Reed switches in Washing machine vibration detection

Reed Switches are used in bi-directional vibration sensors. These sensors are used in Washing machines to detect vibration going above set limits. This is important since vibration could damage motor couplings and bearings in the washing machine. The Washing machine itself could also move around the area.

A magnet and a very precise tension spring is inserted into a cylindrical housing along with a special lubricant and sealed on both ends. Two of these cylindrical assemblies are mounted on either side of a reed switch in such a way that their magnets face opposite direction.

Depending on the amplitude of the vibrations that need to be sensed, a combination of different tension springs with different sizes of magnets are designed into vibration sensors to sensor the different levels of vibration. During the drying cycle, when the vibration of the washing machine drum exceeds a limit over which the washing machine itself will start to move around, the magnets actuate the reed switch. Vibration sensors can be built to detect vibrations from 1G to 10G in Normally Open and Normally Closed versions.

Application Classification

Applications are classified as Position Sensing, Pulse Counting, Electromagnetic or Relay, Temperature Sensing or Magnet Biasing types. This application is classified as follows and the link gives more information on best practices to help select the most suitable AT band and matching magnet.

Position sensing Type

Position Sensing type application When an application requires the end position of a movement sensed, or the sensing of a part when it Continue reading -> Nov 7, 2020

Recommended Products

The Reed Switches and Sensors used in such applications need to be robust, durable and efficient in meeting a high life expectancy. Our engineers work hard in life testing our products under various conditions, and our intention is to ensure end product durability and life. Although we wouldn’t want to restrict any of our products for use in only certain applications, the recommended products for use in this application are listed below.

UM-0018-H Ultra Miniature Reed Switch

These highly sensitive, Ultra Miniature Form A reed switches are designed for low power, high speed switching applications and Continue reading -> Nov 8, 2022

MM-1018 Micro Miniature Reed Switch

This 10.0 mm long, Form A type Micro Miniature reed switch is designed for moderate power, low load applications. The fast operate Continue reading -> Nov 8, 2022

MS-104 Ultra Miniature PCB Mountable Reed Sensor

Drawing of MS-104Drawing of MS-104 Pad Layout starFeatures5W Contact Rating. 10.1 mm PCB Pitch. Normally Open contact. Two Continue reading -> Oct 30, 2020