Rotary off-on switch for mains power?

[Amrzs]

I am building an amp and like the symmetry of having the volume knob on one end of the amp, and hoping to use a rotary switch for turning the amp off and on, on the other end. I have no experience with rotary switches, and was curious if any 2 pole, 2 position switch with a proper voltage rating would be suitable to this application? I was also curious if there are any disadvantages or risks in using a rotary switch for mains power? Any help would be appreciated, thanks.

 

[JonSnell Electronic]

Nowadays you will be hard pushed to purchase switches like the old TV switches.
Plenty of industrial types; Rotary Switches | RS Components

 

[P.Lacombe]

Rotary switches are usually not specified for mains power, unless you use an industrial device. Or use a power relay... and protect the contacts of the rotary switch with VDR or correct RC network.

 

[Amrzs]

Forgive me if this is a stupid question, but is there any reason an industrial switched would not be suited for home use, or audio application?

 

[mcandmar]

What about HS13X NKK Switches | Mouser

 

[Mooly]

A lot depends on the transformer you intend to switch. Large toroids can generate significant arcing as the contacts close and open.

You could always use a small switch to control a triac and so do it that way. Have a look at the PSU in Nelson Pass's A75 which does just that.

 

[Amrzs]

The switch will be wired to a 9v 5va transformer powering a soft start circuit for a much larger 45v 800va transformer. Would a triac still be necessary in addition to the soft start?

 

[Awh]

how about RMS1016 | Rotary Switch, 2 Way, Solder | Lorlin

4A 250v ac

 

[Amrzs]

Both the lorlin and nkk switches look like they could work, I've come across a few other ones too that claim to be rated for mains voltage. I guess I'm curious if it would still be wise to take additional measures to protect the contacts from arcing, such as using a triac, or relay, and protecting the contacts with varistors. The pass a75 idea looks really solid, but i was just hoping to get away with something a bit simpler if possible. Thanks to everyone for the suggestions so far though.

 

[Amrzs]

I'm using an esp p39 for the soft start, which I've already constructed by the way.

 

[Mooly]

The switch will be wired to a 9v 5va transformer powering a soft start circuit for a much larger 45v 800va transformer. Would a triac still be necessary in addition to the soft start?

If you already have a working circuit and just need to switch the low voltage AC side from a very small tranny then no triac is needed.