Flow switches are critical in adjusting flow rates to maintain safe and manageable rates of flow within a processing system. A flow switch is a commonly used device within any system where liquids or gases are being transported or worked with. We take a look at a flow switch working principle and discover in more detail just how a flow switch does work.
What is the flow switch working principle?
A flow switch is a device used to monitor the flow rate and pressure of liquids, air or other gaseous media through a system.
How a flow switch works does depend on the media type and the output measurement required. They usually consist of a primary mechanism, such as a paddle or magnetic trigger, which is connected to a sensor. This mechanism is placed in the media flow. The flow causes the switch to be displaced or the paddle to be rotated, sending a signal to a secondary component known as the transducer. The transducer takes the signals from the primary mechanism, converts it to a more usable signal and passes it on to a transmitter. The reading is then compared against a set of pre-configured values and triggers whatever signal or action is required to adjust the behaviour of components and mechanisms elsewhere.
Flow switches are used to monitor, report and control the flow rate of media through either a specific part of a system or through the entire system, ensuring flow stays within those pre-set parameters. If the rate exceeds or drops below what is required, it can be configured to trigger an external alarm, power-on a pump, activate a solenoid valve to divert flow or even isolate parts of the system.
Where are flow switches used?
You will find a flow switch anywhere that the media flow in a system needs to be monitored and/or controlled. There are many industrial applications where flow control is important, some of the critical areas including oil and gas, pharmaceutical and water treatment. On a more domestic scale, air conditioning systems, central heating systems and pool pumps would include flow switches within their operating systems.
Why are flow switches so important?
Flow switches exist to provide damage protection or to adjust flow rates that are undesirable for the system. They are required for the safe and optimal operating of most liquid or gas systems. BEST pneumatics has a range of flow switches available in stock and can cater for all applications and working conditions. If you are looking for a flow switch and would like to talk to one of our experts about the right one for your application, call us now on 01254 390555 or email [email protected].