How Many Names Can You Call A Rotary Cam Switch
Rotary cam switches are the backbone of industrial electrical control, enabling precise circuit selection, machine operation, and safety across sectors like manufacturing, energy, and transportation. Their versatility is reflected in the dozens of names they go by—each highlighting a unique function, application, or regional convention. Below, we’ve expanded on your comprehensive list, added context to key terms, and enriched the manufacturer section with insights into brand strengths and model use cases.
Part 1: The Many Names of Rotary Cam Switches—Explained & Expanded
Your list covers the most common terms, but we’ve added critical context (e.g., industry use cases, standards) and missing names to make this a definitive resource.
1. Function-Driven Names: What the Switch Does
These names emphasize the switch’s primary purpose, making them invaluable for engineers and procurement teams.
| Name | Definition & Use Case | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Rotary Selector Switch | The most universal term—refers to switches where a rotating knob selects between 2+ circuits (e.g., “Line 1” → “Line 2” in power panels). | 3–18 positions, panel-mount design, IP20–IP65 protection. |
| Cam-Actuated Switch | Highlights the mechanical core: a rotating cam that opens/closes contacts. Favored in engineering for precision. | Silver-plated contacts, 100,000+ cycle life, vibration resistance. |
| Multi-Position Switch | For switches with 3+ selectable positions (e.g., adjusting motor speed or machine modes). | Custom labeling, 1–12 poles, compatible with PLCs. |
| Changeover Switch | Toggles between two power sources (e.g., mains → generator) or circuits. Often called “transfer switches” in backup power systems. | “OFF” position option, spring-return mechanism, padlockable handles. |
| Motor Control Switch | Specifically designed for motor applications (e.g., reversing direction, star-delta starting). | 2–4 positions, overload protection, compatibility with contactors. |
| Instrument Switch | Used in switchboard (e.g., voltmeters, ammeters) to select measurement ranges (e.g., 0–100V → 0–500V). | Low current (1–10A), high accuracy, compact design. |
| Gang Switch | A group of rotary switches mounted together to control multiple circuits simultaneously (e.g., lighting in a factory). | Synchronized operation, shared mounting plate, color-coded knobs. |
| Code Switch | A specialized switch for setting codes or parameters (e.g., access control, machine programming). | 4–12 positions, detent mechanism, non-volatile memory (in digital models). |
2. Application-Driven Names: Where the Switch Works
These terms reflect the switch’s industry or environment, helping users quickly identify the right product for their needs.
| Name | Industry/Environment | Critical Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Industrial Rotary Switch | Built for harsh environments (e.g., factories, mines, renewable energy farms). | IP65 (dust/waterproof), flame-retardant housing, anti-vibration features. |
| Machine Tool Switch | Used in CNC lathes, milling machines, and conveyor belts to control tool movements. | Oil/coolant resistance, 24/7 operation, ergonomic knobs. |
| Panel Mount Switch | Installed in electrical panels (e.g., distribution boards, control cabinets). | Snap-in mounting, 48x48mm standard size, label-friendly. |
| Safety Switch | Designed to prevent accidental operation (e.g., emergency stop, maintenance lockout). | Padlockable handles (OSHA compliant), red/yellow color coding, “OFF” position. |
| Emergency OFF (E-Stop) Switch | A critical safety device for stopping machinery instantly in hazardous situations. | Mushroom-shaped knob, latching mechanism, direct connection to power supply. |
| Maintenance Switch | Used to isolate circuits during maintenance (e.g., shutting down a production line). | Visible “OFF” position, lockable, compatible with lockout-tagout (LOTO) protocols. |
3. Regional & Jargon Names: How Language Shapes Terminology
Language and local standards influence how switches are named. Here are key regional terms and their meanings:
| Region | Term | English Translation | Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Germany | Schalterdrehknopf | “Switch Rotary Knob” | Used in German-speaking countries (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) for panel-mount switches. |
| Italy | Interruttore a Camma Rotante | “Rotary Cam Switch” | Common in automotive and aerospace manufacturing (Italian engineering hubs). |
| China | 旋转凸轮开关 (Xuán Zhuǎn Tū Lún Kāi Guān) | “Rotary Cam Switch” | Dominant term in Chinese electronics and renewable energy industries. |
| Japan | ロータリーカムスイッチ (Rōtarī Kamu Suitchi) | “Rotary Cam Switch” | Used in industrial automation (e.g., Fanuc robots, Mitsubishi machinery). |
Part 2: Global Rotary Cam Switch Manufacturers—Models & Insights
Your list of manufacturers is comprehensive, but we’ve added brand summaries (e.g., origin, specialty) and model use cases to help users choose the right supplier for their project.
1. Kraus&Naimer (Switzerland)
Specialty: High-current rotary cam switches (10A–2400A) for heavy industrial applications.
Top Models:
- CA Series (CA4–CA63): 10A–63A, panel-mount, IP20. Ideal for machine control.
- L Series (L350–L2000): 350A–2000A, for power distribution and grid applications.
Key Strength: Compliance with IEC, UL, and VDE standards—trusted in Europe and North America.
2. Sälzer Electric Group (Germany)
Specialty: Medium-current switches (10A–315A) for factory automation and building systems.
Top Models:
- P Series (P110–P225): 10A–25A, compact design, IP65. Used in HVAC and lighting control.
- S Series (S432–S825): 32A–80A, multi-position, custom labeling. Popular in conveyor systems.
Key Strength: German engineering—reliability and long service life.
3. BACO Controls (USA)
Specialty: Low-voltage switches (10A–63A) for commercial and industrial panels.
Top Models:
- PR Series (PR12–PR63): 12A–63A, 3–12 positions, silver contacts. Used in retail and healthcare.
Key Strength: UL-listed, quick-delivery options for North American customers.
4. Konrak Electric (China)
Specialty: Customizable rotary cam switches (10A–160A) for global OEMs.
Top Models:
- LW26 Series (LW26-10–LW26-160): 10A–160A, 3–12 positions, IP65. Compatible with PLCs and HMI systems.
Key Strength: OEM-friendly customization (labeling, colors, positions) at competitive prices.
5. Gorlan India (India)
Specialty: High-current switches (6A–1200A) for power distribution in South Asia.
Top Models:
- T Series (T-00–T-2): 6A–200A, padlockable handles, IP20. Used in Indian factories and utilities.
Key Strength: Local support and compliance with ISI (Indian Standards Institute) norms.
6. Carlo Gavazzi (Switzerland)
Specialty: Precision instrument switches (12A–100A) for仪表盘 and test equipment.
Top Models:
- CN Series (CN012–CN032): 12A–32A, low contact resistance, high accuracy. Used in lab equipment and industrial meters.
Key Strength: Swiss precision—ideal for applications where measurement accuracy is critical.
Part 3: What Did You Miss? Adding More Names
You covered most key terms, but here are a few industry-specific names to complete the list:
| Name | Definition |
|---|---|
| Step Switch | A type of multi-position switch where each rotation “steps” to the next circuit (e.g., 1→2→3→OFF). |
| Position Switch | A generic term for switches with fixed positions (e.g., “ON” → “OFF” → “TEST”). |
| Process Control Switch | Used in continuous process industries (e.g., chemical plants) to adjust flow, temperature, or pressure. |
| Selector Knob Switch | Emphasizes the ergonomic knob design—common in operator-facing control panels. |
Final Thoughts: The Name Matters, But Quality Matters More
Rotary cam switches may have dozens of names, but their value lies in reliability, customization, and compliance. Whether you call it a “rotary selector switch” or a “machine tool switch,” the best products (like those from Konrak, Kraus&Naimer, or Sälzer) share three traits:
- Durability: Able to withstand 100,000+ cycles in harsh environments.
- Customization: Adaptable to your specific positions, labels, and protection needs.
- Compliance: Meets global standards (IEC, UL, GB) to ensure safety and compatibility.
