Measurement Expert Blog

A float switch is a type of contact liquid level sensor that uses a float to operate a switch. Float switches are commonly used to control other devices such as alarms and pumps when a liquid level rises or falls to a specific point. While there are some mechanical float switches (similar to the float in a toilet tank that turns off the incoming water when the tank is “full”), this article will focus on electrical float switches, floats that are used to open and close (i.e., turn off and on) electrical circuits.

There is a tendency to pit ultrasonic level sensors and radar level sensors against one another when in reality each sensor has advantages and disadvantages that give each sensor its own place. In this blog, we will look at the differences in how these two technologies work and will cover the applications each sensor is best suited for.

For an OEM, level measurement in easy places is, well, easy. In fact, in some places, it’s so easy a float switch can do it (well, several hundred float switches). But we’re not here to talk about those places today. We’re going to look at continuous level measurement with harsh chemicals. And in explosive atmospheres. And the availability to meet OEM and system-integrator needs. That’s right, we looking at the Intrinsically Safe, Chemically Resistant MPI-E Chemical Float Level Transmitter.