What the ratings mean for your control circuit
The 3SE2912-2AB20 is a SIRIUS foot switch with a single pedal and latching action — once depressed, the contacts hold their switched state until the pedal is pressed again to release. This is distinct from momentary foot switches where the contacts revert when pressure is removed. Contact configuration is 1 normally-open and 1 normally-closed auxiliary contact, giving you both a make and break circuit from the same pedal stroke. The NC contact provides a positive-break path for safety-related stop signals when wired in series with the control voltage. Current ratings are specified per voltage: 16 A at 230 V AC, 16 A at 400 V AC, 3 A at 24 V DC, and 0.25 A at 250 V DC. The 400 V rating at 16 A matches the full load current of a small contactor coil or pilot duty circuit; the DC ratings drop significantly due to arc extinction limits at higher voltages. Minimum actuating force is 30 N in the direction of actuation — this is a deliberate resistance to prevent accidental triggering from a light brush or vibration. The pedal requires a firm, intentional press.
Enclosure, ingress protection, and mounting
The enclosure is metal, painted black with a grey top part, rated IP65 per the protection class. IP65 means dust-tight and protected against low-pressure water jets from any direction — suitable for washdown areas in food processing, machine shops, or outdoor stations where the switch is not submerged. Dimensions are 220 mm depth, 70 mm width, 70 mm height — a compact footprint that fits on a machine base plate or pedestal. Cable entry is via a single M20 x 1.5 threaded port; you will need a matching cable gland rated for the cable diameter and IP65 seal. Ambient operating temperature range is -25 to +80 °C, covering both cold storage environments and warm machine-side locations without derating the switch mechanism.
Lifecycle and sourcing reality
Substance prohibitance date is listed as 07/01/2006, aligning with the original EU RoHS directive effective July 2006. The switch complies with RoHS substance restrictions as of that date. Sourced to order against your BOM quantity through independent industrial distribution.