Flow Switch

How Does a Liquid or Fluid Flow Switch Work?

Liquid or fluid flow switches are crucial in many industrial and commercial applications. They are used to measure liquid flow such as of water, chemicals, oils, and so on. The working of these switches is straightforward to understand. Liquid flow switches feature a sensor placed within the fluid-carrying pipe or conduit. When the liquid passes through the pipe, it exerts pressure on the sensor. This causes it to move or deflect, triggering a switch mechanism, such as a microswitch or reed switch. This switch changes its state from open to closed or vice versa. Depending on the application requirements, this change activates or deactivates an electrical circuit and accordingly sounds an alarm. These high pressure flow switches ensure the smooth operation of equipment in terms of flow rate, preventing damage, enhancing safety in a wide range of fluid-handling systems.

Types of Liquid or Fluid Flow Switches Offered by Cannon Water

Here are some varieties of flow switches we offer:

• Liquid flow switches: These flow switches are designed to resist corrosion, abrasion, and chemical reactions of liquids as well as gases. They possess rugged construction and are mostly made of polypropylene or other non-reactive and resistant materials. The switch point setting needs to be adjusted separately for liquids, fluids and gases. There are short length as well as long liquid flow switches available. Usually, these are applicable for processes with a relatively constant temperature range.
• Grid control flow switches: These are widely used for monitoring liquid flows and also works as a water flow switch. These are usually made of PVC and hence durable and long lasting. Also they are corrosion resistant.
• Water flow sensor switches: These are sensors which measure the speed of water flowing out of a pipe. Once a certain speed and force is achieved, the connected turbine would start rotating. The sensor issues alerts or output in the form of an electrical signal through an attached device such as a programmable logic controller to the flow line controls. They also help detect leaks.

Significance of Liquid Flow Meters in the Water Treatment Process

Fluid flow switches hold immense significance in the water treatment process. Here are some important reasons.

• Process Control: Fluid flow switches achieve process control in terms of maintaining the required flow rate of water in any water treatment process, whether at wastewater or drinking water purification plants.  These switches ensure that water passes at the desired rate through each stage. This helps maintain the effectiveness and efficiency of the treatment process and equipment. 
• Chemical Injection: Several water treatment processes use chemicals such as disinfectants, coagulants, pH-adjusting chemicals, and more. These switches precisely control the injection or dosing of these chemicals, considering as the required flow rate, and whether continuous or intermittent. 
• Equipment Safety: Fluid switches are crucial in ensuring equipment safety by monitoring the flow of liquids or gases. By their opening and closing action, they prevent backflow and excess flow. When these switches detect flow irregularities or deviation from the intended flow rates, they immediately trigger an alarm and shut down the process. This prevents possible damage or hazards. This proactive approach helps safeguard equipment, minimizing the risk of overheating, overpressure, cavitation, and system failures.
• Energy Efficiency: Fluid switches are important in optimizing energy efficiency across industries by ensuring the processes and equipment operate at the appropriate flow rates. By monitoring flow rates and triggering required adjustments, they help minimize waste. This also results in cost savings and reduced environmental impact. 
• Leak Detection: These switches are also used to detect flow rate leaks. They indicate leaks and ruptures in the system, preventing water loss and potential environmental contamination. 
• Data Monitoring: Besides the pointers above, these switches provide real-time data on flow rates. This data is further used for process monitoring, and optimization. Also, it is used for system improvement, predictive maintenance, trend analysis, and more. 
• Compliance and Regulations: Water treatment facilities must adhere to state and industry regulations in terms of quality. These high-pressure flow switches maintain the required flow rates which keeps the process regulated and helps meet the required standards and compliance.

Factors to Consider When Selecting Fluid Flow Switches

If you need these switches, you must consider the following pointers when selecting them for your application.

• Flow Rate Range: This is an important aspect to consider when choosing these switches. First, determine the flow rate of your applications. This is because fluid flow switches are designed to handle specific flow rate ranges and can be customized as well. Thus, select the appropriate one that can accommodate your specific range. 
• Operating Pressure: Some applications involve high pressure, while others involve low pressure. Thus, it is important to consider the pressure levels within the system. The selected switch must be capable of withstanding and functioning under those specified pressure ranges. 
• Fluid Compatibility: The switch must be compatible with varied fluid handling equipment, connectors, and so on. Also, it must be compatible with pressure and temperature ranges among other parameters and suitable for measuring the flow rate of any type of fluid.
• Flow Switch Type: Today, fluid switches are available in several specifications and types, suited for various applications. The list includes vortex shedding switches, paddle switches, thermal dispersion switches, and more. Select the appropriate one considering your application requirements. 
• Temperature Range: Evaluate the temperature range of the fluid that is being monitored within the system. Select the switch that can withstand required temperature limits without malfunctioning or damage. 
• Accuracy and Sensitivity: This is another important factor to consider while choosing fluid switches. The accuracy and sensitivity level varies on application requirement. Some applications demand highly precise flow measurement, while others don’t need that preciseness in this regard. 
• Electrical Compatibility: Ensure the electrical connections in application systems or setup match with the specifications the fluid flow switch. You mainly need to check current, voltage, and wiring configurations. 
• Cost: This should not be the sole determining factor. However, it is important to keep your budget constraints in mind. Select the switch that will offer the best balance, quality, and features.

Our Liquid and Fluid Flow Switch Applications

Our Flow switches find applications in many industries. Here are some of them:

• Food processing
• Water purification units
• Heating systems
• HVAC systems
• Water circulation systems
• Wastewater management
• Medical
• Chemical

If you are looking for a specific type of flow switch, we can help you get the right one after knowing your requirements. You can totally rely on us regarding the quality of these flow switches. Also, we have an experienced and dedicated team ready to answer all the questions you may have about these products, usage, pricing, and so on. In case you have any further questions or need to make an enquiry, contact us on phone or email.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers on Fluid Flow Switches

Many of our clients have asked us questions on our fluid switch. We have answered some of them here.

• How to Install a Fluid Flow Switch?

Installation of these switches varies based on their type and specific application. Therefore, it is always a good practice to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consider factors such as proper pipe sizing, calibration, orientation, and more. 

• What is the Appropriate Location for Installing a Flow Switch?

Install the flow switch in the pump suction piping when there are spring-loaded check valves or other closely coupled accessories in the pump discharge piping.

Note: Avoid applying sealant to the initial threads as this switch is grounded through the pipe mounting.

• Is it Possible to Employ Flow Switches for Both Liquids And Gases?

Yes. Some flow switches work well with both liquids and gases. Ensure that the fluid switch you choose is compatible with the medium you intend to monitor. 

• What Are the Maintenance and Troubleshooting Procedures for a Fluid Flow Switch?

It is important to conduct periodic maintenance of these switches to increase their operational life. This includes cleaning the sensor, checking for visible blockage, verifying calibration, and more. Troubleshooting these switches involves checking electrical connections, inspecting for sensor damage, and ensuring the flow switch is correctly installed and calibrated.

• What Are the Safety Considerations When Using Flow Switches in Extreme Environments?

Choose the switch with appropriate certifications, such as UL or ATEX, for hazardous environments. Ensure they are installed, keeping all safety regulations and guidelines in mind. This will help in preventing potential risks and fire hazards.

• What Are the Factors That Lead to the Malfunction of a Flow Switch?

The fluid flow switch may fail or not perform as expected for various reasons. This includes the lack of water pressure, lack of flow, and inappropriate installation.