What are the specific materials used in the rugged metal switch

The 16mm Rugged Metal Pushbutton with Blue LED Ring relies on two high-performance, industry-grade materials for its rugged metal housing, each selected to enhance durability, environmental resistance, and long-term reliability—critical requirements for harsh application scenarios.

一. Chrome-Plated Brass

Chrome-plated brass is a primary material option for the housing, chosen for its balanced combination of mechanical strength, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic durability.

1. Base Material (Brass): Brass itself offers excellent machinability, allowing for precise fabrication of the 16mm housing structure (including the mounting interface and internal component enclosures). It also provides inherent resistance to rust and mild chemical exposure, making it suitable for indoor industrial environments or areas with low to moderate moisture.

2. Chrome Plating: The brass housing is coated with a thin layer of chrome via electroplating, which elevates its performance significantly. This plating creates a hard, smooth surface that resists scratches, abrasion, and vandalism—common risks in high-traffic areas (e.g., public transportation control panels or security terminals). Additionally, chrome plating enhances corrosion resistance, protecting the brass from harsh substances like oils, weak acids, or cleaning agents often present in industrial settings.

二. 304 Stainless Steel

304 stainless steel is the second core material for the housing, ideal for applications requiring maximum ruggedness and resistance to extreme environments.

1. Key Properties: 304 stainless steel (austenitic stainless steel, composed primarily of iron, chromium, and nickel) is renowned for its exceptional corrosion resistance—even against water, salt spray, and most industrial chemicals. This makes it a top choice for outdoor equipment (e.g., weather-exposed control panels) or environments with high humidity (e.g., food processing facilities) or frequent washdowns.

2. Mechanical Strength: Unlike some lighter metals, 304 stainless steel maintains high tensile strength and impact resistance, ensuring the housing can withstand accidental impacts or physical stress without deformation. It also retains its structural integrity across the pushbutton’s operating temperature range (-20°C to +70°C), avoiding warping or cracking in extreme cold or heat.

3. Long-Term Durability: The material’s non-porous surface prevents the accumulation of dust, debris, or contaminants, which aligns with the pushbutton’s IP65/IP67 ingress protection ratings. This minimizes maintenance needs and extends the housing’s lifespan, even in demanding conditions.

Both materials are engineered to complement the pushbutton’s overall rugged design: they work with the rubber gasket seal (for environmental protection) and hex nut mounting (for stability) to ensure the housing not only protects internal components (e.g., the switch mechanism and LED ring) but also maintains functionality over 500,000+ mechanical cycles. The choice between chrome-plated brass and 304 stainless steel typically depends on the application’s specific environmental stressors—with 304 stainless steel being preferred for extreme exposure, and chrome-plated brass offering a cost-effective yet durable option for less severe conditions.