An oil level switch works by using a magnetic component that moves with the oil level to control an electrical circuit, typically turning an oil pump on or off.
Oil level sensors commonly utilize magnetic reed switches that are hermetically sealed within a stainless steel or plastic stem. This design allows the switch mechanism to be protected from the oil while still responding to its level.
Here's how the process generally functions:
- Sensing the Level: A float with a magnet is often used in conjunction with the reed switch. As the oil level rises or falls, this float moves along the stem.
- Actuating the Switch: The movement of the magnetic float along the stem influences the sealed reed switch.
- Circuit Control: The reed switch moves up and down the stem to open or break circuits (turn on or off oil pumps) according to oil levels rising and falling. This means the switch acts like a gate, either allowing electricity to flow (closing the circuit, turning a pump on) or stopping it (opening the circuit, turning a pump off).
Essentially, the switch translates the physical position of the oil level into an electrical signal that can automate actions like refilling oil when it gets too low or shutting off a pump when it reaches a high limit.
