What does a sprinkler flow switch do?

What does a sprinkler flow switch do?

In fire protection, flow switches, or water flow detectors, are exactly that: devices that sense when water flows through a fire sprinkler system. Generally, water within the pipes leading to sprinkler heads remains stagnant. When a sprinkler opens, a supply of fluid moves through pipes and sprays into a room.

When would you use a flow switch?

Flow switches might be used to monitor the flow rate of a liquid, trigger an alarm if the flow is too high or too low or even protect a pump. The flow sensor will usually send an electrical signal to a PLC or other electronic controller.

What is the purpose of a water flow switch on a fire riser system?

A waterflow switch is the interface between the building’s fire suppression system and the building’s fire alarm system. It detects water flowing in the sprinkler system and causes the fire alarm system to sound the evacuation.

Where do you put a water flow switch?

Always install a flow sensor in a straight section of pipe where there is a minimum of 10 diameters upstream (ahead) and a minimum of 5 diameters downstream (behind) of the flow sensor.

How do you test a water flow switch?

How to Test a Flow Switch

1. Put cover on the flow switch and turn power on. Video of the Day.
2. Start flow through the designated system.
3. Observe flow in operation to determine if flow switch is working properly.
4. Repeat this process many times to ensure flow switch and designated system is in fact working accurately. Tip.

How flow switch is working?

A flow switch operates by conveying a trip motion (relay, reed switch, paddle) to another machine within the system, usually a pump. The trip signal will indicate to the pump to turn on or turn off. It is necessary to provide damage protection and circuit cooling or adjust flow rates that are too high or too low.

How do you test a sprinkler flow switch?

For the test to be valid, sufficient water must pass the flow switch to activate it (equal to one sprinkler head in operation). Prior to the test, the pressure on both sides of the flow switch will be equal, maintaining an equilibrium with no water flowing.

How do you test a flow switch?

How do I know if my flow switch is bad?

”No Flow” light coming on probably means the cell’s flow switch has gone bad. Verify that the pump is running first (water is actually flowing through the line). If “No Flow” stays on the flow switch needs replacing. ”Flow” LED turning from green to red means water flow through the system has been disrupted.

How do you troubleshoot a flow switch?

How to Troubleshoot Flow Switch Operation

1. Turn the unit off and unplug it from the power source for 30 seconds.
2. Ensure the flow switch valve is open.
3. Look at the water level in the hot tub.
4. Clean out the filter.
5. Check the output pressure and input pressure of the spa’s jets and filter.

Which pressure is required for your sprinkler system?

For many sprinklers, the recommended operating water pressure ranges between 30-40 pounds PSI. A pressure regulator ensures that water pressure consistently stays within this recommended PSI range, regardless of the water pressure before it reaches the sprinkler.

What is a residential sprinkler system?

Sprinkler System. Definition. A residential-type fire sprinkler system consisting of piping and sprinkler heads that discharge water upon activation by heat. These are typically located in the ceiling or upper portion of the interior walls.

What is a water flow switch?

The waterflow switch is a mechanical/electrical assembly. As it only detects the water flowing in the pipes, the waterflow switch doesn’t turn on or off the water. It just sets off the alarms by activating electrical switches. To detect the water’s movement, the assembly has a paddle across the inside of the pipe.

What is the pressure of a sprinkler system?

Water pressure is measured in pounds per square inch – also called psi. The average water pressure for most homes and businesses is between 30 psi and 50 psi; most sprinkler systems are designed to use pressures of around 30 psi.