RCM Flo-Gard II Adjustable Liquid Flow Switch

RCM Flo-Gard II Adjustable Liquid Flow Switch

The RCM Flo-Gard II liquid flow switch is designed to detect high or low liquid-flow conditions in industrial piping systems. Its robust in-line metal construction is suitable for safety interlocks, equipment protection, alarm circuits and automatic process control.

One or two independently adjustable SPDT reed switches detect the position of a magnet permanently connected to the internal bellows mechanism. When the liquid flow reaches the selected switching point, the reed switch changes contact state to operate an alarm, relay, pump-control circuit or compatible controller input.

Key Features

• Direct mechanical detection of liquid-flow conditions.
• One or two independently adjustable SPDT reed switches.
• Available with brass or 316 stainless-steel wetted construction.
• Suitable for clear or opaque compatible liquids.
• Liquid flow ranges from approximately 4 GPH to 3,000 GPM across the complete range.
• Pipe sizes from ½ to 8 inches.
• Threaded and larger in-line connection arrangements according to model.
• Field-adjustable high-flow or low-flow switching point.
• NEMA 4X and IP66 enclosure protection for applicable models.
• Optional LED indication for convenient switching-point adjustment.
• Intrinsically safe hazardous-location versions available.
• Low-flow Option ES available for selected configurations below 2 GPM.

Flo-Gard II General Specifications

Maximum pressure, temperature, switching range and material compatibility depend on the selected model, body size, seals and options. Confirm the complete operating conditions before ordering.

How the Flo-Gard II Works

Liquid flowing through the body produces a force on the internal sensing mechanism. Movement of the bellows changes the position of a permanent magnet. The magnet operates an externally isolated reed switch when the flow reaches the selected set point.

Because the electrical switch is magnetically actuated, the switching components remain isolated from the process liquid. This arrangement provides reliable flow detection without requiring the reed switch itself to contact the measured liquid.

One-Switch and Two-Switch Configurations

The switching direction and contact selection should be chosen so the controlled equipment moves to a safe condition if flow is lost, power is interrupted or wiring is damaged.

General-Purpose and Hazardous-Location Options

Standard Flo-Gard II models are intended for general industrial locations. Intrinsically safe versions are available for selected hazardous-location applications when used with the appropriate approved electrical circuit and associated apparatus.

Electrical Contact Specifications

Do not exceed any individual voltage, current or power limit. Inductive loads such as contactors, solenoid valves and relays may require a suitable suppression device or an interposing relay to protect the reed-switch contacts.

Hazardous-Location Electrical Parameters

Always verify these parameters against the certificate supplied with the ordered unit. Product approvals and allowable ambient conditions can vary according to model revision and configuration.

Typical Applications

• Chiller and cooling-water flow protection
• Heat-exchanger flow monitoring
• Pump dry-running protection
• Lubrication-system flow confirmation
• Seal-water monitoring
• Machine cooling circuits
• Process-water flow alarms
• Filtration and water-treatment systems
• Booster-pump and circulation systems
• Equipment permissive and shutdown interlocks
• High-flow or low-flow alarm circuits
• Hazardous-area liquid-flow monitoring with the appropriate approved option

Flow-Switch Selection

Select the Flo-Gard II according to the actual switching requirement rather than pipe size alone. The chosen full-scale flow range should allow the required alarm or control point to fall within the adjustable portion of the scale.

Provide the following information when requesting a quotation:

• Liquid name and concentration
• Minimum, normal and maximum flow rate
• Required switching set point or set points
• Pipe size and connection type
• Operating and maximum pressure
• Operating and maximum temperature
• Preferred brass or 316 stainless-steel construction
• Seal-material requirements
• One-switch or two-switch configuration
• Required contact action and electrical load
• General-purpose or hazardous-area installation
• Requirement for local LED indication

Material and Seal Compatibility

Check the chemical compatibility of the liquid with the body, bellows, seals and all other wetted components. Brass construction is suitable for many water and general-service applications, while 316 stainless steel may be preferred for corrosive liquids or processes requiring stainless-steel wetted parts.

Optional sealing materials may include Viton, EPR or PTFE according to configuration. Selection must consider the liquid composition, concentration, temperature and cleaning chemicals.

RCM Flo-Gard II Supplier and Technical Support

Seacom Process Instruments supplies and supports the RCM Flo-Gard II liquid flow switch. Our team can assist with flow-range selection, process connections, body and seal materials, switch configuration, hazardous-area options and electrical requirements.

Contact Seacom with the liquid, pipe size, operating flow, required set point, pressure, temperature, material requirements and area classification so we can recommend a suitable Flo-Gard II configuration.