A flow switch also commonly referred to as a flow sensor plays a crucial role in regulating the flow rate of fluids, air, and other gaseous substances through a duct system. Over a period, these flow switches can be used to monitor the flow of fluids. In certain instances, they will be able to trigger actions like stop or start in the system. In simple terms, a flow switch is used to adjust the flow rate and pressure to the desired and programmed levels. At Cease Fire Solutions, our team has a wealth of experience installing flow switches in buildings across Doha. For further information, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team.
How does a water flow switch work?
A water flow switch operates by relaying a trip motion to another machine within the system, usually a pump. The trip signal will let the pump know if it has to turn on or off. It is vital a flow switch provides circuit cooling and damage protection, including adjusting flow rates that are too high or too low. If the rate gets too low of what’s required, it can immediately trigger a chain of actions like activating an alarm, powering on the pump, shutting off various parts of the system, or even powering on a pump. The actions taken will solely depend on the type of switch and what it has been created for.
Various types of water flow switches:
There are several different types of water flow switches. Below-mentioned is some of the commonly used ones:
Floor switches for water pumps
A water pump floor switch is designed to make adjustments on the spot and transfer volume from an electric pump to a liquid system. It can monitor the overall flow rate of water in the system and can relay on and off signals that in turn raises or lower the system’s internal water pressure. In the event there is a failure of water supply, a water pump floor switch can prevent the pump from running dry, which can lead to the pump getting damaged.
Water flow switch for sprinklers
A sprinkler is commonly found in an automatic fire sprinkler system. In this setup, the major function is to identify when the water passing through the sprinkler pipework and valves exceeds the water flow rate triggering the water sprinkler system. This will then relay a signal back to the fire department that notifies them of a fire so that they can come and investigate. Almost all water flow switches are designed for this use. These flow switches also have a delay timer wherein it will only send out an emergency signal once the flow has been detected for a set period of time. The reason behind it is to avoid any false detections caused by changes in the pressure or anywhere in the flow switch system that are harmless.
Magnetic water flow switches
This type of flow switch controls and detects the movement of water by generating a magnetic field for the water to pass through. The speed and volume of water in the floor switch is measured by generating a magnetic field for the water to pass through. For the magnetic water flow switch to operate optimally, the liquid that passes through it must be conductive. These types of floor switches are often found in wastewater systems.
Inline water flow switches
An inline water flow switch is one that is installed permanently, and it is a critical part of the overall system. This is the opposite of an insertion flow switch where a probe or paddle is introduced into the process pipe externally. Inline water flow switches require straight run sections to function properly and can automatically condition the flow.
Paddle water flow switches
These water flow switches depend on a physical paddle or probe to hang in the pipe through the water to ensure other liquids from not passing. It is turned or triggered at pressures and speeds that vary depending on the flow rate of the material through the channel. The signals received are converted into readings or actions.
At Cease Fire Solutions, we have water flow switches that are designed to monitor water flow in pipes from 1” up to 8”. To find out more information about our comprehensive fire solutions or to request a free quote, contact us today at +974 4038 9783
