Components for Aerospace & Defence
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Components for Aerospace & Defence
In demanding industries such as aerospace and defence, every component plays a critical role in ensuring that operations continue to run smoothly, even in extreme conditions.
Electromechanical switches and components are used in controls and interfaces for vehicles and machinery across the aerospace and defence industries. Plus, they are playing an increasingly important role as technology is advancing. As well as making up physical controls in many applications, switches are now being implemented to support digital systems such as autonomous vehicles, cyber security and even AI surveillance.
Key Features of Aerospace & Defence Components
As such challenging and intense industries, aerospace and defence applications require components that meet very strict requirements. Some key features of these components include:
1. Durable
These switches need to be reliable and continue to operate smoothly even in harsher conditions, such as vibrations, shock and temperature fluctuations. They should also have an IP67 or IP68 rating to make sure they are dust-tight and protected against immersion in water.
2. Lightweight
Components should be as compact and lightweight as possible, as the weight of them can soon add up when you have tens or even hundreds of different switches and controls in a vehicle or device. Any unnecessary extra weight has an impact on the overall performance and efficiency, especially when it comes to aircraft.
3. Easy to use
A switch designed for aerospace or defense applications should be easy to operate and should provide clear tactile feedback to the user, even if they are wearing a glove. This is so that any accidental activation or deactivation of systems can be avoided.
4. Custom
In many cases, it is required that components are able to be customised in a variety of ways. For example, these applications often require switches with an anodised aluminium housing – in black or silver – for increased durability, or a matte black finish for covert operations. Custom wiring and/or mounting options may also be required, as well as additional accessories such as flip guards.
Components for Aerospace & Defence
Toggle switches are one of the most commonly used components in aerospace and defence applications, due to their robust design and ease of use. The simple on/off design and actuator style of toggle switches means that the user can switch between modes of operation quickly and reliably. It is also easier to see the status of a system with toggles, in comparison to push buttons and other switches.
Due to their reliability and durability, toggle switches are often used for the most crucial applications in the aerospace and defence industries, such as communication systems, cockpit controls, navigation and engine power.
Available in a wide range of sizes, with IP rated and LED illuminated options, our toggles are ideal for a variety of aerospace and defence applications.
Emergency Stop Switches
Emergency stop switches, or ‘e-stops’ are an essential component in extreme environments where any incident must be minimised and controlled as soon as possible. These large, red push buttons have been specially designed to immediately and reliably shut down systems in the case of an emergency. Having these switches greatly enhances the overall safety and security of operations in critical situations.
We have e-stop switches in a variety of styles and sizes, including aluminium and IP rated options.
Anti-Vandal Push Buttons & Indicators
Metal, anti-vandal push buttons offer simple and precise control of many aerospace and defence systems, whilst also being hard-wearing and reliable.
Our anti-vandal push buttons come in sizes from 6mm – 40mm, with an IP65 or IP67 rating, and many customisation options to best suit the application. Choose black or silver anodised aluminium switches and add custom symbols and LED illumination to the faces. Custom wiring and connectors are also available for these components.
Alongside this, we offer IP rated anti-vandal LED indicators that provide clear visibility and allow for a quick assessment of system status.
Joystick Navigation Switches
Navigation switches with a joystick-style actuator are another dependable choice for handsets and control units used to operate advanced systems. The joystick actuator of these navigation switches allows for more simple and precise control, in comparison to similar modules with small push buttons.
Our joystick navigation switches have a 4-way configuration and are IP rated for protection against dust and water. These switches feature metal housing and have optional LED backlight illumination.
Summary
There are a lot of important elements to consider when selecting switches and components for aerospace and defence applications, whether that is their durability, usability, size and weight, or appearance. All of these small factors make a big difference in the overall performance of not only the components, but the vehicles and devices that they are being used in.
For more information about the components mentioned in this blog or any of our other products, you can contact our experienced Sales Engineers who will be happy to help.
Interested in our products? Speak to us today!
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