Flow Switches

Flow Switches

Flow switches are used in industrial process control to detect the presence, absence, or specific rate of fluid flow within pipelines or systems. They function by mechanically or electronically actuating contacts to trigger control actions or alarms when flow conditions exceed or fall below predefined setpoints. Common technologies include paddle-type, thermal dispersion, magnetic, ultrasonic, and calorimetric flow switches, each optimized for particular applications and fluid types.

The primary benefit of flow switches is their ability to protect equipment and enhance operational safety by providing reliable, real-time monitoring of fluid movement. They prevent potentially costly equipment failures, such as pump dry-runs, overheating, or inadequate cooling, and ensure proper flow rates in critical process operations. By promptly signaling deviations in fluid flow, these switches help maintain consistent system performance and efficiency.

Flow switches are widely used across various industries, including chemical processing, water and wastewater treatment, oil and gas, HVAC, food and beverage production, and power generation. Typical applications include pump protection, cooling system monitoring, lubrication system control, emergency shutdown procedures, flow verification in pipelines, and process batching or blending systems.

Designed to withstand harsh industrial environments, flow switches are often built from corrosion-resistant materials and can operate reliably under varying pressures, temperatures, and flow conditions, making them integral components for efficient process management and equipment protection.