Side mounted float level switch

U-IDEAL level gauge > Level switch > Side mounted float level switch

Side mounted float level switch is consist of float subassembly, stroke switch and housing.
A pair of plate shaping magnets are separately mounted on the top of the float and the stroke switch. When the floating ball moves up and down with the changing of the liquid level, the magnet at the top of the float also swings up and down. The magnetic force drives the magnet of the stroke switch subassembly through non-magnetic shell. So that the output contacts are connected or disconnected accordingly, and the signal device emits light or sound signals, commonly used in liquid level control systems.
When the float rises and falls with the liquid level, the output contact will be connected or disconnected only when the liquid level is between the two magnetic plates.
And in the lifting process, there is no any signal generated.
The controller float is made of 304 stainless steel. We also can do Aluminum material or other stainless steel material according to users‘ needs.

Application of Side‑Mounted Float Level Switch

The side‑mounted float level switch is installed on the side wall of tanks and vessels. It uses buoyancy of float to trigger internal magnetic switch, providing on‑off signals for high‑level alarm, low‑level alarm and pump interlock control.

It is widely used in chemical tanks, water storage tanks, oil tanks, sewage treatment pools, hydraulic fuel tanks and industrial equipment containers. Suitable for liquid medium such as water, oil and weak corrosive fluids.

This type of level switch fits scenarios where top space of the tank is limited. It can realize automatic start‑stop of feeding and discharging pumps, overflow protection and liquid shortage protection. It adapts to various working conditions and helps to realize safe and automatic liquid‑level monitoring for industrial systems.

Installation Steps of Side‑Mounted Float Level Switch

Confirm the installation position on the side wall of the tank. The mounting hole shall correspond to the required alarm or control liquid‑level height. Reserve enough space for float swing inside the tank.
Clean the installation hole and surrounding surface, remove burrs, dirt and welding slag to avoid scratching the sealing gasket.
Place the sealing gasket correctly, insert the switch body through the side mounting hole from outside to inside. Make sure the float assembly can move freely inside the tank without obstruction.
Tighten the threaded connection or flange bolts evenly. Do not over‑torque to prevent thread damage or gasket deformation and leakage.
Route the signal cable, keep the cable away from high‑temperature, sharp‑edged and vibrating parts. Tighten the cable gland for waterproof sealing.
Complete wiring strictly following the circuit diagram. Connect wires to control cabinet, alarm device or pump interlock system.
Carry out manual inspection: swing the float by hand to verify smooth movement, no jamming and no collision with tank wall or internal accessories.
Conduct on‑site simulation test. Fill or drain liquid to check whether the switch outputs correct on‑off signal at the set liquid level.
Re‑check sealing condition and all fasteners, then put the switch into formal operation.

Side‑Mounted Float Level Switch: Common Faults and Solutions

No signal output at target liquid level

Check whether the float is stuck by tank welding slag, sediment or internal pipe fittings. Clean obstructions and confirm the float swings freely. Inspect wiring for loose terminals or broken cables; re‑connect damaged wires. Verify internal magnetic component failure, replace the switch if necessary.
Signal triggers randomly or false alarm

Liquid turbulence causes float mis‑action. Add baffles inside the tank to reduce liquid impact. Check for float deformation or magnetic‑force attenuation; replace faulty float. Tighten loose wiring terminals.
Liquid leakage from mounting joint

Sealing gasket aging, damaged or uneven bolt tightening. Replace the gasket, fasten flange / thread bolts evenly with appropriate torque, avoid over‑tightening.
Float cannot reset after liquid level drops

Float is jammed by foreign matter. Clear deposits. Check float for collision deformation; repair or replace float assembly.
Short‑circuit of electrical part

Damaged cable sheath or failed cable gland sealing leading to moisture ingress. Replace damaged cable, re‑tighten waterproof gland.