On-Off Cam Switches (0-1) Selection Guide
When selecting 0-1 On-Off rotary cam switches, compare 10 A–315 A rated current, 1 to 4 poles, panel/base/enclosed mounting and padlockable Yellow-Red main switch handles.
This guide explains what to look for when choosing products in the On-Off Switches category for machine main disconnectors, heater circuits and control panel power isolation.
Rated current (10 A – 315 A) and pole count (1P, 2P, 3P, 4P)
On-Off rotary cam switches operate between two positions (0 Off – 1 On, typically 60° or 90° throw). Select 1-pole (1P) or 2-pole (2P) for single-phase control and heating circuits, 3-pole (3P) for three-phase motors and machine feeders, and 4-pole (4P) when the neutral conductor must be isolated simultaneously with the phases. For inductive motor loads, verify the AC-3 / AC-23A operational rating in addition to thermal current (Ith).
Panel door, base/DIN-rail and enclosed (IP65) mounting styles
Standard switches mount through the panel door (4-hole flange or Ø22 mm single-hole). For machine main switches requiring Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) safety under IEC 60204-1, choose Yellow-Red padlockable main switches; for local motor disconnects next to fans or pumps, choose surface-mounted IP54/IP65 enclosed switches.
On-off cam switch comparison table
| Selection Criterion | Standard Panel-Door Switch (Black/Grey) | Yellow-Red Padlockable Main Switch | Enclosed Surface-Mount (IP54 / IP65) Switch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Escutcheon & Handle | 48×48, 64×64 or 88×88 mm black/silver plate (0-1) | Yellow plate with red handle, padlockable in "0" (Off) | Self-contained thermoplastic enclosure with rotary handle |
| Pole Count | 1P, 2P, 3P, 4P (up to 6P/8P multi-circuit) | 3P or 4P (IEC 60204-1 main disconnect compliant) | 1P, 2P, 3P, 4P with metric cable gland knockouts |
| Current Ratings | 10 A, 16 A, 20 A, 25 A, 32 A, 40 A, 63 A, 80 A, 100 A – 315 A | 16 A – 160 A+ AC-23A motor/machine disconnect | 16 A, 25 A, 32 A, 40 A, 63 A, 100 A |
| Typical Application | Sub-circuit isolation, heaters, lighting & control | Machine tool main incoming isolator & emergency off | Rooftop HVAC units, local conveyor & pump maintenance switches |
Frequently asked questions
Does an On-Off rotary cam switch provide overload or short-circuit protection?
No. A rotary cam switch is a manual load break switch/isolator without thermal or magnetic trip elements. Upstream fuses or circuit breakers (MCB/MCCB) are required for fault protection.
What is the advantage of a 90° throw angle on an On-Off switch?
A 90° switching angle positions Off (0) horizontally and On (1) vertically, giving operators an unmistakable visual indication of the switch state from across the plant floor.
When should I use a base-mounted (door-interlocked shaft) On-Off switch?
Use a DIN-rail/base-mounted switch with an extension shaft when you want the power cables to remain stationary on the backplate while interlocking the cabinet door so it cannot be opened while the switch is in the "1" (On) position.