Flow Switches Made in the U.S.A. · Serving Industry Worldwide
Switch Options
Pivoted
Connection
A pivot at the base of the switch allows the stem and paddle to swing freely — protecting the switch from violent flows, supporting heavy paddles, and enabling bi-directional actuation. Mandatory for stem extensions over 24″.
How the Pivoted Connection Works
On a standard PEECO flow switch, the stem is rigidly fixed to the switch body. Flow deflects the paddle, bending the stem against the return spring to actuate the micro-switch. This works well for most applications — but in violent flows or with long, heavy stems, the bending forces become destructive.
The Pivoted Connection replaces the rigid stem attachment with a pivot point at the base of the switch body. The stem and paddle hang on the pivot and swing as a unit — like a pendulum. Flow pushes the paddle, rotating the entire stem-paddle assembly around the pivot to actuate the switch. The pivot bears the weight of the assembly and absorbs lateral force, so neither the bellows nor the switch body experiences bending stress.
Because the paddle swings in either direction from the pivot, the same unit can actuate on forward flow or reverse flow — a capability the fixed-stem and hinged-connection designs do not offer.
Key Features
Violent Flow Protection
The pivot at the base of the switch allows the stem and paddle to swing freely, absorbing the energy of violent, high-velocity flow without transmitting destructive force to the switch body or bellows.
Heavy Paddle Support
When oversized paddles are required for large-diameter lines or low-flow detection, the pivot bears the weight of the paddle assembly rather than placing bending stress on the stem — extending service life significantly.
Bi-Directional Capability
Unlike the hinged connection, the pivoted design can be configured for both forward and reverse flow applications. The paddle swings in either direction, making it suitable for lines with flow reversal.
Mandatory for Long Stem Extensions
Required on all PEECO flow switches with stem extensions exceeding 24″. At that length, the cantilever load on a fixed stem becomes excessive — the pivot eliminates the bending moment entirely.
When to Specify the Pivoted Connection
Large-Diameter Pipelines
Lines 6″ and larger where paddle size and weight would overstress a standard fixed-stem mounting. The pivot carries the paddle weight and allows free deflection at low velocities.
High-Velocity Liquid Service
Pump discharge lines, cooling water headers, and fire protection mains where flow velocities regularly exceed 10 FPS and would damage a standard paddle-stem assembly over time.
Stem Extensions Over 24″
Deep insertion applications — large tanks, vessels, or pipes with thick insulation — where the stem must reach far into the flow stream. The pivot is mandatory at this length.
Bi-Directional Flow Lines
Processes where flow direction reverses — batch systems, recirculation loops, or lines with backflow conditions. The pivoted paddle actuates correctly in both directions.
Slurry & Viscous Media
Heavy or particle-laden fluids that exert high drag on the paddle. The pivot allows the paddle to deflect under lower force than a fixed stem, improving sensitivity in thick media.
Vibration-Prone Installations
Pipelines near compressors, reciprocating pumps, or mechanical equipment where structural vibration would fatigue a rigid stem. The pivot decouples the paddle from the vibration path.
Pivoted vs. Hinged Connection
Both options address high-velocity and violent flow conditions, but they work differently and suit different applications. Use this table to select the right option for your line.
| Attribute | Pivoted Connection | Hinged Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Pivot point | Base of switch body | Top of stem (hinge pin) |
| Paddle travel | Arc from base — full stem sweep | 90° swing at stem tip |
| Flow direction | Forward and reverse | Forward only |
| Minimum line size | No restriction (not for small tees) | 6″ minimum |
| Stem extension | Required over 24″ | Not applicable |
| Heavy paddle support | Yes — pivot bears the load | Limited |
| Tee-style compatibility | Not compatible with small tees | Compatible |
Constraints & Ordering Notes
Series Availability
Standard industrial. Slip-on NEMA 4X cover.
View seriesExplosion-proof. Class I, Div. 1, Group D.
View seriesHigh-pressure rated. Class I, Div. 1, Group D.
View seriesThe Pivoted Connection is available on all three series in all mounting styles except small tee configurations. Specify at time of quotation — this is a factory-installed option.