FLOWS Blog KAL Thermal Flow Switch; A Robot's Best Friend

By Michelle Farrell The KAL-K thermal flow switch and KAL-A thermal flow sensor from KOBOLD utilizes their revolutionary, temperature compensating electronics. These units provide dependable readings that aren't affected by temperature or the physical characteristics of a variety of process liquids. In addition, the compact, one-piece nature provides easier installation. Ease of calibration is another benefit of these products. The microprocessor can be easily calibrated in the field in a simple five minute process that uses the specific liquid properties and operating ranges for your application. This flexibility along with no moving parts to cause issues from particulate in your media make the KAL a premium performer in nearly all variety of applications. The KAL is also offered in several fitting options which include NPT or a 3-A compliant Tri-clamp fitting. The flow trend indicator provides an 8 segment bar-graph LED to signal changes in flow. Additionally, there is one flow alarm setpoint that is fully configurable as NPN, PNP, normally open or normally-closed. The KAL-A incorporates a flow rate proportional output (4-20mA) and an optional PNP setpoint alarm relay. The most common type of application that these switches are used for is for pump seal protection. Unfortunately, paddle switches often don't work where a thermal switch will. Paddle switches get stuck if it is a dirty liquid running through the system. Also, if there is a quick increase in flow rates beyond what the switch can handle it will bend the paddle and not work effectively. It's KAL to the rescue! The thermal flow switch has no moving parts that can cause problems. The thermal flow switch takes the temperature of the water flow it's been inserted into and then heats up a little RTD in the tip of the meter. It will heat to a temperature beyond the media temperature that it's located in and then measure the rate of cooling. If there is no media passing the switch, the rate of cooling will be very slow and will indicate that there is no flow and an alarm can be triggered to a central location. Car companies often use it for the welding robots that you've seen diligently building our cars on the assembly lines. The welding tips have to be cooled or they will burn up. Recirculated water is used for that process. The thermal flow switch will tell the operator when there's no flow (usually do to a clog somewhere in the system) and they can then shut down the system. This saves money in less loss of expensive welding equipment as well as saving the pump that might also burn out due to it not having flow to push it. So, next time you appreciate the solid sound of your car doors closing, give a little love up for the KAL Thermal Flow Switch!http://www.flows.com/kal-flow-thermal-switch-sensor/