I'm experimenting with kinetic sculptures, using small motors and solenoids. I need switches with low friction, so
I'm attempting to make my own leaf switches. (Hall sensors or any silicon solutions are out, because of the required voltage,
reed switches can't handle the current, and mercury switches aren't fast enough.)
I'm switching DC at 2v - 3v, and about 2A to 5A. I'm using an R/C snubber 2ohm/4.7uF, but it doesn't seem to be
helping. I can faintly see an arc when they open.
For my leaf contacts, I'm using contact material that I salvaged from a relay rated for 120v AC, 20A. After about
1000 cycles, the contact becomes pitted and fails, with a reading of mega-ohms.
I don't know if a contact material found in an automotive relay could be better suited, or maybe I should try using
silver, graphite, or motor brushes for contact material? Perhaps my R/C snubber isn't large enough?
I'm attempting to make my own leaf switches. (Hall sensors or any silicon solutions are out, because of the required voltage,
reed switches can't handle the current, and mercury switches aren't fast enough.)
I'm switching DC at 2v - 3v, and about 2A to 5A. I'm using an R/C snubber 2ohm/4.7uF, but it doesn't seem to be
helping. I can faintly see an arc when they open.
For my leaf contacts, I'm using contact material that I salvaged from a relay rated for 120v AC, 20A. After about
1000 cycles, the contact becomes pitted and fails, with a reading of mega-ohms.
I don't know if a contact material found in an automotive relay could be better suited, or maybe I should try using
silver, graphite, or motor brushes for contact material? Perhaps my R/C snubber isn't large enough?