This G1/2" water flow sensor detects liquid movement through a pipe. It works on DC 5-15V power and uses an internal paddle wheel to measure flow. The clear case lets you see inside, making it a straightforward fluid flow meter. Features and Benefits
- Hall Effect Sensor - It sends a clean digital pulse for each turn, which microcontrollers like Arduino can read easily.
- Standard G1/2" Threads - This common size makes it simple to put into existing pipes and fittings.
- Clear Casing - You can visually check that water is moving and look for any clogs or dirt inside the sensor.
- Wide Voltage Compatibility - It runs on common 5V, 9V, or 12V power sources, giving you options for different electronics projects. Applications
- Water Heaters: Use it as a liquid flow switch to make sure the heating element only turns on when water is flowing.
- DIY Projects: A common water flow sensor switch for Arduino to build systems that watch water use or control a water pump.
- Dispensing Equipment: Put it into coffee machines, water coolers, or other dispensers to measure specific liquid amounts.
Key Functions
A flow sensor, such as this YF-S201C model, is a device that measures the rate of fluid movement. This particular water flow sensor is designed for water heaters, indicating its role in monitoring water flow within such systems. It operates on a DC 5-15V input voltage and features a G1/2 connection size, ensuring compatibility with standard plumbing. As a semi-finished product, it is suitable for integration into larger assemblies. The transparent enclosure material allows for visual inspection of the internal components.
Common Types of Flow Meters
Flow meters are instruments used to quantify the volumetric or mass flow rate of a fluid. While this product is a water flow sensor, there are various types of flow meters available for different applications and fluid types. These can include devices for gas, steam, and corrosive liquids, not just water. The specific application of this G1/2 transparent body sensor is for water heaters, highlighting its specialised function within a broader category of flow measurement tools. Understanding these different types helps in selecting the correct sensor for a specific task.
Key Types & How They Work
The YF-S201C is a water flow sensor, a type of flow meter. Generally, flow meters work by interacting with the flowing fluid to produce a measurable output. This specific model, with its DC 5-15V input, likely generates an electrical signal proportional to the water flow rate through its G1/2 connection. The transparent body allows for observation of the flow path. While a peak expiratory flow meter measures lung function, it is a different category of device; this product is specifically for fluid dynamics in applications like water heaters.
Velocity-Based Meters
Velocity-based meters determine flow rate by measuring the speed of the fluid. This water flow sensor, model YF-S201C, falls into this general category, as it is designed to sense the movement of water. Its G1/2 connection size indicates it is designed to be installed in-line with plumbing. The DC 5-15V input voltage powers its internal mechanism for detecting this velocity. The transparent enclosure allows for visual confirmation of water presence and movement, which can be useful during installation and troubleshooting in water heater applications.
Differential Pressure (DP) Meters
Differential pressure (DP) meters measure flow by creating a pressure drop across an obstruction in the flow path and correlating this difference to the flow rate. This water flow sensor, the YF-S201C, is not a differential pressure meter. It is a water flow sensor specifically for water heaters, operating with a DC 5-15V input. Its transparent body and G1/2 connection suggest a different operating principle, likely involving a rotating element or similar velocity-sensing mechanism, rather than a pressure differential.
Connection Size: G1/2. Enclosure Material: Transparent. Input Voltage: DC 5-15V. Application: Water Heaters. Model: YF-S201C. Product Type: Water Flow Sensor. Pipe Thread Size: G1/2". Material: Transparent Enclosure (likely PC or Acrylic). Operating Voltage: DC 5-15V. Flow Rate Range: 1-30 L/min. Output Pulse High Level: >DC 4.7V. Output Pulse Low Level: <DC 0.5V. Working Humidity Range: 35% to 90% RH (no frost). Working Temperature Range: -20°C to 80°C. Insulation Resistance: >100 MΩ. Max Water Pressure: 1.75 MPa. Max Working Current: 15 mA. Model: YF-S201C. Product Type: Flow Sensor Switch. Pulse Duty Cycle: 50% ± 10%. Q: What are the operating voltage and flow rate for this sensor? A: This sensor runs on a DC voltage between 5 and 15 volts. It's designed to measure a water flow rate from 1 up to 30 liters per minute.. Q: What is the body made of? Can I see inside it? A: The enclosure is made of a transparent plastic, so you can see the internal turbine wheel. This lets you visually confirm that water is flowing and the wheel is spinning correctly.. Q: What size pipe fittings does this use? A: It uses standard G1/2 inch male threads on both the inlet and outlet ports. This is a very common size that connects easily to many types of plumbing hoses and pipes.. Q: How can I tell if this flow sensor is working correctly with my project? A: This is a Hall effect sensor, so it outputs a pulse signal as the internal wheel spins. You can connect it to a microcontroller like an Arduino to count the pulses and calculate the flow rate based on the formula in the datasheet.. Q: Is this a good choice for monitoring a home water heater? A: Yes, this model is often used for applications like water heaters or water dispensers. Its flow rate range and standard fittings make it suitable for many residential water systems..