The specialized design of magnetic switches involves the use of a movable magnet that is “seen” by the switch. When the magnetic field is detected by the switch, it activates the switch contacts, either turning the electrical circuit “on” or “off,” depending on the switch configuration.  The switch can be either exposed to view or concealed by a piece of equipment when installed, thus making it more difficult to defeat.

Lever arm, or other mechanical style switches, are more prone to failure of external moving parts or being more easily overridden.  Magnetic switches are not affected by oil, water, dirt, dust, ice, and are less likely to be defeated.

If you’re looking for a versatile electrical switch, then consider using a magnetic switch from MagneLink. We’ve dedicated ourselves to creating some of the most innovative and advanced magnetic switches found today. For more than 25 years, we’ve provided custom magnetically activated switches for our customers, who have come to rely on us for dependable, reliable, quality products at competitive prices.

Benefits of Magnetic Switches

No matter the type you choose, using magnetic switches over other kinds of electrical switches offers some unique advantages. These advantages include:

  • Switch on/off quickly
  • Less contact resistance
  • Longer lifespan
  • Lower maintenance costs/requirements
  • More difficult to override

In addition, when you use MagneLink switches in particular, you can be sure that you will be using some of the highest-quality and longest-lasting switches currently available on the market. Our customization capabilities ensure that you’re getting a magnetic switch that best fits your application.

MLA Housing

Small rectangular housing for tight spaces. Switch designs available for either AC or DC Voltage Circuits, with Light Loads.

Configurations:

  • Reed: SPST or SPDT
    (For use in either AC or DC Voltage Circuits with Light Loads)
  • Hall Sensor, Sinking
    (For use in DC Voltage Circuits)
  • Hall Sensor, Sourcing
    (For use in DC Voltage Circuits)

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MLD Housing

Defeat Resistant switch using Coded Magnet. Switch designs available for AC or DC Voltage Circuits, with Heavy (Inductive) Loads.

Configurations:

  • Triac
    (For use in AC Voltage Circuits with Heavy or Inductive Loads)
  • Transistor
    (For use in DC Voltage Circuits with Heavy or Inductive Loads)

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MLE Housing

Dove Tail to slide in grooves along machinery or actuators. Switch designs available for either AC or DC Voltage Circuits, with Light Loads. Models available with either Reed or Hall Sensors.

Configurations:

  • Reed With LED
    (For use in either AC or DC Voltage Circuits with Light Loads)
  • Hall Sensor, Sinking
    (For use in DC Voltage Circuits)
  • Hall Sensor, Sourcing
    (For use in DC Voltage Circuits)

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MLF Housing

Curved side for mounting to cylinders or pistons. Switch designs available for either AC or DC Voltage Circuits, with Light Loads. Models available with either Reed or Hall Sensors, and with or without LED indicators.

Configurations:

  • Reed With or Without LED
    (For use in either AC or DC Voltage Circuits with Light Loads)
  • Hall Sensor, Sinking
    (For use in DC Voltage Circuits)
  • Hall Sensor, Sourcing
    (For use in DC Voltage Circuits)

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MLG Housing

3/8 inch threaded housing for flush mount. Switch designs available for either AC or DC Voltage Circuits, with Light Loads.

Configurations:

  • Reed: SPST or SPDT
    (For use in either AC or DC Voltage Circuits with Light Loads)
  • Hall Sensor, Sinking
    (For use in DC Voltage Circuits)
  • Hall Sensor, Sourcing
    (For use in DC Voltage Circuits)

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MLH Housing

Small Cylinder housing fits in tight spaces. Switch designs available for either AC or DC Voltage Circuits, with Light Loads.

Configurations:

  • Reed: SPST or SPDT
    (For use in either AC or DC Voltage Circuits with Light Loads)

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MLL Housing

Small housing with LED option. Switch designs available for either AC or DC Voltage Circuits, with Light Loads. Models available with either Reed or Hall Sensors, and with or without LED indicators.

Configurations:

  • Reed With or Without LED
    (For use in either AC or DC Voltage Circuits with Light Loads)
  • Hall Sensor, Sinking
    (For use in DC Voltage Circuits)
  • Hall Sensor, Sourcing
    (For use in DC Voltage Circuits)

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MLM Housing

MLM Housing: 8mm thread for flush mount. Switch designs available for either AC or DC Voltage Circuits, with Light Loads. Models available with either Reed or Hall Sensors.

Configurations:

  • Reed: SPST or SPDT
    (For use in either AC or DC Voltage Circuits with Light Loads)
  • Hall Sensor, Sinking
    (For use in DC Voltage Circuits. Models available to sense North only, South only, or either magnetic pole.)

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MLP Housing

MLP Housing: Switch designs available for AC or DC Voltage Circuits, with Light or Heavy (Inductive) Loads

Configurations:

  • Reed Only
    (For use in either AC or DC Voltage Circuits with Light Loads)
  • Triac
    (For use in AC Voltage Circuits with Heavy or Inductive Loads)
  • Transistor
    (For use in DC Voltage Circuits with Heavy or Inductive Loads)

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MLT Housing

MLT Housing: Switch designs available for AC or DC Voltage Circuits, with Light or Heavy (Inductive) Loads

Configurations:

  • Reed Only
    (For use in either AC or DC Voltage Circuits with Light Loads)
  • Triac
    (For use in AC Voltage Circuits with Heavy or Inductive Loads)
  • Transistor
    (For use in DC Voltage Circuits with Heavy or Inductive Loads)

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MLU Housing

1/2 inch electrical pipe thread for flush mount. Switch designs available for AC or DC Voltage Circuits, with Light or Heavy (Inductive) Loads.

Configurations:

  • Reed Only
    (For use in either AC or DC Voltage Circuits with Light Loads)
  • Triac
    (For use in AC Voltage Circuits with Heavy or Inductive Loads)
  • Transistor
    (For use in DC Voltage Circuits with Heavy or Inductive Loads)

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Types of Magnetic Switches

MagneLink is proud to offer multiple types of magnetic switches that work in a range of industries and applications. Each type of magnetic switch features unique components that allow them to accommodate certain currents and voltage levels for different uses and functions. MagneLink’s magnetic switch selection includes Reed switches, Hall switches, Triac, Transistor, and Coded switches. Each unique design makes the switches suitable for specific types of applications.

types of magnetic switches

Reed switches

Reed switches use a simple magnetic reed contact to open or close an electrical circuit. These are often referred to as ‘dry contact’ switches. They can operate on either alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) voltage circuits.

Reed switches are widely used due to their ability to switch both AC and DC loads. Reed switches are often used to detect whether doors are open or closed. Because they can switch either AC or DC loads, repair technicians often prefer them to stock on repair trucks so they can minimize their inventory while having switches readily available for on-site repair work in a variety of electrical circuits.

MagneLink’s Reed switches can be found in places like: CNC equipment, power transmission, recycling equipment, actuators that may be used in automated equipment in factories, car washes, and material handling. Some other applications may include: automotive safety, such as seatbelt buckles and in sensors used to detect collisions, or in security systems. Reed switches are also common in home appliances, such as refrigerators, which rely on sensors to detect when the door is closed or open to turn off/on the light, or in top-loading washing machines, which stop the washing cycle upon the door opening. Reed switches are also commonly found in Internet of Things devices, electronics, communications equipment, and automation controls.

Hall effect switches

Hall switches use solid state devices that can better withstand mechanical shock when compared to magnetic reed switches. Hall Effect switches operate on DC voltage circuits, and require power to the sensor in order to operate properly. Their ideal application is for small electrical loads, but MagneLink can incorporate additional circuitry to accommodate larger loads as needed.

MagneLink’s Hall switches are used in applications such as: elevators, and actuators used on a variety of larger machines for automation controls in industrial settings or CNC equipment.  Hall switches, operate on low DC voltages and currents, making them ideal for use in household white goods – such as washing machines and dryers – that have high-speed sensors. They also can be used in DC transformers, and in automotive settings to control fuel gauges.

Triac switches

Triac switches are designed for use in AC voltage circuits with heavy inductive loads (i.e. Relays, Starter coils, etc.). Their ability to switch high voltages and large currents make them ideal for use in a wide range of environments.

Triac switches are commonly used in devices for general AC flow control, especially circuits switching heavier inductive loads where current spikes can occur.  MagneLink Triac switches are used in: compactor and baler equipment, as sensors in water parks, brewing equipment, material handling in industries like plastics manufacturing, and hydraulic equipment. Some other applications may include household applications. They can be used in devices for controlling lights––such as light switches and dimmers––as well as in fans and small motors.

Transistor switches

Transistor switches are designed for use in DC voltage circuits with heavy inductive loads (i.e. Relays, Starter coils, etc.). Their ability to switch high voltages and large currents make them ideal for use in a wide range of environments.

MagneLink’s Transistor switches can be found in: waste recycling and disposal equipment, power distribution and transmission systems, manufacturing equipment used for food processing, textiles, paper industries, etc.  Our transistor switches operate in DC voltage circuits and are prime candidates when switching heavy duty inductive loads that may have current spikes occur.

Coded switches

Coded switches are designed for applications requiring an additional level of security making the switch even less defeatable.  A special coded magnet is used to activate these switches.  Coded switches are available that operate in either AC voltage circuits or DC voltage circuits with heavy inductive loads.  They do require additional DC power to operate properly.

Coded switches are most beneficial to circuits requiring an added layer of security.  They are useful in applications where it is desirable to make a switch even less defeatable than a standard magnetic switch.  These are typically found in more critical safety switch applications.  MagneLink’s coded switches are available in designs operating in AC voltage switching or DC voltage switching, depending on what is required.

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MagneLink is committed to delivering the highest possible value to our customers––providing high-grade parts at affordable prices. Our dedication to customer service means that we will work closely with our customers throughout the manufacturing process to make sure they’re getting the customized switch that best suits the needs of their equipment and/or operation.

If you’re interested in learning more about our magnetic switch offerings, request a quote or contact us today.