Handling of Reed Switches
Reed Switches, Reed Sensors, and Magnet Sensors are delicate devices prone to developing micro cracks in their glass-to-metal seals when exposed to external vibrations or shocks. These cracks can lead to gas leakage and significantly reduce the operational lifespan of the contacts or result in immediate malfunctions. They may cause misalignment of the sensitive reed blades housed within the seals, thereby altering both the Operate AT and Release AT specifications. In severe cases, the blades could become twisted or develop point contacts, resulting in increased contact resistance.
To prevent such issues, it’s crucial for users to handle these sensors with care. For instance, if a reed switch falls from a height of one meter, it should be inspected for cracks immediately, under a 10x magnifying lens to start with. Additionally, its actuation distance with the magnet used in the application should be verified to ensure proper functionality.
During manual handling of reed switches, precautions such as wearing rubber gloves or covering fingers are recommended to minimize the risk of damage. Furthermore, when storing these sensitive devices, it’s advisable to choose a room with stable temperature conditions to avoid rapid temperature changes which could stress the glass-to-metal seals.
It is also best to pick up multiple reed switches from a bin or a tray using weak magnets so as to not damage the seals or bend the leads if using fingers. Rough handling when picking and dropping these sensitive devices is to be avoided as this too could result in changes in magnetic sensitivity or total failure of the devices.
Locations with strong magnetic fields, such as those near transformers, should be avoided for storage to prevent potential interference with the sensors’ operation. By adhering to these practices, users can help maintain the integrity and reliability of Reed Switches, Reed Sensors, and Magnet Sensors, ensuring optimal performance and extended operational life in diverse industrial and consumer applications.