Vocabulary Term

Definition

Actuator

The part of a limit switch that transfers the mechanical force of the
moving part to the electrical contacts.

Air Compressor

A component that pressurizes ambient air and directs it into a

pneumatic system.

Automatic Input

A type of control device that is set to automatically control each step in

a process. Pressure switches, flow switches, and temperature switches
are types of automatic inputs.

Bellows

A cylindrical device with several deep folds that expand or contract in

response to pressure. Bellows are usually used at medium pressure.

Bimetallic Sensor

A sensor with two unlike metals bonded together. The metals expand at
different rates when heated, providing a physical signal that the sensor
converts into an electrical signal.

Capacitive Proximity
Switches

Switches that are triggered when they detect either conductive or

nonconductive substances.

Capillary Tube Sensor

A sensor that changes internal pressure when temperature changes.

Capillary tube sensors use temperature sensitive liquid.

Chatter

The occasional unwanted vibration between components. Chatter

decreases productivity and can cause wear.

Cold Junction

The end of a thermocouple that provides a reference point. The cold

junction is held at a constant temperature.

Contact

A conductive part in an electrical circuit attached to a switch that opens

or closes a circuit by coming in contact with or separating from the
main conductor.

Contact Block

The part of a pushbutton that holds the contacts and is activated when
the pushbutton is pressed. The most common pushbutton contact block
has one NO and one NC contact.

Contactor

A device that uses a small control current to energize or de-energize a

load.

Control Device

Any input device that controls the flow of current in a circuit. Control
devices determine when loads are energized or de-energized.

Control Relay

An electrical switch that opens and closes a circuit. Relays can open or
close one or many sets of contacts.

Deadband Pressure

The amount of pressure that must be removed before pressure switch

contacts reset after the actuation level has been reached. Deadband
pressure is also referred to as differential pressure.

Diaphragm

A deflecting mechanism that moves when reacting to pressure.

Diaphragms are usually used at low pressure.

Eddy Current

A magnetic current created by sensor vibration that flows out and

around the sensor head.

Electrical Devices

A type of control device that senses the presence of an object without

touching it. Electrical devices include proximity switches and
photoelectric switches.

Extended Button Operator

A type of pushbutton operator that extends beyond the guard ring. An

extended button operator is used when accidental startup is not
hazardous.

Float

A device used in switches that floats on liquid. The float raises or

lowers based on the level of the liquid.

Flow Switches

Switches that detect the movement of any fluid, such as liquid, gas, or
air in a system. Flow switches are commonly used in fluid pumps and
air compressors.

Fluid Pump

A mechanical device used to move liquids in a hydraulic system.

Flush Button Operator

A type of operator that has a guard ring around it to prevent accidental

startup.