10 reasons why you should switch to an alternate supplier

02 Dec.,2024

 

10 reasons why you should switch to an alternate supplier

10 reasons why you should switch to an alternate supplier

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Many states offer a choice of energy suppliers, but switching can be a difficult choice. Are you really going to save money? Is it worth the hassle? Here are CallMePower.com, we say, YES! Taking the time to choose an energy supplier can save you money and more. Here are 10 reasons why you should make the switch.

1. Save money on your energy bills

Most people are interested in switching suppliers because they want to lower their energy bills. Their energy bills are too high, and they want to do something about it. However, with the deregulation of many energy markets across the US, many alternate suppliers have entered and offer competitive offers for electricity and gas supply that can beat the traditionally high prices of utility companies.

2. Switching suppliers is free

In most cases, switching suppliers is free. Neither your utility company, nor your new supplier will charge you a fee for switching. The only time you need to worry about paying a fee for making a switch is if you were previously with another alternative supplier and haven't waited until the end of your contract before making the switch. So make sure you know how long you are staying in your home before you sign up for a contract with cancellation fee.

3. Switching suppliers is easy

Switching supplier can take as little as 5 minutes! All you need to do is contact your chosen supplier and give them your personal information (name, address, electricity account number, contract start date). You do not need to contact your utility company to warn them that you have switched suppliers, the new supplier will do this automatically.

Alternatively, give us a call at 1 (832) 460-. We can help you find a supplier and sign you up on the spot!

4. No technical changes necessary

No technical operation is required to switch suppliers. Your electricity & gas meters remain exactly the same. And you do not need to do anything complicated in your house to change suppliers.

5. It's the same electricity/gas

There is no change in your electricity & gas. It is the same electricity & gas going through the transmission & distribution lines into your house. The quality of your supply will not change if you decide to switch suppliers.

6. No interruption to your service

When the switch becomes effective, the change will be instantaneous: there will be no interruption to your supply.

7. Green energy

According to the IEA, about two thirds of electricity in the US was generated from fossil fuels. Switching suppliers to support renewable energy is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. While green energy often comes at a slight price premium, many suppliers will let you choose what percentage of your energy consumption you'd like to come from renewable sources. Depending on the supplier, you may even be able to choose what type of renewable energy you'd like to support!

8. Alternate suppliers offer you fixed rates

Utility companies only offer variable rates that are based on wholesale energy market prices. This means that when the market prices are low, you will pay less expensive electricity & gas, but when the market prices are high, electricity & gas will become expensive.

Energy is usually more expensive during periods of extreme temperatures (i.e. very hot or very cold), which are also times when your energy demand will increase. For example, when the weather outside is cold, you are more likely to want to stay inside for longer periods of time with the heating turned up. Chances are you will also have your lights, TV and other home appliances on for longer as well. Similarly, in the middle of summer, you're likely going to want to beat the heat by staying inside with the air conditioning on. Imagine this increased demand on a regional scale, and it's not surprising that prices increase during the summer and the winter. This acts as a double-whammy on your bill: not only have prices gone up, but you're using more (expensive) energy.

The problem with a variable rate, you never know by how much your monthly rate will increase or decrease. Choosing a fixed rate for your electricity allows you the peace of mind of knowing that regardless what time of year it is, your bills will be predictable.

9. Better customer service

Utility companies are often large companies with many customers. They make you wait longer on the , and sometimes have operators which are not sufficiently qualified to help you with your needs. Alternate suppliers are typically smaller companies, which must be competitive in order to succeed. Alternate suppliers must work harder to survive - they are not guaranteed a solid customer base like many utilities. Therefore they have to put in a greater effort in making sure their customers are satisfied. 

10. More choices

You cannot choose your utility company, nor does your utility offer you a choice of rates/price options. On the other hand, you can choose your alternate supplier, and there are many choices of electricity & gas offers within each supplier!

Limit Switch Explained - What it is, How it works & ...

Limit Switch Explained - What it is, How it works & How it is used in Manufacturing

Beginner

What is the Function of Limit Switch?

A limit switch is an electro-mechanical device used to send an electrical signal based on a physical interaction. Limit Switches are used to detect the presence of objects, thus allowing the system to take desired action.

Limit Switches can be found in a number of everyday devices:

  • They are used in microwaves to check that the door is closed before operation is allowed. 
  • They are used in elevators to notify the system that the cabin has reached the desired floor. 
  • Limit Switches are used in washing machine lids as a permissive to start the wash cycle.

Limit Switches in Manufacturing

Countless limit switches are found in manufacturing. They are used as control devices and safety devices for machinery and personnel. In all cases, the limit switches will send a digital signal to the control system. Based on the hardware and software tied to said switches, the system is able to take appropriate action.

Why is the limit switch important?

Limit switches are an inexpensive way to create a link between the physical and electrical domains. They have been developed a number of decades ago and the mass adoption of their use significantly lowered their cost for the end user. They thus play an important role in manufacturing due to their simplicity and low cost.

Use Cases of Limit Switches

  1. Product Detection & Count - As a product pushes against a limit switch, a signal is sent to the control system. Through simple PLC ladder logic, the user can count the number of times the product goes by the limit switch and display the counter for the operator.
Limit Switch - Box Detection on a Conveyor Example
  1. Personnel Safety - A limit switch can be used to detect the opening of a safety guard that stops and de-energizes the machine. If the guard is opened during operation, the machine stops. If the guard is opened while the machine is stopped, the limit switch prevents the machine from starting. In both cases, the limit switch is used to safeguard the operator from potential harm.
  2. Machine Safety - A limit switch can be used to protect machinery from unintentional damage. This includes components that are part of changeovers (end of arm tools), components that may wear-out over time (motor clutch) and components that may damage others if they fail (gears, shafts, etc.).

Types of Limit Switches

Limit switches can be classified into four main types based on the type of actuator:

  • Whisker: Whisker limit switches have a long, thin actuator that can be bent or deflected by even a small amount of force. They are often used in applications where space is limited, such as in robotic arms and grippers.
Limit Switch | Whisker Limit Switch - Example of an Omron Whisker Limit Switch
  • Roller: Roller limit switches have a roller-shaped actuator that is rotated by the object being detected. They are often used in applications where the object being detected is moving quickly, such as on conveyor belts and packaging machines.
Limit Switch | Roller Limit Switch - Example of a Renew Roller Limit Switch
  • Lever: Lever limit switches have a lever-shaped actuator that is moved by the object being detected. They are often used in applications where the object being detected is large or heavy, such as on machine tools and industrial cranes.
Limit Switch | Lever Limit Switch - Example of a Generic Lever Limit Switch
  • Plunger: Plunger limit switches have a plunger-shaped actuator that is pushed in or pulled out by the object being detected. They are often used in applications where the object being detected is small or delicate, such as in electronic assemblies and medical devices.
Limit Switch | Plunger Limit Switch - Example of a COMEPI Plunger Limit Switch

In addition to the type of actuator, limit switches can also be classified by their electrical configuration. The two most common electrical configurations are:

  • Normally open (NO): NO limit switches are open when the actuator is not activated and close when the actuator is activated.
  • Normally closed (NC): NC limit switches are closed when the actuator is not activated and open when the actuator is activated.

Some limit switches also have a double throw (DPDT) electrical configuration, which means that they have two sets of electrical contacts, one NO and one NC. When the actuator is activated, the NO contacts close and the NC contacts open.

Limit switches are available in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and materials to meet the specific needs of different applications. They are also available in a variety of electrical ratings, so that they can be used to control a wide range of loads.

Here are some examples of how different types of limit switches are used in real-world applications:

  • Whisker limit switches: Whisker limit switches are often used in robotic arms and grippers to detect the presence of objects. They are also used in some types of safety interlocks.
  • Roller limit switches: Roller limit switches are often used on conveyor belts and packaging machines to detect the presence of products. They are also used in some types of machine tools to detect the position of the cutting tool.
  • Lever limit switches: Lever limit switches are often used on machine tools and industrial cranes to detect the position of the moving parts. They are also used in some types of safety interlocks.
  • Plunger limit switches: Plunger limit switches are often used in electronic assemblies and medical devices to detect the position of small or delicate components. They are also used in some types of safety interlocks.

Limit switches are a versatile and reliable way to control and monitor machines and processes. They are used in a wide variety of industries, including manufacturing, construction, agriculture, and transportation.

Operation of a Limit Switch

As discussed above, a limit switch is used to translate a change in mechanical state into an electrical signal. How does the device actually accomplish that?

A limit switch is a simple device. The lever is used to close a contact within the switch. When the contact is closed, it allows the electrical signal to go through. The mechanical operation is similar to that of a light switch. However, a spring is added to return the limit switch into its original position.

The critical parameter of a limit switch is at which point it closes the contact within. This parameter will vary between switch types as well as brands. It is important to verify the datasheet to confirm this position. It will influence the system design that will utilize the limit switch.

Limit Switch - Electrical Signal Configurations

As discussed previously, once the actuator is displaced a certain distance, the switch is made. At this point, it needs to transmit a signal to an electrical device which may be a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), relay, control circuit, or an additional limit switch. A limit switch is similar to a relay in the sense that it can be purchased in one of the following configurations:

  • Normally Open | The switch will allow the current to pass through once it is actuated. In resting state, no current will pass through the switch.
  • Normal Closed | The switch will stop the current once it is actuated. In resting state, current will flow freely.
  • Combination of Two | The switch will provide a set of contacts that can be used in Normally Open (NO) and Normally Closed (NC) circuits.

There is an argument to be made for either configuration. However, when it comes to limit switches being used for safety purposes, it&#;s always advised to have current circulating in &#;resting state&#;. This is important as during a problem in the circuit, the safety should trigger. Should it be set to no-power in the &#;resting state&#;, the circuit may fail to prevent injury or damage.

Limit Switch - Real Applications & Datasheet

In this section, we&#;re looking at the Allen Bradley 801 General Purpose Limit Switch configurations. Below, you&#;ll find the &#;Contact Arrangement&#; provided by the manufacturer. Let&#;s review each section in detail

Link to kacon

Section 1

A - Normally Open (NO) limit switch symbol.

B - Normally Closed (NC) limit switch symbol.

AC - Alternating Current Ratings for light duty limit switches at different voltage levels. It is important to remember that although your application may require a switch to operate within a 24VDC circuit, it&#;s possible to use these across multiple industries in which voltage level standards are different.

DC - Direct Current Ratings for light duty limit switches.

Section 2

C - Normally Open (NO) and Normally Closed (NC) set of contacts on a single limit switch.

H - Dual Normally Open (NO) and Normally Closed (NC) set of contacts on a single limit switch.

N - Dual Normally Open (NO) set of contacts on a single limit switch.

O - Dual Normally Closed (NC) set of contacts on a single limit switch.

Section 3 - Dual Position Limit Switch

In the first example of a limit switch we had reviewed, there was a single position at which the switch would trigger the signal. In this case, there are two points at which the signals will be different. These signals can be picked up in discrete logic, but most commonly, this would be done using a PLC. A PLC programmer can utilize such a limit switch to detect a difference between a partial and a full limit switch closure.

Position of Lever = OFF

  • Contact 1 = Closed
  • Contact 2 = Open

Position of Lever = Partially Closed

  • Contact 1 = Open
  • Contact 2 = Open

Position of Lever = Fully Closed

  • Contact 1 = Open
  • Contact 2 = Closed

Section 3 - Normally Open (NO) Differential Location Limit Switch

Until now, we&#;ve talked about limit switches that would actuate the same one way or the other. This is the case for most general purpose limit switches. However, it is possible to detect if the switch was pushed in one way or the other through the interlock present in the differential location limit switch. The operation will be as follows.

Position of Lever = OFF

  • Contact 1 = Open
  • Contact 2 = Open

Position of Lever = Closed to the Left

  • Contact 1 = Open
  • Contact 2 = Closed

Position of Lever = Closed to the Right

  • Contact 1 = Closed
  • Contact 2 = Open

Section 4 - Normally Closed (NC) Differential Location Limit Switch

The Normally Closed (NC) variation of the previous switch will operate as follows. The only difference is the state of the contacts in the &#;Off&#; position.

Position of Lever = OFF

  • Contact 1 = Closed
  • Contact 2 = Closed

Position of Lever = Closed to the Left

  • Contact 1 = Open
  • Contact 2 = Closed

Position of Lever = Closed to the Right

  • Contact 1 = Closed
  • Contact 2 = Open

Section 5 - Dual Normally Closed (NC) & Normally Open (NO) Differential Location Limit Switch

This variation of a limit switch features four contacts. Two of these contacts can be used as Normally Open (NO) connections and two other as Normally Closed (NC).

Section 6

Current ratings for regular duty limit switches. Note that these ratings are higher than the ones found in Section 1.

What is a Limit Switch & How Does a Limit Switch Work

A limit switch is an electromechanical device that consists of an actuator mechanically linked to an electrical switch. When the actuator is moved by an object, it causes the electrical switch to open or close, depending on the type of limit switch.

There are two main types of limit switches: normally open (NO) and normally closed (NC). An NO limit switch is open when the actuator is not activated, and closes when it is activated. An NC limit switch is closed when the actuator is not activated, and opens when it is activated.

Limit Switch | How Does a Limit Switch Work - Example of a Mechanical Limit Switch

Limit switches are used in a wide variety of applications, such as:

  • To control the movement of machinery, such as conveyor belts and robot arms
  • To detect the presence or absence of objects
  • To signal the start or end of a process
  • To trigger safety alarms

Here is a simplified explanation of how a limit switch works:

  1. The actuator is attached to a moving object or part of a machine.
  2. When the object or machine part moves, it activates the actuator.
  3. The actuator causes the electrical switch to open or close, depending on the type of limit switch.
  4. The open or closed electrical switch sends a signal to a controller, such as a PLC or relay.
  5. The controller then performs the desired action, such as stopping the machine or triggering an alarm.

Here is an example of how a limit switch is used in a real-world application:

A conveyor belt is used to transport products from one area of a factory to another. A limit switch is installed at the end of the conveyor belt to detect the presence of products. When a product reaches the end of the conveyor belt, it activates the limit switch. The limit switch then sends a signal to a controller, which stops the conveyor belt. This prevents the product from falling off the conveyor belt.

Limit Switches - Other Types & Applications

A limit switch used in manufacturing is rated for hundreds of thousands of cycles. However, there are various flavors of this device that aren&#;t as robust for other everyday applications.

Limit Switches in Elevator Systems

Elevator systems commonly require limit switches for a variety of purposes by building codes. They are used for position detection, safety and operational state of the elevator. The types used in this application are rated for an even greater number of cycles as they constantly experience actuator movement through the life of the system.

Limit Switches in Household Systems

Limit Switches are used in everyday appliances: fridges, tea kettles, mixers, washers, dryers and more. The limit switches in these appliances are the same in principle, but different in reliability. In other words, they operate the same, but may fail much faster then their manufacturing counterparts.

How do I know if my limit switch is bad?

Using a basic ohmmeter or Digital Multimeter (DMM), it&#;s possible to determine whether or not a limit switch is bad. Disconnect the limit switch from the system and apply the ohmmeter leads to each terminal. If the limit switch is normally open (NO), the resistance should be very high. If it&#;s normally closed (NC), the resistance should be close to zero. Toggle the limit switch into the active position and measure the resistance. It should be the opposite in this setting. If the transition does not occur, the limit switch is bad.

Conclusion on Limit Switches

Limit Switches are used in a wide array of applications across the production floor as well as our daily lives. A limit switch is one of the most basic mechanical / electronics components on a production floor. They are used for object detection and machine / personnel safety. The limit switch will send a signal to a control circuit once it is in a certain position. Although the function is straight-forward, a wide range of flavors of such switches exist in order to provide flexibility to the end user. In a real-world example, we&#;ve looked at the datasheet that specifies multiple functions for general purpose allen bradley limit switches.

For more Limit Switch Supplierinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.