Versatile magnetically-actuated normally-off flow switch in a one-piece brass body. Switches on in response to flow. Ideal for clean-liquid applications including pressure boosting and the control of pumps or fans via a relay, contactor or PLC — in fresh water, sea water and diesel fuel.
C15 Series
Inline Flow Switches
Features
- One-piece brass body
- All-position mounting
- Diesel-suited model available
- Dry reed switch contacts
- Detects very low flows: switches on at 0.15 L/min (vertical, non-magnetic retainer)
- Low head-loss design
- Fully serviceable
- Weatherproof
The C15 Series consists of a sealed electrical switching module saddling a one-piece metal body. The self-contained electrical module is easily removed without disturbing pipework, and can be reversed or rotated independently of the body. Inside the metal body a free-fitting magnetically-suspended piston actuates the switch as soon as flow starts. The C15 is supplied with dry reed switch contacts for relay or PLC control. Tolerates static or dynamic pressures to 100 bar (1450 psi) with a 4:1 safety factor.
More Information
Select Model
Trade customers should contact sales@kelco.co.nz for account pricing.
Ordering — Available Models
| Model Number | Description |
|---|---|
| C15-B | Dry reed switch S.P.S.T. N.O. — 50 W/VA, 250 VAC / 200 VDC, 1.5 A max. Suitable for PLC, telemetry and logic circuits. |
| C15-B-D | Diesel-suited dry reed switch S.P.S.T. N.O. — 50 W/VA, 250 VAC / 200 VDC, 1.5 A max. Suitable for PLC, telemetry and logic circuits. |
Operating Limitations
| Switching point on rising flow (horizontal or vertical, magnetic retainer fitted) | 0.35 L/min (water at ambient) |
|---|---|
| Switching point on falling flow (horizontal or vertical, magnetic retainer fitted) | 0.30 L/min (water at ambient) |
| Switching point on rising flow (vertical, flow upward, non-magnetic retainer fitted) | 0.15 L/min (water at ambient) |
| Switching point on falling flow (vertical, flow upward, non-magnetic retainer fitted) | 0.10 L/min (water at ambient) |
| Maximum recommended flow rate through switch | 30 L/min |
| Maximum operating pressure (static or dynamic) | 100 bar / 1450 psi |
| Operating temperature range | Hot or cold liquids from −20 °C up to 90 °C; can be steam-sterilised at 100 °C for short periods |
| Ingress protection rating | IP56 |
Electrical Data
| Module type | Dry-contact reed switch (electrical module B) |
|---|---|
| Contact configuration | S.P.S.T. normally open |
| Switched power (maximum) | 50 W/VA |
| Switched voltage (maximum) | 250 VAC / 200 VDC |
| Switched current, resistive AC RMS (maximum) | 1.5 A |
| Inductive loads (power factor 0.4) | Not suitable |
| Typical application | PLC, telemetry and relay logic circuits |
| Temperature de-rating | The C15-B modules do not require de-rating at elevated temperatures |
Dimensions
Switching-Point Sensitivity
Switching point and sensitivity to flow depend on orientation, liquid velocity, viscosity and piston clearance. A non-magnetic piston retainer is supplied. With the switch mounted vertically and flow passing upward, the non-magnetic retainer halves the switch-on flow rate — i.e. makes the switch approximately twice as sensitive. Switching points are for water at ambient temperature; decreasing the fluid viscosity proportionally increases the switch-on flow rate.
Hazardous Areas
The C15-B and C15-B-D are simple apparatus under AS/NZS 60079.11 and may be used in a hazardous area only as part of an intrinsically safe circuit, connected through suitably certified associated apparatus. They are not Ex certified in their own right. The full conditions of use are given in the installation sheet.
Compatible Liquids
Suits many clean liquids, including fresh water, sea water and diesel fuel. Increasing fluid viscosity decreases the flow rate required to actuate the switch. The switch can only be used with liquids free from suspended solids and free from particulates attracted to magnets.
Elevated Temperatures
Suitable for hot or cold liquids up to 90 °C, and systems can be steam sterilised at 100 °C for short periods without damaging the switch. The C15-B reed-switch modules do not require de-rating at elevated temperatures.
Installation
Install in any location in vertical or horizontal pipes; in vertical pipes flow can be upward or downward with very little difference in flow sensitivity. Where possible, fit a union on the inlet and outlet for easy removal for cleaning and servicing. The male threaded end of the switch is the inlet. Make sure no thread tape or other foreign matter enters the switch, and always fit a Y-strainer in the inlet pipe directly before the switch where scale or other material may be present. The electrical module can be removed (undo the 4 self-tapping screws) so the body can be screwed into tight locations, for example the discharge port of a pump.
Check Valves
Many applications benefit from a non-return valve in the pipework directly before the switch. The flow switch is not designed to operate as a one-way valve, and rapid or high pressure flow reversal, such as water hammer, can damage its piston.
Electrical Safety
The C15 Series flow switch is a mains voltage device. All electrical work must be performed by a fully qualified and licensed electrician and conform to AS/NZS (or equivalent) standards and local wiring rules. After installing or servicing, always replace the lid, fully tighten the lid screw and ensure the cable gland is fully tightened. Without its lid the switch is not weather or insect proof and presents a potential shock hazard.
Serviceability
Fully field-serviceable. The electrical module is easily removed without disturbing pipework (undo the 4 self-tapping screws that secure the two halves of the module) and can be rotated or reversed independently of the body; reversing the module does not reverse the action of the switch. Refit with the 4 stainless self-tapping screws, and do not place grease, glue or packing material between the module and the body. Spare modules and seal kits available from Kelco Engineering or your distributor.
