A basic flow switch detects gas flow in pipes through the use of a simple mechanical mechanism. The primary purpose of a flow switch is to monitor the flow rate of a gas or liquid within a pipe and trigger an electrical response when the flow exceeds or falls below a certain threshold. Here's a general explanation of how a basic flow switch works for gas flow detection:
Physical Design: The flow switch consists of a housing, typically made of metal or plastic, with an inlet and an outlet. It is installed directly in the gas pipeline, and the gas flows through it.
Paddle or Vane Mechanism: Inside the housing, there is a movable component, often referred to as a paddle or vane, which is positioned perpendicular to the direction of gas flow. This component is usually hinged or mounted on a pivot.
Spring Mechanism: The paddle or vane is connected to a spring that applies a force to keep it in a certain position. When there is no gas flow or when the flow is below the set threshold, the gas pressure is not sufficient to overcome the force of the spring, so the paddle remains in its resting position.
Change in Flow: When gas flow increases beyond a specific rate, it exerts a force on the paddle or vane that overcomes the resistance of the spring, causing the paddle to move or pivot.
Switch Action: The movement of the paddle or vane triggers a switch mechanism. This can be in the form of a simple mechanical switch, a reed switch (which uses a magnetic field to actuate the switch), or an electronic sensor that detects the movement of the paddle.
Electrical Response: Once the switch is activated, it can be connected to an electrical circuit to initiate specific actions, such as activating an alarm, turning on a pump, or shutting down a system to prevent potential issues due to excessive or insufficient gas flow.
Adjustment: Some flow switches allow you to adjust the set point, which is the flow rate at which the switch will trigger. This adjustment allows you to customize the flow switch to meet specific flow rate requirements.
It's essential to note that while basic flow switches are suitable for many applications, some industries or processes may require more sophisticated flow measurement technologies, such as mass flow meters or thermal flow sensors, to provide more accurate and precise measurements. The choice of flow detection method depends on the specific requirements of the application and the level of accuracy needed.