10(3) A 250 V~ switch

http://darsie.dyndns.org/bernhard/temp/P1090699-small.JPG

What does 10(3) A mean? 10 A AC, 3 A DC?

 

More likely 10A resistive, 3A reactive, both AC.

There are also dual safety ratings, but they are not permitted to be
combined so ambiguously in labeling.

RL

 

More than likely the difference between DC amps and AC amps. Most
switches handle less DC amps at the same voltage. This is due to the
lack of no interrupts you normally get with AC which works better to
quench the arc (Plasma).

But then again, don't listen to me, I am a farm boy, born where every
one is related.

Jamie

 

Page 20 of
http://www.cherrycorp.com/english/switches/pdf/switch_cat.pdf (6 MB)
says this marking is according to the European standard EN 61058-1 and
means 10 A resistive, 3 A "motor", 250 V AC. The micro symbol might
mean "microdisconnection, contact gap < 3 mm", and the T85 might mean
that it is temperature rated to 85 C.

There is no further explanation in that document as to what "motor" load
means - higher inrush current, different power factor, etc. Googling
around finds a suggestion that for EN 61058-1, "motor" load means a
power factor of about 0.6, and that the switch can handle an inrush
current of six times the rating (18 A in this case).

I hope this helps!

Standard disclaimers apply; I don't get money or other consideration
from any companies mentioned.

Matt Roberds

 

The AC symbol follows the dual rating. If it were a DC rating, the DC
symbol would appear.

RL

 

Absolutely incorrect..

We buy switches all the time that are stamped that way.. if you look
at the catalog directory on the switch, you'll see the DC rating which
follows the same markings.

Not saying that switch he has is also following that rule but,
switched (many of them) are marked that way with no DC indicator on the
body, mainly because their isn't enough room to do so.

So don't think that it can't be when I know for a fact that it can be
because I have switches labeled that way however, this switch here you
don't know that unless you actually look at the catalog information on
it. But it's been my experience that is what they do to save space, in
case the switch gets used in a DC environment, which in many cases, they
do.

Switches are always derated in DC usage due to plasma destruction.


But unless you know for sure about this switch, I wouldn't be
persistent about it. I only offered a suggestion which I think is
pretty close to what it is..

Jamie

 

Oh, that explains it, JameCo..

I don't think you get it. No surprise.


Jamie

 

Page 13:

http://www.jameco.com/Jameco/Products/ProdDS/1945284.pdf

Possible multiple markings for this switch are listed.

Manufacturer ratings have little to do with the requirements for the
markings of certified components. There are likely different part
numbers that cover varying labeling requirements. These markings are
informative,only - but they must not misinform. A DC marking will have
the appropriate DC symbol.

The important marking is actually the identifying part number of the
manufacturer's part - that can be cross-related to the safety file's
paperwork at any time, for current information.

RL

 

If you try switching 250VDC, regularly, with one of those switches,
you'll get it, too.

RL