Bimetal switch

A bimetal switch changes its switching status relative to the temperature. If the temperature is sufficient, the bimetall bends, thereby actuating a snap-action switch. This switch can open or close a circuit and in so doing start or stop a process (e.g. heating, cooling, pumping). The bimetal switch is self-resetting and is also used to prevent motor windings from overheating (motor protection). In this scenario, the switch is referred to as a thermal circuit breaker or Clixon.