A flow switch, also known as a flow switch, is a way to monitor the flow of water in a pipe. It is widely used in factory systems and in fire protection systems in buildings. So what is a flow switch? What is the structure and operating principle of the flow switch? Let's find out through this article!
1. What is a flow switch?
- Flow switch is a device used to monitor the flow rate of liquids, gases, or other fluids through a conduit, or piping system. In short, the flow switch is responsible for detecting flow in the pipe.
- These switches or sensors can be used to monitor traffic over a certain period of time or set up to continuously monitor total traffic.
- Flow switches also have the following other names:
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Flow switch
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Flow sensor |
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Flow indicator
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Flow sensor switch |
Image of flow switch
2. Structure of the flow switch
The flow switch consists of two main parts: housing and sensor.
+ Housing: located on the outside, is the main processing part in the controller that allows opening or closing.
+ Sensor: located inside, in direct contact with the liquid. There is a rod or leaf made of stainless steel, copper or thin pressed steel that detects even the smallest flow passing through.
Structure of the flow sensor
3. Types of flow switches
There are many types of flow switches on the market, but there are two main types that are most popular: mechanical flow switches, electronic flow switches.
Common types of flow switches
- The mechanical flow switch includes a barrier mounted below a housing. When water flows, pressure will be created and applied to the barrier. Then the barrier will change position and turn on/off the NO/NC contact.
- The electronic form will operate in such a way that the processes that will detect and process signals will be fully automated.
4. Operating principle of flow switch
- In principle, both types of flow switches above have similarities in how they operate. When there is liquid flowing in the pipe, pressure will be created, then the sensor will record this pressure.
- In there:
+ For mechanical switches, there are shields
+ For electronic switches, it is the sensor head
- If the pressure reaches a certain value, the pump contacts will be controlled to open/close.
Operating principle of flow switch5. How to install flow switch
- Installing the flow switch is extremely simple in just a few basic steps as follows. First, use a T-shaped connector to connect the two pipes and attach the flow switch to the top part. Thus, the switch installation is completed.
- Note: the connection thread will depend on the flow sensor thread and choose the appropriate coupling
Install the flow switch6. Application of flow switch
- Hearing the name of the flow switch, we also know that the main purpose of the device is to check whether there is flow in the pipe or not.
- In addition, it is also used to open and close the electrical switch and protect the water heater's electrical system. When the water pressure is too weak, it will immediately disconnect the power source to ensure safety and avoid unfortunate electrical incidents.
Flow switch used to protect the pump
- One application of the flow switch is to protect the water pump from idling, causing overheating and pump fire.
- When the pump starts, if there is water, it creates a flow in the pipe. When the flow impacts the sensor's measuring leaf, it will affect the NO/NC contact inside.
- And when used to protect the pump, we can use this contact to activate a timer. During the time this contact is inactive, the timer will stop the pump from operating.
Fire protection system flow switch
- In addition to pump protection applications, flow switches are also widely used in sprinkler systems of fire protection systems.
- At each floor, people usually install a flow switch with a solenoid valve. When water flows through the switch, it will push the leaf to impact the switch with normally closed or normally open contacts, thereby signaling whether there is flow inside the pipe or not.
- When a fire occurs, the fire alarm valves will be heated and burned to spray water to extinguish the fire. Then the water in the pipes will flow and the flow switches will be affected, sending signals to the fire alarm center through the monitoring module.
- Thanks to that, the fire alarm center can identify which area is on fire and whether the automatic fire sprinkler system is operating or not.
- Flow switches are always used in large factories and enterprises today. The price advantage along with the ease of installation is a great choice. In fact, it can be mentioned as:
+ Protect the pump from running at too high a temperature.
+ Measure the flow of chemicals and wastewater.
+ Measure fuel flow.
+ Measure liquid in tanks and tubs.
Application of flow switch
7. Top flow switch brands to use
Brand Autosigma
Autosigma HFS-25 flow switch
- Autosigma is a company originating from Korea. This type uses "paddles" to feel the force of the water's flow. This type will have characteristics such as being able to withstand pressure of about 1.75 MPa.
- Can only withstand liquid temperatures below 100 degrees Celsius. As for environmental temperatures, it is within a threshold of less than 60 degrees. This type of flow sensor also has two modes: NO - NC.
Where to provide genuine, reputable Autosigma flow switches: https://amazen.com.vn/cong-tac-dong-chay.html
Honeywell flow switch
- Like Autosigma, the Honeywell type is also a type of switch originating from Korea. The shape of this switch looks quite similar to the Autosigma HFS-25.
- It also uses "paddles" to sense the water and then reports ON - OFF. Furthermore, in terms of price, these two types are similar. At the same time, the structural functions are also equivalent. The difference between these two types is reliability and quality from consumers.
Epilogue
Above is all the most important and basic content about the Flow Switch product line. Hopefully the article content will assist you in the process of learning, choosing to buy and operate this line of automation equipment.
In case you need to buy a semiconductor relay or have any questions or need further advice, please contact Amazen via:
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Email: amazen@amazen.com.vn
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