Level Sensor | Side-Mount Float Switch | Liquid Tank Control

This horizontal float switch is a simple liquid level sensor that helps you control pumps, indicators, or alarms in a tank. It mounts on the side of a container and uses a plastic ball float that pivots 90 degrees to open or close a circuit as the liquid level changes. Features and Benefits - 90-degree side-mount design - It fits through the side wall of a tank, which is helpful when top access is limited. - Simple magnetic reed switch - It provides on/off control without complex electronics, so it's a dependable water level controller. - PP plastic construction - It resists corrosion from water and many common chemicals, making it suitable for different liquids. - Reversible float action - You can set it to activate on a high or low level by flipping the float, giving you more options. Applications - Aquariums and sumps - Use it as a horizontal float switch for an aquarium to manage an auto top-off system or prevent a sump overflow. - Pools and spas - Install it as a horizontal water level switch for a pool to control the filler valve and maintain the correct water line. - General water tanks - It works as a simple tank level sensor for hydroponics, rainwater collection barrels, or bilge pumps on a boat. Mechanical / Float Sensors This Level Sensor is a type of mechanical float switch designed for liquid tank control. It operates on a simple principle: a float containing a magnetic switch rises or falls with the liquid level, actuating a reed switch within the main body. The switch type is configurable to be Normally Open (NO) or Normally Closed (NC), offering flexibility for various applications. It has a Max Switching Voltage of 100V DC and a Max Carry Current of 1.0A. The mounting angle is 90 degrees, indicating it is a side-mount float switch, suitable for horizontal installation. Ultrasonic Sensors (Non-Contact) Unlike the side-mount float switch detailed, ultrasonic sensors offer a non-contact method for determining liquid levels. These sensors work by emitting high-frequency sound waves towards the liquid surface. The time it takes for the sound to travel to the surface and reflect back to the sensor is measured, allowing the sensor to calculate the distance to the liquid. This distance then indicates the liquid level. They are particularly useful in applications where contact with the liquid is undesirable, or where the liquid is corrosive or contains particulates. Submersible Hydrostatic Pressure Sensors Submersible hydrostatic pressure sensors determine liquid levels by measuring the pressure exerted by the liquid column above them. A probe is lowered into the liquid, and the sensor measures the pressure at that depth. As the liquid level changes, the pressure changes proportionally. These sensors are robust and often used in deep tanks or reservoirs. They typically output an analogue signal, which can then be converted to a level reading. The Level Sensor described here is a float switch, not a pressure sensor. Capacitive Sensors Capacitive sensors detect liquid levels by measuring changes in electrical capacitance. The sensor, often a probe, creates an electric field. When a liquid, which has a different dielectric constant than air, enters this field, the capacitance changes. This change is then measured and correlated to the liquid level. These sensors can be used in both contact and non-contact modes, depending on the application and the type of liquid. They are often employed for precise level detection in various industrial settings. Optical Sensors Optical sensors for liquid level detection work by transmitting and receiving light. They typically use an LED as a light source and a phototransistor or photodiode as a receiver. When the liquid level covers the sensor's tip, the light path is interrupted or refracted, causing a change in the received light intensity. This change signals the presence or absence of liquid at that specific point. These sensors are often compact and can be used for point-level detection in applications requiring accurate high or low level alarms.