Create the ideal conditions for your pneumatic system with a high-quality pressure or vacuum switch. These key parts of the control structure are designed to keep the system stable and can help you with your manufacturing or industrial applications.

If you are searching for a suitable automated vacuum switch or you need a new pneumatic pressure switch, complete with pneumatic output, you will find what you need here at RS. We stock hundreds of products designed to suit a range of systems. These are made by renowned manufacturers and can be shipped to you today.

Read on to find out more about how a vacuum or pressure switch can help control flow in your pneumatic system.

What are vacuum and pressure switches?

Pressure and vacuum switches both sense pressure changes. However, they are used for different applications and have distinct functions. In order to select the right switch for the task, it’s important to know the difference between them.

Pressure control switches are used to measure fluid pressure levels in a system and are set at a certain limit by the system operator. They feature an electrical contact that’s activated when pressure is above the limit or when pressure is being lost. This alerts the operator to the issue, allowing them to resolve the problem.

As well as the fluid pressure switches, there are mechanical pressure switches that are used in certain settings to detect mechanical force. For instance, if pressure is applied to a contact point, the switch will react and take a determined action.

Vacuum switches also sense pressure changes, but these are used to regulate the flow of vacuum between two spaces. Like pressure switches, they can be set at the required limit by the user. If this limit is exceeded, the vacuum switch will then either open or close the electrical connection. This ensure that the flow of vacuum is in the right place and at the correct levels.

How do pressure and vacuum switches work?

When choosing your pressure control switch, you’ll need to know whether you need a single or double-port version. These work in slightly different ways.

With a single-port version, pressure enters the switch through the port and reaches a diaphragm. There is also a set spring inside the switch designed to apply a certain amount of force. If the force of the pressure entering the diaphragm is greater than the force applied by the spring, the switch contacts are activated. This breaks the circuit and lets the user know that there has been a pressure change.

Double-port pressure switches work in a similar way to single-port switches, but here, pressure can enter the device from both ports. This means that pressure coming through each port is monitored. However, the pressure levels should be the same and if not, the user is alerted to the imbalance.

Vacuum switches involve a similar circuit. However, instead of pressure pushing into the diaphragm, it pulls from the other direction, sucking it up in a vacuum. Again, if the levels are off, the circuit will be broken.

Where are pressure and vacuum switches used?

There are various situations where a pressure switch or vacuum switch is needed. They are most commonly found in industrial settings, including pneumatic and hydraulic systems, as well as processing, manufacturing and automation. Some of the most common applications include HVAC systems, water well pumps, and in gas compressors.

Other settings where a pressure switch is needed include in the cockpit of an aircraft if cabin pressure is low and the pilot needs to be alerted, in automotive applications such as air filters, and mechanical pressure switches are often used in security systems, such as pressure-sensitive floors or doors.

Where to buy vacuum and pressure switches

Whether you need a vacuum-operated electrical switch for your pneumatic system or you’re searching for a replacement automated vacuum pressure switch, choose RS.

We are a North America-based authorized distributor of pressure switches, stocking leading manufacturers, including AVENTICS, Honeywell, and Dwyer Instruments. We’re proud to bring you a range of switches that meet the highest industry standards of performance.

Should you have any questions, our team is ready and waiting to offer advice and tips. Get in touch today. You can also find advice in our expert content hub.