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Vertical Float Switch Data Sheet

Designs & Applications

Selecting the appropriate design is a central step when configuring float switches. Vertical float switches, bent versions, and float switches with a side-mounted design differ mainly in terms of installation position, mechanical integration, and accessible measuring points.

Vertical float switches are classically installed from the top or bottom of a tank and detect defined fill levels along a vertical axis. This design is particularly suitable when sufficient installation space is available in the vertical direction and multiple switching points are required along a guide tube.

In contrast, 90-degree bent stainless steel float switches are specifically designed for side mounting situations. They are manufactured by Reed with a defined bending radius and then installed in this form.

The defined bending radius allows the float switch to be adapted to the respective tank geometry without having to compromise on precise point level detection. The bending radius, installation opening, and available space in the tank for mounting and possible removal must be checked at an early stage.

A float switch for side mounting is integrated directly into the tank wall. This variant is typically used when installation from above is not possible or not desired. The switching point is fixed to a specific height in the tank, allowing targeted monitoring of individual fill levels.

The different designs are generally based on the same operating principle, but differ in their mechanical design and therefore in their possible applications. An application-specific selection ensures that both the installation situation and the functional requirements are reliably covered.

Operating Principle: How Vertical Float Switches Work

Vertical and bent float switches are also based on a simple but robust operating principle. A float containing an integrated permanent magnet moves along a guide tube. As the liquid level rises or falls, the float follows this movement and actuates a reed contact located inside the tube at defined positions.

The switching process takes place contactlessly through the magnetic field of the float. The reed contact closes or opens the circuit as soon as the float reaches the corresponding switching point. Depending on the version, the switching function can be designed as a normally closed contact, normally open contact, or changeover contact – each in relation to a rising fill level.

A key advantage of this design lies in the clearly defined arrangement of the switching points along the guide tube. This allows different fill levels within a tank to be monitored specifically, for example for:

• Overfill protection
• Minimum level or dry-run protection
• Multi-stage pump controls

Since the float is often the only moving component, low-maintenance operation is achieved when used as intended. At the same time, potential-free contacts enable simple integration into existing control systems without the need for additional signal processing.

Which Design Parameters Are Relevant for Vertical and Bent Float Switches

The selection and design of vertical and factory-bent stainless steel float switches are based on several technical and application-specific parameters. Reliable function during later operation can only be ensured if these are taken into account at an early stage.

A key factor is the geometry of the tank and the resulting installation situation. It determines whether a vertical float switch or a 90-degree bent version for side mounting is technically suitable. In this context, available installation openings, installation depths, the required bending radius, space conditions inside the tank, and possible restrictions caused by adjacent components also play a role.

In addition, the switching points and their function must be defined. Depending on the application, one or more switching points may be required, for example to implement minimum and maximum levels or multi-stage controls. The switching function is defined as a normally closed contact, normally open contact, or changeover contact.

Further important design parameters are:

• Temperature range: The permissible operating temperatures vary depending on the design and material.
• Media density: The float must be matched to the density of the medium so that it reliably rises and falls.
  Electrical characteristics: Switching capacity, voltage, and current carrying capacity must match the downstream control system.
• Since many of these parameters are interdependent, the design is often customer-specific in practice. The aim is to configure a solution that both fits mechanically into the system and reliably provides the desired switching functions.

What to Consider During Mounting and Installation

Correct mounting is essential for the reliable function of float switches. For both vertical and factory-bent versions, the installation position, mechanical boundary conditions, and environmental factors directly influence the switching behaviour.

A basic point is the alignment of the sensor. Vertical float switches should be operated as close as possible to the ideal installation position. Larger deviations can cause the float to no longer move freely along the guide tube and prevent switching points from being reached cleanly.

It must also be ensured that the sensor is mounted free of stress and that no mechanical forces act on the guide tube.

Further important aspects during mounting are:

• Ensuring sufficient freedom of movement for the float in the medium
• Avoiding installation situations with strong turbulence or deposits
• Selecting non-ferromagnetic connection components to avoid influencing the magnetic field
• Considering the installation opening, especially if the float diameter is larger than the opening
• Checking the required bending radius and the space conditions in the tank for installation, operation, and possible removal

For float switches for side mounting, it must also be ensured that the installation height corresponds exactly to the desired switching point. Since measurement is point-based, the switching position can only be changed to a limited extent afterwards.

During operation, it is advisable to check the function at defined intervals, especially with demanding media or critical applications. Visual inspections and simple functional tests help ensure the long-term reliability of the system.

Technical Possibilities, Consulting & Service at Reed Electronics AG

In addition to technical design, Reed Electronics AG offers application-oriented consulting that starts as early as the initial project phase. Based on information such as the medium, installation situation, temperature range, desired switching function, bending radius, and space conditions in the tank, suitable float switches are jointly defined and technically coordinated.

Thanks to the modular design, customer-specific solutions can be implemented efficiently without having to compromise on proven components. In addition, Reed supports the selection of suitable materials, connection types, and electrical designs, as well as integration into existing systems.

Beyond pure product selection, the focus is also on technical clarification, documentation, and project-specific adaptations. The aim is a solution that not only fits functionally, but can also be operated reliably in the respective application over the long term.

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