The Purpose and Safety of using a Bolted Pressure Switch
Bolted Pressure Switch Safety
Any time an individual is planning on working with any electric-based system or equipment, the priority should always be the safety of both the individual of the person and the system. This includes maintenance when performing repairs, making upgrades or installing new equipment. The same holds true when working on a system’s bolted pressure switch.
What is the Purpose of a Bolted Pressure Switch?
A bolted pressure switch is a type of pressure switch that makes electrical contact when a specific pressure level is reached on its input. This provides for on/off switching from either a hydraulic or pneumatic location. A bolted pressure switch can be designed to make contact either on the pressure fall or the pressure rise.
An example of a pneumatic bolted pressure switch is when a gas compressor is switched off when a feed does not exist in the “suction stage.” An example of a hydraulic bolted pressure switch can be found in several functions within an automobile, such as switching on brake lights automatically when a rise in pressure is identified in the hydraulic brake pipes, signaling the brake has been depressed.
Bolted Pressure Switch Safety Concerns
When an individual is working with any electrical equipment, including a bolted pressure switch, it is important that all appropriate safety steps are taken in order to avoid injury or system damage. This should include wearing protective clothing and eye protection. Additionally, all power sources should be disconnected and capacitors should be drained prior to working on any electrical device or equipment.
Whenever possible, all repairs should be planned out and well documented prior to working on any equipment. The individual working on the repair should be properly grounded to avoid static electricity or any potential shock issues. The individual completing the electrical work should be completely knowledgeable and certified to do so.
If replacing a system’s part, such as a bolted pressure switch, it is important that all parts fall within the correct wattage constraints for that system, in order to avoid system damage, injury while working on the system or a potential electrical fire.
Safety Regulations when Working on Electrical Systems
There are many different regulating bodies that create best practices and regulations for individuals working with electrical systems to ensure the workers stay safe and the equipment is not damaged. Governing organizations include the Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Product Safety Engineering Society and the National Electric Safety Code of the IEEE (The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers). All electrical equipment used should bear the label of a nationally recognized testing laboratory such as the Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL) or the Factory Mutual Engineering Corp. (FM).
Bolted Pressure Switch
Whenever electrical work is being completed, regardless of the part, such as a bolted pressure switch, it is important to take care and caution. By doing so, equipment will be properly protected and the individuals charged with completing the repairs or maintenance will avoid injury.
