Fluid level control is important for lots of reasons. Too much or too little fluid in a container can be detrimental and so it needs to be monitored and controlled, with alarm activating to alert people that something is wrong or that they need to do something.

An example of the need for control and alarms is in a sewer system where the sewer system and storm water collection system are separate. In the event of heavy rain showers, run-off can get in to and overwhelm the sewer system, causing the sewage to overflow into the streets. This is a potential health threat that can end up in fines for the company responsible. The sewage can also cause property damage which the company would have to pay out to rectify. An alarm that gives early warning can give the company enough time to take action.

Another commercial use of liquid level control and alarms is to signal an overflow in oil tanks. The purpose is to minimize the hazards of environmental pollution from the oil when the tanks are being filled. Other uses include the alarm device being placed in the bilge of a ship or the rakes of a barge to sound an alarm as an early response to sinking. This advanced warning can give vital time for everyone aboard to try and stop the vessel sinking or to make a hasty exit.

As well as commercial applications, people also require liquid level control and alarms for private use. People may want to monitor liquid levels in case someone tries to steal from them. As fuel prices rise, the likelihood of the theft of oil goes up. People can monitor fuel levels in their tanks at home in real time which allows them to be notified by alarm if the fuel level drops quickly, as when being stolen. It also allows them to manage fuel usage and costs and prevents them from running dry without realising.

Domestic users will actually probably own fluid level control and fluid level alarm devices without even being aware of it. In tansport for example, many vehicle brake systems incorporate brake fluid level sensors. The sensing system is often made up of a magnetic float and a magnetic sensor and when the level in the brake fluid reservoir drops to a predetermined level, the magnetic float ends up near to the magnetic sensor, making the sensor initiate a warning light on the dashboard of the car, letting the driver know that they need to get the brake fluid replenished.

Fluid level control and fluid level alarms are really useful, both commercially and in the home. Using these devices helps prevent problems and allows systems utilising fluids to work in a safer and more controlled way.

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If you need a fluid level switch or fluid level alarm, try Tav Engineering.