Stainless Steel Level Switch
Stainless steel level switches are corrosion-resistant and long-lasting measuring devices used to monitor the level in liquid tanks. They are commonly preferred in industries where hygiene or material resistance is critical, such as the food, pharmaceutical, chemical, and shipbuilding industries.
Basic Operating Principle of Stainless Steel Level Switches
The float contains a permanent magnet . As the liquid level changes, the float moves towards the reed switch mechanism inside the pipe. The stainless steel level switch opens or closes the contact due to the effect of the magnetic field; this allows the connected system (pump, alarm, PLC) to be controlled.
Stainless Steel Level Switch: Technical Specifications and Advantages
The main advantages of using stainless steel level switches (typically AISI 304 or 316 ) are as follows:
- Temperature Resistance: Unlike plastic models, they can function stably at high temperatures of 125°C and above.
- Pressure Resistance: Safely used in high-pressure tanks (typically 10 bar ).
- Hygiene: Thanks to its non-porous structure, it does not allow bacteria to form, making it suitable for food production lines.
- Chemical Resistance: Exhibits high resistance to aggressive liquids of an acidic or basic nature.
Applications of Stainless Steel Level Switches
- Food Industry: Milk, fruit juice, and drinking water tanks.
- Marine: Fuel and bilge tanks.
- Petrochemicals: Storage facilities for oil, fuel, and chemical waste.
- Heating/Cooling: Steam boilers and condensate tanks.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Stainless Steel Level Switch
- Liquid Density: The density of the liquid is important for the float to buoy.
- Connection Type: Do you need a threaded (NPT/BSP) or flanged connection?
- Contact Type: The selection of NO (Normally Open) or NC (Normally Closed) can usually be changed in the field by reversing the float.