10(3) A 250 V~ switch

More likely 10A resistive, 3A reactive, both AC.

There are also dual safety ratings, but they are not permitted to be combined so ambiguously in labeling.

RL

Well, it appears to be related to inductive switches - a European standard. Perhaps it means 10A surge, 3A continuous load (vacuum cleaner, etc).

Hunting for Pronic r30 t85 switch didn't turn up much, but enough to make that guess after some refinements in the search.

John :-#)#

More than likely the difference between DC amps and AC amps. Most switches handle less DC amps at the same voltage. This is due to the lack of no interrupts you normally get with AC which works better to quench the arc (Plasma).

But then again, don't listen to me, I am a farm boy, born where every one is related.

Jamie

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There is no further explanation in that document as to what "motor" load means - higher inrush current, different power factor, etc. Googling around finds a suggestion that for EN 61058-1, "motor" load means a power factor of about 0.6, and that the switch can handle an inrush current of six times the rating (18 A in this case).

I hope this helps!

Standard disclaimers apply; I don't get money or other consideration from any companies mentioned.

Matt Roberds

The AC symbol follows the dual rating. If it were a DC rating, the DC symbol would appear.

RL

Absolutely incorrect..

We buy switches all the time that are stamped that way.. if you look at the catalog directory on the switch, you'll see the DC rating which follows the same markings.

Not saying that switch he has is also following that rule but, switched (many of them) are marked that way with no DC indicator on the body, mainly because their isn't enough room to do so.

So don't think that it can't be when I know for a fact that it can be because I have switches labeled that way however, this switch here you don't know that unless you actually look at the catalog information on it. But it's been my experience that is what they do to save space, in case the switch gets used in a DC environment, which in many cases, they do.

Switches are always derated in DC usage due to plasma destruction.

But unless you know for sure about this switch, I wouldn't be persistent about it. I only offered a suggestion which I think is pretty close to what it is..

Jamie

Oh, that explains it, JameCo..

I don't think you get it. No surprise.

Jamie

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Possible multiple markings for this switch are listed.

Manufacturer ratings have little to do with the requirements for the markings of certified components. There are likely different part numbers that cover varying labeling requirements. These markings are informative,only - but they must not misinform. A DC marking will have the appropriate DC symbol.

The important marking is actually the identifying part number of the manufacturer's part - that can be cross-related to the safety file's paperwork at any time, for current information.

RL

Presumably "motor load" is just on of the things, in having high current draw during starting torque, there's also incandescent lamps with filament cold resistance and small (no PFC) switchers that take reservoir cap charging current.

If you try switching 250VDC, regularly, with one of those switches, you'll get it, too.

RL