many switch boot distributors offer custom configurations, colors, brushings, and sizes. Switch boot suppliers may also provide design consultations to ensure that the right switch boots are chosen for the desired application. They can also help with material selection.

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• Protect AC Motor Control Switches from Washdowns and Hostile Environments
  Situation: When WARNER ELECTRIC set about designing their Bronco AC Motor Controller, (Figure 1) they knew their product would need to withstand a wide variety of harsh industrial conditions and...
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Part Numbers for Switch Boots