AC - DC general use snap switches may be used for control of inductive loads not exceeding ___% of the rating at the voltage.

AC - DC general use snap switches may be used for control of inductive loads not exceeding ___% of the rating at the voltage.

• A. 50
• B. 80
• C. 100
• D. 70

Answer: (A)

When switching inductive loads, general-use snap switches must be derated because inductive energy creates arcs as the contacts separate. To keep arc duration and contact wear within safe limits, the load you can control is limited to about half of the switch’s rated current at the operating voltage. So the safe, standard derated value is 50% of the rating, meaning you can switch inductive loads up to half the switch’s rated current. The other percentages would allow more current than the switch can safely interrupt for inductive loads, risking excessive arcing and premature contact failure.

When switching inductive loads, general-use snap switches must be derated because inductive energy creates arcs as the contacts separate. To keep arc duration and contact wear within safe limits, the load you can control is limited to about half of the switch’s rated current at the operating voltage. So the safe, standard derated value is 50% of the rating, meaning you can switch inductive loads up to half the switch’s rated current. The other percentages would allow more current than the switch can safely interrupt for inductive loads, risking excessive arcing and premature contact failure.