A float switch detects the level of a liquid in a tank or container. It floats on top of the liquid surface and acts as a mechanical switch as the liquid level goes up or down. They control devices like pumps (pump water in or out), valves (open or close inlet/outlets), or alarms to notify users. They are cost-effective, reliable, and can be used with a wide variety of liquids.
float switch provides versatile multifunction control for pump
protection, pump control, 3-way valve control and tank water level management. Operating as a single-pole, double throw (SPDT) switch, the
multifunction float switch is used to protect pumps from running dry, to
add water from an outside source such as a well when the water reaches
a minimum level, or to activate a pump or valve to drain the tank when
the water level reaches a maximum level. The switch can also be used to
control a 3-way valve for a backup water supply.
In short, a float switch is a mechanical switch that floats on top of a liquid surface. As the liquid level goes up or down, it moves vertically with the liquid level. Depending on the counterweight and pre-set trigger, the mechanical switch opens or closes allowing an electrical current through it to the connected device. Typically, this connected device either stops or starts the inflow of the liquid.
A float switch consists of a hollow floating body and an internal switch, also called a sensor. The most common internal switch is a reed switch, so there is also a magnet inside the body. There are other types of internal switches, but the working principle that they open/close due to gravity and water level moving the float switch vertically up or down is the same. Therefore, the mechanical switch creates an open or closed electrical circuit.
In short, a float switch is a mechanical switch that floats on top of a liquid surface. As the liquid level goes up or down, it moves vertically with the liquid level. Depending on the counterweight and pre-set trigger, the mechanical switch opens or closes allowing an electrical current through it to the connected device. Typically, this connected device either stops or starts the inflow of the liquid.
A float switch consists of a hollow floating body and an internal switch, also called a sensor. The most common internal switch is a reed switch, so there is also a magnet inside the body. There are other types of internal switches, but the working principle that they open/close due to gravity and water level moving the float switch vertically up or down is the same. Therefore, the mechanical switch creates an open or closed electrical circuit.
In installations where the float switch is lowered freely into the tank, a
weight will be required. An optional cord weight is available for installations where the float switch is not secured to a fixed object such as
a pump pressure line at the desired water level. The pump weight is
installed by attaching the supplied clip onto the desired location on the
cord and then the weight is pulled down
the cord, tapered end first, until the clip is
tightly embedded inside the plastic weight
housing.