The Reka – a Compact Float switch that is ideal for small spaces as it has no moving parts. I’ve decided to start with the often-overlooked Mac3 Reka capacitive level sensor for the first edition of Jim’s Product Review.
The Reka can replace a traditional float switch in most clear water situations, with the benefit of not needing any extra space outside of its own footprint. I find this unit works particularly well when using either a small tank or a tank with filters and pipework in the tank itself. Using a Reka in these tanks means that I don’t need to worry about a conventional float switch getting caught up (I think we have all seen what happens next!).
Pump control is only the start for these Reka units. Rather than simply turning a pump on or off, we can use a Reka to control virtually anything that requires the presence or absence of water.
Early Flood Warning Alert
At this time of year when flooding begins to make headlines, it is worth considering Reka units and the potential role they can play in both flood alerts, and even flood defence. Combined with an Alarm box the Reka is a powerful and useful tool in flood zones.
The Reka can be installed at a low point, between a property and a potential ingress point for flood water. Once the water level has risen sufficiently to activate the Reka, the alarm will sound – potentially giving the occupant enough time to move valuables to higher ground, or even leave the property entirely. This would be a very simple version, but there is nothing to stop you from using the Reka, combined with a suitable high-flow pump, to actively protect important areas. Contact us for compatible Alarm and Pump Control Units.
Compact Float Switch for Off-grid Water Level Control or Alarm
At the other end of the spectrum, the 12/24V Reka Compact Float Switch can be used in vehicle or trailer-mounted installations. Two examples are:
- A submerged Reka unit is mounted at the lowest level of the tank, this can then be connected to an alert (light or alarm) in the cab. Once the level has dropped past the Reka, the alarm is triggered. Particularly useful in watering or dust suppression roles – preventing the operator from continuing operations without sufficient water being available.
- A Reka unit is mounted to the fill level of a tank or bowser – when the tank has been filled to this point an alarm can be triggered, or (depending on the site setup) the feeding valve can be closed. Saving the operator from having to stand on a ladder – or hang around the tank during filling.
Fluid Level Sensor
In fact, the Reka can be deployed with other liquids such as: Liquid Soap, Milk, Fruit Juices and Wines. Though it is worth remembering that the conductivity of these liquids differs, which is reflected in the size of the effective working sensing areas on the Reka unit. This can be easily accommodated for at the design stage.
The only area that this unit isn’t suitable for is sludge – or water with large amounts of suspended solids; this would require a dedicated float switch (e-Fly or Mac 5).
For more information
Contact Jim, our Mac3 Technical lead. Jim and Tom have over 25 years of experience in Water Control Systems.
