Marathon Electric Mfg. Corp.

Gary L Shurter

Duane R Nolte

A centrifugal switch assembly for a single phase induction motor connecting a start winding and/or start capacitors in circuit. A centrifugal actuator positions a contact unit on a cantilevered spring arm relative to an aligned fixed contact unit. Each contact unit is identically constructed with a cylindrical steel base and an outer contact button which defines a radial lip. A silicone rubber boot in the form of a tubular member having similar thick end hubs connected by a thin-wall convolution between the hubs to establish a flexible enclosure. The hubs are telescoped respectively over the contact bases with the same interference fit to totally enclose the contact units. The lips of the contact buttons lock the boot to the contact units. The boot length is greater than the spacing of the open contact units and the convolution is continuously deflected to create a closing force. A pressure relief pin hole is formed in a crease at the connection of the convolution and the hub secured to the final contact unit to allow air flow from the enclosed contacts and uninterrupted closure of the switch assembly.

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Wausau, WI, United States of America

Gary L Shurter