Float switches are simple, universally applicable and exceptionally reliable. It isn’t a coincidence that, today, float switches still represent the most commonly used principle for level monitoring. But how does a float switch really work?
Float switches, in a straightforward mechanical form, have already been used for the control of water flows in mills and fields for centuries and today still represent the most commonly used technology. A hollow body (float), due to 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, one has implemented a mechanical float switch.
Modern float switches, of course, are employed for switching a power circuit and show a clearly more sophisticated design. In its simplest form, a float switch consists of a hollow float body with an integral magnet, helpful information tube to steer the float, adjusting collars to limit the travel of the float on the tube and a reed contact located on its inside (see figure).
Figure: Selection of reed contacts of a float switch
How 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 apart from each other when a magnetic field is applied. In the case of a float switch with a reed connection with a normally open function, on applying a magnetic field, the leaves are brought into contact. Once the contact between the 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 manufactured in every operating state.
Since the contact leaves are under a mechanical preload, a magnetic field must be applied in order that the contact leaves close or open so that you can generate the required switching signal (monostability). The adjusting collars fitted by the product manufacturer serve as a limitation for the float body in the right position, to ensure / maintain the desired switching signal on reaching the defined filling level.
How does one specify a float switch?
The following parameters ought to be defined:
Number of switch contacts / switching outputs
Position and function of each switching output
Guide tube length
Electrical connection (e.g. Document )
Process connection
Material (stainless, plastic, ?)
Note
As a leading provider of float-based measurement technology solutions, WIKA has a wide range of variants to meet all of your application-specific requirements. The available products can be found on the WIKA website. Your contact person will undoubtedly be pleased to help you on selecting the correct product solution.