Jerguson® SAS-16™ Snap-Action Switch (Clark-Reliance)

The Jerguson® SAS-16™ point level switch provides reliable alarm and control functions for magnetic liquid level gauges. Its tri-magnet design creates a crisp snap action as the magnetic float passes the selected activation point.

The switch mounts directly to the outside of a Jerguson Magnicator® chamber. Therefore, it never contacts the process liquid. External mounting reduces maintenance requirements and simplifies setpoint adjustments.

The SAS-16 point level switch contains no cams or springs. Instead, magnetic repulsion changes the SPDT contact state. This design delivers repeatable operation in applications with vibration, elevated temperatures, or demanding process conditions.

Operators can position one or more switches along the chamber. Each switch can provide low, low-low, high, or high-high level alarms. Standard contacts support higher electrical loads. Meanwhile, optional gold-plated contacts suit lower-powered switching circuits.

Westech Industrial supplies Jerguson level measurement products across Canada. Our specialists can help confirm chamber size, contact type, area classification, temperature code, and alarm location. Westech also provides product support, system upgrades, and application assistance.

Additionally, Westech’s Custom Fabrication team can integrate level switches into control panels and engineered measurement systems. This approach provides a coordinated solution for level indication, alarms, control, and related instrumentation.

PRODUCT FEATURES

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Description

Tri-Magnet Snap-Action Switching

The SAS-16 point level switch uses Jerguson’s exclusive tri-magnet switching technology. As the chamber float moves, its magnetic field acts on the switch mechanism.

Magnetic repulsion then rotates the secondary magnet and changes the electrical contacts. This movement creates a positive snap action instead of a gradual contact change. As a result, the switch provides precise and repeatable point-level actuation.

The magnetic design contains no cams or springs. Therefore, fewer mechanical components can wear, loosen, or respond poorly to vibration. This construction supports dependable operation over long service periods.

External Mounting Prevents Process Contact

Operators clamp the SAS-16 directly onto the outside of a Magnicator chamber. The switch does not require a process connection or chamber penetration.

Consequently, the switch never contacts the liquid, vapour, pressure, or internal process conditions. This separation supports safer installation and reduces process-related maintenance.

External mounting also simplifies replacement. Technicians can service or reposition the magnetic level switch without opening the process vessel or chamber.

Fully Adjustable Alarm Setpoints

Technicians position the switch at the required activation level and secure it with the supplied clamps. They can then move the switch when operating requirements change.

The switch can provide low, low-low, high, or high-high level alarms. Several switches can also operate along one magnetic level gauge. This arrangement creates multiple alarm or control points from one level instrument.

However, switch placement must remain within the float’s travel and active magnetic field. Applications with multiple switches at the same elevation may require a specific-gravity review.

Vibration-Resistant Level Control

The snap-action magnetic mechanism provides repeatable switching in applications that experience equipment vibration. Its spring-free and cam-free design helps maintain consistent actuation.

The standard contacts can control pumps, valves, alarms, and other equipment. Standard contact ratings reach 10 A, subject to the applicable voltage and power limits.

Because the switch uses SPDT contacts, it provides both normally open and normally closed functions. The contact state changes whenever the float crosses the activation point.

High-Temperature Application Capability

The SAS-16 point level switch supports general applications with process temperatures up to 350°F or 176°C.

Hazardous-area process temperature limits depend on the assigned temperature code. Temperature limits range from −50°C to 80°C for T6 through −50°C to 400°C for T1. Therefore, users must match the switch configuration to the process temperature and hazardous-area requirements.

Ambient temperature limits also vary by certification. Confirm the process temperature, ambient conditions, area classification, and temperature code before installation.

Hazardous-Area Configurations

Jerguson offers Class I, Division 1 and Zone-approved SAS-16 configurations. Available approvals include FM, FMc, ATEX, and IECEx.

FM configurations cover Class I, Division 1, Groups A, B, C, and D. Canadian FMc configurations cover Groups B, C, and D.

ATEX and IECEx models carry Ex db IIC hazardous-area classifications. Therefore, users can select a configuration that matches many industrial installation requirements.

Enclosure and Contact Options

The standard SAS-16 uses an anodized aluminum enclosure. Jerguson also offers a 316 stainless steel version for applications requiring greater corrosion resistance.

Standard contacts support higher switching loads. Alternatively, gold-plated contacts support lower-power electrical circuits.

An optional junction box and terminal strip simplify field wiring. Buyers can also order flying-lead configurations when the installation uses an approved external sealing fitting.

Minimal Internal Maintenance

The SAS-16 requires no internal maintenance or adjustment. Technicians should not routinely open or dismantle its enclosure.

When troubleshooting, users should first check the float travel, switch position, orientation, wiring, and clamp tightness. These checks can often identify the issue without removing the switch.

After installation, technicians should move the float through the activation point. They should then confirm the correct contact state before placing the system into service.

Applications

The Jerguson® SAS-16™ point level switch supports alarm and control functions on magnetic liquid level gauges. Its external mounting and snap-action design suit demanding process environments where reliable point-level switching is required.

  • High and low liquid-level alarms
  • Low-low and high-high safety alarms
  • Pump start and stop control
  • Valve control
  • Steam drum level monitoring
  • High-temperature process columns
  • Refinery level monitoring
  • Chemical and petrochemical processing
  • Power generation facilities
  • Hazardous-area level switching
  • High-vibration process equipment
  • Jerguson Magnicator® magnetic level gauge integration
  • Multi-point alarm and control systems

Documents

Jerguson_SAS-16™ Snap-Action Switch (Clark-Reliance)_Brochure_July2025_Westech.pdf

Jerguson_SAS-16™ Snap-Action Switch (Clark-Reliance)_IOM_July2026_Westech.pdf

 

Manufacturer Info

Clark-Reliance® Corporation is a global leader in the level indication and control, sightflow indication, filtration and separation industries. The company’s well-known brands constitute the broadest line of level instrumentation for boilers and other equipment found in utilities, refineries, chemical processing and other industries. Website: https://www.clarkreliance.com/

SPECS

Product type
Snap-action magnetic point level switch
Compatible equipment
Magnetic liquid level gauges, including the Jerguson Magnicator®
Switching technology
Tri-magnet design using magnetic repulsion to trigger snap-action switching
Mounting
External clamp mounting directly onto the Magnicator chamber
Process contact
None
Positioning
Adjustable along the chamber within the float travel and active magnetic field
Switch type
SPDT
Contact state with float below activation level
“A” leads normally open (N/O); “B” leads normally closed (N/C)
Standard contact rating
Maximum 300 VAC, 10 A, 2,000 VA; maximum 240 VDC, 10 A, 50 W
Gold-plated contact rating
Maximum 240 VAC, 0.25 A, 6 VA; maximum 240 VDC, 0.25 A, 3.6 W
Conduit connections
1/2-inch FNPT or 3/4-inch FNPT
Process temperature by temperature code
T6: −50°C to 80°C; T5: −50°C to 95°C; T4: −50°C to 130°C; T3: −50°C to 195°C; T2: −50°C to 295°C; T1: −50°C to 400°C
Enclosure material
Anodized aluminum or 316 stainless steel
Chamber size options
1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, and 5-inch NPS
Contact/Switch options
Standard or gold-plated
Junction box
Available with or without a junction box
Alarm configurations
Low, low-low, high, or high-high alarm points
FM approval
Class I, Division 1, Groups A, B, C, and D; T6; ambient range −50°C to +60°C; Type 4X
FMc approval
Class I, Division 1, Groups B, C, and D; T6; ambient range −40°C to +60°C; Type 4X
ATEX approval
Ex II 2 G Ex db IIC T6…T1 Gb; ambient range −20°C to +40°C
IECEx approval
Ex db IIC T6…T1 Gb; ambient range −20°C to +40°C
Internal maintenance
No internal maintenance or adjustments required; Recommended that the switch enclosure not be opened or dismantled

PRODUCT FAQ's

How does the Jerguson SAS-16 point level switch work?
The Magnicator float moves with the process liquid level. Its magnetic field acts on the SAS-16 tri-magnet mechanism. Magnetic repulsion then rotates the secondary magnet and changes the SPDT contacts. The switch changes state again when the float returns through the activation level.
Does the SAS-16 contact the process liquid?
No. The switch clamps onto the outside of the Magnicator chamber. Therefore, it has no direct contact with the process liquid. This external design also avoids process penetrations and simplifies switch replacement or repositioning.
What process temperatures can the SAS-16 handle?
The SAS-16 supports process temperatures starting at −50°C. The maximum temperature depends on the applicable temperature code. The available ranges extend from −50°C to 80°C for T6 through −50°C to 400°C for T1. Ambient limits vary by certification and configuration.
What type of electrical contact does the SAS-16 use?
The SAS-16 uses an SPDT Form C changeover contact. It provides normally open, normally closed, and common connections for alarm or control wiring.
Can the SAS-16 control pumps or valves?
Yes. Standard contacts support loads up to 10 A within the specified voltage and power limits. The switch can control pumps, valves, alarms, or other equipment. However, users must verify the final electrical load before connecting the device.
Can one Magnicator use several SAS-16 switches?
Yes. Operators can position several switches along one chamber. This configuration can provide low, low-low, high, and high-high alarm points. Each switch must remain within the float travel and active magnetic field. Consult Westech when placing multiple switches at the same elevation.
What enclosure materials are available?
The standard switch uses an anodized aluminum enclosure. Jerguson also offers a 316 stainless steel option. The stainless steel enclosure can support applications that require increased environmental or corrosion resistance.
Does the SAS-16 require routine maintenance?
The switch requires no internal maintenance or adjustment. Users should avoid opening or dismantling the enclosure during routine service. When troubleshooting, check float travel, switch orientation, magnetic-field position, wiring, and clamp tightness.
Can technicians adjust the alarm point in the field?
Yes. The SAS-16 mounts externally with hose clamps and can be positioned at the desired activation level. The selected position must remain within the float travel and active magnetic field. Technicians must also install the switch upright with “TOP” facing upward.
What hazardous-area approvals are available?
Available configurations include FM, FMc, ATEX, and IECEx approvals. The ordering code identifies either Class I, Division 1 or Zone-approved versions. Users should confirm the required classification and temperature code before ordering.
How can Westech support an SAS-16 application?
Westech can help select the chamber size, enclosure material, contact type, certification, and alarm locations. Our product support team can also assist with troubleshooting, upgrades, and replacement planning. Westech’s Custom Fabrication team can integrate the SAS-16 into control panels and engineered measurement systems. This support helps coordinate level indication, alarms, controls, and related instrumentation within one solution.