Push Button Switches

Key Benefits & Features

Here are the major advantages and features of our push button switches (including emergency stop variants):

• Affordability: Panel-mount switches start from as little as £3. 
• Versatile Action Types: Available in momentary (spring-return) and latching (maintained) types. 
• High Load Capability: Many switches are rated for 10 A (e.g., our 22 mm models) and up to 16 A in specific designs. 
• Robust Construction: Options in durable plastic and stainless steel, often designed for rugged or panel-mounted use. 
• Illuminated Options: Some switches include LED or neon illumination for better visibility (e.g., blue-ring or double-headed versions). 
• Emergency / Mushroom Stop Buttons: Highly recognisable, easy to operate in an emergency, and suited for safety-critical applications. 
• Multiple Contact Configurations: Choices of normally open (NO), normally closed (NC), and dual contacts (DPST, etc.). 
• International Protection: Some are rated to IP55 or IP67, providing protection against dust/water ingress. 
• Fast UK Dispatch: Orders placed before 1 pm are often shipped same-day in the UK. 

How These Products Work

A push button switch is a simple electrical switch actuated by pressing a button. Depending on its design, it can either provide a temporary (momentary) connection when pressed, or maintain its state (latching) until pressed again. In the case of emergency stop buttons, the switch is used to interrupt power or a control signal quickly when safety demands it.

Key Points:

• Momentary (Push-to-make / Push-to-break): The button is pressed → contacts change state (close or open).When released, the spring returns the button → contacts return to the default state. Can be configured as Normally Open (NO) or Normally Closed (NC) depending on wiring. 
• Latching (Maintained): Press once to change state → stays “on” or “off” until pressed again. Ideal for on/off control in machinery or panels.
• Illuminated Switches: Integrated LED or neon light illuminates when active (or based on contact state).Provides visual feedback to the operator. 
• Electromagnetic / Motor Starter Version: Uses a 4-pin design → can interface with contactors or motor starter circuits.IP55 protection – suitable for more demanding environments. 
• Emergency Stop (Mushroom Button): Large “mushroom” head for easy and fast actuation. Often wired as NC: pressing breaks the circuit, stopping power or control. 

Ideal Use / Applications

Push button switches from Under Control Instruments are ideal for:

• Industrial Control Panels: For machine start, stop, or mode change.
• Automation & Manufacturing: Momentary switches for control logic, latching for operator controls.
• Safety Systems: Emergency stop (mushroom) buttons for safety-critical machine shutdown.
• Power Equipment Control: Electromagnetic 4-pin switches for contactor / motor starter connections.
• Lighting & Indication: Illuminated switches for status indication or as part of user interface.
• Commercial & Public Access: Durable stainless-steel or vandal-resistant buttons in public machines.

Important Considerations & Safety Notes

1. Panel Cut-Out Size: Many switches require a standard 22 mm hole — check panel design carefully. 
2. Contact Ratings: Ensure switch current/voltage rating (e.g., 10 A, 16 A) matches your application to avoid overload.
3. Action Type: Decide if you need a momentary (spring-return) or latching action — depending on whether you want transient or maintained on/off. 
4. Contact Configuration: Confirm whether you need NO (normally open), NC (normally closed), or dual contacts (e.g., DPST). 
5. Protection / Ingress Rating: For harsh or dusty environments, choose IP-rated switches (e.g., IP55 / IP67). 
6. Emergency Use Compliance: If using as an emergency stop (mushroom), ensure it's wired according to safety standards and tested regularly.
7. Durability & Material: Stainless steel variants offer higher durability; plastic versions may be lighter but less rugged.
8. Electrical Isolation & Wiring: Properly isolate circuits; ensure wiring is done safely by qualified personnel.
9. Temperature Ratings: For illuminated or high-current switches, check operating temperature (e.g., 120°C for some latching buttons). 
10. Maintenance: Test push-to-break (NC) or emergency buttons periodically to ensure they function reliably when needed.

Customer Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Latching switch

A great quality switch , good price and very quick delivery!"

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Very good

It's a fine switch"