Ampere Turn Selection for your Application
Selecting the appropriate Ampere Turn (AT) or magnetic sensitivity for a Reed Switch, Reed Sensor, or Magnet Sensor is crucial in any application. This choice directly impacts the actuating distance required, influencing the reliability and performance in the field. Different combinations of magnetic sensitivity and magnet strength can fulfil the ON/OFF distance criteria of an application, ensuring reliable operation and minimising issues such as intermittent functionality.
| Lower AT Bands | Higher AT Bands |
| Low Operate time | Higher operate time |
| Lower shock and vibration capability | Higher shock and vibration capability |
| Susceptible to stray magnetic fields | Less susceptible to stray magnetic fields |
| Can switch lower loads | Can switch higher loads |
| Can be used with small magnets | Need stronger actuation magnets |
| Cost effective | Slightly higher priced |
Selecting a higher AT band provides greater resilience against shock, vibration, and stray magnetic fields. It’s also suitable for switching higher currents or loads. However, this may extend the operate time, which could be critical in time-sensitive applications where closure may need to be accomplished within 2 milli seconds.
Conversely, a lower Ampere Turn selection is preferable when sensitivity to very low magnetic fields is necessary or when cost considerations dictate the use of smaller magnets. The cost-effectiveness is particularly relevant given the current pricing structure of rare earth magnets based on their volume. Lower ampere turn bands also excel in applications requiring rapid switching times, where milliseconds count. Nonetheless, they may be more susceptible to external shocks or vibrations, potentially leading to unintended closures and higher contact resistance exceeding 150 milliohms.
In cases where magnet design is fixed or where strong magnets are already integrated, higher Ampere turn bands are often the suitable choice despite the slightly longer operate time. Conversely, adjusting to lower Ampere turn bands offers advantages in specific cost-sensitive or highly time-sensitive scenarios.
Ultimately, the correct Ampere Turn selection ensures optimal performance and longevity of the sensor in its intended application environment. This decision not only meets operational requirements but also mitigates potential issues associated with mismatched sensitivity and magnet strength. Thus, Ampere Turn selection plays a critical role in maximizing the reliability and efficiency of Reed Switches and similar sensor technologies across various industrial and consumer applications.