There are a lot of different uses for liquid level sensors in all types of products, applications and all sorts of designs. These devices monitor and provide information on the level of liquid in a given container or vessel.
As there are different sizes of tanks or vessels holding liquid, as well as different types of liquid, there are a variety of different options in liquid level sensors. These range from all plastic devices to all metal, or those designed for use in specific types of applications.
Considerations
When selecting liquid level sensors for a particular application, there are three important considerations to keep in mind. The first is the type of liquid to be measured, and if the sensor will be inside the tank or vessel or external. This information will be essential in selecting the sensor based on design and material.
The second consideration includes the type of measurement required. Different sensors may offer continual feedback, such as the level in the gas tank on a car while others may only need to activate when a particular level of liquid in the tank is reached.
It is also critical to consider the location where the liquid level sensors will need to mount. Side and bottom mount are the most common, but the design is different for each and one design cannot be interchanged for the other.
Basic Operation
The basic operation of float-type liquid level sensors is very simple to understand. The float is located on a solid central stem, allowing the float to move up and down the stem with the level of the fluid.
The float contains magnets that signal to the reed switch in the central stem where the float is located along the distance of the stem. This, in turn, is relayed to the system, allowing a very accurate representation of the levels.
The reed switch in top designed liquid level sensors is hermetically sealed to avoid any damage to the switch from exposure to the liquid. Also, they are designed to limit vibration and shock, and they can be used in chemicals as well as in oil, gas, or other types of liquids, including food products.
There are some liquid level sensors designed to be used in a range of different tank shapes and sizes, including very shallow tanks. Look for special designs sensors for these types of application to get the best match for your requirements.
At Gopher Electronics Company, we have an extensive selection of all types of liquid level sensors for various applications. To see what we have in the stock visit us online at website.