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The water flow switch is a multifunctional device, the main task of which remains the automation of the pump, the regulation of the water supply. The sensor switches water on and off depending on its presence in the system. We supply sensors made only from high quality environmentally friendly materials. clean materials, thanks to which the water flow switch can interact even with drinking water without distorting its composition. At the same time, our price for water flow sensors is lower than in city stores.
Sensors are mainly connected to pumps with high power, as they effectively protect the pump from overheating and other possible malfunctions. Thanks to this, the water flow switch for the pump extends its life and ensures the convenience of using the pump. The advantages of the flow switch for the pump are: small size, high sensitivity, versatility, affordable price, long term operation. If you do not have time to constantly monitor the operation of the pump, then the sensor will do it for you.
When installing a pressure control sensor, it is worth resorting to the help of specialists, since initially the flow switch for the pump needs to be configured. Installation is carried out as follows: the inlet water flow switch is connected to pumping device. With a sufficient volume of water flow, the device is activated due to pressure on the sensor blade. When the water flow decreases, the sensor blade returns to its original position and the water supply stops. You can buy a water flow sensor for a pump in Moscow at optimal price payment method convenient for you.
The efficient operation of pumping equipment is the key to uninterrupted water supply and the functioning of the heating system in a private house. If you want to enjoy the benefits of civilization day after day, you must make every effort to properly establish.
The solution to this problem includes a wide range of work, the main of which is the installation of additional equipment, which will help to clearly control possible failures in the system and prevent the pump from failing.
The most popular and useful in everyday life are such auxiliary devices as: a temperature sensor, as well as a water flow sensor. It is about the properties and operational features of the latest device will be discussed in this article.
1 Purpose and benefits
In everyday life, an emergency switching on of the pump without water occurs periodically, which is considered extremely dangerous, because this can cause equipment breakdown. Popularly referred to as "dry running" leads to overheating of the engine and deformation of parts.
Such negative changes occur because the water in the system performs a lubricating and cooling function. Operation in the "dry run" mode, even for a short time, adversely affects the equipment, whether it is circulating or. To avoid such problems, the pumping station is equipped with automation - a water flow sensor. It will prevent negative changes in the system and avoid the cost of repairing the pump.
The water flow sensor is a device for controlling a pumping station in. In addition, this automatic device serves to increase the pressure and protect the pump, which is used in heating systems Oh.
The principle of operation of the sensor is that it controls the power of the fluid flow and independently turns on or off the pumping station when the flow of water appears and passes through it. In this way, it is possible to prevent a possible "dry run", because a submersible or circulation pump drives the system and raises the pressure inside it only when required.
Installing a water flow sensor entails a number of positive aspects in operation pumping station:
- saving energy costs;
- reducing the risk of equipment failure;
- increase pump life.
1.1 Design and principle of operation
As it has already become clear, the built-in water flow sensor is used in the circulation systems of heating and water supply of private houses. His job is to stop the pumping station in the absence of a liquid flow, and prevent a “dry run”, and when water appears, put the equipment into action. The sensor received such working properties due to its design.
The device consists of a valve ("petal"), which is located in the flow part, and a reed switch. When water pressure occurs, the petal valve begins to move, squeezing the spring. At the same time, the magnet on the "petal" and the reed relay enter into interaction.
As a result, the contacts close, which drives the submersible or circulation pump. When there is no water and corresponding pressure in the system, the valve spring is released, moving the magnet to its original position - this causes the contacts to open and the equipment to stop.
Water flow sensor for circulation or submersible pump easy to mount in an existing system, you just need to choose the right device, paying due attention to key parameters.
1.2 Key features
The purchase of a water flow sensor for should be approached in detail. We recommend that you focus on the following characteristics of the device:
- case material and working components;
- operating pressure;
- coolant temperature range;
- operating conditions and protection class;
- thread diameter.
To understand what effect each of these factors has on the operational features of the device, we will consider them in stages. The material of the housing and working components affect the reliability and durability of the sensor that is installed on the pump. It is desirable that the device is based on metals: stainless steel, aluminum or brass.
These materials are able to protect the working elements from a powerful flow of water and water hammer. Be sure to study the level of operating pressure at which the sensor is capable of functioning. For each circulation pump this value will be individual, so you need to calculate the appropriate parameter in advance.
There are devices that provide two levels of pump control: by the lower pressure limit of the system to turn it on and by the upper pressure limit in the event of a cessation or an unacceptably low level of water flow to turn off the pumping station.
A sensor with the possibility of such programming is considered optimal. When choosing equipment for controlling the flow of water, it is impossible to neglect such a parameter as the temperature range of the coolant.
Conditions of use of devices may vary significantly. It is one thing if you have to mount the sensor in a heating system, where temperatures can reach 110 ° C, and quite another when the pump is used to turn on and supply cold water.
In the latter case, you can choose a device designed for a temperature range of 60-80 ° C. In order for the pump and the purchased sensor to remain operational for as long as possible, pay attention to the conditions under which the equipment should operate.
The instructions for the device must indicate the temperature level environment and protection class. The last criterion determines the loads that the sensor installed in the pump can withstand.
To perform a correct and accurate installation, you will have to pay attention not only to allowable temperatures operation of the device, but also on the diameter of the connecting thread. Only with the correct and high-quality joining of the elements, it is possible to achieve the effective functioning of the sensor after its preset and inclusions.
1.3 About the device and characteristics (video)
2 Adjustment and connection of the sensor
The flow sensor, which is used to monitor the water level and pressure in the system, should be adjusted immediately after purchase. The process is as follows: the device is shipped with the contacts open and the calibration screw tightened.
After the pump is turned on and the optimum water level is reached, the lamella moves in the direction of the liquid flow, which leads to the closing of the contacts. If the lamella does not start to move, this means that this level of water flow is not enough. In the case when the device does not respond, you need to set another value and do the operation again.
There are a number of rules that will facilitate the installation of the flow sensor, the main one being that the device must be installed on a horizontal pipeline, regardless of the temperature of the water moving inside. In this case, you need to ensure that the lamella is located vertically.
The distance between the pipe and the device should be carefully measured - the minimum allowable value is 55 mm. Using a threaded coupling, the sensor is connected to the drain pipeline, regardless of the water level inside.
The device must be oriented so that the arrows on its body correspond to the direction of water flow in the system. When high level coolant contamination is mounted in front of the sensor.
Careful attitude to the equipment that provides water supply, significantly extends its working life, guarantees uninterrupted operation of the system. This requires not only timely inspection and proper care, but also equipping the pumps with a full range of protection devices. It is much cheaper to prevent the possibility of a serious breakdown than to repair or buy a new unit. Do you agree?
Installing a water flow switch will protect the engine of both surface and deep pumping equipment. Indeed, most often when a motor burns out, it is easier to buy a new pump than to change it. We will tell you how this important protective device works, how to choose it and include it in an autonomous water supply.
The article contains valuable advice for the installation of pump protection devices against operation in "dry running" conditions. The technology of customization for individual requirements has been disassembled. For better perception A considerable amount of information is accompanied by photographs, diagrams, video reviews and manuals.
In domestic water supply systems, the operation of a pumping station without water that threatens with an accident quite often occurs. A similar problem is called "dry running".
As a rule, the liquid cools and lubricates the elements of the system, thereby ensuring its normal performance. Even a short dry run leads to deformation of individual parts, overheating and failure of the equipment engine. Negative consequences apply to both surface and deep pump models.
Dry running occurs for various reasons:
- wrong choice of pump performance;
- unsuccessful installation;
- violation of the integrity of the water pipe;
- low fluid pressure and lack of control over its level, for which they are used;
- accumulated debris in the pumping pipe.
An automatic sensor is necessary in order to completely protect the device from the threats posed by lack of water. It measures, controls and maintains the constancy of the parameters of the water flow.
Pumping equipment equipped with a sensor has many advantages. It lasts longer, fails less often, consumes electricity more economically. There are also relay models for boilers
The main purpose of the relay is to independently turn off the pumping station in case of insufficient fluid flow power and turn it on after normalization of the indicators.
Design and principle of operation
The sensor has a unique device, thanks to which it performs its immediate functions. The most common modification is the petal relay.
The following important elements are included in the classical structure scheme:
- an inlet pipe that passes water through the device;
- a valve (petal) located on the wall of the inner chamber;
- isolated reed switch that closes and opens the power supply circuit;
- springs of a certain diameter with different compression ratios.
At the time when the chamber is filled with liquid, the force of the flow begins to act on the valve, displacing it around the axis.
The magnet built into the reverse side of the petal comes close to the reed switch. As a result, the contacts are closed, including the pump.
The flow of water is understood as the speed of its physical movement, sufficient to turn on the relay. Reducing the speed to zero, resulting in a complete stop, returns the switch to its original position. When setting the response threshold, this parameter is set taking into account the conditions of use of the device
When the flow of fluid stops and the pressure in the system drops below normal, the spring compression weakens, returning the valve to its original position. Moving away, the magnetic element ceases to operate, the contacts open and the pumping station stops.
Some modifications are equipped with a return magnet instead of springs. Judging by the feedback from users, they are less affected by small pressure surges in the system.
Petal relays are characteristic a large number of pluses. Among them are a simple and unpretentious design, instant response, no delays between repeated responses, the use of an accurate trigger to start equipment.
Depending on the constructive solution there are several other types of relays. These include rotary devices equipped with a paddle wheel rotating in a water stream. The speed of rotation of the blade in them is controlled by touch sensors. In the presence of liquid in the pipe, the mechanism deviates, closing the contacts.
There is also a thermal relay that operates in accordance with thermodynamic principles. The device compares the temperature set on the sensors with the temperature of the working medium in the system.
In the presence of flow, a thermal change is recorded, after which the electrical contacts are connected to the pump. In the absence of water movement, the microswitch disconnects the contacts. Models are characterized by high sensitivity, but they are quite expensive.
Instrument selection criteria
When choosing equipment that controls the strength of the water flow, you should carefully study its technical characteristics.
Particular attention should be paid to the range operating temperature and the pressure for which it is designed, the diameter of the thread and mounting holes, the protection class, the nuances of the application. It is also important to clarify what materials the product is made of.
Experts consider devices made of brass to be the most reliable and durable, of stainless steel, aluminum. These materials protect the structure from the critical consequences of a frequent phenomenon in plumbing systems - hydraulic shocks.
Considering different modifications of the relay, it makes sense to purchase an option made of metal. The body and working components of such devices are characterized by increased strength.
This fact allows the equipment long time Withstand heavy loads arising due to the significant fluid passing through the sensor.
The pressure value at which the relay operates must correspond to the power installed pump. The parameters of the water flow circulating through the pipeline depend on this characteristic.
It is advisable to choose a device with two springs that controls the operation of the pumping station according to certain lower and upper pressure marks.
The operating temperature range of the sensor directly indicates the possible area of its application. For example, for hot water circuits and heating systems, models with a high boundary temperature are intended. For pipelines with cold water quite enough range up to 60 degrees
Another important criterion worth mentioning is climatic conditions necessary for the operation of the product. This is the recommended air temperature and humidity level that the device needs to provide so that it can work with the best performance.
Maximum permissible loads for a particular device determines the protection class specified in the technical specifications.
When buying a flow sensor, you should check the diameter of the thread section and the dimensions of the mounting holes in the equipment: they must fit perfectly with the elements of the pipeline. The correctness and accuracy of further installation, as well as the efficiency of the relay after installation, depend on this.
Trustworthy Instruments
Among the entire range of relays, two models are most in demand, located in approximately the same price category - about $ 30. Let's consider their characteristics in more detail.
Genyo Lowara Genyo 8A
Development of a Polish company engaged in the production of electronic equipment for control systems. It is intended for application in household water supply systems.
Genyo allows you to provide automatic control pump: start and stop work based on actual water consumption, preventing any pressure fluctuations during work. Also, the electric pump is protected from running dry.
The main purpose is to control the pump and control the pressure in the pipes during operation. This sensor starts the pump when the water flow exceeds 1.6 liters per minute. It consumes 2.4 kW of electricity. The operating temperature range is from 5 to 60 degrees.
Grundfos UPA 120
Manufactured in factories in Romania and China. Maintains the stability of the water supply in rooms equipped with individual water supply systems. Prevents pumping units from idling.
Relay trademark Grundfos is equipped with a high protection class, allowing it to endure almost any load. Electricity consumption in it is about 2.2 kW
The automation of the device starts at a flow rate of 1.5 liters per minute. The boundary parameter of the covered temperature range is 60 degrees. The unit is produced in compact linear dimensions, which greatly facilitate the installation process.
Liquid flow switches are installed for devices that need constant control and compliance with a certain operating mode. Often they complete the equipment at the production stage. However, there are circumstances where a separate mounting of the sensor is required.
Rules for installing relays in the system
Installation safety device, which determines the presence or absence of water flow in the system, is a reasonable step in cases where it is not possible to be constantly present during the operation of pumping equipment.
It is not required only in two cases:
- Water is pumped from a large well with unlimited resources by a low power pump.
- It is possible to independently turn off the unit when the water level drops below the designated norm.
The device is installed on horizontal sections of the pipeline. In this case, it is necessary to ensure that the membrane takes a stable vertical position.
The device is mounted to the drain pipeline using a threaded coupling. Usually a special socket is provided for this.
If there is no hole for mounting the sensor in the pumping equipment, you can replace it with a brass tee. In addition to the relay, a pressure gauge is connected to it, showing the current pressure in the network.
Before proceeding with the direct screwing of the device, it is advisable to seal the thread well with flax or thread sold in specialized departments.
It is better to wind it in a clockwise direction towards the end. This method of fastening increases the reliability of fixation.
In order not to damage the relay, you should screw it very carefully, slightly tightening it. wrench. The optimal distance between the product and the pipeline is at least 55 mm
When installing the factory sensor, it is necessary to focus on the arrow shown on the case. The direction indicated on it must coincide with the direction of flow of the liquid passing through the device.
If contaminated water is transported through the pipeline, it is recommended to install cleaning filters, placing them near the sensor. Such a move will ensure the correct operation of the product.
At the final stage installation work the dry-running relay is connected to the electrical network:
- a wire core is screwed to the free ends of two groups of contacts;
- a ground is attached to the sensor screw;
- the device is connected to the pump by connecting two devices with an ordinary wire in compliance with.
After connecting to the network, the only thing left is to check the system's performance. The fact that the device is ready for full operation will be indicated by the growth of pressure marks on the pressure gauge and automatic shutdown pump at the moment of overcoming the limit value.
Self-adjustment procedure
There are special bolts in the sensor for adjustment. By loosening or tightening them, you can reduce or increase the compression force of the spring.
Thus, the pressure level is set at which the device will operate.
Almost always, manufacturing companies produce equipment with adjusted settings. Despite this, sometimes additional self-adjustment is required.
In most cases, the setting automatic equipment causes no difficulty.
It is advisable to adhere to the following algorithm:
- drain the fluid from the system until the pressure mark reaches zero;
- turn on pumping unit and slowly run the water back;
- fix the flow pressure indicator when the pump is turned off by the sensor;
- start draining again and remember the indicators at which the pumping equipment will start working;
- open the relay and adjust with the adjusting bolt the minimum level of compression of the larger spring required to operate the device and start the pump (more compression increases the degree of pressure, less - reduces);
- in a similar way, adjust the compression force of the smaller spring mechanism by setting the boundaries maximum pressure, upon reaching which the relay measuring the water flow will turn off the pump.
After completing all the described manipulations, you should make sure that the adjustments made are correct. To do this, the pipeline is filled with liquid, and then it is drained, evaluating the response of the sensor while reaching the set values.
If the test result is not satisfactory, the procedure is repeated.
Having insufficient experience and qualifications, it is better to seek help in adjusting from specialists. They will analyze the specific situation, take into account the technical characteristics of the equipment and select the most correct values of the pressure level.
In order for the pipeline through which the liquid passes to work properly and stably, a regular annual check of the flow sensors is carried out. If necessary, the setting of the operating parameters is adjusted.
Conclusions and useful video on the topic
Structure, components and principles of operation:
The process of connecting the device in stages:
Read more about how to adjust the trigger level in the relay:
A relay that controls the flow of water in the pipeline will significantly increase the usability of pumps and extend their life for a long time. Neglect installation safety device highly undesirable, since it not only automates the operation of the equipment, but also protects it to the maximum from possible problems that occur due to idling.
Do you want to install the flow switch yourself, but are a little confused by the instructions? Please ask your questions, and we and the visitors of our site will try to help you.
Or maybe you have successfully coped with the installation and configuration of the device and want to give useful advice other newbies? Write your comments in the block below, add a photo of the installation or setup process - your experience will be useful to many home craftsmen.
A flow switch is a device designed to control the flow of air, gas or liquid. It sends a control signal to another device in the system, serving, for example, to stop running mechanisms. In particular, the flow switch can control the on and off of the pumps. Some of general applications relays are designed to protect pumps, to control and signal the deviation of the flow rate from a predetermined level.
An example is the liquid and gas flow switches shown in the figure, manufactured by McDonnell & Miller. Water flow switches, for example, can be used in devices for heating water in equipment cooling water systems, fire extinguishing systems, water treatment systems, chlorination of swimming pools, etc.
Switches that control can be used for ventilation of rooms, filtration systems in heating mains, systems for supplying, cleaning and processing air.
The concept of flow means the physical movement (velocity) of a liquid, gas or vapor in a pipe, which actuates the flow switch. The absence of a flow means a decrease in its speed to zero, i.e. to a complete stop, allowing the switch to return to its original position.
To set a specific flow switch threshold (set point), the speed must be pre-set depending on the application. For example, the relay can stop the engine if there is no flow, start it if there is flow, sound if the flow stops, or turn off the alarm if the indicator returns to normal.
There are several various types flow switch, the most common of which is a turbine-type device.
Indispensable in general industrial applications for liquids and gases. They combine excellent performance with quality and reliability.
The fluid medium, engaging with the rotor blades of the bladed turbine located on the path of the flow, causes it to rotate with an angular velocity proportional to the flow velocity.
The rotor rotating inside the pipe, with the help of a special device, converts the flow rate into a pulsed electrical signal. The total pulsed electrical signal is directly related to the total flow in such a way that its frequency is directly proportional to the flow rate of the liquid (gas) flowing through the flow switch. This signal is processed electronic circuit, which eventually forms the output circuit of the flow switch in the form of a mechanical contact.
Turbine switches are used to detect fluid flow and fan rotation. They can also be used to protect the heating system by adjusting the intensity of the electric air flow coming from the fan. Turbine flow switches can also be used to give an alarm in case of inefficient operation or complete stop of the fan.
In addition to this common duct, there are many others that differ in the mechanism and principle of operation. The choice of manufacturer and type of device depends on the conditions of use and requirements for its technical specifications in each specific case.
