Which Industries Use Push Button Switches and How to Choose the Right Type

Introduction

Push button switches are one of the most essential components in industrial control systems. From machinery start/stop operations to emergency shutdowns and mode selection, they provide intuitive, reliable, and safe human-machine interaction.
But which industries rely most on push button switches? And how do you choose the right type for your application?
This guide explores key industries, common applications, and the main selection criteria to help engineers and procurement teams make informed decisions.

Which Industries Use Push Button Switches?

1. Manufacturing & Automation

Push buttons are widely used in:

• Assembly lines

• Packaging machines

• Conveyor systems

• Robotics and material handling
  Functions include start, stop, reset, jog, and mode selection.
  Industrial factories choose durable models like XB2, LAY38, and RY22SA for vibration resistance and long switching life.

2. Machinery & OEM Equipment

Equipment manufacturers integrate push buttons into:

• CNC machines

• Hydraulic presses

• Injection molding machines

• Textile and printing machinery
  These applications require buttons with high mechanical endurance and modular contact blocks for customization.

3. Power Distribution & Electrical Panels

Push buttons are essential for:

• Control cabinets

• Motor starters

• Power distribution boards

• Electrical protection systems
  Illuminated push buttons offer clear status indication, improving safety and efficiency for electricians and operators.

4. Building Automation & HVAC Systems

In commercial buildings and facilities, push buttons are used for:

• Fan and pump control

• Air handling systems

• Access control panels

• Manual override controls
  LED indicator buttons improve visibility in low-light or maintenance rooms.

5. Transportation & Logistics Equipment

Push buttons appear in:

• Elevators and lift systems

• AGVs and warehouse automation

• Loading and unloading machinery
  Durability and shock resistance are crucial in these applications.

6. Energy, Utilities & Renewable Power

Used in:

• Substations

• Solar and wind systems

• Power inverters

• Pumping stations
  These environments require push buttons with strong insulation, flame-retardant materials, and stable operation under temperature changes.

7. Mining, Oil & Harsh Industrial Environments

Push buttons help control:

• Drilling systems

• Crushing machinery

• Ventilation equipment
  High-IP (IP65–IP67) illuminated buttons withstand dust, moisture, vibration, and extreme temperatures.

How to Choose the Right Push Button Switch

Choosing the correct push button depends on your application’s electrical, mechanical, and environmental requirements.

1️⃣ Determine the Function and Operation Type

Common types include:

• Momentary (spring return) – Start, reset, jog

• Latching (maintained) – On/off control

• Emergency stop (E-Stop) – Safety shutdown

• Selector switches – Mode switching

• Illuminated push buttons – Status indication

Define what the operator needs to control before choosing the mechanism.

2️⃣ Choose the Contact Type and Rating

Push buttons use different contact configurations:

• 1NO / 1NC

• 2NO / 2NC

• Mixed contacts (NO+NC)

Check the electrical rating, especially for motor control, solenoids, and inductive loads.

3️⃣ Select the Mounting Hole Size

Most industrial buttons come in:

• Φ22 mm (standard)

• Φ16 mm (compact panels or space-limited designs)

RY-ELE’s SA series offers modular installation suitable for both sizes.

4️⃣ Evaluate the Working Environment

Consider:

• IP rating (dust/water protection)

• Temperature range

• Vibration and shock

• Chemical or oil exposure

• Indoor vs outdoor use

For harsh environments, choose IP65+ sealed push buttons.

5️⃣ Consider Wiring and Installation Type

Options include:

• Screw terminals

• Push-in terminals

• Fast-connection modules
  Push-in terminals (such as RY-ELE SA Series) reduce wiring time and improve reliability.

6️⃣ Look for Certification and Material Quality

High-quality industrial push buttons should meet:

• CE

• RoHS

• UL (optional)

Housing materials like PA66 and polycarbonate ensure insulation, durability, and flame resistance.

Why Engineers Choose RY-ELE Push Button Switches

RY-ELE provides three major push button families tailored for global industrial applications:

✔ SA Series — Modern, Modular, Quick-Wiring Design

• Push-in terminals

• LED illumination options

• Slim profile and high durability

• Ideal for automation OEM panels

✔ XB2 Series — Classic Industrial Standard

• Strong screw terminal structure

• Robust and reliable for heavy-duty machinery

✔ LAY38 Series — Cost-effective and widely used

• Stable construction

• Multiple head types and contact blocks

• Perfect for general-purpose control systems

RY-ELE’s push buttons are engineered for long service life, strong mechanical strength, and safety-compliant operation in all industrial environments.

Conclusion

Push button switches are essential across multiple industries—from automation and machinery to energy and building control.
Choosing the right push button ensures operator safety, system efficiency, and long-term reliability.
By considering function, contact type, environment, and installation method, engineers can select the ideal solution for their control panel.

With RY-ELE’s SA, XB2, and LAY38 series, customers gain durable, user-friendly, and high-performance push buttons suitable for modern industrial systems.