Side Mounted Level Switches

Locus Side Mounted Level Switches are compact and rugged field instruments used for point level detection in tanks, vessels, and pipelines.

Brand :- LOCUS
Model :- LS-SM-Series
Mounting Type :- Side Mounted
Material :- SS304 / SS316 / PP / PVC
Float Material :- SS316 / Polypropylene
Process Connection :- Flanged / Screwed (BSP/NPT)
Switch Type :- SPST / SPDT (Magnetic Reed)
Output :- NO / NC (custom configurable)
Max. Temperature :- Up to 120°C (SS), 80°C (PP)
Max. Pressure :- Up to 10 kg/cm²
Ingress Protection :- IP65 / IP67
Cable Entry :- PG9 / PG11 / M20 x 1.5
Application Media :- Water, Oil, Chemicals, Solvents, Acids

Description

1. Description

Locus Side Mounted Level Switches are compact and rugged field instruments used for point level detection in tanks, vessels, and pipelines. These switches are available in stainless steel and corrosion-resistant plastic materials for compatibility with a wide range of liquids. Using magnetic float technology, they ensure reliable operation without external power and are ideal for industrial applications.

2. Specifications

Parameter	Value
Material of Construction	SS304, SS316, PP, PVC
Mounting	Horizontal (side)
Switching Logic	Normally Open (NO) / Normally Closed (NC)
Output Type	SPST / SPDT
Electrical Rating	230V AC / 1A, 24V DC / 0.5A
Float Specific Gravity	≥ 0.6
Working Temp. Range	-10°C to 120°C (SS), up to 80°C (PP)
Pressure Range	Up to 10 bar
Enclosure Rating	IP65 / IP67
Contact Type	Magnetic Reed

3. Working

When the liquid level in the tank rises or falls, the float moves accordingly. A magnet sealed inside the float activates a reed switch housed within the stem without direct contact. The switch then opens or closes an electrical circuit to signal high/low level alarms or to start/stop pumps.

4. Principle

The switch operates on the magnetic reed principle, where a float containing a magnet moves with the liquid level. The magnetic field actuates the reed switch in a hermetically sealed enclosure, ensuring contactless and reliable operation.

5. Assembly

Select mounting flange/thread as per tank design.
Fit float over the stem in the correct direction (magnet side upward).
Fix the switch on the tank with a gasket.
Ensure wiring terminal box is sealed for ingress protection.
Tighten electrical connections with proper cable glands.

6. Installation Process

Choose appropriate mounting height based on alarm level.
Cut off supply and depressurize the tank.
Mount the switch horizontally using flange/screw thread.
Connect the output wires to the control panel (check polarity).
Check float movement manually before powering.
Power the system and test signal output.

7. Technical Specification

Technical Parameter	Details
Sensor Type	Magnetic Reed Switch
Process Temperature	-10°C to 120°C (SS) / -10°C to 80°C (PP)
Pressure Range	Up to 10 kg/cm²
Output Signal	ON/OFF (SPST/SPDT)
Electrical Connection	Cable Gland or Terminal Box
Body Finish	Electropolished (SS), UV Resistant (PP)
Float Movement	Lateral
Protection Class	IP65 / IP67
Power Requirement	None (passive switch)

8. Troubleshooting (for Transparent Tubular Level Gauge – related reference)

Issue	Possible Cause	Solution
No level indication	Air lock or blockage	Vent the gauge or clean the tube
Leakage at connections	Loose or damaged gasket	Replace gaskets or tighten connections
Float not moving	Float jammed or fouled	Inspect and clean float and chamber
Signal not triggering	Faulty reed switch or wiring	Check continuity, replace switch if needed
Inaccurate level	Wrong mounting orientation	Reinstall switch properly (horizontal mount)

9. HS Codes

Product	HS Code (India)	Description
Side Mounted Level Switch	90328990	Automatic Regulating Instruments (Other)

10. FAQs

Q1: Can the switch be used with corrosive chemicals?
A: Yes, use PP or PVC material versions for corrosion resistance.

Q2: Is external power required for switch operation?
A: No, the magnetic reed switch works passively.

Q3: Can I use it for pressurized tanks?
A: Yes, up to 10 kg/cm². Use SS version for high-pressure applications.

Q4: How to change from NO to NC?
A: Physically rotate the switch or float assembly 180 degrees.

Q5: What is the minimum liquid specific gravity?
A: Minimum SG of 0.6 is required for float operation.

11. Applications

- Chemical Processing Plants
- Water Treatment Units
- Oil & Lubricant Storage Tanks
- Food & Beverage Industry
- Cooling Towers and Utility Skids
- Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Plants
- Acidic/Chemical Sumps
- Marine and Shipping Tanks
- Automatic Pump Control Systems