The storage of liquid is a key part of many industries. Various tanks and containers are used in an assortment of sizes to store liquids ranging from simple to highly specialized. Having the proper accessories for your storage systems is essential for daily business operations. Two accessories that you can install in your existing tanks are a float switch and a water level sensor with both providing essential information, emergency response, and monitoring.
Float Switches Explained
A float switch, as the name suggests, floats on top of the liquid in a container or tank and when the fluid falls or rises below a certain level activates a corresponding system. A float switch can activate pumps to drain a tank, a pump to fill the tank, open a valve, or activate an alarm, so the issue can be manually addressed by yourself or an employee. Common industry uses for float switches include draining or filling tanks in the beverage industry, correction of water levels, activation of pumps to remove waste liquids or pump a finished product to a different storage tank, and other practical uses such as liquid moisture removal from a tank attached to a cooling system.
Water Level Sensors
A water level sensor gives you a reading on how much liquid is in your storage tank. Depending on your sensor, how this information is communicated can vary. Some sensors give a broader estimate such as half full while others will give you a precise reading on exactly how much liquid is contained in a tank or container. A simple level reading can tell you when a tank is almost empty and needs refilling or if it’s nearing maximum capacity and needs training through a pump or valve system. More precise level sensors are used in industries where you need to constantly monitor your liquid levels and respond accordingly. These more precise units are useful for industries that work in production or deal with a possible hazardous material.
Can You Use Both At Once?
An advantage of both float switches and level sensors is that you can (and should) make use of both at the same time. The reason is that both measure different things. A float switch is an emergency system designed to either activate preventive measures or alert you when there is an issue requiring your attention. By comparison, a level sensor is a tracking device designed to provide real-time information on how much liquid is in a tank. Both are needed elements in your business that increase both productivity and workplace safety.
Final Thoughts
A key aspect of any business is the careful management of supplies, stock, and resources. No matter if the liquids your company uses are a finished product or a part of the manufacturing process you want to have accurate information to track liquid volume, levels, and any changes that you should be made aware of. Having a float switch and water level sensor in place allows you to not only record accurate information but also be made aware of possible emergencies. As low liquid levels can lead to manufacturing issues and possible danger, having a system in place allows you to respond accordingly to issues before they become larger hazards.
