Emergency Stop (E-Stop) Switches

An Emergency Stop switch, abbreviated as E-Stop or ES, is a key electromechanical component used in industrial safety systems. Its core function is to quickly disconnect power to equipment or stop mechanical motion through manual operation in emergency situations (such as personal danger or equipment failure), ensuring the safety of personnel and equipment.

 

1. What are the Key Features of Emergency Stop (E-Stop) Switches?

Design Principle: Adheres to a fail-safe mechanism, ensuring a safe disconnection even if a fault occurs.

 

Appearance: Typically features a red mushroom-shaped button with a yellow base for high visibility and ease of operation.

 

Operation Type:

Push-Pull: Push to stop, pull back to release

Knob: Push to stop, twist to release

Key Reset: Requires a dedicated key to unlock

 

Environmental Compatibility: Select models offer IP65/IP67 protection, suitable for harsh industrial environments.

 

2. What are the Typical Application Scenarios of Emergency Stop (E-Stop) Switches?

Industrial automation production lines;

Machinery manufacturing and robotic workstations;

Power systems and chemical equipment;

Public facilities such as laser shows.

 

3. Technical Specifications and Standards of Emergency Stop (E-Stop) Switches

Complies with international standards such as IEC 60947-5-5, requiring a positive disconnect mechanism, a long mechanical lifespan (typically up to 100,000 cycles), and a wide temperature range (-25°C to 70°C).

 

4. Common Types and Extended Functions of Emergency Stop (E-Stop) Switches

Manual Emergency Stop Buttons: Directly press-activated, commonly found on control consoles.

 

Foot/Rope Emergency Stop Buttons: Operated by stepping on or pulling a rope, suitable for specialized scenarios.

 

Smart Integration: Some models support status feedback, LED indicators, or linkage with PLC systems.

 

5. Selection Considerations for Emergency Stop (E-Stop) Switches

Select the contact configuration based on the device’s voltage/current capacity (e.g., 250V/2.5A).

 

When multiple devices are working together, multiple emergency stop switches can be connected in series and terminated with a terminator (e.g., User’s Interlock).

 

Note: In actual application, the emergency stop switch must be installed in a location that is easily accessible to operators and unobstructed, and functional tests must be performed regularly.