Push Button Contact Blocks & Light Blocks
A contact block is an electrical circuit connector that is used to turn on (make) or turn off (break) an electrical circuit. Contact blocks are commonly found connected to switches, relays and circuit breakers, once these devices are active, the contact block allows current to flow and complete a circuit.
Types of Contact Block
Contact blocks are usually designed as accessories to fit a specific device, therefore, matching the correct contact block and device is essential. Contact blocks are available with a wide range of contact configurations that allow the main device to change a circuit in many different ways. Typical contact configurations available are:
- 1NO: One normally open contact
- 1NC: One normally closed contact
- 1NO/1NC: One normally open contact and one normally closed contact
- 2NO: Two normally open contact
- 2NC: Two normally closed contact
- 2NO/2NC: Two normally open contact and two normally closed contact
Besides contact configurations, contact blocks also feature other configurations and sizes tailored to handle different voltage ratings and contact arrangements. These common configurations include:
- Voltage Ratings: Specific blocks are designed for low, medium, or high voltage applications.
- Mechanical Lifetime: Durable design to withstand numerous cycles without failure.
- Motion Tolerance: Capable of operating in environments with vibration or movement.
- Operating Temperature: Suitable for a range of temperatures without degradation.
- Contact Resistance: Low resistance to ensure efficient operation.
- Contact Material: Made from materials like silver or copper for optimal conductivity.
- Dielectric Strength: High resistance to electric breakdown.
- Connection/Terminal Types: Includes screw, clamp, or quick-connect terminals for versatile wiring options.
Light Blocks
Push button light blocks are add-on blocks that mount to the rear of a push button switch alongside the electrical contact blocks to act as an indicator light. They illuminate through the button head to signal operation status. Key characteristics of light blocks include:
- Size and Colour Options: Available in various sizes and colours to match control panel aesthetics.
- Voltage Requirements: Designed to operate within specific voltage ranges.
- Operating Temperature: Capable of functioning in diverse environmental conditions.
- IP Rating: Indicates the level of ingress protection against dust and water.
- LED Technology: Utilises energy-efficient LEDs with extensive burning hours, ensuring longevity.
- Brightness and Colour Variability: LED blocks offer brightness control and multiple colour options.
Types of Light Block
Light blocks are available in two types:
- LED: These light blocks feature a fixed bright LED that is designed to last the lifetime of the push button terminal block. LED light blocks are available in a variety of colours to match the button colour.
- Incandescent: These light blocks feature a changeable incandescent bulb. The bulbs produce a white light that shines through the button head to produce the required colour.
Industrial Applications of Contact Blocks and Light Blocks
Contact and light blocks find extensive applications across various industries. In manufacturing plants, they ensure machinery operates safely and effectively, signalling operational statuses and alerting operators to potential issues. In hazardous environments, such as chemical processing or oil and gas facilities, these blocks play critical roles in safety systems, helping prevent accidents by providing clear, immediate visual feedback on equipment status.
Buying Contact Blocks and Light Blocks: Ordering and Delivery Information for Australia
RS is a trusted supplier and distributor of high-quality contact and light blocks, offering products from renowned brands such as RS PRO, ABB, EAO, and Schneider Electric. Whether you're updating your existing equipment or outfitting a new installation, RS provides a seamless ordering and delivery experience.
Besides push button contact blocks, our extensive inventory includes a variety of essential components like limit switches, emergency stop buttons, coded magnetic switches, and many other crucial control devices. Browse our full selection to find the perfect solutions for all your industrial safety and control needs. Learn more about our ordering process and delivery options by referring to our Delivery Information page.