In the world of industrial level monitoring, accurate and dependable point level detection is critical for maintaining smooth plant operations. Whether you’re working with liquids or bulk solids, an appropriate level switch helps prevent overflows, dry running of pumps, material wastage, or equipment damage.
Three of the most trusted solutions in this field are the tuning fork level switch, rotary paddle level switch, and side mounted magnetic level switch. Each is designed to handle different materials and process conditions. This blog will help engineers understand where and how to apply each type for optimal results.

Tuning Fork Level Switch: Precision for Liquids and Slurries
The tuning fork level switch is a highly reliable instrument used for liquid level detection in tanks, pipelines, and sumps. It works by using a vibrating fork that changes its resonance frequency when immersed in a liquid or slurry.
Key Benefits:
• Suitable for foamy, viscous, or dirty liquids
• Fail-safe operation with minimal calibration required
• Ideal for overfill and low-level protection
• Can be installed horizontally or vertically
• Immune to turbulence, bubbles, or coating
Applications: Chemical storage tanks, oil sumps, water reservoirs, and process vessels
For engineers dealing with challenging fluids, the tuning fork level switch provides a non-sensitive, plug-and-play solution for dependable switching.

Rotary Paddle Level Switch: Rugged Performance for Solids
The rotary paddle level switch is designed for solid level measurement in bins, hoppers, and silos. It consists of a rotating paddle that stops when bulk material comes into contact with it, triggering a switch signal.
Key Benefits:
• Works with powders, granules, pellets, and grains
• Adjustable sensitivity for different bulk densities
• Easy to install and maintain
• Low power consumption and durable mechanical design
Applications: Cement plants, grain silos, plastic pellet tanks, food and pharmaceutical powders
For engineers monitoring dry bulk solids, the rotary paddle level switch offers cost-effective and highly dependable performance even in dusty environments.

Side Mounted Magnetic Level Switch: Simple and Effective for Liquid Tanks
The side mounted magnetic level switch is a float-based device used in closed or pressurized tanks for liquid level detection. It operates on magnetic coupling between a float and switch mechanism without any direct electrical contact with the liquid.
Key Benefits:
• No power required for operation
• Suitable for high-temperature and high-pressure applications
• Resistant to corrosive liquids
• Minimal moving parts, leading to long service life
Applications: Boilers, pressure vessels, diesel tanks, chemical reactors
Its compact design and rugged build make the side mounted magnetic level switch a favorite among engineers looking for a simple, reliable solution for liquid storage systems.

How to Choose the Right Level Switch for Your Application
When selecting a level switch for tanks, silos, or pipelines, consider the following:
• Type of material: Liquid or solid? Clean or viscous?
• Process conditions: Temperature, pressure, corrosiveness, or presence of foam/dust
• Mounting position: Side, top, or bottom of the vessel
• Power and wiring availability
For example, if you need non-contact level detection for corrosive liquids, a tuning fork level switch may be best. For grains or cement, opt for a rotary paddle level switch. For high-pressure tank systems, the side mounted magnetic level switch is your go-to.

ARCUS INDUSTRIES – Reliable Level Switch Solutions
At ARCUS INDUSTRIES, we offer a complete range of industrial level switches designed to withstand demanding environments and deliver reliable performance. Our portfolio includes:
• Tuning Fork Level Switches for liquid applications
• Rotary Paddle Level Switches for solids and powders
• Side Mounted Magnetic Level Switches for tank-level monitoring
All ARCUS switches are built for durability, easy installation, and precise point-level control.

Conclusion
In any industrial setup, choosing the right point level switch is crucial for safety, efficiency, and process reliability. Understanding the strengths of each switch type—tuning fork, rotary paddle, or side mounted magnetic—empowers engineers to make smart, application-specific decisions.
Explore ARCUS INDUSTRIES’ reliable level switch solutions and take control of your level measurement challenges with confidence.