Paddle Flow Switches

Paddle Flow Switches

Paddle flow switches are mechanical flow-detection instruments used widely within industrial process control to monitor and respond to the presence or absence of fluid flow. They function through a paddle or vane, typically made from durable materials such as stainless steel or reinforced thermoplastics, inserted directly into a fluid pipeline. As fluid flows through the pipeline, it exerts force on the paddle, causing it to pivot and mechanically actuate an internal switch when flow surpasses or drops below preset thresholds.

The primary advantage of paddle flow switches is their simple, reliable operation, making them highly suitable for applications requiring cost-effective, robust, and low-maintenance solutions. Their mechanical design enables consistent, repeatable performance even under variable flow conditions, while their ability to withstand moderately turbulent or contaminated fluids makes them ideal for a broad range of process environments.

Commonly employed across general industry sectors, paddle flow switches are especially useful in water treatment, HVAC systems, cooling circuits, lubrication loops, chemical processing, and general manufacturing. Typical applications include pump protection to prevent dry-running, monitoring coolant circulation, ensuring adequate fluid flow in heating and cooling systems, and initiating alarms or control actions when flow conditions deviate from desired operational parameters.

Designed for straightforward installation and operation, paddle flow switches are often adjustable to accommodate various pipe sizes and flow rates, providing versatile, reliable monitoring solutions in diverse industrial processes.