A float switch plastic water level control is a type of sensor used to detect and regulate the level of liquid (typically water) within a tank or container, utilizing a float made of plastic material. When the liquid reaches a certain level, the float rises or falls, activating a switch (often a reed switch) to either start or stop a pump, valve, or alarm.
How It Works:
The basic components of a float switch plastic water level control include:
- Float: Usually made of polypropylene (PP) plastic due to its non-toxic, low absorbent, and odorless properties, allowing it to float on water.
- Switch Mechanism: Commonly a reed switch is employed. A reed switch is an electrical switch operated by an applied magnetic field. Inside the float is a magnet.
- Housing/Mounting: A structure to hold the float and switch in place, typically made of a durable plastic.
When the water level is low, the float is also low, causing the magnet within the float to be positioned in a way that activates the reed switch (in some designs). This sends a signal (typically a HIGH signal, indicating a need for action like starting a pump). As the water level rises, the float rises with it. At a pre-determined level, the magnet within the float moves away from the reed switch, causing it to deactivate and stop the signal. This could trigger a pump to turn off.
Advantages of Using Plastic Floats:
- Cost-effective: Plastic floats are generally inexpensive to manufacture.
- Lightweight: The lightweight nature of plastic allows for efficient floating.
- Corrosion resistant: Plastics like PP are resistant to corrosion, making them suitable for water applications.
- Non-toxic: PP plastic is non-toxic, ensuring it doesn't contaminate the water.
- Durability: PP offers good durability for use in most water tank applications.
Applications:
Float switch plastic water level controls are commonly found in:
- Water tanks: Controlling water levels in storage tanks.
- Pumps: Automatically starting or stopping pumps based on water level.
- Sump pumps: Activating sump pumps to remove excess water.
- Aquariums: Maintaining proper water levels in aquariums.
- Irrigation systems: Automating irrigation based on water levels.
Example Use Case:
Imagine a water tank system where a float switch is used to automatically refill the tank when the water level drops. As the water is used, the level decreases, causing the plastic float to lower. When it reaches a pre-set low point, the magnet activates the reed switch, signalling a pump to start filling the tank. Once the tank is full, the float rises, deactivating the switch and turning off the pump.
