- If the timer enable float is up, wait for the control panel to activate on its own time settings. Ensure the pump run time is as per design parameters. If the timer enable float is down, the pump will need to be activated manually by switching the HOA switch in the control panel to HAND.
How does a septic float switch work?
A float switch detects the level of a liquid in a tank or container. It floats on top of the liquid surface and acts as a mechanical switch as the liquid level goes up or down. They control devices like pumps (pump water in or out), valves (open or close inlet/outlets), or alarms to notify users.
How do you reset a sewer pump?
Follow these 5 simple steps to reset your sump pump:
- Disconnect the power.
- Take the sump pump out of the basin.
- Clean out the sump pump.
- Return the sump pump to the basin and restart the power.
- Reset the sump pump.
Why is the red light on my septic tank on?
The red light indicates the alarm is receiving a signal from the pump tank that the water level is rising higher or is dropping lower than it should be. Let the septic system run a couple of pump cycles (should last about 10-15 hours) and the red light on the alarm box may go out on its own.
How do you tell if a septic pump is working?
To test if the pump is working, first turn the pump on by turning the second from the bottom float upside down. While holding that float upside down, turn the next float up (that would be the second from the top), upside down. You should hear the pump turn on.
Where is the float switch on a septic system?
For switches and alarms that can be installed into new septic tanks, a side-mounted float switch might be a better option. These switches are run through the side of the tank, rising and falling with water levels to an open or closes position.
What does it mean if your septic tank alarm goes off?
It means you have a dangerously high water level or the level is too low. Your septic tank system alarm should have a timer on it. This timer dictates when the pump starts to flow wastewater through your drain field. However, if the system is damaged, then the timer won’t be able to work properly.
Why would a septic tank alarm go off?
Septic tanks typically come with alarms for a good reason. The septic alarms are meant to go off when the water level in your septic system’s pump tank is either too high or too low because either condition can cause damage to the system and should be prevented.
What does alarm on septic tank mean?
A septic tank alarm system is a device designed to monitor the water elevation inside the tank, and it alerts you when the water level in the tank is much higher or lower than it should be. This raises the water level inside the pump tank until the controls cycle back and come on again.
Do septic pumps have a reset button?
Not every sump pump has a reset button. If your pump does not have a reset button try unplugging it from the wall to cycle the motor.
Why is my septic pump not working?
First check your circuit breaker, and then try to use a multimeter or similar device to check wires in the septic system for damage to see what needs to be replaced. A fuse is blown or circuit breaker is tripped. Replace fuses as needed. Note the size recommended by the pump manufacturer and pump nameplate rating.
Automation 101: The Dangers Of Hand/Off/Auto
Our clients and their operations team have the benefit of Hand/Off/Auto functionality for all components on our systems when we automate. This is a standard feature when we automate. For those who are unfamiliar with automation, it allows an operator or maintenance person to disconnect a piece of equipment, such as a pump or blower, from the supervision and control automated controller (MCC, PLC, etc.) and run it manually while the equipment is still in place. It also provides users with the option of turning the component off completely.
It gives operators the ability to execute critical jobs when they have the option to shut down a stage in the process or just eliminate it from the automated process altogether.
It places individuals on the ground in a position of responsibility and autonomy within the framework of your preplanned procedure.
Hand/Off/Auto is not an exception in this regard.
- We never just sit around and work on a pump.
- Industrial open heart surgery is something we do on a piece of equipment with every action we take on it.
- A pump, for example, is responsible for transporting something from one location to another.
- Those two phrases should be enough to make you shudder, especially in light of the current topic.
- It forces the chlorinated water via an ORP sensor, and the ORP sensor triggers a bypass valve and a matching isolation valve, allowing the chlorinated water to be discharged to the drainage system.
- The tank will also be equipped with a butterfly valve, which will allow the pump to be removed for maintenance.
- It is the first of these that is sadly the most prevalent and costly: assuming that the operator is thoroughly trained, accountable, and incapable of making a mistake.
Okay, now that we have a modest stage set up, let’s have a look at the play.
You could remove the tank’s contents.
We have removed the component from the control circuit, but it has not been removed from the actual physical process.
Perhaps we should entirely empty it.
You might have a high chlorine level in your water and blast that salty water directly into your RO filters, which is potentially fatal for individuals who do not operate with RO.
It is possible to dry out your ORP sensor and hence lose it.
Despite the fact that none of these issues are insignificant, they can all occur quite quickly if we do not include safeguards to secure our systems.
We may put our trust in the operators.
So there is a second alternative, although it is a little more difficult to execute than the first.
We do not really delete the component from the process; rather, we simply disable it.
As an alternative, we let a manual start within the limitations of the system’s permissible operating circumstances.
In the same way as previously, the operator or craftsman can manually activate the component.
And, as a result of such input, we will be able to prohibit anyone from commencing an activity that may cause damage or injury to the component or to the system in question.
Moreover, at this time, you will want a special set of alerts that will be dedicated to the maintenance cycle.
Operators with more experience will have difficulties with this, however this will be discussed further down the page.
It will advise the operator at a glance if the system is in a safe mode for operating the component — a green light indicates that there is no alert and that the component is safe to run.
The operator may then readily identify what actions should be taken based on the alert situation that has been triggered.
It is necessary to plan ahead of time for the specific warning circumstance.
The sensors and alerts must then be displayed to the operator on the HMI display panel.
For the most part, bumping a motor for a split second will not result in any of the issues listed above.
The data on the screen will allow an operator who is familiar with his system to assess whether or not an alert may be disregarded for a specific occurrence, such as bumping a motor, by simply looking at it.
However, it will be a conscious decision on their part to do so.
Allowing a component to operate completely autonomously, isolatedly, and manually while it is incorporated into a system is referred to as “fail.” It is possible that the operator is unaware of a variety of faults that might cause a catastrophic event.
As a result, you will have greater control over your components and system, while also having the ability to record data on maintenance activities and incidents.
As a result, you may delegate this task to the pre-existing, fully automated, and monitored system, with your operator simply having to make intelligent judgments about the status and operation of the alarms.
You will not require any additional hardware or inputs on your PLC.
The minimal amount of upfront programming that is required will be more than compensated for in operational time and complexity alone.
The functionality of the Hand/Off/Auto switches becomes simple and quick. Aside from the fact that a major component did not die prematurely and catastrophically at the worst possible time, there is another advantage.
Alarms, Controls and Monitor Systems
In the course of automating, we invariably provide our customers and their operations team with the benefit of Hand-Off/Auto capability for all of the components on our systems. According to individuals unfamiliar with automation, it allows an operator or maintenance worker to disconnect a piece of equipment, such as a pump or blower, from the supervision and control automated controller (MCC, PLC, etc.) and operate it manually while it is still in place and in operation. It also provides users with the opportunity to completely switch off the component.
- It gives operators the ability to do critical jobs when they have the ability to shut down a stage in the process, or simply eliminate it from the automated process.
- It places individuals on the ground in a position of responsibility and autonomy within the framework of your preplanned procedure.
- It is not an exception to use the hand/off/auto buttons.
- Working on a pump is never a stand-alone task.
- Every action that we take on a piece of equipment is a sort of industrial open heart surgery in its own right.
- As an example, a pump is responsible for transporting something from one location to another.
- After reading the rest of this article, even those two phrases should make you shudder.
It forces the chlorinated water via an ORP sensor, and the ORP sensor triggers a bypass valve and a matching isolation valve, allowing the chlorinated water to be discharged to the sewer system.
In addition, a butterfly valve will be installed in the tank to allow the pump to be withdrawn for maintenance.
It is the first of these assumptions that is sadly the most often and most costly: believing the operator is thoroughly trained, accountable, and incapable of making a mistake.
After we’ve set up our modest stage, let’s have a look at the performance.
Draining the tank is an option.
We have removed the component from the control circuit, but we have not removed it from the actual physical process.
Consider draining the tank to a bare minimum.
You might have a high chlorine level in your water and blow that salty water directly into your RO filters, which can be fatal to individuals who do not operate with RO.
The possibility exists that you will dry out your ORP sensor and hence lose it.
None of these issues is insignificant, but they are all extremely likely to occur if we do not put safeguards in place to secure our systems and information.
We can rely on the operators to do their duties correctly.
So there is a second alternative, although it is a little more difficult to execute than the previous one.
All we’ve done is taken away the ability of the controller to begin operation on the component.
In order for a system start-up, or even an attempted start-up to not energize the component, we are still isolating it.
With the exception of the fact that we will be monitoring the existing sensors, there will be no other differences.
These issues will not arise in the future.
It is critical for the operator to be able to determine if a dangerous situation is preventing the pump from energizing or whether the problem is with the pump, variable frequency drive (VFD), motor, starter, or other component.
The most straightforward method of alleviating problems is to install a green light/red light indication at the component location.
A red light would illuminate if an alert had been triggered, such as a low level switch, for instance.
However, a more specific alert state must be displayed on the HMI at the panel.
The software must first identify all of the situations that make the component’s functioning undesirable, and then it must determine which sensors will provide the controller with the necessary information.
For example, what happens if you wish to bump a pump, motor, or other piece of equipment to confirm that it is correctly connected and operating in the proper direction?
It is at this point that the detailed screen is used.
Then, with a push of a button, he or she will be able to overrule it.
In reality, the only option we have is to choose between fail-safe or fail-and-hope for the best outcome.
Create operating restrictions and alerts on components when in the “Hand” position of the Hand/Off/Auto function, and your system will have fail-safe functionality.
Now, you don’t have to force your operators to memorize every detail of everything that may go wrong and then rush about adjusting valves and flipping switches in the hopes of getting everything to work properly.
Adding sensors is not necessary.
Take what you currently have and put it to use in a different capacity than you were previously utilizing for your system’s operation; that is all you are doing.
This simplifies and speeds up the Hand/Off/Auto functionality. If you can avoid a significant component dying suddenly and catastrophically at the most inopportune moment, it is an additional bonus.
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Alarms
Due to the multiple alarm switch connections on the Bear Onsite ML2-920 effluent filter, installers have the option of using either the Alderon Industries or the SJE-Rhombus vertical reed switch to inform homeowners when filters reach around 90 percent capacity and require service. Because the connections are located on the filtered side of the first screen of the unit, they are protected from big, buoyant materials such as toilet paper, vegetable matter, and other substances that may attach to switches and cause a false alert.
After that, there are 125 linear feet of 1/20 inch horizontal slots on the final screen of the cartridge.
Filter alarm
The Polylok 3014AB Filter Alarm (Smart Alarm) is a wired indoor/outdoor alarm that delivers an auditory and visual alert to home or business owners when their septic tank filter needs to be cleaned. The Smart Alarm Switch is activated when the filter cartridge is nearly full (about 90 percent full) of solids that have accumulated throughout the filtering process and the filter cartridge is nearing capacity. An alarm panel receives a signal from the switch, which activates an audible and visual alarm, informing the house or business owner that the filter requires maintenance.
The switch is intended to accommodate Polylok, Zabel, and Best filters, ensuring that the switch is properly positioned on the filter.
Exterior alarm with pump control
Pump controls are positioned on the right side of the Septronics external alarm with pump control, with all other alarm controls on the left side of the alarm on a board that has been independently connected. Pump control is equipped with a hand-off-automatic switch for convenience. Turn off the electricity to the pump completely, operate the pump manually by flipping the toggle switch, or set the pump to run on automatic by connecting it to the float switch in the water tank. Incorporate a receptacle for plugging in the pump, or hard wire it directly into the circuit board.
888/565-8908;.
Indoor/outdoor high water alarm
In addition to the 6-foot 120 VAC power cord, the Observer 500 indoor/outdoor high-water alarm from SPI – Septic Products Inc. features a NEMA 4X polycarbonate enclosure that can be used indoors or outdoors, a 360-degree red alarm light, alarm horn, alarm test and horn silence toggle switches, and a 360-degree red alarm light.
Installation is simplified by the use of external cable grips. In addition to the 15-foot cord that comes standard, different chord lengths — as well as mercury floats – are now available for purchase. 419/282-5933;.
Level Controls
The Intelligent Pump Control (IPC) Panel from Aquaworx by Infiltrator is simple to install and makes use of pressure transducer technology to monitor and improve the performance of many sorts of system events. It is available in a variety of configurations. The pump chamber has an integrated computer and a floatless pressure transducer that continuously monitor liquid levels, control pumping time intervals, and log events in near real time. Installers and service providers can utilize the Mountable and Removable Controller (MARC) user interface to remove the unit and use it on different IPC Panels while also protecting the panels from tampering and damage.
System flow quantities may be calculated on a daily basis using the system’s ability to record up to 4,000 events and determine system flow quantities.
Timed- or demand-dose control panel
Clarus Environmental’s No-Float timed- or demand-dose control panels are equipped with a “no float” sensor that monitors the liquid level in the tank and transmits a signal back to the panel, where the level is digitally displayed in inches within the front cover. When used in conjunction with floats, the sensor can replace up to four floats and has an operational range of up to 40 inches. Pump activation and alert levels may be readily modified on the control panel by adjusting the knobs. Mechanical float switches can be installed to give secondary protection in the event of redundant off and high water alert circumstances.
Unlike the duplex panel, which is exclusively suitable for demand-dose applications, the simplex panel may be simply configured in the field for use as either a timed-dose or a demand-dose panel.
800/928-7867;.
Duplex control system
Using Liberty Pumps’ PDC Series panels, the functioning of two ProVore home grinder pumps is monitored and controlled. A primary pump control float as well as an alarm float are included in the system. Power on, pump run status, alert status, and horn enable/disable status are all shown via LED indicators. Both pumps are independently secured by a manual reset fuse, which allows a malfunctioning pump to be isolated from the other. Indoor NEMA 1 enclosures are included, as well as factory wired floats with fast disconnects at the box, audio and visible alarms, and a 9-volt battery backup for backup power in the event of a power outage.
800/543-2550;.
Pump system control panel
The 4-in-1 Controller from Orenco Systems allows for the creation of a variety of electrical topologies and dosing regimens from a single control board. Timed and demand dosing are offered in both Simplex (MVP-S2DM) and Duplex (MVP-DAX2DM) versions, which may be set in the field for timed or demand dosing. However, while the control circuit runs on 120-volt power, the pump circuit is dual-rated, meaning that installers and service providers may decrease their panel inventory for new installations and repairs by using either 120-volt or 240-volt power.
It also has a float position indicator as well as a float error indication.
Each panel contains a reference chart to aid in troubleshooting during installation and testing, as well as wiring schematics to aid in the installation and testing process. Everything about it is extremely non-slip. 877/488-3594;.
Pump control module
The See Water Dial-a-Time control is intended for use with pumps with full-load amp ratings of up to 16 amps, according to the manufacturer. Due to the lack of moving elements that might become entangled, the compact solid-state technology ensures that water is properly evacuated. Suitable for sump pump basins and other confined-space application requiring continuous liquid-level control, this is an excellent choice. It has an infinite pumping range and may be programmed to pump for periods ranging from seconds to hours.
888/733-9283;.
Simplex and duplex pump control
Using classic, user-friendly components, SJE-Rhombus’ Relay Logic Series control panels are used for simplex and duplex pump control in water and sewage applications. The simplex panel regulates the operation of a single 120-, 208-, or 240-volt single-phase pump in pump chambers, sump pump basins, irrigation systems, and lift stations, among other applications. With a NEMA 4X-rated indoor/outdoor enclosure with stainless steel lockable hasps and an inner door for enhanced safety, it also has a HOA switch for manual pump control, an external test, normal, and quiet switch, and a green pump run indication light.
The audible/visual alarm is activated if an alert situation is detected, which is detected by an alarm switch.
Panels are UL/cUL listed; call 888/342-5753 for further information.
Monitoring Devices
A new all-in-one panel from RH2O North America allows customers to adjust settings and log data from the comfort of their own homes or offices, allowing them to identify potential problems before they occur. It includes an LCD screen for quick on-site configuration, and it may be configured to operate several systems in a single panel, either simplex or duplex. It has the capability of handling one to eight pumps, blowers, or aerators, as well as floats, pressure transducers, and flowmeters, among other things.
If a pump fails, a high-level alarm is triggered, or the power is turned off, an email will be sent to the service provider promptly informing them of the issue.
Aerator timer
However, the P101FA-2 Timer from Septic Services is not just built for shaft-design aerators, but it can also be utilized for any application that requires a minibreaker (4 to 7 amp) to shut off the system. When the aerator motor becomes choked with debris, the 24-hour timer prevents overloading of the motor and damages it. It may be adjusted in 15-minute increments to suit local requirements for aerator operation usage, and it can be used both indoors and outdoors, depending on the weather. The long-lasting plastic structure is resistant to wear as well as high temperatures.
The device is equipped with wiping contacts and zinc-plated screw terminals to ensure that it can survive corrosion and hostile situations.
The timer’s voltage and current ratings are 120 volts and 20 amps. On the front of the device are a three-position toggle switch (on/auto, off, continuous), a warning light, and a reset button. 800/536-5564;.
Does Your Septic System Require A New Pump?
A septic tank’s waste and sewage are evacuated from it and discharged into a drain field, either by gravity or with the assistance of a septic system lift pump. In most cases, a septic pump is not required if the waste can flow at a rate of at least two feet per second through the system using gravity alone. Pumps are typically required for septic tanks that are located lower than the drain field and for which gravity is unable to transport and/or force the effluent out of the tank due to its location.
Know If Your System Uses A Septic Effluent Pump Or Septic Grinder Pump
Knowing what sort of pump your septic system is equipped with is critical to the overall operation of the system. A septic effluent pump is a device that transfers waste from a septic tank to a drain field. A septic grinder pump is responsible for the grinding and movement of human waste and toilet paper. Septic tank businesses in Gainesville, FL such as Jones PlumbingSeptic Tank Service can help if you’re not sure what sort of pump the system is using or where it’s located in the system. Our professionals will identify the pump and check the septic system in order to notify you of the procedures that need to be taken in order to keep all components in proper operating order.
How Septic Pumps Work
A septic pump is a sort of submersible pump that is installed in either the last chamber of the septic tank or in a separate chamber outside the main tank of the system. As waste builds up in the chamber, it activates a float switch, which then activates the septic pump. After that, waste is forced up the outflow pipe and into the drain field by an impeller. Installing a septic tank pump alarm is an excellent strategy to avoid having to clean out your septic tank on a regular basis. One of our professionals will connect the float switch to an alarm panel, which will sound if the pump fails for any reason during the installation.
This alarm will ring and notify you if there is a sewage backup in your home.
Maintenance For A Septic Pump
The upkeep of a septic pump goes hand in hand with the upkeep of a septic system in its whole. Never drain or flush any of the following common home objects to avoid the need for emergency septic service and to ensure the pump’s long-term functionality:
- A septic pump’s maintenance should be carried out at the same time as the system’s overall upkeep. Never drain or flush any of the following common home objects to avoid the need for emergency septic service and to extend the life of the pump.
- Dental floss
- Personal hygiene products
- And Q-tips or other cotton swabs are all recommended.
In addition, avoid using the garbage disposal because this can cause the septic tank to fill up more rapidly and force water into the tank, among other things. If there is an excessive amount of water entering the septic system, it can cause sediments to enter the septic pump, resulting in a probable blockage in either the pump or the drain field. If or when this occurs, contact Jones PlumbingSeptic Tank Service for prompt and dependable septic tank repairs.
Common Septic Pump Issues
Even with proper maintenance, a septic pump can develop a variety of problems over time, including the following:
Noise Or No Noise
There are occasions when it is possible to hear the septic pump operating within the chamber itself.
Do not hesitate to contact us for septic service if it appears that the pump is having difficulty or is failing to transport waste effectively.
Leaking Into The Septic Tank
The septic pump is equipped with a check valve, which provides a pressure gradient in order to keep the waste flowing through the pump and into the drainage system. Whenever the valve wears down or breaks, waste is forced back into the septic tank, causing the tank to overflow and back up into the pipes.
Faulty Float
Floats can become stuck open or closed, or they might become damaged as a result of material entering the septic tank. Depending on the extent of the damage, a professional from Jones PlumbingSeptic Tank Service may be able to remove the debris or may need to replace the float entirely.
Burnt Out Motor
If the motor within the septic pump burns out or fails, the pump will be unable to transfer waste, even if the energy is still being supplied to the device, since the waste would be trapped. In most cases, replacing the pump will address the problem.
Installing A New Septic Pump Or System
Jones PlumbingSeptic Tank Service will replace your septic tank if it is essential, and they will also install a new pump. Everything begins with an application, which is needed by the Florida Department of Health. We will always assist you in filling out the application and applying for any permissions that may be required. Our professionals will be pleased to walk you through the procedure and answer any questions you may have along the way.
Septic Tank Service
Jones PlumbingSeptic Tank Service can solve any septic issue, regardless of whether your sewage system currently has a pump or if you’re interested whether installing a pump will increase the system’s overall efficiency. When performing septic tank repairs in Gainesville, our specialists take into consideration the demands of the family or company. Call Jones PlumbingSeptic Tank Service immediately to make an appointment for septic service!
Float Switch Installation Wiring & Control Diagrams
What is the proper way to install and wire my float switch? What is the best place to look for a float switch circuit diagram? Where can I obtain a wiring schematic for a float switch? You inquired, and today we provide an answer. Wiring a float switch is not difficult, but it might be a bit complicated if you don’t have a visual aid or two to guide you through the process. Keep in mind that the wiring you’re doing is a way of turning things on and off in the future. When you are visualizing the wiring and applying the schematic to real-world control, it will be helpful to think about when you want something turned off and when you want it turned on carefully.
Single and double switch layouts, as well as how to wire them, will be discussed, and then we’ll look into analogous circuits utilizing the Kari series of float switches.
They obviously do not apply in all situations, particularly when huge motors are involved, and additional control equipment is required to handle them. However, with a few principles under your belt, you’ll be wiring like a pro in no time.
Single Float Switch Wiring
First, let’s look at the most fundamental float switch: a two-wire, single-pole, single-throw float switch with only one terminal. When the float rises, it can either close (turn on) a “Normally Open” circuit or open (turn off) a “Normally Closed” circuit, depending on the circuit type being used. The installation of a pump to empty a tank (Control Schematic 2) or the installation of a pump to fill a tank (Control Schematic 3) might result in a normally open float switch turning on or off the pump (Control Schematic 2).
- In both diagrams, terminal 1 in the control circuitry represents the landing point for the (+) wire of the float switch, and terminal 2 represents the landing point for the (-) wire of the float switch.
- A two-wire float switch that may be used to turn on or off a pump with relative simplicity.
- It’s a pretty easy solution, but it’s also an issue since level changes will cause the float to flutter, which will force the pump motor to switch on and off in rapid succession, causing the pump to overheat.
- So, what can we do to ensure that the pump motor is protected?
Wiring For Two Float Switches
Hysteresis can be achieved by including a second switch. Hyste-what? We’ll get there, believe me. Hold on a minute. In order to enable for the switching on and off of a level switch without cycling the pump motor simultaneously, we must devise a method of doing so. A time delay could be included, but that would not aid in monitoring and responding to the conditions in the tank; it would merely act as a bypass for the switch. When we add a second switch that is identical to the first and wire an in-line relay around one of them, we will get the control that we are seeking for, as shown in Figure 1.
Control Schematic 3
Let’s begin by taking a look at Control Schematic 3, which contains two normally closed toggle switches. This circuit may be used to regulate the operation of a pump that fills a tank with water. The first switch (L) is set to the amount of liquid that is wanted in the tank at all times. The second switch (H) is set to the highest level that may be achieved. As soon as the liquid level falls below both switches, they are both closed, and the pump starts to fill the tank. It opens as soon as the liquid reaches the level of the first switch.
- When the high-level switch is activated, the motor relay P is activated, which stops the motor, and the seal-in relay A is activated.
- Assume that a valve downstream of the tank is opened, enabling liquid to flow out of the tank into the surrounding environment.
- However, because both the low-level switch L and the seal-in relay A are open, the pump motor is unable to operate.
- At that moment, both the low-level and high-level switches will be closed, completing the circuit and enabling motor relay P to activate, allowing the pump to begin operating immediately.
- Consequently, when the low-level switch L opens during the filling process of the tank, the seal-in relay maintains the circuit closed and the pump continues to pump.
- When the liquid level goes below the low-level switch, the pump will begin to run continuously until both switches are open at the same time.
- Additionally, once the high-level switch is activated, the pump will not operate until both switches have been deactivated.
- Great!
- Let’s get this thing wired up.
- Using terminals 1 and 2, connect the low-level switch wires, then to terminals 3 and 4, and then to terminals 5 and 6 to connect the contacts for the seal-in relay A contacts.
- Wiring the seal-in relay and connections will be dependent on the control equipment you are using.
The wiring isn’t too bad: two float switches, one extra relay, and four to six wires are required. But what if I told you that you could do the same thing with only two wires? There are just two new wires, not two additional wires.
2-Wire Pump Control With The Kari Float Switch
Yes, you are correct. With a KARI series 2L float switch, you can get the same hysteresis control with only one switch and two wires, rather than two switches and four or six wires with a traditional float switch. “Can you tell me what this Magic is?” you inquire. Simple: each float switch in the KARI series contains several microswitches as well as control circuitry that is integrated into the float. The singleKARI series float tilts to one side when the volume of liquid in the tank rises with the level of the float.
So, what do you need to do in order to wire this up?
There are no seal-in relays, no more switches, and nothing else.
Bonus: 3-Wire Pump Control With The Kari Float Switch
Seeing as how it was so simple, let’s see what we can do with the three-wire KARI series float switch: add an alarm signal! KARI series 3H float switches eliminate the need for four wires for simple, two-level hysteresis and instead use three wires to provide two-level hysteresis as well as an alert. Take a look at the Control Schematic 4 for further information. The wiring connections for the switches that provide hysteresis are located at the bottom of the diagram (wires 12). The next person in line is for a really high-level alarm (i.e., a higher level than the high-level hysteresis switch).
All that is needed is to install the switch in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions for the levels you wish.
Motor Starting And Motor Control
We’ve spent a considerable amount of time discussing how float switches may be used to turn pumps on and off, so it’s worth devoting a few minutes to discussing motor starting and motor control in more detail. It is likely that the relay-driven contactors illustrated in the preceding schematics will be adequate to start tiny motors, such as direct current (DC) motors and motors up to one horsepower (HP). Starting and stopping these motors (or the loads they are driving) using a contactor functioning as an on-off switch will do no damage to them (or the loads they are driving).
When operating at full load, such motors require integrated controllers as well as overload protection in order to start safely and remain protected.
In all honesty, the vast majority of the pumps and motors that you would normally operate with a float switch are likely to be large enough to necessitate the use of these integrated controllers.
Understanding the fundamentals of float switch control wiring, on the other hand, will enable you to operate with greater confidence, regardless of how powerful or sophisticated the system is.
Float switch installation and troubleshooting will become much easier as a result of this improvement. In addition, if you ever want assistance, we are always here to assist you as needed. photo credit: PEO ACWAviaflickrcccropped at the top
Model TD
A basic control panel may be customized to meet your individual requirements using the Model TD Build-A-PanelTM control panel. This control panel offers additional ordering flexibility by allowing you to purchase through choices. A single 120/208/240V single phase pump in an on-site septic system that requires scheduled dosing may be controlled using the Model TD control panel, which is dependable. A programmable timer controls the operation of a magnetic motor contactor, which turns on and off the pump.
An alarm float triggers the audio/visual alarm system when the liquid level rises to a certain level.
Features
- Enclosure with NEMA 4X rating for indoor/outdoor use
- The red alarm beacon allows for a 360-degree visual inspection of the alarm state. The alarm horn sounds an audible warning when an alert situation exists. When in an alarm situation, the outside alarm test/normal/silence switch allows the horn and light to be tested and the horn to be hushed
- Once the alert condition has been resolved, the alarm will automatically reset. Relay for horn quiet
- Pumps are controlled by a magnetic motor contactor, which switches electrical lines. A hand/off/auto (HOA) switch is used to control the manual pump. Fuses for control and alarm
- Float switch terminal block
- Float switch terminal block Power terminal block on the incoming power line
- The timer has a separate variable control (which allows you to set on/off periods from.05 seconds to 30 hours)
- It is programmable. Pump disconnect and branch circuit protection are provided by the circuit breaker. Keep a spare fuse on hand. A schematic of the float, pump, and power connections is shown on the backplate label. lug in the ground
Options:
- Please refer to the backside of the catalog page for a comprehensive description of the available choices.
UL/cUL Listed
- 10 x 8 x 4 inches (25.40 x 20.32 x 10.116 cm)
- NEMA 4X (ultraviolet stabilized thermoplastic with removable mounting feet for indoor/outdoor use)
- 10 x 8 x 4 inches (25.40 x 10.116 cm)
ALARM HORN:
Josh Z. Niemi, a Senior Engineer at SCADAware, has published a blog article for us. The simple HOA (Hand-Off-Auto) switch is one of the most fundamental, yet sometimes misunderstood, components of a control system, and it is often overlooked. There are several installations in which multiple control switches are required in different regions of the plant in order to regulate a single field equipment, and this is unquestionably true. The result will be confusion: if one switch is in the “Hand” position and the other switch is in the “Auto” position, it will be difficult to determine how the device will be operated.
Is that correct?
As we’ll see, possibly the source of the ambiguity is in the usage of the word “HOA” in the first place.
There are several possible locations, including “Hand” (where it is operated directly at the starter), “Local” (where it is operated by Start/Stop contacts near the motor), “Remote” (where it is operated by a PLC or other device that is remote from the process itself), and “Off” (no location allowed).
- It might be regulated in one of many modes, such as “Auto” (where it is controlled based on a set of process conditions), “Manual” (where it is controlled by fixed operator input), or “Off” (device is still energized but control is presently disabled).
- When Distributed Control Systems (DCS) were first introduced, this may not have been a significant issue.
- However, in bigger and more sophisticated systems, when there are various locations and methods of operating a device, the word HOA is sometimes insufficient to describe the situation.
- In the case of a control switch that is utilized to transition between operating a device directly and controlling it through a distant PLC or SCADA system, a “LOR” switch (Local-Off-Remote) or a “HOR” switch (Hand-Off-Remote) would likely be the best choice for the job.
- Whatever is determined, the most essential thing to avoid is having several switches with redundant labeling (for example, many “HOR” switches) or combining Location and Mode terms on the same switch (for example, a “Manual-Off-Remote” or “Local-Off-Auto” switch).
- Consider the following illustration: Controlling the functioning of a motor is accomplished by use of two control switches: the first is placed in the Motor Control Center (MCC), and the second is positioned on a control station directly adjacent to the motor.
- Or is it in “Auto” mode at the MCC but “Off” mode at the motor?
The ability of plant staff to accurately recall and understand the numerous switch combinations is maybe even more critical.
Because both switches are labeled with the same function, it is unclear how the motor is going to be started.
This switch would be referred to as the Location of Control in most cases since it determines where the motor would be controlled at the motor control center.
out at the motor control station).
In “Hand,” the motor would operate continuously, but in “Auto,” the motor would be controlled by a PLC or other controller to start and stop the motor.
In “Hand,” the valve may be jogged open or closed immediately at the switch by pressing the button.
After switching the valve control switch to “Auto,” plant personnel have two options for controlling it: they can use their SCADA interface to manually set a fixed valve open percentage in an internal register of the PLC, or they can allow the PLC to modulate the valve position based on the plant process, as shown in Figure 1.
Instead, a thorough grasp of Control Switch Location will result in a more effective design of the control switch.
The Remote designation would alert plant personnel that the valve is being operated by a remote device – in this example, a PLC – and that they should take appropriate action.
Conclusion Regardless of the specifics of your installation, understanding the distinction between Location of Control and Mode of Control can help to reduce the amount of confusion that emerges when either several control switches are required or a SCADA interface adds another layer of control scenarios.
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