Fluid switches and other sensors are necessary across a wide variety of industries and applications, from medical devices to craft brewing. With that in mind, it comes as no surprise that maritime and marine industries, where water is literally the name of the game, have a particular reliance on liquid sensors. Nowhere is this truer than on modern shipboard systems.
Whether itâs a small fishing boat, a large luxury cruiser, or anything in between, accurate sensing devices are absolutely crucial. Bilge pumps, fuel tanks, drinking water storage, cooling systems, and more are all dependent on the accurate level and temperature sensors for proper functioning.
If youâre building or refurbishing any of these shipboard systems or are in the market for sensors for any other marine application, take a look at SMD Fluid Controls
Fluid Level Sensors for Bilge Pumps
Bilges are large tanks placed at the lowest portion of a shipâs hull in order to 
collect and ultimately eliminate water which accumulates at the bottom of the vessel. When the water in the bilge reaches a certain level, a bilge pump discharges the liquid back into the sea with an electrical motor. Proper liquid level sensors are needed in any bilge system to engage the pump when water reaches a critical level, and disengage when enough water has been expelled. If too much water accumulates without the pump activating, the ship faces a higher risk of capsize; if the pump continues when it’s not needed, the motor could be damaged or even strain the entire shipâs electrical system. Submersible level sensors and more traditional float switch with splash guards to reduce the interference of turbulence are a good choice for bilge pump switches.
Fluid Level Sensors for Fresh Water Systems
âWater, water, everywhere, nor any drop to drink.â While it makes for good poetry, modern mariners prefer to have plenty of drinking water on hand in customized onboard storage tanks. Few things are more necessary on a sea voyage than ample drinking water, so keeping a close eye on levels is vitally important. Ultrasonic and other non-contact level sensors are good options for on-board freshwater systems.
Level Sensors for Marine Fuel Tanks
As with any other gas-powered vehicle, whether car, truck, or plane, accurate fuel measurement is important to the safe function of modern ships. Detection of leaks and even contamination from bilge or other external seawater could mean the difference between time spent stranded on the open water and time spent safely on dry land. Multi-level sensors are useful for indicating fuel levels in marine tanks, as are capacitance systems (also resistant to turbulence). Pressure and temperature sensors may also be used to ensure proper fuel injection rates, avoid harmful condensation, and achieve overall engine functionality.