Float switches are simple, universally applicable and exceptionally reliable. It is not a coincidence that, today, float switches still represent the most frequently used principle for level monitoring. But how does a float switch really work?
Float switches, in a simple mechanical form, have been in use for the control of water flows in mills and fields for years and years now still represent the most frequently used technology. A hollow body (float), because of its low density and buoyancy, lifts or drops with the rising and, respectively, falling degree of the liquid. If one uses this movement via a mechanical lever, e.g. as a straightforward flap control for an irrigation channel, you have implemented a mechanical float switch.
Perplexed , of course, are employed for switching an electric circuit and show a clearly more sophisticated design. In its simplest form, a float switch includes a hollow float body with a built-in magnet, a guide tube to guide the float, adjusting collars to limit the travel of the float on the tube and a reed contact situated on its inside (see figure).
Figure: Collection of reed contacts of a float switch
So how exactly does the float switch function?
Reed contacts (see figure) of a float switch feature contact leaves within the hermetically sealed glass body, which move together or aside from each other when a magnetic field is applied. Regarding a float switch with a reed contact with a normally open function, on applying a magnetic field, the leaves are brought into contact. When Billion between your leaves is made, an ongoing can flow via the closed leaves and a switching signal will undoubtedly be detected.
In the case of a float switch with normally closed switching function, the contact or circuit is interrupted on applying a magnetic field. If one selects a change-over contact, the glass capsule will contain three contact leaves, with which, all the time, a normally closed and a normally open contact are simultaneously made in every operating state.
Because the contact leaves are under a mechanical preload, a magnetic field must be applied to ensure that the contact leaves close or open to be able to generate the required switching signal (monostability). The adjusting collars fitted by the manufacturer serve as a limitation for the float body in the correct position, to make sure / keep up with the desired switching signal on achieving the defined filling level.
How does one specify a float switch?
The following parameters should be defined:
Amount of switch contacts / switching outputs
Position and function of each switching output
Guide tube length
Electrical connection (e.g. PVC cable outlet)
Process connection
Material (stainless, plastic, ?)
Note
As a leading provider of float-based measurement technology solutions, WIKA includes a wide range of variants to meet all of your application-specific requirements. The available products are available on the WIKA website. Your contact person will be pleased to help you on selecting the correct product solution.