Flow Switches - Kobold Instruments

The versatile KOBOLD KSM Plastic Flowmeter delivers reliable flow measurement for aggressive chemicals and corrosive substances with its all-plastic construction featuring no metal components in the fluid path. Available with either durable Polysulfone (for highly corrosive applications) or Trogamid® measuring tubes (for moderately aggressive media), this variable area flowmeter provides ±4% full scale accuracy while withstanding pressures up to 145 PSI and temperatures to 140°F. The device's highly visible red PVDF float and large dual-scale display show both direct flow readings (GPM/SCFM) and percentage values, making monitoring simple across a wide measurement range from 0.06 to 264 GPM for liquids or 0.5 to 400 SCFM for gases. Optional bistable reed contact switches with IP65 protection can be easily added for automated flow control and alarm functionality, with convenient field-adjustable markers ensuring precise setpoint positioning. Featuring robust PVC connections (available in glue socket or NPT threaded options) and chemical-resistant EPDM seals, this shock-resistant instrument provides reliable service in water treatment, chemical processing, laboratory, and other demanding environments where metal flowmeters would quickly deteriorate.

The cutting-edge KOBOLD KAL-D Compact Thermal Flow Switch delivers reliable flow monitoring for water-based liquids through advanced calorimetric technology that requires no moving parts, ensuring exceptional performance even with particulate-laden fluids. Featuring microprocessor-based temperature compensation for precise measurement across varying conditions, this stainless steel instrument detects flow velocities from 0.15 to 6.6 ft/sec while providing field-adjustable setpoints via an intuitive LED bargraph display and potentiometer adjustment. The compact insertion-type design minimizes pressure loss while withstanding operating pressures up to 580 PSIG and temperatures from -4°F to 176°F, with clean-in-place capability up to 250°F for sanitary applications. Available with multiple connection options including NPT, BSP, and M12x1 threads, and configurable with either NPN or PNP transistor outputs in normally open or normally closed configurations, this versatile instrument adapts perfectly to diverse industrial requirements. Protected to NEMA 4/IP65 standards and constructed with premium 316L stainless steel wetted parts, the KAL-D offers exceptional durability alongside sophisticated electronic protection features including short-circuit safeguards for its 400mA switching capacity.

The KOBOLD KAL-K thermal flow switch delivers exceptional monitoring performance for water-based liquids through advanced microprocessor-controlled technology with intelligent temperature compensation. Unlike conventional flow switches, this compact device maintains consistent readings across temperature fluctuations, making it ideal for applications requiring reliable flow monitoring in changing conditions. The robust design features no moving parts, making it extremely durable and insensitive to contaminants while providing remarkably low pressure loss in your system. With capabilities to handle flow velocities from 0.02 to 6.6 ft/sec and withstand temperatures up to 250°F and pressures to 1450 PSIG, the KAL-K offers versatility across numerous industrial applications.

The KOBOLD KAL-L thermal air flow switch delivers intelligent flow monitoring for non-hazardous gases with rapid response times and sophisticated temperature compensation achieved through a dual RTD design—one sensor detecting flow while the other monitors ambient conditions to prevent false alarms from environmental temperature shifts. This insertion-style unit, featuring a bright 8-digit LED bargraph flow indicator and adjustable response time (1-60 seconds), enables precise monitoring across a vast range of pipe diameters without requiring specific calibration for each application size—simply knowing your system's flow velocity is sufficient for proper implementation. The compact polyamide housing with nickel-plated brass sensor provides reliable performance in temperatures from -10°F to 250°F with pressures up to 120 PSIG, while offering adjustable setpoints through an accessible potentiometer and visual status indication via a two-color LED. With no moving parts to wear out or cause pressure drop, this solid-state monitoring solution maintains ±10% switching accuracy and exceptional ±1% repeatability across flow velocities from 3.3 to 66 ft/sec (capable of monitoring from 344 SCFM in 4" ducts to over 34,000 SCFM in 40" systems). Available with convenient mounting options including 1/2" NPT threads or 2-bolt flange connections, and electrical interface choices of conduit hub or quick disconnect with cable, the KAL-L delivers maintenance-free operation with IP65 environmental protection that makes it ideal for HVAC systems, ventilation monitoring, and other critical air flow applications.

The KOBOLD NKP level switch offers an affordable yet highly reliable solution for side-mounted liquid level detection in challenging chemical environments, thanks to its polypropylene or PVDF construction that stands up to aggressive media. Engineered with remarkable simplicity and functionality, this compact device features a magnetic float mechanism that delivers consistent performance with minimal maintenance requirements, making it ideal for long-term deployment in industrial applications. The versatile design allows for easy switch function conversion from normally open to normally closed by simply rotating the unit 180°, providing installation flexibility without additional components or reconfiguration. With NEMA 6/IP68 protection and hermetically sealed reed switch technology, the NKP maintains operational integrity even in harsh environments and can withstand pressures up to 145 PSIG and temperatures up to 212°F (PVDF version). Particularly valuable for vessels with limited top or bottom access, this side-mounting level switch combines practical engineering with excellent chemical compatibility to deliver dependable level control across a wide range of industrial applications.

The KOBOLD PPS polysulfone paddle switch delivers cost-effective flow monitoring for pipes 1" and larger with exceptional reliability and virtually no maintenance requirements. Featuring a transparent housing that allows for visual confirmation of switch status via the visible red magnet bearer, this versatile device provides immediate operational feedback at a glance. With a temperature tolerance up to 225°F and negligible pressure drop during operation, the PPS performs efficiently in a wide range of industrial applications without compromising system performance. Installation is straightforward—simply insert into an appropriately sized tee fitting or NPT coupling with PTFE tape—while the trimmable paddle design allows for customization to match specific pipe diameters for optimal sensitivity and the lowest possible switching point. Available with normally open, normally closed, or SPDT reed switch configurations, this economical flow monitor combines durable construction with flexible application options while maintaining IP65/NEMA 4 protection for reliable service in demanding environments.

The KOBOLD PSR/PS paddle type flow switch delivers reliable liquid flow monitoring in a simple, economical package featuring an innovative bistable reed contact design with adjustable setpoints for precise control of process conditions. Using a clever mechanical design where flowing media deflects a paddle connected to a balance arm with pre-stressed leaf spring, the unit transmits movement to a permanent magnet that activates the hermetically sealed reed contact housed safely away from the process media. Available in robust brass construction (up to 1450 PSIG) or premium stainless steel versions (up to 3625 PSIG) with various NPT connection sizes from 1/4" to 1-1/2", these versatile units accommodate a wide range of pipe dimensions and flow requirements while maintaining ±15% switching tolerance. The PSR model is designed for direct installation in pipes from 1/4" to 1-1/2" NPT, while the PS version features extended paddles specifically engineered for larger diameter pipes from 2" to 8", with both versions offering cCSAus approved switching capabilities for critical safety applications. With straightforward field-adjustable switching points, easily configured normally open or normally closed operation, and IP65 environmental protection, these dependable units excel in cooling/lubricant circuits, pump dry-run protection, low water level detection, and pipe breakage monitoring without requiring external power.

The KOBOLD S-Series float type flow switch delivers reliable flow monitoring for water and air in a uniquely compact design that eliminates the typical open conical measuring tube in favor of an innovative cylindrical control tube with a conical groove along its axis. This economical yet robust solution provides flow-dependent operation with ±5% full scale accuracy while offering impressive pressure handling capabilities—up to 3600 PSIG for brass units and 5000 PSIG for stainless steel models—making it suitable for demanding industrial applications. Available with brass or 304 stainless steel housing and various float material options including polypropylene and PVDF for enhanced chemical compatibility, the S-Series accommodates water flow ranges from 0.075 GPM to 14 GPM (or air from 0.2 SCFM to 70 SCFM) with minimal pressure drop. The cCSAus approved reed contact system offers versatile switching configurations including normally open, SPDT, or dual contact options with ratings up to 240 VAC/0.42 A/100 W, all housed in a NEMA 4X/IP65 enclosure for environmental protection. Designed for vertical flow installation (bottom to top), this space-saving instrument integrates easily into process systems with standard NPT connections, providing continuous protection against equipment damage from excessive or insufficient flow conditions.

The innovative KOBOLD SMN Flow Switch delivers exceptional performance with its ability to detect extremely low liquid flow rates while maintaining minimal pressure drop during high-volume operation, making it ideal for critical process monitoring applications. Unlike conventional designs, this ingenious device utilizes a magnetic float suspended in a cylindrical tube that works against a compression spring, activating an adjustable reed contact when flow reaches the predetermined threshold. Available in brass construction rated to 3600 PSIG or stainless steel rated to an impressive 5000 PSIG, the SMN provides reliable switching between 0.4-13 GPM (on) and 0.25-1 GPM (off) while operating in temperatures up to 212°F. The NEMA 4X/IP65 rated housing with DIN 43650 connection ensures dependable performance in demanding industrial environments like cooling circuits, high-pressure cleaning systems, and contaminated media control applications. Featuring vertical or horizontal mounting flexibility and CSA-approved electrical options including standard N/O or optional SPDT contacts, this compact flow monitor combines precise low-flow detection with remarkable high-flow handling capability in a single, maintenance-friendly package.

The KOBOLD SV float type flowmeters and flow switches combine the proven variable area principle with innovative cylindrical control tube technology featuring a conical groove design that eliminates the need for traditional open measuring tubes while maintaining exceptional ±5% full scale accuracy. Housed in a lightweight, gold-anodized aluminum body with borosilicate glass metering tube, these versatile instruments provide clear visual flow indication with direct reading scales calibrated for either water (GPM) or air (SCFM) across an impressive range from 0.075 GPM to 40 GPM for liquids and 0.5 SCFM to 150 SCFM for gases. Available in three configurations—flowmeter only, flowmeter with single N/O contact, or flowmeter with dual N/O contacts—the SV series accommodates diverse monitoring requirements while offering flexible float material options including polypropylene, PVDF, nickel-plated brass, or stainless steel to match specific application chemistry and temperature demands. The robust construction features vertical NPT connections from 1/4" to 1-1/4" with nickel-plated brass or 304 stainless steel process connections, handling pressures up to 145 PSI and temperatures to 212°F (158°F with plastic floats) while maintaining cCSAus approved switching capabilities with ratings up to 240 VAC/100 W. With IP65 electrical protection and hermetically sealed reed contacts providing reliable switching with optional SPDT functionality, these compact instruments deliver maintenance-free operation ideal for process monitoring, alarm applications, and automated control systems requiring both visual indication and electrical output signals.

The KOBOLD TWR bi-metal temperature switch provides reliable thermal protection and control for liquid systems with its robust, position-independent design that installs directly into pipes or tanks via a standard 3/4" NPT connection. Featuring factory-calibrated setpoints available in twelve discrete temperature thresholds ranging from 86°F to 248°F (30°C to 118°C), this compact unit delivers consistent thermal switching with ±9-13°F accuracy and up to 36°F hysteresis—making it ideal for both simple alarm applications and paired thermostatic control of heating and cooling equipment. Available in either nickel-plated brass or 304 stainless steel construction, the TWR withstands demanding process conditions including temperatures up to 248°F and pressures to 928 PSIG, while maintaining IP65 environmental protection for reliable operation in industrial environments. The versatile electrical interface features a convenient DIN 43 650 plug connection with optional integrated visual status indication—either LED illumination for DC circuits (up to 30VDC/1A) or signal lamp for AC applications (up to 125VAC/1A)—providing at-a-glance operational feedback. With straightforward normally-open or normally-closed switching configurations handling up to 250VAC/30VDC at 4A (without signal lamp), this maintenance-free thermal switch delivers essential temperature monitoring and control without requiring complex wiring or programming.

The KOBOLD VKG viscosity compensated flowmeter and switch offers revolutionary performance for monitoring high and low viscosity liquids with its patented compensation system that maintains accurate measurement (±5% full scale) despite significant viscosity fluctuations up to 540 cSt without requiring recalibration. Featuring a spring-loaded float design housed in a vibrant anodized aluminum body with borosilicate glass window, this versatile instrument provides reliable flow measurement for oils, water, and compatible liquids across a comprehensive range from 0.03 GPM to 21 GPM with minimal pressure drop. Available in multiple configurations—including standard flowmeter, flowmeter with one or two switching contacts, or with an additional side-mounted pointer indicator for dark fluids—the VKG adapts to diverse monitoring requirements while maintaining its universal mounting capability in any orientation. The robust construction with nickel-plated brass or stainless steel wetted components handles temperatures up to 212°F and pressures to 175 PSI, while density compensation up to 30 lbs/ft³ ensures measurement stability across fluid property variations. Equipped with cCSAus approved reed contact switches with various configuration options (N/O or SPDT) and IP65 environmental protection, this innovative instrument eliminates the traditional compromise between accuracy and fluid property changes, making it an exceptionally versatile solution for nearly any industrial liquid flow monitoring application.