The housing material of 16mm metal push button switch

The housing material of 16mm metal push button switches— a critical subset of both metal switches (known for durable metallic structures) and push button switches (relying on robust enclosures for stable actuation)—primarily uses two high-performance options: 304 stainless steel and anodized aluminum alloy, each tailored to balance durability, corrosion resistance, and application needs.

304 stainless steel is the most common choice for metal push button switch housings. Composed of 18% chromium and 8% nickel, it forms a dense chromium oxide film on the surface, creating a barrier against moisture, oxygen, and mild chemical exposure. This makes it ideal for metal switches used in humid environments (e.g., industrial wash zones) or areas with occasional contact with water, salt spray, or weak acids/bases (such as food processing facilities). Unlike plastic housings in some push button switches, 304 stainless steel also resists scratches and impacts, extending the switch’s service life.

Anodized aluminum alloy is another popular material for 16mm metal push button switch housings, especially when weight reduction is a priority (e.g., in automotive or portable electronic devices). The anodization process adds a thick, porous oxide layer to the aluminum surface, which is then sealed to enhance corrosion resistance—effectively preventing rusting from daily moisture and resisting exposure to common industrial cleaners. While it is less resistant to strong chemicals (e.g., concentrated acids) than 304 stainless steel, it still outperforms many non-metallic push button switch housings in harsh conditions.

In summary, both materials ensure momentary metal push button switches (as specialized metal switches) meet the durability demands of push button switch applications, with 304 stainless steel excelling in heavy corrosion/chemical scenarios and anodized aluminum alloy offering a lightweight, cost-effective alternative for milder environments.