Fire Sprinkler Monitoring

& Releasing Systems

Training Manual

Manual #8704200 - REV H

7/18
Contents
Foreword.................................................................................................................................................................................3
Introduction.............................................................................................................................................................................4
Glossary/Definitions............................................................................................................................................................... 5
Symbols ................................................................................................................................................................................10
Codes and Standards............................................................................................................................................................. 13
Fire Alarm Signals................................................................................................................................................................15
Types Of Sprinkler Systems.................................................................................................................................................. 15
Wet Pipe Sprinkler Systems.................................................................................................................................................. 16
Straight Pipe Riser..................................................................................................................................................17
Wet System With An Alarm Check Valve.............................................................................................................. 18
Wet System With Maintained Excess Pressure...................................................................................................... 22
Straight Riser With Maintained Excess Pressure................................................................................................... 22
Wet System With Alarm Check Valve And Maintained Excess Pressure.............................................................. 24
Dry Pipe Systems.................................................................................................................................................................. 26
Typical Wet System Waterflow Switch Selection Guide Fig. 8............................................................................................28
Dry Pipe System Waterflow And Air Supervisory Switch Selection Guide Fig. 9...............................................................29
Valve Supervision (Tamper Switch) Selection Guide Fig. 10..............................................................................................30
Installation Of Waterflow Switches...................................................................................................................................... 31
Installation Of Valve Supervisory Switches.........................................................................................................................34
Other Types Of Supervision.................................................................................................................................................. 35
Test Procedures..................................................................................................................................................................... 36
Smoke/Heat Detector Replacement......................................................................................................................................51
Ceilings ................................................................................................................................................................................51
Release Systems General Information and Terminology......................................................................................................53
Pre-Action Systems............................................................................................................................................................... 54
Deluge Systems..................................................................................................................................................................... 58
System Installation................................................................................................................................................................ 60
Battery Calculations..............................................................................................................................................................60
Data Sheets............................................................................................................................................................................ 64

2
Foreword
The purpose of this manual is to provide general information to persons responsible for the design, installation
and operation of sprinkler system monitoring.
The manual covers terminology, basic theory of operation, basic system design, and installation information. As
with any installation, the manufacturers instructions should be followed.
It does not contain information regarding when or how a particular type of system should be installed in a
specific location. That should be performed by a qualified engineer or designer using information from the
NFPA codes and standards, any local or national building codes and the authority having jurisdiction.
Information in this manual was obtained from:
Potter Electric
National Fire Protection Association [NFPA]

National Electrical Manufacturers Association [NEMA]

3
Introduction
When properly installed, supervised, and maintained, automatic fire sprinkler systems are the most effective
method of controlling damage and providing life safety in the event of a fire. In most cases they will detect
and control a fire before hazardous flames and toxic gasses destroy a building or cause loss of life. Although
a sprinkler system may extinguish a fire, it’s primary purpose is to contain the spread of the fire until the fire
department arrives.

In an untended fully sprinklered building, if one or more sprinkler heads activate to extinguish a fire, water will
continue to flow until the system is shut down. Unless the head is one of the “on-off” types that reset when the
temperature returns to normal. Also, if the heat source should fail in the winter, sprinkler pipes containing water
could freeze and rupture. Water discharging through an open sprinkler head or broken pipe for several hours can
cause considerable damage. Monitoring for water flow and building temperature will alert the proper personnel
to those property damaging situations.

Sprinkler systems may sit idle for years or even decades, however, when needed they must work to perfection.
Even though they have an excellent performance record, the occasional failure can be catastrophic. Most of
these failures are the result of the sprinkler system not being fully operational at the time of the fire. Monitoring
for water flow, valve position, low building temperature, etc. along with regular testing according to NFPA
standards will help to ensure proper operation.

4
Glossary/Definitions
Addressable Device - A fire alarm system component with discreet identification that can have its status
individually identified, or that is used to individually control other functions.

Air Sampling-Type Detector - A detector that consists of a piping or tubing distribution network from the
detector to the areas being protected. A fan in the detector housing draws air from the protected area back to the
detector. The air is analyzed for products of combustion.

Alarm Signal - A signal indicating an condition that requires immediate response, such as a signal indicative of a
fire.

Alarm Verification - A feature of some automatic fire detection and alarm systems to reduce unwanted alarms.
Smoke detectors must report alarm conditions for a minimum period of time, or confirm alarm conditions within
a given time period after being reset, to be accepted as a valid alarm initiating signal.

Analog Initiating Device - An initiating device that transmits a signal indicating varying degrees of condition,
such as smoke obscuration levels. As contrasted with a conventional initiating device which can only indicate
an “on/off” condition.

Annunciator - A unit containing two or more indicator lamps, alpha-numeric displays, or other equivalent
means in which each indication provides status information about a circuit, condition, or location.

Approved - Acceptable to the “authority having jurisdiction”. Note: The National Fire Protection Association
does not approve, inspect or certify any installations, procedures, equipment, or materials, nor does it approve
or evaluate testing laboratories.

Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) - An organization, office, or individual responsible for enforcing the
requirements of a code or standard, or for approving equipment, materials, an installation, or a procedure.

Automatic Extinguishing System Operation Detector - A device that detects the operation of an extinguishing
system by means appropriate to the system employed. Including but not limited to water flow devices.

Automatic Extinguishing System Supervision - Devices that respond to abnormal conditions that could affect
the proper operation of an automatic sprinkler system or other fire extinguishing system. Including but not
limited to control valves, pressure levels, room temperature, etc.

Automatic Fire Detectors - A device designed to detect the presence of fire or the products of combustion.
Including but not limited to heat detectors, flame detectors, smoke detectors.

Auxiliary Fire Alarm System - A system connected to a municipal fire alarm system for transmitting an alarm
of fire to the public fire service communication center. Fire alarms from an auxiliary system are received at the
public fire service communication center on the same equipment and by the same methods as alarms transmitted
manually from municipal fire alarm boxes located on streets.

Branch Line - A piping system, generally in a horizontal plane, connecting not more than one hose connection
with a standpipe.

Breakglass Fire Alarm Box - A fire alarm box in which it is necessary to break a special element in order to
operate the box.

Ceiling - The upper surface of a space, regardless of height. Areas with a suspended ceiling would have two
ceilings, one visible from the floor and one above the suspended ceiling.

Ceiling Height - The height from the continuous floor of a room to the continuous ceiling of a room or space.

5
Ceiling Surfaces - Ceiling surfaces referred to in conjunction with the locations of initiating devices are as follows:

A) Beam Construction - Ceilings having solid nonstructural members projecting down from the ceiling surface
more than 4 in. and spaced more than 3 ft., center to center.

B) Girders - Girders support beams or joists and run at right angles to the beams or joists. When the top of girders
are within 4 in. of the ceiling, they are a factor in determining the number of detectors and are to be considered as
beams. When the top of the girder is more than 4 in. from the ceiling, it is not a factor in detector location. Check
Valve - A self-operating valve that is used to prevent reverse flow through any portion of the system.

Central Station - A supervising station that is listed for central station service.

Central Station Fire Alarm System - A system or group of systems in which the operations of circuits and
devices are transmitted automatically to, recorded in, maintained by, and supervised from a listed central station.

Class A Circuit - Class A refers to an arrangement of monitored initiating device, signaling line, or notification
appliance circuits, which would permit a single open or ground on the installation wiring of these circuits from
causing loss of the systems intended function.

Class B Circuit - Class B refers to an arrangement of monitored initiating device, signaling line, or notification
appliance circuits, which would permit a single open or ground on the installation wiring of these circuits to
cause loss of the systems intended function.

Combination Detector - A device that either responds to more than one fire phenomenon or employes more
than one operating principle to sense one of these phenomenon. Typical examples are combination smoke/heat
detectors or a combination rate of rise and fixed temperature heat detector.

Compatibility Listed - A specific listing process that applies only to two wire devices [such as smoke
detectors] designed to operate with certain control equipment.

Control Valve - A valve controlling flow to water-based fire protection systems. Control valves do not include
hose valves, inspector’s test valves, drain valves, trim valves for dry pipe, pre-action and deluge valves, check
valves, or relief valves.

Digital Alarm Communicator Receiver [DACR] - A system component that will accept and display signals
from digital alarm communicator transmitters [DACT] sent over public switched telephone network.

Digital Alarm Communicator System [DACS] - A system in which signals are transmitted from a digital
alarm communicator transmitter [DACT] located at the protected premises through the public switched
telephone network to a DACR.

Digital Alarm Communicator Transmitter [DACT] - A system component at the protected premises to
which initiating devices are connected. The DACT will seize the connected telephone line, dial a pre-selected
telephone number to connect to a DACR, and transmit signals indicating a status change of the initiating device.

Display - The visual representation of output data other than printed copy.

Dry Pipe Sprinkler System - A sprinkler system employing automatic sprinklers that are attached to a piping
system containing air or nitrogen under pressure, the release of which (as from the opening of a sprinkler)
permits the water pressure to open a valve known as a dry pipe valve, and the water then flows into the piping
system and out the opened sprinklers.

End Of Line Device - A device such as a resistor or diode placed at the end of a class B circuit to maintain supervision

End Of Line Relay - A device used to supervise power [usually for 4-wire smoke detectors] and installed
within or near the last device on an initiating circuit.

6
Evacuation - The withdrawal of occupants from a building. Note: Evacuation does not include relocation of
occupants within a building.

Evacuation Signal - Distinctive signal intended to be recognized by the occupants as requiring evacuation of
the building.

Exit Plan - Plan for the emergency evacuation of the premises.

Fire Alarm Control Unit [Panel] - A system component that receives inputs from automatic and manual fire
alarm devices and may supply power to detection devices and transponders or off-premises transmitters. The
control unit may also provide transfer of power to the notification appliances and transfer condition of relays or
devices connected to the control unit. The fire alarm control unit can be a local unit or a master control unit.

Fire Rating - The classification indicating in time [hours] the ability of a structure or component to withstand
fire conditions.

Fire Safety Functions - Building and fire control functions that are intended to increase the level of life safety
for occupants or to control the spread of harmful effects of fire.

Flame Detector - A device that detects the infrared, ultraviolet, or visible radiation caused by fire.

Four Wire Smoke Detector - A smoke detector which initiates an alarm condition on two separate wires
[initiating circuit] separate from the two power leads.

Heat Detector - A device that detects abnormally high temperature or rate of temperature rise.

Initiating Device - A system component that originates transmission of a change of state condition, such as a
smoke detector, water flow switch, etc.

Initiating Device Circuit - A circuit to which automatic or manual initiating devices are connected.

Ionization Smoke Detector - A smoke detector that has a small amount of radioactive material which ionizes
the air in the sensing chamber, thus rendering it conductive and permitting a current to flow between two
charged electrodes. This gives the sensing chamber an effective electrical conductance. When smoke particles
enter the sensing chamber they decrease the conductance of the air by attaching themselves to the ions, causing
a reduction in mobility. When conductance is reduced to less than a predetermined level, the detector responds.

Level Ceilings - Those ceilings that are actually level or have a slope of less than 1½ in. per foot.

Light Scattering - The action of light being reflected and/or refracted off particles of combustion for detection
by a photoelectric smoke detector.

Line Type Detector - A device in which detection is continuous along a path. Examples include projected beam
smoke detectors and heat sensitive cable.

Listed - Equipment or materials included in a list published by an organization acceptable to the “authority
having jurisdiction” and concerned with product evaluation, that maintains periodic inspection of production of
listed equipment or materials and whose listing states either that the equipment or material meets appropriate
standards or has been tested and found suitable for use in a specific manner. Note: The means for identifying
listed equipment may vary for each organization concerned with product evaluation, some of which do not
recognize as listed unless it is also labeled. The “authority having jurisdiction” should utilize the system
employed by the listing organization to identify a listed product.

Local Fire Alarm System - A local system sounding an alarm at the protected premises as the result of the
operation of automatic or manual initiating devices.

Manual Station [pull station] - A manually operated device used to initiate an alarm signal.

7
National Electrical Manufacturers Association [NEMA] - is a U.S. trade organization representing
manufacturers of products used in the generation, transmission, distribution, control, and end-use of electricity. Many
of NEMA’s standards have been approved as American National Standards or adopted by the federal government.

National Fire Protection Association [NFPA] - Administers the development of and publishes codes,
standards, and other materials concerning all phases of fire safety.

Non Restorable Initiating Device - A device whose sensing element is designed to be destroyed in the process
of operation.

Notification Appliance - A fire alarm system component such as a bell, horn, speaker, strobe, etc., that provides
an audible or visible output or both.

Notification Appliance Circuit - A circuit directly connected to a notification appliance.

Obscuration - A reduction in the atmospheric transparency caused by smoke. Usually expressed in percent per foot.

Particles of Combustion - Substances resulting from the chemical process of a fire.

Photoelectric Smoke Detector - A smoke detector utilizing a light source and a photosensitive sensor so
arranged that the rays from the light do not normally shine on the photosensitive sensor. When smoke enters the
light path, some of the light reflects off the smoke onto the sensor, causing the detector to respond.

Proprietary Fire Alarm System - An installation of fire alarm systems that serve contiguous and noncontiguous
properties under one ownership from a proprietary supervising station located at the protected property.

Rate Of Rise Heat Detector - A device which will respond when the temperature rises at a rate exceeding a
predetermined amount [usually about 15 degrees per minute].

Remote Station Fire Alarm System - A system installed in accordance with NFPA 72 to transmit alarm, trouble
and supervisory from one or more protected premises to a remote location at which appropriate action is taken.

Residual Pressure - Potential pressure remaining in the system while the system is flowing.

Restorable Initiating Device - A device whose sensing element is not ordinarily destroyed in the process of
operation. Restoration may be manual or automatic.

Riser – The vertical supply pipe in a sprinkler system.

Shall - In NFPA literature indicates a mandatory requirement.

Should - In NFPA literature indicates a recommendation or that which is requested but not required.

Sloping Ceiling - Ceilings having a slope of more than 1½ in. per foot.

A) Sloping - Peaked Type, Ceilings in which the slope is in two directions from the highest point. Curved or
domed ceilings may be considered peaked.

B) Sloping - Shed Type, Ceilings in which the high point is at one side with the slope extending toward the opposite side.

Smooth Ceiling - A surface uninterrupted by continuous projections such as solid joists, beams or ducts,
extending more than 4 in. below the ceiling surface.

Solid Joist Construction - Ceilings having solid structural or nonstructural members projecting down from the
ceiling surface a distance of more than 4 in. and spaced at intervals 3 ft. or less, center to center.

Spot Type Detector - A device whose detecting element is concentrated at a particular location. Examples
include, certain smoke and heat detectors.

8
Static Pressure - Pressure acting on a point in the system with no flow from the system.

Story - The portion of a building included between the upper surface of a floor and the upper surface of a floor
or roof next above.

Stratification - An effect that occurs when air containing smoke particles or products of combustion is heated by burning
material, rises until it reaches a level where there is no longer a temperature difference between it and the surrounding air.

Supervision - A visual and audible alarm signal given at the central safety station to indicate when the system is
in operation or when a condition that would impair the satisfactory operation of the system exists. Supervisory
alarms shall give a distinct indication for each individual system component that is monitored.

Supervisory Signal - A signal indicating an “off normal” condition on the fire suppression system. Examples
include, tamper indication, low air pressure and low building temperature.

Thermal Lag - The difference between the operating temperature of a thermal detector and the actual air temperature.

Two Wire Smoke Detector - A smoke detector which initiates an alarm condition on the same pair of wires that
supply power to the detector.

Wet Pipe Sprinkler System - A sprinkler system employing automatic sprinklers attached to a piping system
containing water and connected to a water supply so that water discharges immediately from sprinklers opened
by heat from a fire.

9
Fire Alarm and Emergency Communication Symbols
Signal Initiating Devices
Referent (Synonym) Symbol Comments

manual stations (call point) general

manual alarm box

(pull station and pull box)

telephone station
(telephone call point)

automatic detection and

general
supervisory devices
includes fixed temperture,
heat detector*
rate compensation, and
(thermal detector)
rate-of-rise detectors
includes photoelectric and
smoke detector
ionization type detectors

duct detector

gas detector

flame detector* includes ultraviolet, infrared, and

(flicker detector) visible radiation type detectors

flow detector/switch

alternate term: pressure switch

pressure detector/switch
air, water, etc.

level detector/switch*

tamper detector/switch alternate term: tamper switch

valve with tamper detector/switch

10
 Audible Type Alerting Devices (Sounder)/Visual Type/
Emergency Illumination/Control and Supervisory
Referent (Synonym) Symbol Comments

speaker/horn (electric horn)

bell (gong)

water motor alarm

shield optional
(water motor gong)

horn with light as separate

assembly (horn with strobe)

horn with light as one

assembly (horn with strobe)

light (lamp, signal light,

indicator lamp, strobe)

illuminated exit sign

illuminated exit sign with

direction arrow

number of lamps on unit

emergency light, battery powered
need to be indicated

control panel

door holder

11
Water Supply and Distribution Symbols
Mains/Pipe/Valves
Referent (Synonym) Symbol Comments

water main under building indicate pipe size

suction main indicate pipe size

post indicator and valve indicate valve size

key operated valve indicate valve size

os & y valve (outside screw

and yoke, rising system)

indicating butterfly valve indicate valve size

non-indicating valve
(non-rising stem valve)

valve in pit indicate valve size

check valve indicate valve size

12
Organizations, Codes and Standards
Codes and Standards
The following NFPA codes and standards may be obtained from:
National Fire Protection Association
1 Batterymarch Park
Quincy, MA 02269-7471
Ph: 617-770-3000
Fx: 617-770-0700
[Link]

NFPA 13 Installation of Sprinkler Systems

NFPA 15 Water Spray Fixed Systems
NFPA 16 Deluge Foam-Water, Foam-Water Spray Systems
NFPA 70 National Electrical Code
NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm Code
NFPA 101 Life Safety Code

Building Codes & Fire Codes

International Code Council
500 New Jersey Avenue, N.W., Sixth Floor
Washington, D.C. 20001
1-888-ICC-SAFE (422-7233), ext. 6235
[Link]

Listings and Approvals

U.L. (Underwriters Laboratories)
F.M. (Factory Mutual)
NYBSA or MEA (City of NY.)
CSFM (California State Fire Marshall)

The Difference Between Codes and Standards

Code
Codes specify circumstances under which a given type of protection is required. Codes are minimum requirements.
Examples of Codes:
NFPA 101 Life Safety Code
NFPA 70 National Electrical Code
International Fire Code

Standard
Standards detail how the protection required by the code is to be achieved.
Examples of Standards:
NFPA 13 Standard for the installation of sprinkler systems
NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm Code (This is actually a standard even though it is called a code)

The terms “Shall” and “Should” are often used. Shall indicates a mandatory requirement, Should indicates
a recommendation.

13
Determine Fire Alarm Requirements
NFPA 101 Life Safety Code determines the fire alarm requirements based on the occupancy classification of the
building.
Within each occupancy chapter, section 3.4 will specify the fire alarm requirements for that occupancy class.
NFPA 101 Section 3.4 is “Detection, Alarms & Communication”. Section 3.5 is “Extinguishing Requirements”.

Section 3.4 Detection, Alarms and Communication

The General Provision
Specifies the conditions under which a fire alarm is required in that particular occupancy.

The Initiation Provision

Specifies how the fire alarm will be activated, other than as relates to automatic fire detection. It is typical in
many occupancy chapters that the Initiation provision call for “Manual activation in accordance with [Link]”.
When referred to chapter 9, only the applicable portions of chapter 9 apply for that occupancy.

The Notification Provision

Specifies “On Premises” signaling requirements. It may require voice evacuation, and may permit or prohibit
the use of “Pre-Signal” features.

The Detection Provision

Specifies requirements for automatic [Link] section should always be reviewed, even if the building is
not required to have a fire alarm system under the general statement for that occupancy class.

The Emergency Forces Notification Provision

Includes any requirement for “Off Premises” signaling (monitoring).

Section 3.5 Extinguishing Requirements

Specifies requirements for automatic sprinkler systems. Refers to chapter 9 section 9-7 “Automatic Sprinklers
and other Extinguishing Equipment”
The code may require either an, approved automatic sprinkler or an approved supervised automatic sprinkler.
Where a supervised automatic sprinkler is required, NFPA 101 2015, [Link] and [Link] are applicable.

International Building Code IBC and International Fire Code IFC

Chapter 9 of the IBC and IFC determine the fire alarm and sprinkler requirements based on building classification.
The IFC then references the applicable NFPA standard for installation. Detection and notification requirements are
stated in the IBC and IFC as well.

Sprinkler System Supervision Includes:

Water flow
Water Supply Control Valves
Fire Pump Status
Water Tank, Levels and Pressures
Air Pressure on Dry Pipe Systems
Building Temperature

Water supply control valves shall be supervised to obtain a distinctive signal when in an off normal position,
within 2 revolutions of the handwheel, or when the valve has moved one fifth from its normal position.

14
The switch shall not restore to a normal condition throughout the entire travel of the valve, until it is restored to a
fully open position.
A Supervisory signal must be visually or audibly distinctive from both Alarm and Trouble signals.
Water flow and supervisory devices cannot be connected on the same initiating circuit so that the closing of a valve
is annunciated as a “trouble” condition.

Fire Alarm Signals

A. Alarm: A signal indicating a fire emergency.
1. Automatic water flow device
2. Manual fire alarm station (pull station)
3. Automatic fire detectors (smoke or heat detectors)

B. Supervisory: A signal indicating an “off-normal” condition exists on the extinguishing system.

1. Control valve switch
2. High/low air pressure switch
3. Water tank level and temperature switches
4. Low water pressure for public water supplies
5. Low building temperature switch
6. Water Column Switch

C. Trouble: A signal indicating a problem with the fire control panel or associated wiring which may
render the system inoperable.
1. Loss of primary power (120VAC)
2. Loss of secondary power (battery)
3. A defect in the supervised wiring to an initiating device, indicating appliance or extinguishing agent
release device.
4. Disabled circuit or function
5. Failure to communicate with central station
6. Fault

Types Of Sprinkler Systems

Wet Pipe Sprinkler System
Wet systems are the most common and reliable sprinkler systems since no equipment other than the sprinkler
heads are required to operate. Wet systems use automatic sprinkler heads attached to piping containing water and
connected to a water supply so that water will be discharged immediately from an open sprinkler. Water will only be
discharged through heads that have opened due to fire.

Dry Pipe Sprinkler System

Dry pipe systems use automatic sprinklers attached to a piping system pressurized with air. These systems use a dry
pipe valve and air pressure to hold back the water supply. When the air pressure in the system bleeds off due to an
open sprinkler, the water pressure will open the valve and fill the system. The water will only be discharged through
the heads that have opened due to fire. Dry systems are usually installed in unheated buildings or where there is the
possibility of sprinkler pipes freezing.

15
Basic Sprinkler Systems and Water Flow Alarm Devices
Wet Pipe Sprinkler Systems
There are three basic types of wet systems

#1. Straight Pipe Riser:

This type of system does not have an alarm valve. There is either a riser check valve or backflow preventer
which isolates the sprinkler water from the supply water. The main riser is fed directly from the water supply
and branches out throughout the protected premises. These systems must use a vane (paddle) type flow switch.
Due to constant fluctuations in water pressure, the waterflow switch should have a time delay or retard to
prevent false alarms. The retard time is used to overcome water surges.
As the main riser extends upward, there may be branch lines going out to various floors or other areas of the
protected structure. Depending on local or national requirements, there may be a water control valve and
waterflow switch on the branch line. The valve would allow that branch to be shut down for maintenance or
other reasons while leaving the rest of the system functional. The purpose of the waterflow switch would be to
add another zone to the system to better locate the open sprinkler.

16
 Straight Pipe Riser Waterflow And Supervisory Switch Installation
(Main Riser Flow Switch)
Fig. 1

VSR

24” MIN.

SYSTEM PRESSURE

SUPPLY PRESSURE

DRAIN

PCVS

Branch Line Flow Switch

Fig. 2
OS & Y FLOOR CONTROL VALVE (OPEN) VSR
AND
OSYSU SUPERVISORY SWITCH

FEED MAIN

SYSTEM RISER SIGHT GLASS

UNION WITH
RESTRICTED DRAIN VALVE (CLOSED)
OPENING
SAME SIZE AS
SPRINKLER
HEAD
TEST VALVE (CLOSED)

TO DRAIN

17
Note: All water control valves shall be supervised per NFPA13 2016 [Link].2.1.
#2. Wet System With An Alarm Check Valve:
This type of system has an alarm check valve, the valve is basically a check valve with an alarm port. The main
purpose of the alarm check valve is to ring a mechanical bell called a water motor gong. The valve should, (if
properly maintained), help hold the system pressure steady and reduce the possibility of false alarms. Under
normal circumstances, the clapper of the valve is closed, blocking the alarm port, maintaining the system
pressure, and preventing the sprinkler system water from leaking back into the city supply. When a sprinkler
opens due to fire, or there is a large surge in the city pressure, the clapper of the valve opens. The alarm port is
now exposed to the incoming water supply. When the pressure at the switch reaches 6 psi, the pressure switch
trips, or the retard time starts on the pressure switch with built in retard. This alarm port may be piped to the
outside of the building through a water motor gong.

These systems can use a vane type flow switch with a retard or they can use a pressure type flow switch. The
pressure type flow switch would be installed on the alarm port, in line with a water motor gong if one is being
used. The pressure switch must either be installed on top of a retard chamber, (see Fig. 3), or a pressure switch
with a built in retard, (see Fig. 4), must be used to prevent false alarms due to water surges. There must be an
automatic drain on this line to allow the water to drain and the pressure to drop back to zero so the pressure
switch can reset after a surge or activation of the alarm valve.

Pressure type flow switches can be installed without disabling the sprinkler system. Since they are installed on
the alarm port, there is no pressure or water present under normal circumstances. The sprinkler system does not
have to be drained, they can be installed without shutting off the water supply. Therefore the sprinkler system is
never out of service.

Retard chambers are metal containers that fill with water when there is a surge in city pressure. They absorb
the pressure increase thereby allowing the pressure switch to only operate in an actual alarm condition. There
is an automatic drain at the bottom of the chamber to allow the surge to drain out. Retard chambers require
maintenance to make sure that the drain stays clear and doesn’t get clogged with rust or corrosion. If a surge
does not drain from the retard chamber before another surge happens, the retard chamber may fill causing the
pressure switch to send a false alarm.

A pressure switch with a built in retard allows the system to remain operational at all times, and eliminates the
maintenance required on the retard chamber. An automatic drain is still required to relieve the pressure on the line.

Note: All water control valves shall be supervised per NFPA13 2016 [Link].2.1 and IFC 903.4. Pressure type
flow switches must be installed before any shut-off valve, or such valve must be electronically supervised.

18
 Pressure Type Flow Switch Installed On Top Of Retard Chamber

Fig. 3 RISER TO
SPRINKLER HEADS

TO WATER
MOTOR
GONG
WATERFLOW
SWITCH
PS10-1
PS10-2
WATER
PRESSURE
GAUGE
(SYSTEM
PRESSURE) ANY SHUT-OFF VALVE IN
LINE WITH A PRESSURE
(OPEN) SWITCH IS REQUIRED TO BE
SUPERVISED PER NFPA 72

BY-PASS LINE DRAIN

VALVE
(CLOSED) RETARD
CHAMBER
CHECK VALVE USED TO
BUILD SYSTEM PRESSURE
FROM SMALL SURGES

WATER PRESSURE GAUGE CHECK

(CITY PRESSURE) (OPEN)

DRAIN
TAMPER
WATER BY-PASS RBVS
DEVICE
OSYSU TEST VALVE
(CLOSED) DRIP
STRAINER CUP

OSY CONTROL VALVE (OPEN)

CHECK
VALVE

DRAIN
WATER PRESSURE FROM PIPE
CITY MAINS

Note:
Unless excess pressure is pumped into system, the waterflow device should have a retard per NFPA 72 2016
17.12. There shall be no shut-off valve in line to a pressure type waterflow switch, unless the shut-off is
electrically supervised. The Potter Model RBVS is designed to electrically supervise ball valves.

19
This is the same type of system except this one uses a pressure switch with a built-in retard instead of installing
the pressure switch on top of the retard chamber. In this case, the retard chamber is only being used to delay the
water motor gong. If there is no water motor gong, the retard chamber can be eliminated.

The retard time will start when the pressure at the WFSR-F reaches 6 psi. The pressure must remain there for
the length of time the retard is set in order for the device to trip.

Pressure type flow switches can be installed without disabling the sprinkler system. Since they are installed on
the alarm port, there is no pressure or water present under normal conditions. The sprinkler system does not
have to be drained, they can be installed without shutting off the water supply. Therefore, the sprinkler system is
never out of service.

A pressure switch with a built-in retard allows the system to remain operational at all times, and eliminates the
maintenance required on the retard chamber. An automatic drain is still required to relieve the pressure on the line.

20
 Pressure Type Flow Switch With Built-in Retard

Fig. 4 RISER TO
SPRINKLER HEADS

WFSR-F
WATERFLOW DEVICE
WITH BUILT-IN
RETARD

TO WATER
MOTOR GONG

WATER PRESSURE GAUGE

(SYSTEM PRESSURE)

(OPEN)
RBVS

BY-PASS LINE

CHECK VALVE USED TO

RETARD
BUILD SYSTEM PRESSURE
CHAMBER
FROM SMALL SURGES
DRAIN
WATER PRESSURE GAUGE (CITY CHECK
VALVE
PRESSURE) (OPEN)
(CLOSED)

TAMPER
DEVICE WATER BY-PASS TEST
VALVE (CLOSED) STRAINER
OSYSU DRIP
CUP

OSY CONTROL VALVE

(OPEN)
CHECK
VALVE

DRAIN
WATER PRESSURE FROM PIPE
CITY MAINS

Note:
Unless excess pressure is pumped into system, the waterflow device should have a retard per NFPA 72 2016
17.12. There shall be no shut-off valve in line to a pressure type waterflow switch, unless the shut-off is
electrically supervised. The Potter Model RBVS is designed to electrically supervise ball valves.

21
#3. Wet System With Maintained Excess Pressure

This type of system has a jockey or excess pressure pump that is maintaining a higher pressure on the system
side of the check valve than the supply pressure can be expected to reach. This excess pressure holds the clapper
of the valve down even when the city pressure fluctuates. This eliminates false alarms caused by water surges.

Two different methods utilizing two different waterflow devices can be used to monitor these types of systems.
Excess pressure systems do not require retards on the flow switches.

On both systems the excess pressure pump should be monitored with a supervisory pressure switch. This switch
should be set to trip when the pressure drops 10 psi below normal, this will prevent false alarms due to a drop in
pressure from a pump failure. A typical excess pressure system may maintain a system pressure of 120 psi. The
low pressure supervisory switch would be set to trip at 110 psi. High pressure should be monitored to prevent
damage to sprinkler system and long delay of a waterflow alarm.

A. Straight Riser With Maintained Excess Pressure

A pressure drop type waterflow device is connected to the system side of the check valve. Activation of a
sprinkler head in the system results in a loss of excess pressure, the pressure will drop down to whatever the
supply pressure is. The waterflow switch detects this drop in pressure and sends an alarm signal.

The low pressure supervisory switch is set to trip approximately 10 psi below the normal excess pressure.
The waterflow switch would be set to trip 10 psi below the supervisory switch. The trip point of the waterflow
switch must be higher than the water supply pressure can be expected to reach.

Note: All water control valves should be supervised per NFPA 13 2016, [Link].2.1.

22
 Wet System With Excess Pressure (Pressure Drop)
Waterflow Alarm Installation
Fig. 5
RISER TO
SPRINKLER HEADS

PS100-2 BVL
WATERFLOW SWITCH BLEEDER VALVE
OPERATES ON (OPEN)
PRESSURE DROP
CLAMP TYPE
FITTING

PS120-2
EXCESS PRESSURE
SUPERVISORY SWITCH

BVL BLEEDER EXCESS

VALVE (OPEN) PRESSURE
CHECK GAUGE
VALVE

EXCESS PRESSURE OPEN

LINE VALVE (OPEN)

DRAIN VALVE
(CLOSED)

JOCKEY DRAIN
PUMP PIPE

WATER
OSY CONTROL CHECK
VALVES (OPEN) VALVE

TAMPER TAMPER
DEVICE DEVICE
OSYSU OSYSU
FIRE DEPT.
BALL DRIP VALVE CONNECTION
(SIAMESE)

CITY WATER CHECK

SUPPLY VALVE

23
B. Wet System With Alarm Check Valve And Maintained Excess Pressure
A pressure type flow switch is connected to the alarm port of the alarm check valve.
Activation of a sprinkler head in the system results in a loss of excess pressure, this allows the alarm check valve to
open. When the valve opens, the alarm port is exposed to the incoming water supply. The waterflow pressure switch
detects this increase in pressure and sends an alarm signal when the pressure in the alarm line reaches 6 psi.

Note: All water control valves shall be supervised per NFPA 13 2016, [Link].2.1.

24
 Wet System With Excess Pressure
(Waterflow With Pressure Supervision)
Fig. 6

RISER TO
SPRINKLER
EXCESS HEADS
PRESSURE
SUPERVISION
WATERFLOW SWITCH
PS120-1 (NO RETARD)
TO EXCESS PS120-2 PS10-1
PRESSURE
PS10-2
PUMP

BVL
BLEEDER
VALVE
CHECK

(OPEN) TO WATER
WATER BY-PASS
MOTOR GONG
TEST VALVE
(CLOSED)
DRAIN
VALVE
RBVS

(CLOSED)

CITY WATER
PRESSURE CHECK RBVS
GAUGE

TAMPER (OPEN) DRIP

DEVICE CUP
OSYSU STRAINER

CHECK
OSY CONTROL VALVE
VALVE (OPEN)

DRAIN
PIPE

WATER PRESSURE DWG# 8704200-F1

FROM CITY MAINS

Unless excess pressure is pumped into system, the waterflow device should have a retard per NFPA 72 2016
17.12. There shall be no shut-off valve in line to a pressure type waterflow switch, unless the shut-off is electri-
cally supervised. Per NFPA 72 2016 [Link].4, the Potter Model RBVS is designed to electrically supervise
ball valves.

25
Dry Pipe Systems
Dry pipe systems are usually installed in unheated buildings or where there is the danger of sprinkler pipes
freezing. They have pressurized air in the sprinkler piping, this allows for supervision of the system and
prevents water from entering the pipes. The dry pipe valve and associated equipment Shall be protected in
accordance with NFPA 13 2016, 7.2.5.

This type of system uses a dry pipe valve which has an intermediate chamber or alarm port. Under normal
conditions, this section of piping has no water or air pressure in it. A pressure type flow switch would be
installed on the alarm port, this could also be connected to a water motor gong on the outside of the building.
Waterflow switches on dry systems do not need retards as there should not be any water surges.

When a sprinkler head opens due to fire, the air pressure is released from the system, this allows the water
supply to open the dry pipe valve and enter the system piping. When the clapper of the dry pipe valve opens,
it exposes the alarm port to the incoming water supply. The pressure type flow switch senses this increase in
pressure and sends an alarm signal.

Dry pipe systems should also have a supervisory pressure switch installed to monitor the system air pressure.
This switch should be adjusted to send a low air signal when the system pressure drops 10 psi below normal.
This will prevent accidental tripping of the dry pipe valve due to low air pressure from a compressor failure.
They should also be monitored for high air pressure as too much pressure will delay the time it takes to bleed
enough pressure off the system to allow the water pressure to open the dry pipe valve.

Notes: All water control valves shall be supervised per NFPA 13 2016 [Link].2.1.
The room temperature where the dry pipe valve is located should be monitored to Prevent the valve
from freezing.
A bleeder valve and pressure gauge should be installed in line with the air supervisory switch for
test purposes.
A WCS (Water Column Switch) can be used to comply with NFPA13 2016, [Link].1

26
 Dry Pipe Valve System
Waterflow Alarm Installation
Fig. 7
RISER TO
TO WATER SPRINKLER HEADS
MOTOR GONG

AIR SUPPLY

AIR PRESSURE
SUPERVISORY
PS40-1
PS40-2

AIR SUPPLY AIR

VALVE PRESSURE
(OPEN) GAUGE

WATERFLOW
SWITCH
PS10-1 CHECK
PS10-2
BVL BLEEDER
TEST VALVE
(OPEN)
PRIMING
CHAMBER

AIR
PRESSURE

PETCOCK WATER LEVEL

(OPEN) SHUT-OFF
VALVE
(CLOSED)
RBVS
CHECK

BALL INTERMEDIATE
DRIP CHAMBER
VALVE
DRAIN VALVE (CLOSED)
WATER BY-PASS WATER TAMPER
TEST VALVE PRESSURE DEVICE
(CLOSED) GAUGE OSYSU

DRIP OS & Y
CUP CONTROL
VALVE
(OPEN)

CHECK

Note:
Per NFPA 72 2016 [Link].4, there shall
be no shut-off valve in line to a pressure type
waterflow switch, unless the shut-off ball DWG# 8704200-4A

valve is electrically supervised with Potter WATER PRESSURE DRAIN

PIPE
Model RBVS (Retrofit Ball Valve Switch). FROM CITY MAINS

27
 Typical Wet System
Waterflow Switch Selection Guide
Fig. 8
IS THERE AN ALARM VALVE?

NO YES

VSR STEEL PIPE 2” - 8” IS THERE A

VSR-C COPPER 2” - 4”, PVC 2” - 3” RETARD CHAMBER?
VSR-S STEEL, COPPER, PVC 1” - 1.5”
VSR-10” STEEL PIPE 10” NO
INSTALLED ON RISER
YES

WFSR-F PS10-1
INSTALLED SINGLE CONTACT
IN LINE WITH PS10-2
WATER MOTOR DOUBLE CONTACTS
GONG, BEFORE INSTALLED ON TOP
ANY SHUT-OFF OF RETARD
CHAMBER

WFSR-F TO WATER
WATERFLOW MOTOR
DEVICE GONG

PS10
SHUT-OFF
(OPEN)

ALARM LINE
(OPEN) SHUT-OFF VALVE,
SUPERVISED
PETCOCK
ALARM (OPEN)
(OPEN)
VALVE

RETARD
CHAMBER

CHECK
(OPEN)

TAMPER
DEVICE RBVS
OSYSU DRIP
CUP

OS & Y CONTROL
VALVE (OPEN)

DWG# 3003509-H1
FROM WATER
SUPPLY

28
 Dry Pipe System Waterflow And Air Supervisory Switch
Selection Guide
Fig. 9 AIR PRESSURE SUPERVISION

PS40-1
LOW PRESSURE (SET AT 30 PSI)
PS40-2
LOW AND HIGH PRESSURE
(SET AT 30 AND 50 PSI)
RISER TO
SPRINKLER HEADS

WATERFLOW
SWITCH
PS40
TO AIR SUPPLY

PS10-1 AIR PRESSURE

SINGLE CONTACT GAUGE
PS10-2
DOUBLE CONTACTS PS40 SHOULD BE
AIR
SUPPLY INSTALLED IN LINE
VALVE WITH “BVL” VALVE
(OPEN) FOR TEST PURPOSES
BVL BLEEDER
TO WATER CHECK TEST VALVE
PS10 (OPEN)
MOTOR GONG
PRIMING
CHAMBER

AIR
PRESSURE

ALARM LINE
SHUT-OFF VALVE, WATER LEVEL SHUT-OFF VALVE
SUPERVISED (CLOSED)
(OPEN)

CHECK RBVS INTERMEDIATE

CHAMBER
BALL DRIP
VALVE
DRAIN VALVE (CLOSED)
PETCOCK WATER BY-PASS WATER TAMPER
(OPEN) TEST VALVE PRESSURE DEVICE
(CLOSED) GAUGE OSYSU

DRIP
CUP

OS & Y
CONTROL VALVE
(OPEN)

CHECK

WATER PRESSURE DRAIN

PIPE DWG# 8704200-7A
FROM CITY MAINS

Note: Unless excess pressure is pumped into the system, the waterflow device should have a retard. Per NFPA
72 2016 [Link].4, there shall be no shut-off valve in line to a pressure type waterflow switch, unless the shut-
off is electrically supervised. Potter Model RBVS can electrically supervise shut-off ball valves.

29
 Valve Supervision (Tamper Switch)
Selection Guide
Fig. 10

TYPE OF VALVE

OUTSIDE BUTTERFLY POST INDICATOR BALL VALVE

SCREW (PIV)
& YOKE (YARD OR WALL)
(OS & Y)

WALL

OS & Y WALL PIV

OUTSIDE SCREW PIV WALL POST
& YOKE BUTTERFLY VALVE POST INDICATOR VALVE INDICATOR VALVE RBVS

OSYSU-1 ONE CONTACT PCVS-1 ONE CONTACT DWG# 8704200-J1

OSYSU-2 TWO CONTACTS PCVS-2 TWO CONTACTS

30
Installation of Waterflow Switches
Read and follow the manufacturers instructions.
Vane (Paddle) type: For use in wet pipe systems only!
Vane type water flow switches can be installed in either vertical or horizontal sections of pipe. If they are
installed in a horizontal section, they must be installed on the top half of the pipe. This is to prevent any debris
in the pipe from falling into the throat area of the flow switch and affecting the paddle movement. They should
never be installed on the bottom half of the pipe.

After shutting off the water to the system and draining it, drill the correct size hole for the flow switch. The hole
should be de-burred and the inside of the pipe should be cleaned of any rust, scale or corrosion. Do not trim the
paddle. The most likely area for a paddle to hang up is the area immediately upstream of the hole in the pipe,
on the same side of the pipe as the hole. When water flows through the system, the paddle is pressed against the
inside of the pipe.

The flow switch should be centered in the pipe and the “U” bolt should be tightened evenly according to the
manufacturer’s specifications. This will prevent the paddle from dragging on the inside of the pipe and prevent
the flow switch from leaking.
Fig. 11
COVER TAMPER SWITCH

DO NOT LEAVE COVER OFF FOR

EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME

TIGHTEN NUTS
ALTERNATELY

MOUNT ON PIPE SO
ARROW ON SADDLE
POINTS IN DIRECTION
OF WATERFLOW

ROLL PADDLE IN
OPPOSITE DIRECTION
OF WATERFLOW

DIRECTION OF
WATERFLOW

DWG. #1146-1E

31
When filling the system, first open any valves at the end of the system or branch lines. Slowly open the water
supply valve, let the water flow out of the valves until it is flowing smoothly. This will prevent air from entering
the system and help bleed any trapped air out of the system.
When installing the smaller flow switches that screw into a tee fitting, the proper size tee must be used. Never
use a reducing bushing to make the switch fit the tee. Bushings prevent the paddle from being in the proper
location in the tee. Also make certain that the correct paddle for the size and type of piping is being used and
that the paddle is on the stem tight. The flow switch must be screwed into the tee the proper depth.
After the installation is complete, slowly open the water control valve and open the inspector’s test valve. This
will help prevent air from being trapped in the system.

Fig. 12 Fig. 13
COVER TAMPER SWITCH Screw the device into the TEE fitting as shown. Care
must be taken to properly orient the device for the
direction of the waterflow.

4,3MM
APPROX.
(1 11/16”)

MOUNT SO
ARROW ON
BUSHING POINTS
IN DIRECTION OF
WATERFLOW DEPTH

1” NPT
THREADED
FITTING ON DWG# 735-33
ALL SIZES

RUN OF THE TEE

MAY BE
THREADED OR
SWEAT PIPE

DIRECTION OF
WATERFLOW

DWG# 802-30A

32
Pressure Type
Pressure type flow switches can be installed on wet systems that have an alarm check valve. They must be
installed on dry sprinkler systems. Pressure switches should only be installed with the threaded connection down.

On wet systems, the flow switch should have a retard. This can be accomplished one of two ways:
One is to install a pressure switch on top of a retard chamber. A retard chamber is a metal container capable
of holding a few gallons of water. When a water surge happens, the chamber fills with water and absorbs the
pressure before the pressure switch trips. There is a small drip valve at the bottom of the chamber to allow the
water to drain out before the next surge. Retard chambers require periodic maintenance to prevent the drip valve
from becoming clogged with rust or scale and causing false alarms. The time delay also varies depending on
how fast the water fills the chamber.

The other way is to install a pressure switch that has a retard built into it. It is installed in place of the retard
chamber. This eliminates the cost of the retard chamber and the time consuming maintenance associated with it.
This type of switch also provides a much more accurate retard time.

Dry sprinkler systems must use a pressure type flow switch. Vane type flow switches are not permitted on dry
systems per NFPA 13 2016, [Link]. Since dry systems are not subject to water surges, they do not require the
use of a retard. A pressure type flow switch would be installed in the alarm port of the dry pipe valve.

Since pressure type flow switches are installed on the alarm port of the valves, where there is no water or air
pressure under normal conditions, they can be installed or replaced without disabling the sprinkler system.

Air Pressure Supervisory Switches

Dry sprinkler systems should have an air pressure supervisory switch installed. Per NFPA 72 2016, [Link].2,
this switch would trip if the air pressure dropped 10 psi below the normal system pressure, or increased 10
psi above normal. The purpose of low air supervision is to prevent accidental tripping of the system due to
compressor failure. High pressure supervision prevents the system from having too much air which would
increase the time it takes to bleed enough pressure off the system to allow the dry pipe valve to trip.
Supervisory air pressure is typically about 40 psi. The supervisory pressure switch should be set to operate at
10 psi below or above the normal system pressure. The Potter PS40-2 is factory set to trip at 30 psi for low
pressure and 50 psi for high pressure.

Low pressure switches should be installed in line with a bleeder valve and a pressure gauge. A bleeder valve
is a valve with a small orifice in it. The purpose of the valve is to exhaust the pressure between the bleeder
valve and the pressure switch. This allows testing of the switch without any possibility of an accidental tripping
of the dry pipe valve. It also speeds up the testing process since such a small amount of air is being released.

33
Installation of Valve Supervisory Switches
The main reason for sprinkler system failure is due to the water control valves being closed. Therefore, every
water control valve that can disable any portion of a sprinkler system should be electrically supervised in the
open position.

The main types of valves used are, outside screw and yoke [OS&Y], butterfly and wall or post indicator
[PIV] valves.

OS&Y valves have a large handwheel with a threaded shaft through the center of the handwheel. There is also
a bracket or “yoke” that runs on both sides of the threaded shaft, from the body of the valve to the handwheel.
When the valve is open, the shaft protrudes through the handwheel. As the valve is closed, the shaft is being
screwed into the body of the valve. Most tamper switches for these valves mount on the yoke of the valve using
either “J” hooks or carriage bolts and a mounting bracket. The switches have a “trip rod” that rests in a groove
on the threaded shaft of the valve. Some valve manufacturers put the groove on the stem, with other valves the
installer must file a 1/8” deep groove using a 3/8” rat tail, (round not tapered), file. As the valve is closed, the
trip rod rises out of the groove and trips the switch. The switch must stay tripped throughout the entire travel of
the valve. It must not alternate between “tripped” and “normal” as the trip rod is rolling across the threads of the
stem. The switch must also trip if the switch is removed from the valve.

Post Indicator Valves use a different switch than OS&Y valves. For PIV valves, the switch screws into a 1/2”
NPT fitting on the side of the valve. The switch has a trip rod that rides on the target of the valve. The target is
the portion of the valve that shows “open” or “shut”. When the valve is fully open, the target should be pushing
the trip rod against the spring force of the rod. As the valve is closed, the spring force causes the rod to follow
the target of the valve, tripping the switch.

Butterfly Valves use the same switch as PIV valves. It also screws into a 1/2” NPT fitting on the valve. The
trip rod is operated by a cam inside of the valve that rotates as the valve is closed. Partially close the valve,
remove the nipple from the switch and screw it into the valve. Loosen the set screw that holds the trip rod in the
housing and extend the trip rod. Slide the PCVS over the nipple, observing which direction the rod will move
when the valve is closed. Orient the device so the cam of the valve is pushing against the spring force of the
PCVS when the valve is open. As the trip rod touches the cam, it will push the trip rod back into the housing.
If the trip rod is too long, remove the rod from the switch housing, note that there is a groove cut into the rod
1” from the end of the rod that was in the housing, this can be broken off with a pair of pliers. After the cam of
the valve pushes the trip rod back into the housing, remove the PCVS and slide the trip rod 1/32” farther into
the housing before tightening the set screw. This will prevent any imperfections on the cam from affecting the
operation of the PCVS. Slide the PCVS over the nipple and tighten the set screw.

Ball Valves. The Potter Model RBVS can be used to supervise ball valves.

Special Valves. For non-rising stem valves a “plug type switch” can be used. These are switches that are UL
listed for special applications and are subject to the approval of the authority having jurisdiction. A receptacle is
mounted on a wall or section of pipe, a plug with a length of cable is plugged into the receptacle. The other end
of the cable is looped through the handwheel of the valve or through a hole drilled into the handle of the valve,
then hard wired back into the receptacle. When the valve is closed it unplugs the plug from the receptacle and
trips a switch. If the cable is cut it also opens the circuit. The cable must be stretched tight enough so operation
of the valve will cause the plug to pull out of the receptacle.

Note: Valve supervisory switches shall trip within 2 revolutions of the handwheel, or 1/5 of the travel of the
valve, per NFPA 72 2016, [Link].

34
Other Types of Supervision
Low Water Supply Pressure
Loss of water supply pressure in the sprinkler supply mains can be monitored with a supervisory pressure
switch. Care must be taken to adjust the pressure switch below the lowest pressure available during peak
demand periods to avoid nuisance alarms.

Fire Pumps
Fire pumps are automatically started in the event of water flow in a sprinkler system in order to supply more
water pressure to the system. Power to an electric pump should be supervised for loss of phase or phase reversal.
A pump running signal can be obtained by installing a pressure switch in the discharge line of the pump.

Pressure Tanks
These tanks are pressurized waster reservoirs used to supply a limited amount of water for sprinkler systems.
The tanks are usually located above the highest sprinkler heads under the main roof, or in a heated room on the
roof. Each tank is kept 2/3 full of water with a maintained pressure of approximately 75 psi in the tank.
Supervision includes: Water level, low and high pressure, low temperature, and water control valves.

Gravity Water Tanks

Gravity tanks are tower or roof mounted reservoirs and can immediately supply a large volume of water for
sprinkler systems. The tank may have a heating element to prevent freezing.
Supervision includes: Water level, low temperature, and water control valves.

Building Temperature
It is recommended that premises protected by wet sprinkler systems, or the room that a dry pipe valve is
located in, be monitored for low temperature of 40° F. This will prevent sprinkler pipes or dry pipe valves from
freezing should the building heating equipment fail.

35
Test Procedures
Waterflow Switches - Wet Pipe Systems
Vane Type
There should be a valve downstream of the flow switch, preferably at the far end of the system, but it may
be immediately after the flow switch. The valve should be marked Inspectors Test Valve per NFPA 13 2016,
[Link]. The alarm test connection shall comply with NFPA 2016, [Link].1. The output of the valve should be
piped to a spot where it will not cause any water damage.

Open the valve and allow the water to flow, after the retard time expires, the switch will trip. If the device does
not operate check to make sure 10 gpm is flowing out of the test valve. If possible, place a 5 gallon bucket under
the output of the valve. If the bucket can be filled in 30 seconds then the valve is flowing 10 gpm.

If a hose needs to be connected to the test valve to prevent water damage, the hose should be 5/8” ID, and as
short as possible to reduce friction loss.

If the device still does not trip it may be installed too close to a valve or change in direction of pipe which is
causing turbulence or back pressure in the water, or paddle may have been trimmed. Never trim the paddle.

Pressure Type
The preferred method is to open the inspectors test valve at the end of the system similar to the method for
testing vane type flow switches. This test also causes the clapper of the alarm valve to open.

Another test method is to open the normally closed alarm by-pass valve that connects the supply water directly
to the pressure switch. This is usually a 1/2” or 3/4” ball valve. On most systems there will be two ball valves
between the pressure switch and the alarm valve. One of these is the normally closed by-pass valve that is
only opened for testing. The other valve is a normally open alarm shut off valve. It is used to either silence the
pressure switch in an actual alarm or to disable it if water must be flowed into the system.
The pressure switch should be installed on top of a retard chamber or a pressure switch with a built-in retard
should be used. If the switch is installed on top of the retard chamber, it will activate as soon as the retard
chamber fills. The time delay provided by a retard chamber will vary depending on the water supply pressure at
the time. The time delay provided by a pressure switch with a built-in retard will remain constant. As long as the
pressure at the switch is at least 6 psi, the switch will trip after the retard times expires.

36
Fig. 14

ALARM SHUT-OFF VALVE

MUST BE KEPT OPEN AT ALL
TIMES, EXCEPT WHEN
FILLING THE SYSTEM. USE
POTTER RBVS TO SUPERVISE
THE VALVE.

RBVS
STRAINER

ALARM BY-PASS TEST

VALVE MUST BE KEPT
CLOSED AT ALL TIMES.
OPEN VALVE TO FLOW
WATER TO PRESSURE
SWITCH AND/OR WATER
MOTOR GONG.

DWG# 8704200-5A

37
Dry Pipe Systems
Waterflow Switch - Pressure Type
Unless an annual trip test is being done, open the alarm by-pass valve. This will allow water to flow from the water
supply directly to the pressure type flow switch, as soon as the pressure reaches 6 psi, the flow switch should trip. This
is usually a 1/2” or 3/4” ball valve. On most systems there will be two ball valves between the pressure switch and
the alarm valve. One of these is the normally closed by-pass valve that is only opened for testing. The other valve is a
normally open alarm shut-off valve. It is used to either silence the pressure switch in an actual alarm or to disable it if
water must be flowed into the system.

Low Air Supervisory Switch

The low air switch should have a bleeder valve installed in line with the switch and a pressure gauge. A bleeder is a
1/2” ball valve with a small orifice drilled in one end of the valve. When the valve is closed it bleeds off the air pressure
between the valve and the pressure switch. A pressure gauge should be installed on the pressure switch side of the
bleeder valve so it can be determined at exactly what pressure the switch trips at. The low pressure switch should trip
at 10 psi below the normal air pressure which should also be 10 psi above the trip point of the dry pipe valve. After the
switch trips, open the bleeder valve.

If a bleeder valve is not installed: Shut off the water supply to the system. Shut off the air compressor. Slowly bleed air
off the system while observing the the pressure gauge so it can be determined at what pressure the low air switch trips
at. To bleed air off, a pipe union may need to be loosened or the inspector’s test valve partially opened. After the switch
trips, close the inspector’s test valve or tighten the pipe union, turn on the air compressor. After the air pressure returns to
normal, very slowly open the water supply valve.

38
 Fig. 15

TO WATER PS40-1 OR PS40-2

MOTOR GONG LOW AIR SUPERVISORY
SWITCH

PRESSURE GAUGE FOR

TESTING LOW AIR SWITCH

PRESSURE TYPE
WATERFLOW SWITCH
BLEEDER VALVE
FOR TESTING
LOW AIR SWITCH

ALARM SHUT-OFF VALVE.

MUST BE KEPT OPEN AT ALL
TIMES, USE POTTER RBVS TO
RBVS
SUPERVISE VALVE.

ALARM BY-PASS TEST VALVE.

MUST BE KEPT CLOSED AT ALL
TIMES. OPEN VALVE TO FLOW
WATER TO PRESSURE TYPE
WATERFLOW SWITCH.

DWG# 8704200-6A

39
Sprinkler System Supervision Includes:
Water Pressures
Water Flow
Water Supply Control Valves
Fire Pump Status
Water Tank, Levels, Pressures and Temperatures
Air Pressure on Dry Pipe Systems
Building Temperature

Water supply control valves shall be supervised to obtain a distinctive signal when in an off normal position,
within 2 revolutions of the handwheel, or when the valve has moved 1/5 from its normal position.

The switch shall not restore to a normal condition throughout the entire travel of the valve, until it is restored to
a fully open position.

When connected to a fire alarm panel, a Supervisory signal must be visually or audibly distinctive from both
Alarm and Trouble signals.

Water flow and supervisory devices cannot be connected on the same initiating circuit so that the closing of a
valve is annunciated as a “trouble” condition.

Inspection testing and maintenance of water based fire protection systems shall be conducted in accordance
with applicable NFPA codes and standards such as NFPA 25 and/or the Authority Having Jurisdiction. Please
refer to NFPA 25.2017 Annex B for forms and reports.

40
Visual Inspections Inspections are required at various frequencies as noted below.

Daily Dry Pipe Systems:

During freezing weather, the heated enclosure for the dry pipe valve
should be checked to assure it is adequately heated.

Weekly
All Sprinkler Systems:
Inspect control valves (if sealed).
Water supply valves, including post indicator and roadway valves,
should be checked weekly if sealed and monthly if locked or supervised to
assure that they are open.
Inspect condition of sprinkler heads.
Heads should be checked to make sure they are not damaged or
blocked by storage and have not been painted or otherwise impaired.
Note: An 18 inch (457-mm) clear space must be maintained below the
sprinklers to assure an adequate discharge pattern. Attachment of 18-inch-
long paper or plastic streamers to the sprinkler piping helps remind people
working in storage areas of the minimum clear space requirement.
Dry Pipe Sprinkler Systems:
Inspect air pressure and water pressure gauges. Be sure that air
and water pressures are within the normal range for that
particular system.
Record pressure readings. It is recommended that the normal
pressure be noted on the gauge or a tag attached to it. A loss of
pressure of more than 10 percent should be investigated.

Monthly
All Sprinkler Systems:
Inspect fire department connections. Connections should be accessible and
visible at all times. Caps or plugs should be in place and threads clean,
undamaged and lightly lubricated with graphite.
The connection should be drained through the ball drip from the check valve
to assure it will not freeze.
Inspect control valves (if locked), including post indicator and roadway
valves to assure they are open
Water supply valves, including post indicator and roadway valves, should be
checked to assure that they are open.

Quarterly Determine dry pipe system priming water level, if required by manufacturer
by slowly opening the priming water level test valve. If only air escapes,
close the test valve and add priming water. This is done by closing the lower
priming valve, opening the upper priming valve, and adding approximately
1 quart of water through the priming funnel. The upper priming valve is
then closed and the lower priming valve opened, which allows the water to
run into the dry pipe valve. Again, check the test valve. If water does not
run out, repeat the procedure. When sufficient water has been added so that
water drains from the test valve, allow it to drain until air begins to escape,
then close the valve securely. Also be sure the upper and lower priming
valves are closed securely.

41
Semi-annually Check cold weather valves (if provided) in the Fall, before freezing weather.
The valves should be closed and that portion of the system drained. In the
Spring, as soon as freezing weather has passed, the cold weather valve should
be reopened.
Note: Cold weather valves are sometimes used to isolate a portion of a
sprinkler system that might be subject to freezing temperatures. During
cold weather, the valve is closed and that portion of the system is drained.
However, cold weather valves are not desirable, as protection is not provided
during cold weather or if valve is inadvertently left closed. Also, NFPA 13
does not recognize cold weather valves. A preferred arrangement would be
to provide a dry pipe system in the unheated area, or an antifreeze loop in a
small area.

Sprinkler Testing Quick Guide

Sprinkler Testing1,2 or replacement Repeat testing required at:
required at:
All sprinklers not specified below 50 years from in-service date 10 year intervals until 75th year,
then 5 year intervals3
Quick Response 20 years from in-service date 10 year intervals
Dry sprinklers 10 years 10 years
Sprinklers in harsh environments4 5 years 5 years
Extra high temperature or 5 years 5 years
higher solder-type exposed to
semi-continuous to continuous
maximum allowable ambient
temperature
Sprinklers manufactured prior to Replace N/A
1920

1
Where historical data indicate, NFPA 25 permits longer intervals between testing.
2
Testing of a representative sample (minimum of 1% and no less than 4 sprinklers) must be done by a
recognized testing laboratory acceptable to the AHJ.
3
For example, testing or replacement is required at 50, 60, 70, 75, 80 (and every 5 years beyond).
4
For guidance on examples of harsh environments, see annex section A.[Link].2 of the 2014 edition of
NFPA 25.

Please refer to NFPA 25 2017, Chapter 5 for additional information on testing intervals for sprinkler
components and piping inspection

42
Sprinkler Testing: Testing is required at various frequencies as noted below.

Quarterly All Sprinkler Systems:

Flow test main drains.
This involves noting and recording the pressure of the gauge on the lower
side of the sprinkler valve (Figure 2-2 above). (This is the static water supply
pressure.) Open the 2-inch main drain fully; after the flow has stabilized, note
and record the pressure on the gauge again. (This is the residual water supply
pressure.) If the pressure readings vary significantly from those readings
previously recorded, there is indication that something may be wrong with
the water supply — such as a closed valve or blocked pipe. Loss of pressure
of more than 10 percent should be investigated immediately to determine its
cause. The effect that the drop in pressure will have on the sprinkler system
operation, as well as time to return to static, should also be determined to
assure that the system will perform satisfactorily.
Wet Pipe System:
Test water flow alarms.
Test alarms by opening the inspector’s test connection. This simulates
the flow of water from one sprinkler head and will activate the water
motor alarm as well as the flow switch or pressure switch. (When freezing
weather prohibits using the inspector’s test, the alarm by-pass connection can
be used. However, use of the alarm by-pass does not test the operation
of the valve clapper and is not considered as good a test as using the
inspector’s test connection.)
Dry Pipe System:
Test low air pressure alarm.
This test is conducted as follows:
1. Close the water supply valve so the system will not be accidentally
tripped.
2. Slowly release air from the system by gently opening the inspector’s
test valve.
3. The low air pressure alarm should sound when the pressure drops to that
recommended by the manufacturer. Do not allow pressure to drop
sufficiently to trip the dry pipe valve.
4. After the test, make sure that the air supply valve is open and that the
system air pressure has returned to normal, then reopen the water
supply valve.
Test water flow alarm.
Open the alarm by-pass valve. Use of the inspector’s test connection is
not desirable as it will cause the dry pipe valve to trip.

Semi-Annually Deluge Sprinkler System:

Test the fire detection system for proper operation. See Chapter 1 for
additional information.
Preaction Sprinkler System:
Test the fire detection system for proper operation. See Chapter 1 for
additional information.

43
Annually
Wet Pipe Sprinkler Systems:
Test the freezing point of antifreeze solutions if used. This is done by
measuring the specific gravity with a hydrometer. Adjust the solution as
necessary to maintain the freezing point of the solution below the estimated
minimum temperature and within concentrations permitted
Dry Pipe Sprinkler Systems:
Trip test the dry pipe valve at partial flow.
Before the trip test, the main drain valve should be fully opened and
the water supply flushed out until the water flows clean. If a hydrant is
located on the system supply, it should be flushed before the main drain
is flushed. This flushing will help to reduce the amount of debris getting
into the dry pipe system. Each dry pipe valve, including
quick opening devices if provided, should be trip tested. This test should
be done in the Spring after freezing weather, with the water supply control
valve only partially open. Once the valve trips, the water control valve can
be quickly closed so that the system is not filled with water. (Caution: Some
dry pipe valves will not operate properly without an adequate flow of water
to fully lift the clapper valve.) The valve is tripped by opening the inspector’s
test valve which releases air pressure within the system.
After the test, open the 2-inch main drain valve to drain the system. Remove
the valve cover and thoroughly clean the valve interior. Renew worn or
damaged parts as required, reset the valve, and replace the cover.
Add priming water and open the air supply to fill the system with air.
When the air pressure has reached its proper level, open the 2-inch main
drain to reduce the chance of a water hammer tripping the system,
then slowly open the water supply valve. When the water supply valve is
fully open, slowly close the 2-inch main drain.

Every 3 years Trip test the dry pipe valve at full flow.
The dry pipe valve should be trip tested with the water supply valve fully
open. The test should be terminated when clean water flows from the
inspector’s test connection.
A full trip test should also be conducted whenever the sprinkler system
undergoes a major alteration or extension.

Every 5 years All Sprinkler Systems:

Remove a representative sample of sprinklers with temperature classifi­cation
of Extra High (325ºF or 163ºC) or greater which are located in an area in
which the temperature frequently exceeds the maximum al­lowable ceiling
temperature. (See Table 2-1.) Provide new sprinklers of the same rating to
replace the removed sprinklers. The removed sprin­klers should be sent to a
laboratory for operational testing in accord­ance with NFPA 13. If sprinklers
fall to perform satisfactorily during the operational tests, all of the Extra
High and higher temperature heads should be replaced with new sprinklers of
similar rating.

Every 10 years Dry sprinklers that have been in service for 10 years shall be replaced or
representative samples shall be tested and then retested at 10-year intervals.

44
Every 20 years Sprinklers made with a fast response element and have been in service for 20
years shall be replaced or shall have a representative sample tested, and then new
samples shall be tested every 10 years

Every 50 years Remove a representative sample of standard response sprinklers from service
and provide new sprinklers in their place. Send the removed sprinklers to a
testing lab for operational testing in accordance with NFPA 13. If the sprinklers
fail to perform satisfactorily during the operational tests, all of them should be
replaced with new sprinklers of similar rating. After the 50-year operational test,
the test should be repeated every 10 years.
Note: A representative sample consists of the larger of 1% or no less than
four sprinklers per sampling area

Every 75 years Sprinklers piping shall be replaced or representative samples from one or
more sample areas shall be submitted to a recognized testing laboratory
acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction for field service testing and
repeated at 5-year intervals.

45
Smoke/Heat Detector Replacement See NFPA 72
Detector placement is critical to early warning functions. In order to provide an effective early warning of a developing
fire situation, smoke detectors should be installed in all areas of the protected premises. Local codes or ordinances may
not be adequate for early detection. The location, quantity and zoning of detectors should be engineered to provide
maximum life safety, as opposed to meeting minimum requirements of local codes.

Defining The Smoke Chamber

The continuous, smoke resistant perimeter boundary of a room or area to be protected. Between the upper surface of the
floor and the lower surface of the ceiling. The smoke barrier does not have to be a solid structure from floor to ceiling. A
solid structure that extends 18” or more from the ceiling would constitute a smoke barrier.
Open “grid” material is considered solid when:
• The openings are less than ¼” in the least dimension.
• The thickness of the material exceeds the least dimension.
• The openings constitute less than 70% of the area of the perforated material.

For Areas With Smooth And Flat Ceilings Ten Feet In Height
All points on the ceiling shall have a detector within a distance equal to .7 times the listed spacing.
Spot type detectors shall be located on the ceiling or, if on a sidewall, between the ceiling and 12” down form the ceiling
to the top of the detector.
The distance between detectors shall not exceed their listed spacing. There shall be detectors within one-half the listed
spacing, measured at right angles, from all side walls.
Detectors shall not be recessed mounted unless specifically listed for recess mounting.
Spot type smoke detectors must be a minimum 36” from air diffusers, and may not be in a direct airflow exceeding their
air velocity, regardless of distance.
Detectors shall be supported independently of their attachment to circuit conductors.
Spot type detectors should be mounted at least 6’ from florescent lights.
Except in cases where “stratification” is expected, detectors shall never be mounted more than 12” below ceiling level.
Detectors must be wired to ensure supervision of the detector head. Removal of the detector head must cause a trouble
condition on the panel.

Ceilings
Smooth Ceiling Spacing - Spot Type Smoke Detectors
In the absence of specific performance-based design criteria, smoke detectors shall be permitted to be located using
9.1 m (30 ft) spacing. NFPA 72, 2016, [Link].3.1
Solid Joist and Beam Construction
Solid joists shall be considered equivalent to beams for smoke detector spacing guidelines. NFPA 72, 2016, [Link].4.1

Level Ceilings
1. For ceilings with beam depths of less than 10 percent of the ceiling height (0.1 H), smooth ceiling spacing shall be permitted.
Spot-type smoke detectors shall be permitted to be located on ceilings or on the bottom of beams.
2. For ceilings with beam depths equal to or greater than 10 percent of the ceiling height (0.1 H), the following shall apply:
a. Where beam spacing is equal to or greater than 40 percent of the ceiling height (0.4 H), spot-type detectors shall be
located on the ceiling in each beam pocket.
b. Where beam spacing is less than 40 percent of the ceiling height (0.4 H), the following shall be permitted for
spot detectors:
i. Smooth ceiling spacing in the direction parallel to the beams and at one-half smooth ceiling spacing in the
direction perpendicular to the beams.
ii. Location of detectors either on the ceiling or on the bottom of the beams
3. For beam pockets formed by intersecting beams, including waffle or pan-type ceilings, the following shall apply:
a. For beam depths less than 10 percent of the ceiling height (0.1 H), spacing shall be in accordance with
[Link].4.2

46
 b. For beam depths greater than or equal to 10 percent of the ceiling height (0.1 H), spacing shall be in
accordance with [Link].4.2
4. For corridors 15 ft (4.6 m) in width or less having ceiling beams or solid joists perpendicular to the corridor
length, the following shall apply:
a. Smooth ceiling spacing shall be permitted.
b. Location of spot-type smoke detectors on ceilings, sidewalls, or the bottom of beams or solid joists
5. For rooms of 900 ft2 (84 m2) or less, the following shall be permitted:
a. Use of smooth ceiling spacing
b. Location of spot-type smoke detectors on ceilings or on the bottom of beams

NFPA 72 2016, [Link].4.2 See NFPA 72 2016, [Link].3.1 and [Link].4.4

Sloped/Peaked Ceilings
Sloped Ceiling - Having a slope of more than 1.5 inches per foot
Peaked Ceiling - Having a slope of more than 1.5 inches per foot in two directions from its highest point. May
include domed or curved ceilings.
To determine if a ceiling is sloped or peaked:
Divide the difference between the height of the low wall and the highest point of the ceiling in inches by the
width of the building in feet. If the answer is 1.5 or less, the ceiling is considered flat. (Highest point of ceiling
in inches) minus (top of low wall in inches) divided by (width of building in feet).

Smoke and heat detector placement on sloped ceilings

Make all measurements parallel to the floor, not along the ceiling. Locate the point on the ceiling which is 3 ft.
from the high sidewall. Locate the first detector anywhere within that three feet, except the four inches nearest
the wall. The remaining detectors shall be located in the remaining ares on the basis of the horizontal projection
of the ceiling, spaced in accordance with the type of construction.

Smoke and heat detector placement on peaked ceilings

Detectors shall first be spaced and located within 3 ft of the peak, measured horizontally. The number and spacing
of additional detectors, if any, shall be based on the horizontal projection of the ceiling NFPA 72 2016, [Link].

Raised Floors and Suspended Ceilings

Spaces beneath raised floors and above suspended ceilings shall be treated as separate rooms for smoke detector
spacing purposes. Detectors installed beneath raised floors or above suspended ceilings, or both, including
raised floors and suspended ceilings used for environmental air, shall not be used in lieu of providing detection
within the room. NFPA 72 2016, [Link]
To minimize dust contamination, smoke detectors, where installed under raised floors, shall be mounted only in
an orientation for which they have been listed. NFPA 72 2016, [Link].2

Protection During Construction

Where detectors are installed for signal initiation during construction, they shall be cleaned and verified to be operating
in accordance with the listed sensitivity, or they shall be replaced prior to the final commissioning of the system.
Where detectors are installed but not operational during construction, they shall be protected from construction
debris, dust, dirt, and damage in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations and verified to be operating
in accordance with the listed sensitivity, or they shall be replaced prior to the final commissioning of the system.
Where detection is not required during construction, detectors shall not be installed until after all other
construction trades have completed cleanup.
NFPA72, 2016 [Link]
Ceiling Height % of Listed Ceiling Height % of Listed
Above Up To Spacing Above Up To Spacing

0 10 100% 20 22 58%

Heat Detectors Only 10 12 91% 22 24 52%

On ceilings 10 ft. to 30 ft. 12 14 84% 24 26 46%

high, heat detector spacing 14 16 77% 26 28 40%

shall be reduced. 16 18 71% 28 30 34%

47
Temperature Classification for Heat-Sensing Fire Detectors NFPA 72, 2016 Table [Link]
Note: The difference between the detectors rated temperature and the maximum ambient ceiling temperature
should be as small as possible to minimize response time.

Temperature Temperature Rating Range Maximum Ceiling Temperature

Color Code
Classification
°C °F °C °F
low* 39-57 100-134 28 80 uncolored
ordinary 58-79 135-174 47 115 uncolored
intermediate 80-121 175-249 69 155 white
high 122-162 250-324 111 230 blue
extra high 163-204 325-399 152 305 red
very extra high 205-259 400-499 194 380 green
ultra high 260-302 500-575 249 480 orange
* Intended only for installation in controlled ambient areas. Units shall be marked to indicate maximum
ambient installation termperature.

Release Systems General Information and Terminology

Single Zone Activation - Any single alarm condition will cause the release circuit to trip.
Cross Zone Activation - An alarm condition must be present on two or more zones simultaneously, before the
release circuit will be energized.
Note: Cross zoning is used to help prevent false activation of the release circuit by requiring two or more
detectors on two or more zones to alarm. It is mainly used on deluge or dry chemical systems where accidental
discharge of the extinguishing agent must be prevented.
Or on double interlock systems where a smoke or heat detector must trip and a low air switch must also trip to
indicate a loss of air pressure in the system due to an open sprinkler.
Pre-Discharge Time - The time between when the panel detects an alarm and when the release circuit is activated.
Note: The pre-discharge time is generally an adjustable timer on the release panel. It is primarily used on
dry chemical systems. The purpose of the timer is to allow the appropriate personnel time to investigate the
situation, or to allow people to evacuate the area and shut the doors before the chemical is released.
Discharge Time - The amount of time the release panel will energize the solenoid. If there is any doubt as
to the amount of time this should be programmed for, set it for continuous. This will prevent the valve from
accidently slamming shut due to a momentary drop in water pressure. In the case of a double interlock system,
it will insure that the valve will open regardless of the amount of time between when the panel detects an alarm,
and a sprinkler opens to remove pressure from the system.
Suppression systems or groups of systems shall be controlled by a single control unit that monitors the
associated initiating device(s), actuates the associated releasing device(s), and controls the associated agent
release notification appliances. If the releasing control unit is located in a protected premises having a separate
fire alarm system, it shall be monitored for alarm, supervisory, and trouble signals, but shall not be dependent on
or affected by the operation or failure of the protected premises fire alarm system.
Exception: If the configuration of multiple control units is listed for releasing device service, and if a trouble
condition or manual disconnect on either control unit causes a trouble or supervisory signal, the initiating
devices on one control unit shall be permitted to actuate releasing devices on another control unit.
NFPA 72, 2016 23.11.8 - 23.11.10 Water Flow Switch: PS10-1, PS10-2
Water flow switches on single or double interlock systems, or deluge systems must be a pressure type device.
The switch is installed in line with the intermediate chamber or alarm port. This section of piping may run to
a water motor gong or just to a drain. Under normal (no alarm) condition, there is no water or pressure in this

48
section of piping. When water flows into the system, it also flows into this port. The flow switch will operate
when the pressure reaches 6 psi. These devices do not need a retard as there should be no water surges. This
device does not need adjusting.
The waterflow switch will not trip until after the release panel goes into alarm and operates the release circuit
which opens the valve and allows water to flow into the system.

Low Air Pressure Switch: PS40-1, PS40-2, PS10-1, PS10-2

The pressure on single and double interlock systems must be monitored to ensure the integrity of the piping.
On double interlock systems, a low air switch with two switches can be used. One switch could be set to trip
first for a low air SUPERVISORY condition which would indicate a loss of air pressure possibly due to a failed
compressor. The other switch could be set to trip a few psi lower for the low air ALARM. Then when a smoke
or heat detector and the low air ALARM switch are both in alarm at the same time, the release panel will trip
the solenoid. On systems with 5-15 psi, the PS10-1 will provide a low signal at 4 psi. It can be adjusted to trip
between 4-15 psi. For systems with more than 15 psi, the PS40-2 will provide a low signal at 30 psi. It can be
adjusted to trip between 10-60psi. To change the pressure settings, remove pressure from the device. Adjust the
thumb wheel until the top of the wheel corresponds with the desired pressure setting on the scale. The switch
should trip at approximately that pressure on a drop. Pressure supervisory switches should have a bleeder valve,
model BVL installed in line for testing purposes.

Pre-Action (Single-Interlock) Systems

Pre-Action systems are basically dry pipe systems, except they use an electrically operated valve to hold
back the water supply instead of a dry pipe valve. They are designed to overcome the operational delay of
conventional dry pipe systems, and to eliminate the possibility of accidental water damage caused by accidental
damage to the sprinkler heads or system piping.
The water supply valve is operated independently of the opening of sprinklers. The valve is opened by the
operation of a releasing panel which is monitoring initiating devices such as smoke or heat detectors, not by the
fusing of sprinklers.
Single interlock systems use closed sprinklers attached to a piping system containing supervisory air pressure.
The water is held back by an electrically operated valve. The valve is connected to a compatible releasing panel.
The panel is monitoring initiating devices such as smoke or heat detectors, and manual stations, that are located
in the same area as the sprinkler heads. These devices are connected to the releasing panels alarm initiating
zones. A low air pressure supervisory switch is used to monitor the supervisory pressure in the piping system, it
is connected to a supervisory zone on the release panel.
If the system pressure drops due to an open sprinkler, damaged pipe, or air compressor failure, the pressure
switch will cause a supervisory condition on the release panel, the valve will not open. If the smoke or heat
detectors operate or if a manual station is activated, the release panel will go into an alarm condition, causing
the release circuit on the panel to energize which will allow the valve to open and water to flow into the system
piping, even if no sprinklers have opened.

Typical System Configuration (PFC-4410RC Program #1)

Initiating [ inputs ]
Zone #1 - Conventional Alarm Zone - Smoke or Heat detectors
Zone #2 - Conventional Alarm Zone - Smoke or Heat detectors
Zone #3 - Waterflow Zone - Pressure type waterflow switch
Zone #4 - Manual Station Zone - Pull Stations
Sup #1 - Supervisory Zone - Valve tamper and/or low air supervision
Sup #2 - Supervisory Zone - Valve tamper and/or low air supervision
Indicating (outputs)
#1 - General Alarm - Operates as soon as the panel detects an alarm condition.
#2 - Waterflow Bell - Operates when the waterflow switch detects water flowing into the system.
#3 - Release - Opens the Solenoid to allow water into the system after the panel goes into alarm.
#4 - Supervisory - Bell or horn to indicate a supervisory condition.

49
 WATER
SPRINKLER SPRINKLER SPRINKLER
MOTOR
ALARM

TO DRAIN
SMOKE SMOKE
DETECTOR DETECTOR

PS10
PRESSURE
SUPERVISORY
ALARM SWITCH
HORN

SUPERVISORY
BELL

PS10
PRESSURE
BVL
ALARM
BLEEDER
SWITCH
VALVE

TO AIR
SUPPLY
TO PFC-4410RC

MANUAL
STATION

24 VDC
SOLENOID

WATERFLOW
BELL

OSYSU
TAMPER
SWITCH

Single Interlock
DWG# 8704200-L

50
Pre-Action (Double-Interlock) Systems
The double interlock system is designed for applications such as refrigerated areas, requiring maximum
protection against inadvertent operation.
Double interlock systems use closed sprinklers attached to a piping system containing supervisory air pressure.
The water is held back by an electrically operated valve. The valve is connected to a compatible releasing panel.
The panel is monitoring initiating devices such as smoke or heat detectors, and manual stations that are located in
the same area as the sprinkler heads. These devices are connected to the releasing panels alarm initiating zones.
The supervisory air pressure in the piping system is also monitored. A low air switch on a double interlock
system may perform two functions. One is to send a supervisory signal if the air pressure drops to a certain
point such as if an air compressor failed. This would be connected to a supervisory zone on the release panel.
The other would be an alarm condition if the air pressure dropped farther such as from a sprinkler opening due
to fire. This would be connected to an alarm initiating zone on the release panel and is one of the two events
necessary for the panel to operate the release circuit. The other event is a smoke or heat detector going into
alarm. On some release panels the low air switch may only cause a supervisory condition not an actual alarm
condition even though it is still one of the two events necessary to operate the release circuit.
In order to trip the release circuit, two independent events must occur. The sprinkler system piping must lose
air pressure due to the operation of one or more heads which causes the low air pressure switch to trip, and the
release panel must detect an alarm from an initiating device such as a smoke or heat detector.
If the system pressure drops due to an open sprinkler, damaged pipe, or compressor failure, the pressure switch
will cause a supervisory and/or an alarm condition on the release panel. If a smoke or heat detector or manual
station has not operated, the release circuit will not trip because only one event has happened
If a smoke or heat detector operates or a manual station is activated, the release panel will go into alarm. If the low
air switch has not tripped, the release circuit on the panel will not operate because only one event has happened.

Typical System Configuration (PFC-4410RC Program #11)

Initiating (inputs)
Zone #1 - Conventional Alarm Zone - Smoke or Heat detectors
Zone #2 - Conventional Alarm Zone - Low Air Alarm switch
Zone #3 - Waterflow Zone - Pressure type waterflow switch
Zone #4 - Manual Station Zone - Pull Stations
Sup #1 - Supervisory Zone - Valve tamper and low air supervisory switch
Sup #2 - Supervisory Zone - Valve tamper and low air supervisory switch

Indicating (outputs)
#1 - Alarm - General alarm. Bell, horn, strobe, etc.
#2 - Alarm - Waterflow bell
#3 - Release - Solenoid on valve
#4 - Supervisory - Bell or horn to indicate supervisory condition

Theory of Operation
When both zones 1 and 2 are in alarm at the same time or if the manual station zone is
activated, the release circuit and the general alarm outputs, will operate.
Activation of zone 1 or zone 2 will operate the general alarm output.
Activation of the waterflow zone will operate the waterflow output.
Activation of the supervisory zone will operate the supervisory output.

51
 SPRINKLER SPRINKLER SPRINKLER
WATER
MOTOR
ALARM

TO DRAIN
SMOKE DETECTOR SMOKE DETECTOR

PS10
PRESSURE
SUPERVISORY
ALARM SWITCH
HORN

BELL
SUPERVISORY

PS10
BVL
PRESSURE
BLEEDER
ALARM
VALVE
SWITCH

TO AIR
SUPPLY
TO PFC-4410RC

MANUAL
STATION

SOLENOID

BELL
FIRE ALARM

OSYSU
TAMPER
SWITCH

Double Interlock System

52
Deluge Systems
The purpose of a deluge system is to deliver water immediately to the protected area. It wets down an entire
area by dispensing water through sprinklers or spray nozzles that are normally open. Since the operation of a
deluge system does not rely on the opening of sprinkler heads, they are suitable for extra hazard occupancies in
which flammable liquids are handled or stored.
The water for a deluge system is held back by an electrically operated valve. The valve is connected to a
compatible release panel. The panel is monitoring initiating devices such as smoke or heat detectors, and pull
stations. When the panel detects an alarm condition, the release circuit is energized. This allows the valve to
open and water to flow into the system piping and out of the normally open sprinklers or spray nozzles.
In order to prevent an accidental discharge of water, deluge systems are sometimes crosszoned. This requires two
initiating zones with one device in each zone to be in alarm before the panel will energize the release circuit. A
manual station zone will override the cross zoning feature and cause the release circuit to be energized immediately.

Typical Configuration
Initiating (inputs)
Zone #1 - Conventional Alarm Zone - Smoke or Heat detectors
Zone #2 - Conventional Alarm Zone - Smoke or Heat detectors
Zone #3 - Waterflow Zone - Pressure type waterflow switch
Zone #4 - Manual Station Zone - Pull Stations
Sup #1 - Supervisory Zone - Valve tamper
Sup #2 - Supervisory Zone - Valve tamper
Note: If the panel is programmed for cross zone operation, both zones 1 and 2 would have to be in alarm before
the release circuit would become energized. The manual station zone would override the cross zoning feature.

Indicating (outputs)
#1 - Alarm - General alarm. Bell, horn, strobe, etc.
#2 - Alarm - Waterflow bell
#3 - Release - Solenoid on valve
#4 - Supervisory - Bell or horn to indicate supervisory condition

53
 WATER
OPEN SPRINKLER OPEN SPRINKLER OPEN SPRINKLER MOTOR
ALARM

TO DRAIN
SMOKE SMOKE
DETECTOR DETECTOR

ALARM
HORN
ZONE 1

ALARM
BELL
ZONE 2

PS10
PRESSURE
ALARM
SWITCH
TO PFC-4410RC

MANUAL
STATION

24 VDC
SOLENOID

WATERFLOW
BELL

OSYSU
TAMPER
SWITCH

DELUGE VALVE
SYSTEM DWG# 8704200-K

54
System Installation
• Read and Understand All Instructions Before Proceeding
• Follow the manufacturers instructions
• Never connect or disconnect wiring or circuit boards with any power applied!
• Test release panel completely before bringing it to the job site. This will eliminate the possibility of installing
a defective panel
• Perform power calculations to determine if system power supply and wiring are sufficient
• Perform battery calculations to determine proper battery size
• Fire circuits cannot be run in the same raceway, cable or conduit as high voltage circuits
• When not in conduit, fire circuits should not be strapped to high voltage conduit, as electrical “noise” can
interfere with the fire circuits
• Prepare a carefully laid out drawing of the complete system, including wiring hookup. A copy of this drawing
should be secured in the panel cabinet
• Locate the panel for convenience and serviceability
• Carefully remove the panel and any associated modules from the cabinet
• Mount the cabinet and complete all conduit connections
• Pull all system wiring through conduit, tag and mark wires
• Install panel and any associated modules in cabinet
• Check integrity of field wiring

Before making any external circuit connections:

1. Power up the panel using only the end of line devices. The panel should be in a normal condition
2. Power down
3. Connect one circuit
4. Power up, panel should be in a normal condition
5. Repeat steps 2-4 until installation is complete

Battery Size Calculations

To use Calculation Table
1. List in column #1 all devices used in the system, include all modules, bells, horns, door holders, and smoke
detectors (see table #1 or manufacturers specifications).
2. List in column #2 the quantity of each device.

3. List in column #3 the standby current of each device (exclude all signal indicating devices).

4. List in column #5 the alarm current of each device.

5. For each line, multiply the figure in column #2 by the figure in column #3 and enter the product in column
#4. Then multiply the figure in column #2 by the figure in column #5 and enter the product in column #6.
6. Add the figures in columns #3 and #6, enter the sums in the appropriate Total mA box.

7. Convert these figures from mill amperes to amperes by multiplying by 0.001, enter the product in the
appropriate Total A box.

8. Multiply the standby total amperes by required time in hours from table 2.

9. Divide the alarm total amperes by 12 (5 mins.).

10. Add the standby AH and the alarm AH and divide this sum by 0.85 (efficiency factor). Select a battery that
has an AH rating above this figure but not less than 6.5AH.

55
Battery Size Requirements and Maintenance
These panels require a 24 volt gel-cell battery for proper operation. 24 hours of standby power is required for
Local Systems and Central Station (NFPA-72).
The chart below will assist you in selecting the proper size battery: (Does not include LED Annunciator)

Number Number of
Auxiliary Power Standby Hours Battery Size Part/Stock
of Smoke Bells
Requirements Required (2 Required) Number
Detectors (100mA each)
0-100 0-10 0-25mA 24 8AH BT-80/5130084
0-100 0-10 0-30mA 90 18AH BT-180/5130086
Note: Maximum allowed battery size for UL Listings is 12AH. FM and others may require more than 24 hours
of standby time and may use larger batteries (Potter stock model 1000015). Mark the purchase date on the bat-
teries. Test the batteries at least semi annually according to the battery test methods in NFPA72 or the battery
manufacturers instructions. Replace the batteries if they either fail the test or after four years of use.

56
Table 1 Current Requirements
Module/Device Standby mA* Alarm mA*
PFC-4410RC 121 274
RA-4410RC 11 13

*Add 23 mA plus current requirement of all devices connected for each output programmed as Trouble Bell
**Includes one zone short circuit current.

Table 2 Secondary Power Supply Requirements

Service Use Standby Time

Alarm Time

NFPA 72
• Central Station (PPU) 24 hrs. 5 mins.
• Local 24 hrs. 5 mins.
FMRC 1011 and 1012, Deluge and Pre-action Systems 90 hrs. 10 mins.
Where requested by FM or others.
90 Hours is not a UL requirement.

Calculation Table
1 2 3 4 5 6

Module/Device Quantity Standby mA Per Unit Total Standby Current Alarm mA Per Unit Total Alarm Current

Total mA Total mA
Convert to A x 0.001 Convert to A x 0.001
Total A Total A
Multiply by hours from table 2 x ___ 5 min/12 or 10 min/6 ÷ ___
Total Standby AH Total Alarm AH
+ Total Standby AH
Total AH
Efficiency Factor ÷ 0.80
Required AH
Use a battery with a higher AH rating than Required AH

57
This page intentionally left blank.

58
 PFC-4410RC
Releasing Control Panel

Features
• Multi-Hazard Operation
• Programmable Cross Zoning
• Supervised Microprocessor
• Custom Banner Message and Zone Description text
• Releasing Circuits Protected From False Activation
• Continuous or Timed Discharge
• 40 Event History Buffer
• Walktest with Automatic Time-out
• Alarm, Trouble Supervisory, and Waterflow relays
• Optional Class A Initiating Zone and output module
• 24 Standard Programs in Panel Memory
• Suitable for agent or water-based extinguishing
• Programmable pre-discharge timers*
• One Class B Abort circuit* (Defaults to additional supervisory zone
in water based mode.)
• Four Abort modes*
* Available in Chemical mode only
** One zone programmable as abort in chemical mode.

General Description Technical Specifications

The Potter Model PFC-4410RC is a flexible multi-hazard releasing Dimensions 18 1/2” H x 14 1/4 W x 4 3/4” D
control panel that is well suited for a number of applications. The PFC- 18 gauge cold rolled steel with removable locked door with
4410RC is listed for use with pre-action and deluge sprinkler suppression Enclosure
Lexan viewing window
systems and agent based fire suppression systems.
120VAC, (60 Hz, 165VA)
The panel utilizes a microprocessor-based system that has 24 Standard AC Mains
220VAC, (50/60 Hz, 185VA)
Programs, which covers a majority of installations. The simple to follow
Menu Structure programs the entire system in a matter of minutes. In 121 mA Standby
Battery
addition to the Standard Programs, the panel allows custom programming 247 mA Alarm
to accommodate any installation. Temperature
32° to 120° (0°C to 49°C) with a maximum humidity of
The panel is Ninth Edition UL listed, ULC listed, Factory Mutual, and Humidity
93% non-condensing.
California State Fire Marshal (CSFM), New York Materials Equipment Range
Acceptance (MEA) Approved, CE Marked, and RoHS Compliant. NFPA 72, NFPA12, NFPA12A, NFPA-13, NFPA-15,
Standards NFPA-16, NFPA-17, NFPA-17A, NFPA-750, and
The PFC-4410RC is housed in a durable steel cabinet with removable NFPA-2001.
door and key lock. The panel is available in either a red or white finish
and an optional flush mount trim ring is available. The cabinet contains
knockouts on the side, back and top of the cabinet to ease installation.
In addition, the cabinet will house up to 18 amp-hour batteries that will
provide in excess of 90 hours of standby power.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 59 OF 118
 PFC-4410RC
Releasing Control Panel

Architects/Engineers Specifications The control shall have one fully supervised class B (style B) Abort circuit
with 4 different operating modes, ULI, IRI, and NYC, and 30 second.
The control panel for the extinguishing agent releasing system shall be a
microprocessor based control capable of protecting multiple hazards in The control shall have four fully supervised Class B (Style Y) output
one control panel. It shall be Underwriters Laboratories Inc. listed under circuits. These circuits shall be selectable through the programming
Standard 864 Ninth Edition and Underwriters Laboratories of Canada sequence to operate as one of the following: Alarm Notification
for Local Control Units for Releasing Service. The control shall also be Appliance, Supervisory Notification Appliance, Trouble Notification
approved by Factory Mutual Research Corporation and be compliant with Appliance or Releasing. The optional CAM module may be added to
the requirements of NFPA-72 (Local: A, M, SS service types; DAC and convert the outputs to Class A.
NC signaling type) and NFPA12, NFPA12A, NFPA-13, NFPA-15, NFPA- The panel shall have an RS-485 output and auxiliary power outputs for
16, NFPA-17, NFPA-17A, NFPA-750, and NFPA-2001. connection and supervision of up to 4 remote annunciators or an ARM-44
The control shall be housed in an 18 gauge steel cabinet that has a hinged, Relay Module and 3 annunciators.
removable door with a key lock. The finish shall be baked enamel and The releasing circuits shall be supervised for short circuit conditions and
available in red or off-white with contrasting trim and logo. An optional shall be programmable for cross zoning operation when required. The
matching bezel should be available for semi-flush mounting. The cabinet discharge timer for these releasing circuits shall be programmable for
shall have adequate space to house 18 AH standby batteries capable of times of 7, 8, 9, 10, 20 minutes or continuous. All initiating and
operating the system for at least 90 hours. output circuits shall be capable of being individually disabled or enabled.
The control shall include a fully supervised integral power In addition, when in the agent extinguishing mode there shall be a pre-
supply/battery charger capable of providing 200mA to the auxiliary power discharge timer adjustable from 0-60 seconds from an alarm zone or 0-30
circuit. It shall also be capable of providing 2.5 Amps to all releasing seconds from a manual release zone.
and notification appliance circuits combined. All initiating, output and The control shall have a test mode that will automatically disable all
auxiliary power circuits shall be power limited. releasing circuits. The test mode shall operate in such a manner as to
The control shall have a 32 character (16 characters, 2 lines) backlit LCD automatically reset the initiating circuit and indicating circuits after
display and a 34 LED supplemental display. All diagnostic and alarm detecting each alarm condition initiated by the test. All testing shall be
event information shall be viewable in text form on this display. A field recorded in the 40 event history buffer. The test mode will automatically
programmable custom banner message with the current date and time terminate after twenty minutes of inactivity.
shall be displayed when no current alarm or diagnostic information exists. The control shall have four integral relay contacts rated 3 Amps at 30 VDC
All operational features of the control panel shall be field programmable for connection to external auxiliary equipment. One relay shall operate
using menu driven selections on the alpha-numeric display and on board when an alarm condition occurs, another when a trouble signal occurs,
controls. No special programmer will be required and jumpers or switches the third when a supervisory condition occurs, and the fourth during a
to configure operational features shall not be permitted. Alarm and trouble waterflow condition.
indications shall resound when required.
The control panel shall be equipped with 24 programs built into the panel
memory, 15 for water based extinguishing and 9 for agent extinguishing.
In addition, the panel shall have the ability to add custom programs. All
programming functions shall be password protected.
The control shall have four fully supervised Class B (Style B) initiating
circuits capable of supporting the operation of 25 compatible 2-wire
smoke detectors on each circuit.
The individual circuits shall be selectable through the programming
sequence to operate in one of the following modes: Conventional,
Waterflow, Linear Heat Detection (up to 700 ohms per zone), Manual
Release, Low Air Alarm, Supervisory, Tamper, Low Air or High Air.
Optional Class A modules, CA2Z, may be added for Class A operation.
The panel shall have a Low Air Zone that creates a supervisory condition
and can be mapped to a release output.
The control shall have two fully supervised Class B (Style B) supervisory
circuits. These circuits shall be selectable through the programming
sequence to operate in one of the following modes: Supervisory, Tamper,
Low Air or High Air.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 60 OF 118
 PFC-4410RC
Releasing Control Panel

Ordering Information
Model Description Stock No.
PFC-
4 Zone Releasing Control (White Cabinet) 3992360
4410RC
PFC-
4 Zone Releasing Control (Red Cabinet)
4410RC
PFC-
4410RC- Replacement Motherboard
PCA
PFC-TW Bezel for Semi-Flush Mounting (White)
PFC-TR Bezel for Semi-Flush Mounting (Red)
Battery, 12V 8AH for 24 hour standby (2
BT-80
Req’d)
Battery, 12V 12AH for 24 hour standby
BT-120
(2 Req’d)
Battery, 12V, 18AH for 90 hour standby
BT-180
(2 Req’d)
CA2Z 2 Zone Class A Initiating Circuit Module
CAM Class A Indicating Circuit Module
ARM-44 Relay Module for PFC-4410RC
ARM-2 Auxiliary Relay Module
RA-
Remote Annunciator
4410RC
BB-RA- Surface Mount Back Box for RA-4410RC
44R (Red)

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 61 OF 118
 BELLS
PBA-AC & MBA-DC

Features
• Listed for indoor and outdoor use
• Outdoor use requires BBK-1 or HC-BB weatherproof back box
• Indoor use mounts directly to standard 4” box
• Low current draw
• High dB output
• AC and DC models
• DC models are motor driven, polarized, and have built in transient
protection for supervised alarm circuits
• Available in 6”, 8” and 10” sizes

* ULC on MBA-DC Only

Description Technical Specifications

These vibrating type bells are designed for use as fire or general signaling Dimensions 6” (150mm), 8” (200mm) and 10” (250mm)
devices. They have low power consumption and high decibel ratings. The
Cover: Steel Finish: Red Powder Coat
unit mounts on a standard 4” (101mm) square electrical box for indoor Base: non-corrosive composite material
use or on a model BBK-1 or HC-BB weatherproof backbox for outdoor Enclosure
All parts have corrosion resistant finishes
applications. Weatherproof backbox model BBK-1 or HC-BB, Stock No. Model BBK-1 or HC-BB weatherproof backbox (optional)
1500001. 24VAC
120VAC
Notes Voltages Available
12VDC (10.2 to 15.6) Polarized
24VDC (20.4 to 31.2) Polarized
1. Minimum dB ratings are calculated from integrated sound pressure
measurements made at Underwriters Laboratories as specified in UL Indoor or outdoor use (See Note 1)
Environmental -40° to 150°F (-40° to 66°C)
Standard 464. UL temperature range is -30° to 150°F (-34° to 66°C) Limitations (Outdoor use requires weatherproof backbox.)
2. Typical dB ratings are calculated from measurements made with a
conventional sound level meter and are indicative of output levels in AC Bells - 4 No. 18 AWG stranded wires
Termination DC Bells - Terminal strip
an actual installation.
3. ULC only applies to MBA DC bells. Service Use NFPA 13, 72, local AHJ

Size inches Voltage Model Stock Current Typical dB at Minimum dB at *Specifications subject to change without notice.
(mm) Number Number (Max.) 10 ft. (3m) (2) 10 ft. (3m) (1)

6 (150) 12VDC MBA-6-12 1750070 .12A 85 76

8 (200) 12VDC MBA-8-12 1750080 .12A 90 77
10 (250) 12VDC MBA-10-12 1750060 .12A 92 78 • Installation must be performed by qualified personnel and in accordance with all
6 (150) 24VDC MBA-6-24 1750100 .06A 87 77 national and local codes and ordinances.
• Shock hazard. Disconnect power source before servicing. Serious injury or death
8 (200) 24VDC MBA-8-24 1750110 .06A 91 79 could result.
10 (250) 24VDC MBA-10-24 1750090 .06A 94 80 • Risk of explosion. Not for use in hazardous locations. Serious injury or death could
6 (150) 24VAC PBA246 1806024* .17A 91 78 result.
8 (200) 24VAC PBA248 1808024* .17A 94 77
10 (250) 24VAC PBA2410 1810024* .17A 94 78
6 (150) 120VAC PBA1206 1806120* .05A 92 83
8 (200) 120VAC PBA1208 1808120* .05A 99 84 In outdoor or wet installations, bell must be mounted with weatherproof backbox,
10 (250) 120VAC PBA12010 1810120* .05A 99 86 BBK-1 or HC-BB. Standard electrical boxes will not provide a weatherproof
enclosure. If the bell and/or assembly is exposed to moisture, it may fail or create an
electrical hazard.

All DC bells are polarized and have built-in transient protection. * Does not have ULC listing.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 62 OF 118
 BELLS
PBA-AC & MBA-DC

Installation
The bell shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 13, 72, or local AHJ. The top of the device shall be no less than 90” AFF and not less than 6” below the
ceiling.
1. Remove the gong.
2. Connect wiring (see Fig. 3).
3. Mount bell mechanism to backbox (bell mechanism must be mounted with the striker pointing down).
4. Reinstall the gong (be sure that the gong positioning pin, in the mechanism housing, is in the hole in the gong).
5. Test all bells for proper operation and observe that they can be heard where required (bells must be heard in all areas as designated by the authority hav-
ing jurisdiction).

Weatherproof Backbox Dimensions

Inches (mm)
Failure to install striker down will prevent bell from ringing. MODEL BBK-1 OR HC-BB
Fig 2
Bell Dimension Inches (mm)
Fig 1

5 3/4” 3 3/8” 5”
(146 mm) (86 mm) (127 mm)

10”
(250 mm)
8”
(200 mm) 6” 3 3/8”
1 5/8” (86 mm)
(150 mm) (41 mm)
4 1/4”
(108 mm)
DWG# 776-2

2 11/16”
(68 mm)
DWG# 776-1

Wiring Rear View

Fig 3

NOTES: NOTES: NOTES: NOTES:

1. POLARITY
OBSERVE POLARITY TO RING D.C. BELLS. 1. WHEN1. USING
WHEN A.C.
USING A.C. BELLS,
BELLS, TERMINATE
TERMINATE EACH EXTRA
EACH EXTRA WIRE SEPERATELY
WIRE SEPERATELY
1. OBSERVE TO RING D.C. BELLS.
2. RED WIRES (+).
POSITIVE (+). AFTER
AFTER LAST LAST BELL.
BELL.
2. RED WIRES POSITIVE
3. BLACK WIRES NEGATIVE (-). 2. END-OF-LINE
2. END-OF-LINE RESISTORRESISTOR
IS NOT IS NOT REQUIRED
REQUIRED ON AC ON AC BELLS
BELLS . .
3. BLACK WIRES NEGATIVE (-).
4. EOL RESISTOR IS SUPPLIED BY FIRE ALARM CONTROL PANEL.
4. EOL RESISTOR IS SUPPLIED BY FIRE ALARM CONTROL PANEL.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 63 OF 118
 BVL
Lever Type Bleeder Valve

Installation PS40

The BVL should be installed in-line to the alarm or supervisory device

with the “PD” (Potter Device) stamp, or with the arrow pointing toward
the alarm or supervisory device that is to be tested.

Wiring Instructions
The Model BVL, lever type bleeder valve, is for use as a test valve for
pressure operated devices on wet pipe sprinkler systems that have excess
pressure, or dry pipe sprinkler systems. BVL

The BVL should be installed in-line with the pressure device. It provides
a convenient means for removal or testing the pressure actuated device
without affecting the pressure in the system. Closing the valve (moving
the valve handle perpendicular to the 1/2” pipeline) shuts off the water
or air from the supply and opens a small orifice (pin-hole) to exhaust the
pressure between the valve and the pressure device. This should provide a
low pressure actuation of the pressure device, testing its operation.

Technical Specifications
Exhaust Orifice .125” (3mm) RISER TO SPRINKLERS
DWG# 799-1
Valve Body: Bronze
Material
Handle: Zinc Plated Steel
Connection 1/2” NPT male
Maximum System

CAUTION
300 PSI (20,68 BAR)
Pressure

*Specifications subject to change without notice. The BVL should be installed so the exhaust orifice is pointed in a safe
direction.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 64 OF 118
 OSYSU Series
Outside Screw and Yoke Valve
Supervisory Switch

Features
• NEMA 4X* (IP 65) and 6P (IP 67)
*Enclosure is 4X. For additional corrosion protection of
mounting hardware, use model OSYSU-2 CRH
• -40º to 140º (-40ºC to 60ºC) operating temperature range
• Visual switch indicators
• Two conduit entrances
• Adjustable length trip rod
• Accomodates up to 12AWG wire
• Three position switch detects tampering and valve closure
• Knurled mounting bracket prevents slipping
• Fine adjustment feature for fast, easy installation
• RoHS compliant
• One or two SPDT contact models (-1,-2)

Before any work is done on the fire sprinkler or fire alarm system, the
building owner or their authorized representative shall be notified.
Before opening any closed valve, ensure that opening the valve will not
cause any damage from water flow due to open or missing sprinklers,
piping, etc.

Important: This document contains important information on the installation and operation of OS&Y valve supervisory switches. Please read all instructions
carefully before beginning installation. A copy of this document is required by NFPA 72 to be maintained on site.

Technical Specifications
Description Dimensions See Fig 8
The OSYSU is used to monitor the open position of an OS&Y (outside Weight 1.6 lbs (0,73 kg)
screw and yoke) type gate valve. This device is available in two models;
the OSYSU-1, containing one set of SPDT (Form C) contacts and the Cover: Die Cast Finish: Red Powder Coat
OSYSU-2, containing two sets of SPDT (Form C) contacts. These Enclosure Base: Die Cast Finish: Black Powder Coat
switches mount conveniently to most OS&Y valves ranging in size from All parts have corrosion resistant finishes
2” to 12” (50mm to 300mm). They will mount on some valves as small
as ½” (12,5mm). Tamper Resistant Screws
Cover Tamper Optional Cover Tamper Switch Available
The cover is held in place by two tamper resistant screws that require a
special tool to remove. The tool is furnished with each device.
OSYSU-1: One Set of SPDT (Form C)
Testing OSYSU-2: Two Sets of SPDT (Form C)
Contact Ratings 10.0 Amps at 125/250 VAC
The operation of the OSYSU and its associated protective monitoring 2.0 Amps at 30VDC Resistive
system shall be inspected, tested, and maintained in accordance with all 10 mAmps minimum at 24 VDC
applicable local and national codes and standards and/or the Authority
Having Jurisdiction (manufacturer recommends quarterly or more -40º F to 140ºF (-40ºC to 60ºC)
frequently). A minimum test shall consist of turning the valve wheel NEMA 4X (IP 65) and NEMA 6P (IP 67) Enclosure
towards the closed position. The OSYSU shall operate within the first two Environmental (Use suitably rated conduit and connector)
revolutions of the wheel. Fully close the valve and ensure that the OSYSU Limitations Indoor or Outdoor Use (See OSYSU-EX Bulletin
does not restore. Fully open the valve and ensure that the OSYSU restores 5400705 for Hazardous locations)
to normal only when the valve is fully opened.
Conduit En- Two Knockouts for 1/2” conduit provided
trances (See Notice on Page 6 and Fig. 9 on Page 5)
CAUTION Service Use NFPA 13, 13D, 13R, 72
Close the valve fully to determine that the stem threads do not Specifications subject to change without notice
activate the switch. The switch being activated by the stem threads
could result in a false valve open indication.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 65 OF 118
 OSYSU Series
Outside Screw and Yoke Valve
Supervisory Switch

Theory of Operation
The OSYSU is a 3 position switch. The center position is the normal installation position. Normal is when the switch is installed on the OS&Y valve, the valve
is fully open and the trip rod of the OSYSU is in the groove of the valve stem. Closing the valve causes the trip rod to ride up out of the groove and activates the
switches. Removing the OSYSU from the valve causes the spring to pull the trip rod in the other direction and activates the switches.

Visual Switch Status Indication

There are 3 visual indicators to determine the status of the switches.
Fig 1; the actuator button of the micro switches are on the raised section of the switch actuator.
Fig 2; the trip rod is perpendicular to the base and lined up with the alignment mark on the mounting bracket.
Fig 3; the white visual indicator is visible through the window on the back of the switch actuator.
A final test is to meter the contacts marked COM and N.O. to ensure they are an open circuit when the valve is open and that they close and have continuity within
2 revolutions of turning the valve handwheel towards the closed position and the contacts remain closed as the valve is completely closed and until the valve is
completely opened when the trip rod drops back into the groove in the valve stem.

Fig 1 Fig 2 Fig 3

Fig 4 Fig 5 Trip Rod Locking

Screw

Micro-Adjustment
Feature

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 66 OF 118
 DETAIL A
SCALE 1 : 1
OSYSU Series
Outside Screw and Yoke Valve
Supervisory Switch
B
Small Valve Installation - 1/2” Through 2 1/2” Sizes
Fig 6

SLOTTED MOUNTING
HOLES MAY BE USED
FOR FINE ADJUSTMENT
OF SWITCH ASSEMBLY
TO MOUNTING BRACKET
Slotted mounting holes and micro-adjustment
feature may be used for fine adjustment of switch
assembly to mounting bracket.
Re-tighten screws to 20 in-lbs minimum.

Small Valve Installation rod of the OSYSU pulled against the valve stem and centered in CEN
the groove of the stem. If possible, position the OSYSU with the


MOUNTING BRACKET
NOTE: If the valve stem is pre-grooved at 1/8” minimum
depth; proceed to step 7.
flat side of the bracket toward the hand wheel, as shown in Fig.
6, to help avoid creating a pinch point between the wheel and
1. Remove and discard "E" ring and roller from the trip rod. OSYSU. When in this preferred mounting position, it is usually
2. With the valve in the FULL OPEN position, locate the OSYSU best to use the white indicator visible through the window, as
across the valve yoke as far as possible from the valve gland so illustrated in Fig. 3, to aid in initially locating the OSYSU in
that the spring loaded trip rod of the OSYSU is pulled against the
non threaded portion of the valve stem. Position the OSYSU with
ROLLER
the correct position on the yoke. If the unit must be installed
inverted with the white indicator no longer easily visible, use the
the bracket near the handwheel as shown in Fig. 6 if possible to visual indicators of the actuator buttons on the micro-switches,
avoid creating a pinch point between the wheel and the OSYSU. as illustrated in Fig. 1, or the trip rod alignment mark on the
bracket, as illustrated in Fig. 2 , to aid in initially locating the
3. Loosen the locking screw that holds the trip rod in place and OSYSU.
adjust the rod length (see Fig. 5). When adjusted properly, the
rod should extend past the valve screw, but not so far that it 8. Final adjustment can be made by slightly loosening the two
contacts the clamp bar. Tighten the locking screw to 5 in-lbs screws on the bracket and using the fine adjustment feature
minimum to hold the trip rod in place and properly seal the (see Fig. 5). The adjustment is correct when the plungers on the
enclosure. switches are depressed by the actuator and there is no continuity
between the COM and NO terminals on the switches.
NOTE: If trip rod length is excessive, loosen the locking
screw and remove the trip rod from the trip lever. Using 9. Tighten the adjustment screws and all mounting hardware
pliers, break off the one (1) inch long notched section (see securely (20 in-lbs minimum). Check to insure that the rod
Fig. 10). Reinstall trip rod and repeat Step 3 procedure. moves out of the groove easily and that the switches activate
within two turns when the valve is operated from the FULL
4. Mount the OSYSU loosely with the carriage bolts and clamp bar OPEN towards the CLOSED position.
supplied. On valves with limited clearance use J-hooks supplied
instead of the carriage bolts and clamp bar to mount the OSYSU. 10. Reinstall the cover and tighten the cover screws to 15 in-lbs
minimum to properly seal the enclosure.
5. Mark the valve stem at the center of the trip rod.
6.
CAUTION
Remove the OSYSU. Utilizing a 3/16” or 1/4” diameter straight
file, file a 1/8” minimum depth groove centered on the mark on
the valve stem. Deburr and smooth the edges of the groove to Close the valve fully to determine that the stem threads do not
prevent damage to the valve packing and to allow the trip rod to
activate the switch. The switch being activated by the stem threads
move easily in and out of the groove as the valve is operated.
could result in a false valve open indication.
NOTE: A groove depth of up to approximately 3/16” can
make it easier to install the OSYSU so that it does not restore
as it rolls over by the threads of the valve stem.
7. Mount the OSYSU on the valve yoke with the spring loaded trip

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 67 OF 118
 DETAIL A
SCALE 1 : 1
OSYSU Series
Outside Screw and Yoke Valve
Supervisory Switch
B
Large Valve Installation - 3” Through 12” Sizes
Fig 7

SLOTTED MOUNTING
HOLES MAY BE USED
FOR FINE ADJUSTMENT
OF SWITCH ASSEMBLY
TO MOUNTING BRACKET
Slotted mounting holes and micro-adjust-
ment feature may be used for fine adjust-
ment of switch assembly to mounting
bracket. Re-tighten screws to 20 in-lbs
minimum.

Large Valve Installation flat side of the bracket toward the hand wheel, as shown in Fig.
7, to help avoid creating a pinch point between the wheel and
CEN
MOUNTING BRACKET
NOTE: If the valve stem is pre-grooved at 1/8” minimum
depth; proceed to step 6.
OSYSU. When in this preferred mounting position, it is usually
best to use the white indicator visible through the window, as
1. With the valve in the FULL OPEN position, locate the OSYSU illustrated in Fig. 3, to aid in initially locating the OSYSU in
across the valve yoke as far from the valve gland as possible so the correct position on the yoke. If the unit must be installed
that the spring loaded trip rod of the OSYSU is pulled against the inverted with the white indicator no longer easily visible, use the
non threaded portion of the valve stem. Position the OSYSU with visual indicators of the actuator buttons on the micro-switches,
the bracket near the handwheel as shown in Fig. 7 if possible to ROLLER
as illustrated in Fig. 1, or the trip rod alignment mark on the
avoid creating a pinch point between the wheel and the OSYSU. bracket, as illustrated in Fig. 2 , to aid in initially locating the
2. Mount the OSYSU loosely with the carriage bolts and clamp bar OSYSU.
supplied. 7. Final adjustment can be made by slightly loosening the two
3. Loosen the locking screw that holds the trip rod in place and screws on the bracket and using the fine adjustment feature
adjust the rod length (see Fig. 5). When adjusted properly, the (see Fig. 5). The adjustment is correct when the plungers on the
rod should extend past the valve screw, but not so far that it switches are depressed by the actuator and there is no continuity
contacts the clamp bar. Tighten the locking screw to 5 in-lbs between the COM and NO terminals on the switches.
minimum to hold the trip rod in place and properly seal the 8. Tighten the adjustment screws and mounting hardware securely
enclosure. (minimum 20 in-lbs). Check to insure that the rod moves out of
NOTE: If trip rod length is excessive, loosen the locking the groove easily and that the switches activate within two turns
screw and remove the trip rod from the trip lever. Using when the valve is operated from the FULL OPEN towards the
pliers, break off the one (1) inch long notched section (see CLOSED position.
Fig. 10). Reinstall trip rod and repeat Step 3 procedure. 9. Reinstall the cover and tighten the cover screws to 15 in-lbs
4. Mark the valve stem at the center of the trip rod. minimum to properly seal the enclosure.
5. Remove the OSYSU. Utilizing a 3/8” or ½” diameter straight

CAUTION
file, file a 1/8” minimum depth groove centered on the mark on
the valve stem. Deburr and smooth the edges of the groove to
prevent damage to the valve packing and to allow the trip rod to Close the valve fully to determine that the stem threads do not
move easily in and out of the groove as the valve is operated. activate the switch. The switch being activated by the stem threads
NOTE: A groove depth of up to approximately 3/16” can could result in a false valve open indication.
make it easier to install the OSYSU so that it does not restore
as it rolls over by the threads of the valve stem.
6. Mount the OSYSU on the valve yoke with the spring loaded trip
rod of the OSYSU pulled against the valve stem and centered in
the groove of the stem. If possible, position the OSYSU with the

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 68 OF 118
 OSYSU Series
Outside Screw and Yoke Valve
8 7 6
Supervisory Switch 5 4

8 7 6 5 4

Dimensions
F

6.19

Fig 8 157.23

6.19 4.00 3.05

157.23 101.60 77.47

4.00
3.20 3.05
2.25
101.60 81.26 77.47 57.13
3.20 2.25
81.26 57.13

2.79
E 70.87
2.79
70.87

5.69
5.69 144.42
144.42

4 3 2 1

Rod retracted and 1.17

29.72
1.17
29.72
breakaway section removed

3.67
2.10 F
93.26 3.67
53.34 2.10
93.26
53.34

C
Rod fully extended
Cover Tamper Switch
(Optional)
Knockout Removal
Fig 9
(2) ø.886 To remove knockouts: Place screwdriver at inside edge of knockouts, not in
Knockouts For 1/2” Cover Removed the center. E
BElectrical Conduit

Connections
.XX = ENGLISH
[[Link]] = METRIC

DIMENSIONS APPEARING IN PARENTHESIS [ ]

Ground Screw REPRESENTS EQUVALENT IN MILLIMETERS
.XX = ENGLISH
ALL DIMENSIONS FOR REFERENCE ONLY [[Link]] = METRIC

DIMENSIONS APPEARING IN PARENTHESIS [ ]

REPRESENTS EQUVALENT IN MILLIMETERS
ALL DIMENSIONS FOR REFERENCE ONLY

D
1/4”-20 Mounting
8 Hardware 7 6 5 4 3

8 7 6 5 4

Clamp Bar Trip Rod

NOTE: Do not drill into the base as this creates metal shavings which
can create electrical hazards and damage theC device. Drilling voids the
warranty.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 69 OF 118

B
 OSYSU Series
Outside Screw and Yoke Valve
Supervisory Switch

Breaking Excessive Rod Length Ordering Information

Fig 10
Model Description Stock No.
OSYSU-1 Outside Screw & Yoke 1010102
Supervisory Switch
(Single switch)
OSYSU-2 Outside Screw & Yoke 1010202
Supervisory Switch
Switch Terminal Connections
(Double switch)
Clamping Plate Terminal
OSYSU-2 Outside Screw & Yoke Supervisory 1010210
Fig 11 CRH Switch (Double Switch). Corrosion
resistant hardware of 316 stainless steel
& nickel plated to ASTM B377 Type V
Brackets
Ou Cover Screw 5490424
tgo
ing
Hex Key for Cover Screws and 5250062
Installation Adjustments
Inc Optional Cover Tamper Switch Kit 0090200
om
ing

Engineering Specifications: OS&Y

Valves
An uninsulated section of a single conductor should not be looped around
the terminal and serve as two separate connections. The wire must be UL, CUL Listed / FM Approved and CE Marked valve supervisory
severed, thereby providing supervision of the connection in the event that switches shall be furnished and installed on all OS&Y type valves that
the wire become dislodged from under the terminal. Failure to sever the can be used to shut off the flow of water to any portion of the fire sprin-
wire may render the device inoperable risking severe property damage kler system, where indicated on the drawings and plans and as required
and loss of life. Do not strip wire beyond 3/8" of length or expose an
by applicable local and national codes and standards. The supervisory
uninsulated conductor beyond the edge of the terminal block. When using
switch shall be NEMA 4X and 6P rated and capable of being mounted in
stranded wire, capture all strands under the clamping plate.
any position indoors or out and be completely submerged without allow-
ing water to enter the enclosure.. The enclosure shall be held captive by
tamper resistant screws. The device shall contain two ½” conduit entranc-
es and one or two Single Pole Double Throw (SPDT) switches. There
All conduit and connectors selected for the installation of this product shall be a visual indicator to display the status of the switches. To aid in
shall be suitable for the environment for which it is to be used and shall be installation, it shall be possible to make fine adjustments to the position of
installed to the manufacturer’s installation instructions. For NEMA 4, 4X, 6, the switch on the valve without loosening the mounting bracket from the
6P installations, the cover screws are recommended to be tightened to 15 in- valve. The device shall contain an adjustable length trip rod and roller,
lbs minimum and the trip rod locking screw tightened to 5 in-lbs minimum the trip rod shall be held captive by a set screw accessible upon removal
to properly seal the enclosure. of the cover. The switch contacts shall be rated at 10A, 125/250VAC and
2A, 30VDC. OS&Y Valve supervisory switch shall be model OSYSU-1
for the single switch model and OSYSU-2 for the two switch model
Typical Electrical Connections manufactured by Potter Electric Signal Company LLC.
Fig 12

EOLR
COM NC NO NO NC COM

Supervisory switches have a normal service life of 10-15 years. How-

ever, the service life may be significantly reduced by local environmental
conditions.

TO FIRE ALARM PANEL

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 70 OF 118
 PCVS Series
Control Valve Supervisory Switch

Features
• NEMA 4X* (IP 65) and 6P (IP 67)
*Enclosure is 4X. For additional corrosion protection of
mounting hardware, use model PCVS-2 CRH
• -40º to 140º (-40ºC to 60ºC) operating temperature range
• Visual Switch Indicators
• Two conduit entrances
• Adjustable length trip rod
• Accomodates up to 12AWG wire
• Switch detects tampering and valve closure
• RoHS compliant
• Two SPDT contacts

Before any work is done on the fire sprinkler or fire alarm system, the
building owner or their authorized representative shall be notified. Be-
fore opening any closed valve, ensure that opening the valve will not
cause any damage from water flow due to open or missing sprinklers,
piping, etc.

Important: This document contains important information on the installation and operation of PCVS valve supervisory switches. Please read all instructions
carefully before beginning installation. A copy of this document is required by NFPA 72 to be maintained on site.
Description Technical Specifications
The Model PCVS is a weather proof and tamper resistant switch for Dimensions See Fig 10
monitoring the open position of fire sprinkler control valves of the wall Weight 1.0 lbs (0,45 kg)
and yard post indicator and butterfly types. Two SPDT (Form C) contacts
Cover: Die Cast Finish: Red Powder Coat
are provided which will operate when the valve position is altered from an
Enclosure Base: Die Cast Finish: Black Powder Coat
open state.
All parts have corrosion resistant finishes
The unit mounts in a 1/2” NPT tapped hole in the post indicator or butterfly
valve housing. The device is engaged by the indicating assembly of the Tamper Resistant Screws
post indicator or the operating mechanism of the butterfly valve, actuating Cover Tamper Optional Cover Tamper Switch Available
switches when the valve is fully open. The unit should be installed where
it is accessible for service. PCVS-2: Two Sets of SPDT (Form C)
The cover is held in place by two tamper resistant screws that require a Contact Rat- 10.0 Amps at 125/250 VAC
special tool to remove. The tool is furnished with each device. ings 2.0 Amps at 30VDC Resistive
10 mAmps minimum at 24 VDC
Testing -40º F to 140ºF (-40ºC to 60ºC)
NEMA 4X (IP 65) and NEMA 6P Enclosure
The operation of the PCVS and its associated protective monitoring
Environmental
(IP67)(Use suitably rated conduit and connector)
system shall be tested upon completion of the installation and inspected, Limitations
Indoor or Outdoor Use (See PIVSU-EX Bulletin
tested and maintained in accordance with all applicable local and national 5400694 for Hazardous locations)
codes and standards and/or the Authority Having Jurisdiction, (manufac-
Conduit En- Two Knockouts for 1/2” conduit provided
turer recommends quarterly or more frequently). A minimum test shall (See Notice on Page 7 and Fig. 11 on Page 6)
trances
consist of turning the valve operating mechanism towards the closed posi-
tion. The PCVS shall operate within the first two revolutions of the op- Service Use NFPA 13, 13D, 13R, 72
erating mechanism. Fully close the valve and ensure the PCVS does not
Specifications subject to change without notice
restore. Fully open the valve and ensure that the PCVS restores to normal.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 71 OF 118
 PCVS Series
Control Valve Supervisory Switch

Theory Of Operation
The PCVS is a spring loaded switch. It is in normal position when the trip rod is pulling against the spring force. Normal is when the switch is installed on the
valve and the valve is fully open. As the valve closes, the valve actuator moves away from the trip rod of the PCVS and the spring on the PCVS pulls the trip
rod over and trips the switch.

Alternate Window Installation and Moving Hood Installation

Target Moves Up as Valve is Shut Hood Moves Down as Valve is Shut

Fig 1 Fig 2

Subject to the approval of the “authority having jurisdiction” the alternate If the target is stationary and a hood arrangement is used, such as is
method of installation shown in Fig. 1 may be used. In this method, shown in Fig. 2, the hood must be drilled with a 23/32” drill and tapped
one of the glass windows of the housing is replaced with a 1/4” thick with a 1/2” NPT. The center line of this hole should be 1/8” below the
metal plate that is cut to fit in place of the glass and drilled and tapped to portion of target assembly that strikes the PCVS trip rod. The 11 3/8”
recieve 1/2” NPT pipe nipple. In some cases it may be necessary to attach
dimension shown is for a Clow Valve. Flexible conduit must be used for
an angle bracket to the target assembly to engage the PCVS trip rod.
this type of installation. (More on pg. 3).

Steel Tripping Block

Metal Plate Replaces Glass
Replaces Open Marker Locknut

Locknut

11 3/8”
(28,9 cm)
Shut Marker

Target Assembly

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 72 OF 118
 PCVS Series
Control Valve Supervisory Switch

Typical Installations On Post Indicator Valve Housings

Fig 3 Fig 4

Target moves up Target moves down

as valve is shut. as valve is shut.

NOTE: Before any work is done on the fire sprinkler or NOTE: In some cases, it may be necessary to attach an
fire alarm system, the building owner or their
TARGET MOVESauthorized
UP TARGET
angle bracket
MOVES DOWN
to the target assembly to engage the PCVS trip
AS VALVE IS SHUT
representative shall be notified. Before opening any closed rod.
AS VALVE IS SHUT
valve, ensure that opening the valve will not cause any 10. Using the special tool provided, loosen the two cover screws and
damage from water flow due to open or missing sprinklers, remove the cover from the PCVS.
piping, etc.
11. Loosen the locking screw that holds the trip rod in place and
1. osition the valve to fully open (“OPEN” should appear in the
P adjust the rod length, from the end of the collar to the end of
window of the housing). Partially close the valve while observing the rod, using the dimension determined in Step 9. Tighten the
the direction that the target assembly moves. Reopen the valve. locking screw to 5 in-lbs minimum to hold the rod in place and
If the valve housing is predrilled with a 1/2” NPT for installation properly seal the enclosure.
of a monitoring switch, remove the 1/2” plug and fully open the
valve. Make sure that “OPEN” appears in the window of the 12. Partially close the valve to move the target assembly away (3 to 4
housing. GO TO STEP NO. 6. revolutions of the handle/hand wheel).

2. If the valve is not pre-drilled for 1/2” NPT, remove the head 13. With the PCVS positioned so the spring will pull the trip rod to
and target assembly (consultation with valve manufacturer is follow the target as the valve is closing, slide the PCVS over the
recommended). nipple. Tighten the socket head screw in the collar.

3. If the target assembly moved up as the valve was closed, measure 14. Carefully open the valve to the fully open position. As the target
the distance from the bottom of the head to the lower part of moves to the open position it should engage the trip rod and
the target assembly that will contact the trip rod of the PCVS actuate the switch(es). There should be a minimum overtravel
(see Fig. 3). This is usually a plate or bar on the target assembly, of 1/2 revolution of the handle/hand wheel after the switch(es)
on a side adjacent to the “OPEN/SHUT” plates. Subtract 1/8” actuate (a continuity meter connected to each set of contacts is
from the measurement. If the target moved down as the valve one method that could be used to determine this).
was closed, measure the distance from the bottom of the head 15. Slowly close the valve. The switch must operate during the first
to the upper portion of the target assembly that will contact two revolutions of the handle/hand wheel or during 1/5 of the
the trip rod of the PCVS (see Fig. 4). Add 1/8” (3,2mm) to this travel distance of the valve control apparatus from its normal
measurement. condition.
4. Mark the housing at the proper location. Using a 23/32” NOTE: Small adjustments of the target position may
(18,2mm) drill bit, drill and then tap a 1/2” NPT in the housing be necessary (consultation with valve manufacturer is
on the side that coincides with the portion of the target assembly recommended).
that will engage the trip rod of the PCVS. 16. Complete the required electrical wiring, connections and tests.
5. Replace the head and target assembly. The valve should be operated through the entire cycle of fully
6. Loosen the socket head screw that holds the nipple in the PCVS closed and fully open to determine the integrity of the PCVS
and remove the nipple. installation and the signaling system. Check that all electrical and
mechanical connections are secure.
7. Screw the locknut that is provided onto the nipple.
17. Reinstall the cover and tighten the cover screws to 15 in-lbs
8. Screw the nipple into the 1/2” NPT hole in the valve housing minimum to properly seal the enclosure.
hand tighten. Tighten the locknut against the valve housing to
secure the nipple firmly in place. 18. When the installation and testing are complete, return valve to its
proper position.
9. Insert a scale or probe thru the nipple to measure the distance
from the open end of the nipple to the target assembly. Subtract 19. Alternative installation for other post indicator valve housing
1/2” (12,5mm) from this measurement. shown in Fig. 1 and 2.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 73 OF 118
 PCVS Series
Control Valve Supervisory Switch

Typical Installation on a Butterfly Valve

Fig 5 Typical Indicating Butterfly Valve Fig 6 Dresser Indicating Butterfly Valve

1/32”
(0,8mm)

VALVE PARTIALLY CLOSED VALVE OPEN

DWG# 980-6

1/2”
(13mm) DWG# 980-7

1. Remove the 1/2” NPT plug from the gear operator case. gear box cover to ensure correct operation (consultation with
2. Loosen the set screw that holds the nipple in the PCVS and remove the valve manufacturer is recommended).
the nipple. 9. Carefully open the valve to its full open position, as the boss on
the gear hub moves to the open position it must engage the PCVS
3. Screw the locknut that is provided onto the nipple. trip rod and actuate the switch(es). There should be a minimum
4. Screw the nipple into the 1/2” NPT hole in the gear operator-hand overtravel or revolution of the crank or hand wheel after the
tighten. Tighten the locknut against the case, to secure the nipple firmly switch(es) actuate (a continuity meter connected to each set of
in place contacts is one method that could be used to determine this).
5. Partially close the valve to move the boss on the gear hub out of the way NOTE: Slight adjustment of gear stops may be necessary to
(3 or 4 revolutions of the hand wheel or crank). prevent overtravel of the trip rod (consultation with valve manufacture
is recommended).
6. Using the special tool provided, loosen the two cover screws and
remove the cover from the PCVS. 10. Carefully close the valve. The switch(es) must operate during the
7. Orient the PCVS so the spring will pull up the trip rod to follow the first two revolutions of the crank or hand wheel or during 1/5 of
actuating cam inside the valve. the travel distance of the valve control apparatus from its normal
condition.
NOTE: If trip rod length is excessive, loosen the locking screw
and remove the trip rod from the trip lever. Using pliers, break 11. Complete the required electrical wiring, connections and tests. The
off the one (1) inch long notched section (see Fig. 12). Reinstall valve should be operated through the entire cycle of fully closed and
the trip rod, tightening the screw to 5 in-lbs minimum, and fully open to determine the integrity of the PCVS installation and
repeat Step 7 procedure. signaling system.

8. Remove device from nipple and shorten the trip rod 1/32” (0,80mm) 12. Reinstall the cover and tighten the screws to 15 in-lbs minimum to
(this is to prevent the trip rod from dragging on the gear hub inside properly seal the enclosure.
the valve). Tighten the locking screw to hold the rod in place. 13. When the installation and testing are complete, return valve to its
Re-install the device on the nipple. Tighten the screw in the collar proper position.
against the nipple.
NOTE: In some cases it may be necessary to remove the

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 74 OF 118
 PCVS Series
Control Valve Supervisory Switch

Typical Pressure Reducer Type Valve PVK - Pratt PIVA Post Indicator Valve
Installation Kit
Fig 7 Fig 9
COLLAR

LOCKNUT
NIPPLE
MACHINE
SCREW #8-32
PCVS

1/16” (1,6mm)
MIN. GAP

DWG# 980-10
This figure shows the Model PCVS mounted on the valve yoke, with
a bracket supplied by the valve manufacturer, to supervise a pressure
reducer type valve.
DWG# 980-9
NOTE: This application is subject to the approval of the authority having Pratt Valve Kit as used to mount a PCVS on a Pratt Model PIVA Valve.
jurisdiction. Kit contains: Instructions, template, screw and nut.
NOTE: This application is subject to the approval of the authority having
jurisdiction.
PBK - Butterfly Valve Kit for Valves
with Internal Supervisory Switches
Fig 8
Locknuts Both Sides

Bracket and Locknut

Supplied With PBK
Mounting Kit

Pratt Butterfly Valve Kit as used to mount a PCVS on a Pratt Model IBV
Valve.
Kits contain: Bracket, nuts and instructions
NOTE: Due to changes in valves, brackets may need to be modified by
installer. This application is subject to the approval of the authority hav-
ing jurisdiction.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 75 OF 118
 7 7 6 6 5 5
PCVS Series 4

Control Valve Supervisory Switch

Dimensions
Fig 10
4.00 3.05
4.00 3.05
101.60 77.47
101.60 77.47
3.20 2.25
3.20 2.25
81.26 57.13
81.26 57.13

2.79
2.79 70.87
70.87

(2) .886 KNOCKOUT

1/2"
(2) ELECTRICAL CON
.886 KNOCKOU
5.29 CONNECTIONS
1/2" ELECTRICAL CO
5.29 134.39 CONNECTIONS
134.39 3 2 1
.77 .85
.77 19.61 .85 21.51 REVISIONS
REV. ENG. CHG. NO. DESCRIPTION DATE BY CHK.
19.61 21.51
7.86 1.10 SOCKET HEAD
7.86 199.53 1.10 27.92 SCREW HEAD
SOCKET
199.53 27.92 .84 SCREW
1.52
.84 21.44
1.52 38.61 GROUND SCR
21.44
ROD RETRACTED AND .12 38.61
F
GROUND SC
BREAKAWAY .12 3.05
ROD RETRACTED AND SECTION
REMOVED
BREAKAWAY SECTION 3.05
REMOVED
2.10
53.34
2.10 L
53.34
2.72
2.72 69.05 1/2"-14 N
69.05 1/2"-1

ROD FULLY EXTENDED

COVER REMOVED
ROD FULLY EXTENDED

COVER TAMPER
SWITCH (OPTIONAL)

Knockout Removal E

Fig 11
(2) .886 KNOCKOUTS FOR
1/2" ELECTRICAL CONDUIT
(2) To remove knockouts: Place screwdriver at inside edge of knockouts, not
.886 KNOCKOUTS FOR 1/2" ELECTRICAL CONDUIT CONNECTIONS
CONNECTIONS (2) inCONNECTIONS
.886 KNOCKOUTS FOR 1/2" ELECTRICAL CONDUIT the center.

D
.XX = ENGLISH
[[Link]] = METRIC
.XX = ENGLISH
DIMENSIONS APPEARING
[[Link]] = METRICIN PARENTHESIS [ ]
GROUND SCREW REPRESENTS EQUVALENT IN MILLIMETERS
DIMENSIONS APPEARING D
ALL DIMENSIONS FORIN PARENTHESIS
REFERENCE ONLY[]
REPRESENTS EQUVALENT IN MILLIMETERS

ALL DIMENSIONS FOR REFERENCE ONLY

LOCK NUT

1/2"-14 NPT NIPPLE

TRIP ROD

NOTE: Do not drill into the base as this creates metal shavings which
7 6
can create electrical
5 hazards and damage the device.
C 4 Drilling voids the

6
warranty.
7 5 4

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 76 OF 118
 PCVS Series
Control Valve Supervisory Switch

Breaking Excessive Rod Length Ordering Information

Fig 12
Model Description Stock No.
PCVS-2 Potter Control Valve Switch (double 1010203
switch)
PCVS-2 CRH Potter Control Valve Switch (double 1010211
switch). Corrosion resistant 316 stainless
steel hardware.
-- Cover Screw 5490424
Switch Terminal Connections -- Hex Key for Cover Screws and 5250062
Clamping Plate Terminal Installation Adjustments
Fig 13 PBK-S Pratt Butterfly Valve Kit - 3” (75mm) to 0090133
12” (30mm)
PBK-M Pratt Butterfly Valve Kit - 14” (355 mm) 0090146
and 16” (406 mm)
Ou PBK-L Pratt Butterfly Valve Kit - 18" (457mm) to 0090132
tgo 24” (610 mm)
ing
PVK Pratt Valve Kit 1000060
-- Optional Cover Tamper Switch Kit 0090200
Inc
om KBK Kennedy Butterfly Valve Kit 0090143
ing
TBK Tycho Butterfly Valve Kit 0090150
For pressure reducer type valve installation kits (if required) contact valve manufacturer.

An uninsulated section of a single conductor should not be looped around Engineering Specifications: Post
the terminal and serve as two separate connections. The wire must be Indicator & Butterfly Valves
severed, thereby providing supervision of the connection in the event that
the wire become dislodged from under the terminal. Failure to sever the UL, CUL Listed / FM Approved and CE Marked valve supervisory
wire may render the device inoperable risking severe property damage switches shall be furnished and installed on all post Indicator and But-
and loss of life. Do not strip wire beyond 3/8" of length or expose an terfly valves that can be used to shut off the flow of water to any portion
uninsulated conductor beyond the edge of the terminal block. When using of the fire sprinkler system, where indicated on the drawings and plans
stranded wire, capture all strands under the clamping plate. and as required by applicable local and national codes and standards. The
supervisory switch shall be NEMA 4X and 6P rated and capable of being
mounted in any position indoors or out and be completely submerged
without allowing water to enter the enclosure. The enclosure shall be held
All conduit and connectors selected for the installation of this product captive by tamper resistant screws. The device shall contain two conduit
shall be suitable for the environment for which it is to be used and entrances and two Single Pole Double Throw (SPDT) switches. The
shall be installed to the manufacturer’s installation instructions. For device shall contain a removable 1/2” NPT nipple and adjustable trip rod,
NEMA 4, 4X, 6, 6P installations, the cover screws are recommended the trip rod shall be held captive by a set screw accessible upon removal
to be tightened to 15 in-lbs minimum and the trip rod locking screw of the cover. The switch contacts shall be rated at 10A, 125/250VAC and
tightened to 5 in-lbs minimum to properly seal the enclosure. 2A, 30VDC. Post Indicator and Butterfly Valve supervisory switch shall
be model PCVS-2 manufactured by Potter Electric Signal Company LLC

Typical Electrical Connections

Fig 14

EOLR
COM NC NO NO NC COM Supervisory switches have a normal service life of 10-15 years. How-
ever, the service life may be significantly reduced by local environ-
mental conditions.

TO FIRE ALARM PANEL

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 77 OF 118
 PS-10
Pressure Switch

Features
• One and two switch models available.
• Independent switch adjustment, no tools needed.
• Two conduit / cable entrances.
• Separate isolated wiring chambers.
• Non-corrosive pressure connection.
• Solid metal enclosure.

Installation Technical Specifications

The Potter PS10 Series Pressure Actuated Switches are designed for the Dimensions 3.78”(9,6cm)Wx3.20”(8,1cm)Dx4.22”(10,7cm)H
detection of a waterflow condition in automatic fire sprinkler systems of
particular designs such as wet pipe systems with alarm check valves, dry Differential 2 PSI (0,13 BAR) typical
pipe, preaction, or deluge valves. The PS10 is also suitable to provide a Cover: Die Cast Finish: Red Powder Coat
low pressure supervisory signal; adjustable between 4 and 15 psi (0,27 Enclosure Base: Die Cast
and 1,03 BAR). All parts have corrosion resistant finishes
1. Apply Teflon tape to the threaded male connection on the device. Factory
Adjustment 4 - 8 PSI (0,27 - 0,55 BAR)
(Do not use pipe dope)
2. Device should be mounted in the upright position (threaded connection SPDT (Form C)
down). Switch Contacts 10.1 Amps at 125/250 VAC, 2.0 Amps at 30 VDC
3. Tighten the device using a wrench on the flats on the device. One SPDT in PS10-1, Two SPDT in PS10-2
-40º F to 140ºF (-40ºC to 60ºC)
Environmental NEMA 4/IP66 Rated Enclosure indoor or outdoor
Limitations
Wiring Instructions when used with NEMA 4 conduit fittings
1. Remove the tamper resistant screw with the special key provided. Conduit Two knockouts for 1/2” conduit provided. Individual
2. Carefully place a screwdriver on the edge of the knockout and Entrances switch compartments and ground screw suitable for
dissimilar voltages
sharply apply a force sufficient to dislodge the knockout plug. See
Fig 9. Service Use NFPA 13, 13D, 13R, 72
3. Run wires through an approved conduit connector and affix the con- Pressure Nylon 1/2” NPT male
nector to the device. Connection
4. Connect the wires to the appropriate terminal connections for the Maximum
service intended. See Figures 2,4,5, and 6. See Fig 7 for two switch, System Pressure 300 PSI (20,68 BAR)
one conduit wiring.
*Specifications subject to change without notice.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 78 OF 118
 PS-10
Pressure Switch

Testing
The operation of the pressure alarm switch should be tested upon completion of installation and periodically thereafter in accordance with the applicable NFPA
codes and standards and/or the authority having jurisdiction (manufacturer recommends quarterly or more frequently).

Wet System
Method 1: When using PS10 and control unit with retard - connect PS10 into alarm port piping on the input side of retard chamber and electrically connect
PS10 to control unit that provides a retard to compensate for surges. Insure that no unsupervised shut-off valves are present between the alarm check valve
and PS10.
Method 2: When using the PS10 for local bell application or with a control that does not provide a retard feature - the PS10 must be installed on the alarm
outlet side of the retard chamber of the sprinkler system.
Testing: Accomplished by opening the inspector’s end-of-line test valve. Allow time to compensate for system or control retard.
NOTE: Method 2 is not applicable for remote station service use, if there is an unsupervised shut-off valve between the alarm check valve and the PS10.
Wet System With Excess Pressure
Connect PS10 into alarm port piping extending from alarm check valve. Retard provisions are not required. Insure that no unsupervised shut-off valves are
present between the alarm check valve and the PS10.
Testing: Accomplished by opening the water by-pass test valve or the inspector’s end-of-line test valve. When using end-of-line test, allow time for excess
pressure to bleed off.

Dry System
Connect PS10 into alarm port piping that extends from the intermediate chamber of the alarm check valve. Install on the outlet side of the in-line check valve
of the alarm port piping. Insure that no unsupervised shut-off valves are present between the alarm check valve and the PS10.
Testing: Accomplished by opening the water by-pass test valve.
NOTE: The above tests may also activate any other circuit closer or water motor gongs that are present on the system.

Dimensions Switch Clamping Plate Terminal

Fig 1 Fig 2
GROUND NG
SCREWS OMI
2.87 INC
ADJUSTMENT [72.97]
KNOB 4.22
[107.19]

1/2" NPT
NG
OI DWG# 923-3
TG
2.48 OU
1.60
[62.87] [40.64]

3.78 3.20
[95.89] [81.28]
An uninsulated section of a single conductor should not be looped around the
NOTE: To prevent leakage, apply Teflon tape sealant to male threads only. terminal and serve as two separate connections. The wire must be severed,
DWG# 930-1
thereby providing supervision of the connection in the event that the wire
becomes dislodged from under the terminal.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 79 OF 118
 PS-10
Pressure Switch

Typical Sprinkler Applications

Fig 3
WET SYSTEM WITH WET SYSTEM WITHOUT DRY SYSTEM
EXCESS PRESSURE EXCESS PRESSURE

PS10
PS10 PS10
WATER WATER WATER
MOTOR MOTOR MOTOR
GONG GONG GONG

RBVS CHECK
WET RBVS DRY VALVE RBVS
SYSTEM WET SYSTEM
ALARM SYSTEM ALARM
CHECK ALARM CHECK
CHECK RETARD VALVE
VALVE
VALVE
WATER WATER WATER
OS & Y BY-PASS BY-PASS OS & Y BY-PASS
OS & Y
VALVE VALVE VALVE VALVE VALVE
VALVE

DWG. #923-2AA

CAUTION
Closing of any shutoff valves between the alarm check valve and the PS10 will render the PS10 inoperative. To comply with NFPA-72 any such valve shall be
electrically supervised with a supervisory switch such as Potter Model RBVS.

Low Pressure Signal Connection Waterflow Signal Connection Local Bell For Waterflow Connection
Fig 4 Fig 5 Fig 6
TO FIRE ALARM PANEL NEGATIVE DC
TO FIRE ALARM PANEL OR NEUTRAL AC
EOLR EOLR BELL
LINE LOAD
POSITIVE DC
OR HOT AC

DWG# 928-1
DWG# 928-2 DWG# 928-3

One Conduit Wiring Switch Operation

Fig 7 Fig 8 Terminal
Break out thin section of divider to provide path for wires when wiring C: Common
1: Closed when installed W/ PRESSURE APPLIED
both switches from one conduit entrance. under normal system
pressure. C
2: Open when
installed under
normal system
pressure. Closes on
pressure drop. Use for C 1 2

low pressure
supervision

Terminal W/O PRESSURE APPLIED

1: Open with no pressure
supplied. Closes upon C
detection of pressure.
Use for waterflow
DWG# 928-4 indication.
2: Closed with no C 1 2
pressure applied.
DWG#928-6

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 80 OF 118
 PS-10
Pressure Switch

Removing Knockouts
Fig 9
•Installation must be performed by qualified personnel and in
accordance with all national and local codes and ordinances.
•Shock hazard. Disconnect power source before servicing.
Serious injury or death could result.
•Read all instructions carefully and understand them before
starting installation. Save instructions for future use. Failure to
read and understand instructions could result in improper
operation of device resulting in serious injury or death.
•Risk of explosion. Not for use is hazardous locations. Serious
injury or death could result.

CAUTION
•Do not tighten by grasping the switch enclosure. Use wrenching
flats on the bushing only. Failure to install properly could damage
DWG#928-5 the switch and cause improper operation resulting in damage to
equipment and property.
•To seal threads, apply Teflon tape to male threads only. Using
joint compounds or cement can obstruct the pressure port inlet
Engineer/Architect Specifications and result in improper device operation and damage to equipment.
Pressure Type Waterflow Switch •Do not over tighten the device, standard piping practices apply.
Pressure type waterflow switches; shall be a Model PS10 as manufactured
by Potter Electric Signal Company, St Louis MO., and shall be installed
on the fire sprinkler system as shown and or specified herein.
Switches shall be provided with a ½” NPT male pressure connection and
shall be connected to the alarm port outlet of; Wet Pipe Alarm Valves,
Dry Pipe Valves, Pre-Action Valves, or Deluge Valves. The pressure
switch shall be actuated when the alarm line pressure reaches 4 - 8 PSI
(0,27 - 0,55 BAR).
Pressure type waterflow switches shall have a maximum service pressure
rating of 300 PSI (20,68 BAR) and shall be factory adjusted to operate on
a pressure increase of 4 - 8 PSI (0,27 - 0,55 BAR)
Pressure switch shall have one or two form C contacts, switch contact
rating 10.1 Amps at 125/250 VAC, 2.0 Amps at 30 VDC.
Pressure type waterflow switches shall have two conduit entrances one
for each individual switch compartment to facilitate the use of dissimilar
voltages for each individual switch.

The cover of the pressure type waterflow switch shall be Zinc die-
cast with rain lip and shall attach with one tamper resistant screw. The
Pressure type waterflow switch shall be suitable for indoor or outdoor
service with a NEMA 4/IP66 rating. Ordering Information
The pressure type waterflow switch shall be UL Ulc and CSFM listed,
Model Description Part Number
FM and LPC approved and NYMEA accepted.
Tamper Pressure switch with one set SPDT
PS10-1 1144402
contacts
Cover incorporates tamper resistant fastener that requires a special key for Pressure switch with two sets SPDT
removal. One key is supplied with each device. For optional cover tamper PS10-2 1144425
contacts
switch kit, order Stock No. 0090200. See bulletin #5401200 PSCTSK.
Hex Key 5250062
Cover Tamper
0090200
Switch Kit

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 81 OF 118
 PS40 Series
Supervisory Pressure Switch

Features
• One and two switch models available.
• Independent switch adjustment, no tools needed.
• Two conduit / cable entrances.
• Separate isolated wiring chambers.
• Non-corrosive pressure connection.
• Solid metal enclosure.

This document contains important information on the installation

and operation of PS40 pressure switches. Please read all instructions
carefully before beginning installation. A copy of this document is
required by NFPA 72 to be maintained on site.

Installation Technical Specifications

The Potter PS40 Series Supervisory Pressure Actuated Switches are Dimensions 3.78”(9,6cm)Wx3.20”(8,1cm)Dx4.22”(10,7cm)H
designed primarily to detect an increase and/or decrease from normal system
pressure in automatic fire sprinkler systems. Typical applications are: air/ Typical 1 lb. at 10 PSI (,07 at ,7 BAR)
Differential
nitrogen supervision in dry pipe and pre-action systems, pressure tanks, air 4 lbs at 60 PSI (,28 at 4,1 BAR)
supplies, and water supplies. The PS40-1 has one switch and is factory set Cover: Die Cast Finish: Red Powder Coat
to activate at approximately 30 psi (2,1 BAR) on a decrease in pressure. Enclosure Base: Die Cast
The PS40-2 has two switches. The Low switch is factory set to activate at All parts have corrosion resistant finishes
approximately 30 psi (2,1 BAR) on a decrease in pressure. The High switch Cover incorporates tamper resistant fastener that
is factory set to activate at approximately 50 psi (3,5 BAR) on an increase Cover Tamper requires a special key for removal. One key is supplied
in pressure. NFPA 72 requires a supervisory signal if the pressure increases with each device.
or decreases by 10 psi from normal. The PS40 is factory set for a normal PS40-1 operates on decrease at 30 PSI (2,1 BAR)
air pressure of 40 psi. See section heading Adjustments and Testing if other Factory PS40-2 operates on increase at 50 PSI (3,5 BAR) and
Adjustment on decrease at 30 PSI (2,1 BAR)
than factory set point is required.
1. Connect the PS40 to the system side of any shutoff or check SPDT (Form C)
valve. Contact Ratings 10.1 Amps at 125/250 VAC, 2.0 Amps at 30 VDC
One SPDT in PS40-1, Two SPDT in PS40-2
2. Apply Teflon tape to the threaded male connection on the device.
(Do not use pipe dope)
-40º F to 140ºF (-40ºC to 60ºC)
3. Device should be mounted in the upright position. (Threaded Environmental NEMA 4/IP66 Rated Enclosure indoor or outdoor
connection down) Limitations when used with NEMA 4 conduit fittings
4. Tighten the device using a wrench on the flats on the device. Two knockouts for 1/2” conduit provided. Individual
Conduit switch compartments and ground screw suitable for
Entrances dissimilar voltages
Service Use NFPA 13, 13D, 13R, 72
Pressure Nylon 1/2” NPT male
Connection
Pressure Range 10-60 PSI (,7-4,1 BAR)
Maximum 300 PSI (20,68 BAR)
System Pressure

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 82 OF 118
 PS40 Series
Supervisory Pressure Switch

Wiring Instructions Switch Terminal Connections

1. Remove the tamper resistant screw with the special key Clamping Plate Terminal
provided. Fig 2
2. If it is necessary to remove the sealed knockouts, carefully place
a screwdriver on the edge of the knockout and sharply apply a
force sufficient to dislodge the knockout plug. See Fig. 9.
3. Run wires through an approved conduit connector and affix
the connector to the device. A NEMA-4 rated conduit fitting is Ou
required for outdoor use. tgo
ing
4. Connect the wires to the appropriate terminal connections for the
service intended. See Figures 2,4,5,6 and 8.
Inc
Adjustment and Testing om
ing
NOTE: Testing the PS40 may activate other system connected devices.
The operation of the pressure supervisory switch should be tested upon
completion of installation and periodically thereafter in accordance with
the applicable local, national and NFPA codes and standards and/or the
authority having jurisdiction (manufacturer recommends quarterly or more CAUTION
frequently). An uninsulated section of a single conductor should not be looped around
The use of a Potter BVL (see product bulletin 5400799 for details) is the terminal and serve as two separate connections. The wire must be
recommended to facilitate setting and testing of the PS40 pressure switch. severed, thereby providing supervision of the connection in the event that
When a BVL (bleeder valve) is used, the pressure to the switch can be the wire becomes dislodged from under the terminal.
isolated and bled from the exhaust port on the BVL without affecting the
supervisory pressure of the entire system. See Fig. 3. Typical Sprinkler Applications
The operation point of the PS40 Pressure Switch can be adjusted to any point
Fig 3
between 10 and 60 PSI (0,7 - 4,11 BAR) by turning the adjustment knob(s)
PS40 SUPERVISORY PRESSURE SWITCH
clockwise to raise the actuation point and counter clockwise to lower the
actuation point. In the case of the PS40-2, both switches operate independent
of each other. Each switch may be independently adjusted to actuate at any AIR LINE
SHUT-OFF PS10
point across the switch adjustment range. If the pressure needs to be adjusted VALVE BLEEDER ALARM
TEST PRESSURE
from the factory settings, adjust the system pressure to the desired trip point. CHECK VALVE SWITCH
VALVE BVL
Use an ohmmeter on the appropriate contact (COM and 2 for pressure WATER
decrease and COM and 1 for pressure increase). Adjust the knurled knob MOTOR
GONG
until the meter changes state. At that point the switch is set for that particular CHECK RBVS
DRY PIPE VALVE
pressure. Final adjustments should be verified with a pressure gauge. VALVE
The position of the top of the adjustment knob across to the printed scale on
the switch bracket can be used to provide an approximate visual reference of
the pressure switch setting. WATER
DWG. #924-1A BY-PASS
OS & Y
TEST
VALVE
Dimensions VALVE

Fig 1

2.87
GROUND
SCREWS CAUTION
ADJUSTMENT [72.97] Closing of any shutoff valves between the alarm check valve and the
KNOB 4.22 PS40 will render the PS40 inoperative. To comply with IBC, IFC, and
[107.19]
NFPA-13, any such valve shall be electrically supervised with a supervi-
1/2" NPT sory switch such as Potter Model RBVS.

2.48 1.60
[62.87] [40.64]

3.78 3.20
[95.89] [81.28]

NOTE: To prevent leakage, apply Teflon tape sealant to male threads only.

DWG# 930-1

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 83 OF 118
 PS40 Series
Supervisory Pressure Switch

Typical Electrical Connections One Conduit Wiring

Fig 4 Fig 7
TO FIRE
ALARM
PANEL

HIGH
AIR
2 1 COM

COM 1 2
LOW
AIR

EOLR

With normal system pressure applied high - Terminal 1 will close on pressure release. LOW PRESSURE SWITCH
DWG# 928-4

C
With normal system pressure applied low -Terminal 2 will close on pressure drop.

Low Pressure Signal Connection Changing Pressure C 1 2

Fig 5 Fig 8

TO FIRE ALARM PANEL

LowPRESSURE
LOW PressureSWITCH
Switch HighPRESSURE
HIGH PressureSWITCH
Switch

EOLR C C

C 1 2 C 1 2

DWG# 930-3
Terminal Terminal
C: Common
HIGH PRESSURE SWITCH 1. Open when installed under
1. Closed when installed normal system pressure.
C
under normal system Closes on increase in
Pressure. pressure. Use for high air
DWG# 928-1
2. Open when installed under signal.
C 1 2
normal system pressure. 2. Closed under normal
High Pressure Signal Connection Closes on DWG#
pressure drop. system pressure.
930-3

Use for low air signal.

Fig 6

TO FIRE ALARM PANEL

EOLR Removing Knockouts

Fig 9

DWG# 928-2

DWG#928-5

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 84 OF 118
 PS40 Series
Supervisory Pressure Switch

Engineer/Architect Specifications Ordering Information

Pressure Type Waterflow Switch
Pressure type supervisory switches; shall be a Model PS40 as manufac- Model Description Stock No.
tured by Potter Electric Signal Company, St. Louis, MO., and shall be
PS40-1 Pressure Switch with one set SPDT 1340403
installed on the fire sprinkler system as shown and or specified herein.
contacts
Switches shall be provided with a 1/2" NPT male pressure connection to
be connected into the air supply line on the system side of any shut-off PS40-2 Pressure Switch with two sets SPDT 1340404
valve. A Model BVL bleeder valve as supplied by Potter Electric Signal contacts
Company of St. Louis, MO., or equivalent shall be connected in line with Hex Key 5250062
the PS40 to provide a means of testing the operation of the supervisory
switch. (See Fig. 3) BVL Bleeder Valve 1000018

The switch unit shall contain SPDT (Form C) switch(es). One switch Optional Cover Tamper Switch Kit 0090200
shall be set to operate at 30 psi (2,1 BAR) on a pressure decrease. If two
switches are provided, the second switch shall be set to operate at a 50 psi
(3,5 BAR) on a pressure increase.
Switch contacts shall be rated at 10.1 Amps at 125/250VAC and 2.0 Amps •Installation must be performed by qualified personnel and in
at 30VDC. The units shall have a maximum pressure rating of 300 PSI accordance with all national and local codes and ordinances.
(20,68 BAR) and shall be adjustable from 10 to 60 PSI (0,7 to 4,1 BAR). •Shock hazard. Disconnect power source before servicing.
Pressure switches shall have two conduit entrances, one for each indi- Serious injury or death could result.
vidual switch compartment to facilitate the use of dissimilar voltages for •Read all instructions carefully and understand them before
each individual switch. starting installation. Save instructions for future use. Failure to
read and understand instructions could result in improper
The cover of the pressure switch shall be zinc die-cast with rain lip and operation of device resulting in serious injury or death.
shall attach with one tamper resistant screw. The pressure switch shall be •Risk of explosion. Not for use is hazardous locations. Serious
suitable for indoor or outdoor service with a NEMA-4/IP66 rating. injury or death could result.
The pressure switch shall be UL, ULC, and CSFM listed, FM and LPC
approved and NYMEA accepted.

CAUTION
•Do not tighten by grasping the switch enclosure. Use wrenching
flats on the bushing only. Failure to install properly could damage
the switch and cause improper operation resulting in damage to
equipment and property.
•To seal threads, apply Teflon tape to male threads only. Using joint
compounds or cement can obstruct the pressure port inlet and result in
improper device operation and damage to equipment.
•Do not over tighten the device, standard piping practices apply.
•Do not apply any lubricant to any component of the pressure switch.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 85 OF 118
 PS-120
Supervisory Pressure Switch

Features
• One and two switch models available.
• Independent switch adjustment, no tools needed.
• Two conduit / cable entrances.
• Separate isolated wiring chambers.
• Non-corrosive pressure connection.
• Solid metal enclosure.

Installation Technical Specifications

The Potter PS120 Series Supervisory Pressure Actuated Switches are Dimensions 3.78”(9,6cm)Wx3.20”(8,1cm)Dx4.22”(10,7cm)H
designed primarily to detect an increase and/or decrease from normal sys-
tem pressure in automatic fire sprinkler systems. Typical applications are: Typical 2 lbs. at 25 PSI (0,14 at 1,7 BAR)
Differential
Wet pipe systems with excess pressure, pressure tanks, air supplies, and 8 lbs at 175 PSI (55 at 12,1 BAR)
water supplies. The PS120 switch is factory set for 120 PSI (8,3 BAR) Cover: Die Cast Finish: Red Powder Coat
normal system pressure. The switch marked with the word LOW is set to Enclosure Base: Die Cast
operate at a pressure decrease of 10 PSI (0,7 BAR) at 110 PSI (7,6 BAR). All parts have corrosion resistant finishes
The switch marked with the word HIGH is set to operate at a pressure PS120-1 operates on decrease at 110 PSI (7,6 BAR)
increase of 10 PSI (0,7 BAR) at 130 PSI (9 BAR). See section heading Factory Adjust- PS120-2 operates in increase at 130 PSI (9 BAR) and
ment
Adjustments and Testing if other than factory set point is required. on decrease at 110 PSI (7,6 BAR)
1. Connect the PS120 to the system side of any shutoff or check valve. SPDT (Form C)
2. Apply Teflon tape to the threaded male connection on the device. Switch Contacts 10.1 Amps at 125/250 VAC, 2.0 Amps at 30 VDC
One SPDT in PS120-1, Two SPDT in PS120-2
(Do not use pipe dope)
3. Device should be mounted in the upright position.
-40º F to 140ºF (-40ºC to 60ºC)
(Threaded connection down) Environmental NEMA 4/IP66 Rated Enclosure indoor or outdoor
4. Tighten the device using a wrench on the flats on the device. Limitations when used with NEMA 4 conduit fittings
Wiring Instructions Two knockouts for 1/2” conduit provided. Individual
Conduit En- switch compartments and ground screw suitable for
1. Remove the tamper resistant screw with the special key provided. trances
2. Carefully place a screwdriver on the edge of the knockout and dissimilar voltages
sharply apply a force sufficient to dislodge the knockout plug. See Service Use NFPA 13, 13D, 13R, 72
Fig 9.
Pressure Con- Nylon 1/2” NPT male
3. Run wires through an approved conduit connector and affix the con- nection
nector to the device. A NEMA-4 rated conduit fitting is required for
outdoor use. Maximum Sys- 300 PSI (20,68 BAR)
tem Pressure
4. Connect the wires to the appropriate terminal connections for the
service intended. See Figures 2,4,5, and 6. See Fig 7 for two switch,
*Specifications subject to change without notice.
one conduit wiring.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 86 OF 118
 PS-120
Supervisory Pressure Switch

Testing
The operation of the pressure alarm switch should be tested upon completion of installation and periodically thereafter in accordance with the applicable NFPA
codes and standards and/or the authority having jurisdiction (manufacturer recommends quarterly or more frequently).

Wet System
NOTE: Testing the PS120 may activate other system connected devices. The use of a Potter BVL (see product bulletin 8900067 for details) is recommended
to facilitate setting and testing of the PS120 pressure switch. When a BVL (bleeder valve) is used, the pressure to the switch can be isolated and bled from the
exhaust port on the BVL without effecting the supervisory pressure of the entire system. See Fig. 3
The operation point of the PS120 Pressure Switch can be adjusted to any point between 25 and 175 PSI (1,7 - 12,1 BAR) by turning the adjustment knob(s)
clockwise to raise the actuation point and counter clockwise to lower the actuation point. In the case of the PS120-2, both switches operate independent of each
other. Each switch may be independently adjusted to actuate at any point acrosss the switch adjustment range. Initial adjustment can be made with a visual
reference from the top of the adjustment knob across to the printed scale on the switch bracket. Final adjustments should be verified with a pressure gauge.

Dimensions Switch Clamping Plate Terminal

Fig 1 Fig 2
G
GROUND IN
SCREWS COM
2.87 IN
ADJUSTMENT [72.97]
KNOB 4.22
[107.19]

1/2" NPT G
IN DWG# 923-3
TGO
2.48 OU
1.60
[62.87] [40.64]

3.78 3.20
[95.89] [81.28]

NOTE: To prevent leakage, apply Teflon tape sealant to male threads only.
An uninsulated section of a single conductor should not be looped around
the terminal and serve as two separate connections. The wire must be
DWG# 930-1 severed, thereby providing supervision of the connection in the event that
the wire becomes dislodged from under the terminal.

Typical Sprinkler Applications

Fig 3
PS120
SUPERVISORY
PRESSURE PS10
SWITCH WATERFLOW WATER
ALARM MOTOR
BLEEDER SWITCH
TEST WET SYSTEM GONG
RBVS VALVE ALARM CHECK
BVL VALVE

CHECK
VALVE RBVS

EXCESS
PRESSURE
PUMP WATER
OS & Y
BY-PASS
VALVE
TEST VALVE
RBVS DWG #926-1A

CAUTION
Closing of any shutoff valves between the alarm check valve and the PS120 will render the PS120 inoperative. To comply with NFPA-72 any such valve
shall be electrically supervised with a supervisory switch such as Potter Model RBVS.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 87 OF 118
 PS-120
Supervisory Pressure Switch

Typical Connections
Fig 4
PS120-1 PS120-2

WITH NORMAL SYSTEM

PRESSURE APPLIED LOW - TO FIRE
TERMINAL 2 CLOSES ON ALARM
PRESSURE DROP. PANEL HIGH
AIR
COM 1 2
2 1 COM

COM 1 2 WITH NORMAL SYSTEM

LOW PRESSURE APPLIED
TO FIRE EOLR AIR HIGH - TERMINAL
ALARM 1 WILL CLOSE ON
PANEL PRESSURE INCREASE.
EOLR

DWG# 933-1

Low Pressure Signal Connection High Pressure Signal Connection

Fig 4 Fig 5
TO FIRE ALARM PANEL TO FIRE ALARM PANEL
EOLR EOLR

DWG# 928-1
DWG# 928-2

One Conduit Wiring Changing Pressure

Fig 7 (With normal system pressure)
Break out thin section of divider to provide path for wires when wiring Fig 8
both switches from one conduit entrance. Terminal
1: Closed under LOW PRESSURE SWITCH
normal system
pressure.
C
2: Open under
normal system
pressure, closes on
pressure drop. Use C 1 2
for low pressure
signal.

Terminal HIGH PRESSURE SWITCH

1: Open under
normal system C

DWG# 928-4
pressure, closes
on pressure
increase. Use for
high pressure signal. C 1 2

2: Closed under
DWG# 930-3
normal system
pressure.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 88 OF 118
 PS-120
Supervisory Pressure Switch

Removing Knockouts
Fig 9
•Installation must be performed by qualified personnel and in
accordance with all national and local codes and ordinances. •Shock
hazard. Disconnect power source before servicing.
Serious injury or death could result.
•Read all instructions carefully and understand them before
starting installation. Save instructions for future use. Failure to
read and understand instructions could result in improper
operation of device resulting in serious injury or death.
•Risk of explosion. Not for use in hazardous locations. Serious
injury or death could result.

CAUTION
•Do not tighten by grasping the switch enclosure. Use wrenching
flats on the bushing only. Failure to install properly could damage
DWG#928-5 the switch and cause improper operation resulting in damage to
equipment and property.
•To seal threads, apply Teflon tape to male threads only. Using
joint compounds or cement can obstruct the pressure port inlet
Engineer/Architect Specifications and result in improper device operation and damage to equipment.
Pressure Type Waterflow Switch •Do not over tighten the device, standard piping practices apply.
Pressure type supervisory switches; shall be a Model PS120 as manufactured
by Potter Electric Signal Company, St. Louis, MO., and shall be installed on the
fire sprinkler system as shown and or specified herein.
Switches shall be provided with a ½” NPT male pressure connection to be
connected into the air supply line on the system side of any shut-off valve.
A Model BVL bleeder valve as supplied by Potter Electric Signal Company of St.
Louis, MO., or equivalent shall be connected in line with the PS120 to provide a
means of testing the operation of the supervisory switch. (See Fig. 3)
The switch unit shall contain SPDT (Form C) switch(es). One switch shall be
set to operate at a pressure decrease of 10 PSI (0,7 BAR) from normal. If two
switches are provided, the second switch shall be set to operate at a pressure
increase of 10 PSI (0,7 BAR) from normal.
Switch contact shall be rated at 10.1 Amps at 125/250VAC and 2.0 Amps at
30VDC. The units shall have a maximum pressure rating of 300 PSI (20,68
BAR) and shall be adjustable from 25 to 175 PSI (1,7 to 12,1 BAR).
Tamper
Cover incorporates tamper resistant fastener that requires a special key for
removal. One key is supplied with each device. For optional cover tamper
switch kit, order Stock No. 0090200. See bulletin #5401200 PSCTSK. Ordering Information
Model Description Part Number
Pressure switch with one set SPDT
PS120-1 1341203
contacts
Pressure switch with two sets SPDT
PS120-2 1341204
contacts
Hex Key 5250062
Cover Tamper
0090200
Switch Kit
BVL Bleeder valve 1000018

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 89 OF 118
 RBVS
Retrofit Ball Valve Switch

Features
• Small and large clamp models available
• Non-corrosive composite housing
• Built-in housing cover tamper switch
• Assembled in the USA

Description Technical Specifications

The Model RBVS is designed to monitor the fully open position of a ball valve Large Clamps: 6” L x 5” W x 5.2” H
installed in a sprinkler system. The unit will fit on most ball valves installed on 15,2 cm L x 12,7 cm W x 13,2 cm H
Dimensions
back-flow-preventers and alarm trim lines of dry, alarm, and deluge sprinkler Small Clamps: 6” L x 4” W x 5.2” H
valves. The switch operates if the ball valve handle is moved from the open 15,2 cm L x 10,2 cm W x 13,2 cm H
position. However, the switch does not track the position of the handle or ball. With Large Clamps: 13.6 oz. (386,9 g.)
When the ball valve handle is in the open position, a spring-loaded switch button Weight
With Small Clamps: 11.0 oz. (311,2 g.)
will contact the valve handle. When the handle is moved from the open position,
this switch button extends to the tripped position, and the RBVS contacts change SPDT Contacts: 10A at 125/250 VAC
Contact
state, thereby opening or closing a circuit. A cover tamper switch is available and 2A at 30 VDC
Ratings
is activated by the removal of the RBVS housing cover. If an attempt is made SPDT Cover Tamper:3A at 250 VAC
to remove the RBVS by the removal of the mounting brackets, the unit will be NEMA 4 rated enclosure when proper electrical
set into the tripped mode by this action. Environmental fittings are used. (IP67)
The RBVS can be mounted to the hex portion of the ball valve or back-flow- Limitations Temperature range: -40°F to 150°F (-40°C to 65°C)
preventer or to the adjoining pipe via two clamps. The RBVS is shipped with two Not for use in hazardous locations
sets of mounting clamps to accommodate various pipe and valve sizes, refer to Probe Fitting
Table 1. An "L" shaped and offset bracket for mounting the switch enclosure and Thread ½” and ¾” NPT
an extension bracket add to the mounting flexibility of the RBVS. See "Typical Connection:
Mounting Diagram" and "Installation and Operation" on the following pages NEMA Type 1 for indoor use only. Formed sheet metal
Environmental with powder coat/paint finish. Four openings for ½”
Testing Specifications conduit fittings.
The RBVS and its associated protective monitoring system should be tested Temperature range: 40° F to 120° F (4,5° C to 49° C)
in accordance with applicable NFPA codes and standards and/or the authority Service Use Dry Pipe/Pre-Action Automatic Sprinkler Systems NFPA 13
having jurisdiction (manufacturer recommends quarterly or more frequently).

US Patent No. 6,945,509

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 90 OF 118
 RBVS
Retrofit Ball Valve Switch

Internal Components Installation On Lever Handle

Fig.1 (See Fig. 2)
1. Select clamps and clamping bolts based upon pipe/valve size, see Table 1.
2. Insert rubber clamp grippers into clamps, see Fig. 2.
3. Place one clamp on top of pipe/ball valve near the valve handle and
insert clamping bolts through it.
4. Place other clamp over clamping bolts from beneath the installation and
thread hex nuts onto the clamping bolts, but do not fully tighten, (be sure
hex nuts seat properly in clamp hex recesses). (NOTE: Some installations
may require one of the mounting bolts to be inserted from the bottom of
the brackets and then trimmed to allow the extension bracket to clear.
See Fig. 4)
5. Attach extension bracket (if necessary to use for positioning) to top clamp
using ¼-20 X ¾" Hex bolt and washer, but do not fully tighten.
6. Attach "L" bracket (RBVS switch enclosure is loosely attached to "L"
bracket) to extension bracket using ¼-20 X ¾" Hex bolt and washer, but
do not fully tighten.
7. Be sure ball valve is in the fully open position.
8. Slide loosely assembled RBVS switch enclosure to a position that permits
Typical Mounting Diagram the switch button to contact the valve handle approximately 1" from its
inside end. See Fig. 1 for approximate location. Cut and remove the plastic
Fig. 2 coating from the ball valve handle to allow the RBVS switch button to
contact (and be activated by) the metal of the handle.
9. Tighten clamping screws alternately to an eventual 30 in-lbs. (minimum)
of torque.
10. Maintain position of switch enclosure over valve handle and secure bolt
that holds the extension bracket to the clamping assembly. It may be
necessary to close valve to access this bolt.
11. Position "L" bracket so that it contacts the back edge of the valve handle, and
secure its bolt. It may be necessary to close valve to access this bolt.
12. With the actuator fully retracted, position RBVS switch enclosure to
contact the valve handle squarely, see Fig. 1.
13. With RBVS switch enclosure held squarely in contact with valve handle,
securely tighten the two tamper resistant screws on the backside of the
enclosure.
14. Close and open the valve to verify operation. The actuator should easily
retract when the valve handle is in the open position.
15. Fully open the valve.
16. Remove the cover and wire main switch and tamper switch if applicable.
Carefully route tamper switch wires through strain relief channel in switch
enclosure. Fully seat the wires into the bottom of the channel. See Fig. 1.
Table 1 Clamp Sizing 17. Replace RBVS switch enclosure cover and securely tighten cover screw.

Pipe Valve/Size Clamp Clamping Bolts

1/2" to 3/4" (12,5 to 19mm) Small 10-32 x 2 1/2
1" to 2" (25 to 50mm) Large 1/4-20 x 4"

Typical Electrical Connections

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 91 OF 118
 RBVS
Retrofit Ball Valve Switch

Fig. 3 Installation on Tee Handle

(See Fig. 3)
1. Select clamps and clamping bolts based upon pipe/valve size, see Table 1.
2. Insert rubber clamp grippers into clamps, See Fig. 3.
3. Place one clamp on top of pipe/ball valve near the valve handle and
insert clamping bolts through it.
4. Place other clamp over clamping bolts from beneath the installation and
thread hex nuts onto the clamping bolts, but do not fully tighten, (be sure
hex nuts seat properly in clamp hex recesses).
5. Loosely attach "L" bracket to the "offset" bracket and "offset" bracket
to the RBVS housing.
6. Be sure ball valve is in the fully open position.
7. Slide loosely assembled RBVS switch enclosure to a position that
Fig. 4 permits the switch button to contact the valve handle approximately 1/2"
from the end of the handle. Cut and remove the plastic coating from the
ball valve handle to allow the RBVS switch button to contact (and be
RBVS activated by) the metal of the handle.
8. Tighten clamping screws alternately and ¼-20 X ¾" bolt to 30 in-lbs.
(minimum) of torque.
9. With the valve handle fully open, slide the RBVS housing down until
the switch operates plus 1/8 inch. Tighten the screws holding the RBVS
to the "offset" bracket.
SOME INSTALLATIONS MAY 10. Remove the RBVS switch enclosure cover.
CAUSE INTERFERENCE 11. Close and open the valve to verify operation. The actuator should easily
BETWEEN MOUNTING BOLT AND
OFFSET BRACKET. INSTALL BOLT retract up when the valve handle is in the open position.
FROM BOTTOM AND TRIM AS PIPE 12. Fully open the valve.
NEEDED TO CORRECT.
13. Wire main switch and tamper switch (if applicable). Carefully route
tamper switch wires through strain relief channel in switch enclosure.
Fully seat the wires into the bottom of the channel. See Fig. 1.
14. Replace RBVS switch enclosure cover and securely tighten cover screw.

DWG# 1086-6
Tamper Switch Connections

Switch Terminal Connections

Clamping Plate Terminal

NG
MI
CO
IN

NG
G OI DWG# 923-3

OUT

Ordering Information
An uninsulated section of a single conductor should not be looped Model Description Part Number
around the terminal and serve as two separate connections. The wire Retrofit ball valve switch (w/o Cover
must be severed, thereby providing supervision of the connection in RBVS 1000040
the event that the wire become dislodged from under the terminal. Tamper)
Failure to sever the wire may render the device inoperable risking Retrofit ball valve switch (w/ Cover
severe property damage and loss of life. RBVS-T 1000035
Do not strip wire beyond 3/8” of length or expose an uninsulated Tamper)
conductor beyond the edge of the terminal block. When using stranded
wire, capture all strands under the clamping plate. Optional Cover Tamper Kit 0090201

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 92 OF 118
 VSR
Vane Type Waterflow Alarm
Switch With Retard

Features
• Assembled in USA
• Visual and audible switch activation
• 0-90 second field replaceable electronic retard
• Two SPDT (form C) contacts
• Weatherproof
• Works on Schedule 5-40 pipe
• Easy to read wire terminal designations
• Easy to read retard time delay adjustment knob

CAUTION
Waterflow switches that are monitoring wet pipe sprinkler systems shall
not be used as the sole initiating device to discharge AFFF, deluge,
or chemical suppression systems. Waterflow switches used for this
application may result in unintended discharges caused by surges, trapped
air, or short retard times.

Important: This document contains important information on the installation and operation of the VSR waterflow switches. Please read all instructions carefully
before beginning installation. A copy of this document is required by NFPA 72 to be maintained on site.

Description Technical Specifications

The Model VSR is a vane type waterflow switch for use on wet sprinkler Service Pressure 450 PSI (31 BAR) - UL
systems. It is UL Listed for use on a steel pipe; schedules 5 through 40,
Flow Required 10 GPM (38 LPM) - UL
sizes 2” - 6” and is UL Listed and FM Approved for use on steel pipe; for Alarm
schedules 10 through 40, sizes 2” thru 8” (50 mm thru 200 mm). LPC
Maximum Surge 18 FPS (5,5 m/s)
approved sizes are 2” thru 8” (50 mm thru 200 mm). See Ordering
Information chart. Enclosure Die-cast, red enamel finish
The VSR may also be used as a sectional waterflow detector on large Cover held in place with tamper resistant screws
systems. The VSR contains two single pole, double throw, snap action Two sets of SPDT (Form C)
switches and an adjustable, instantly recycling pneumatic retard. The Contact Ratings 10.0 Amps at 125/250VAC
2.0 Amps at 30VDC Resistive
switches are actuated when a flow of 10 GPM (38 LPM) or more occurs
downstream of the device. The flow condition must exist for a period of Conduit En- Two knockouts provided for 1/2” conduit. Individual
time necessary to overcome the selected retard period. trances switch compartments suitable for dissimilar voltages.
NEMA-4/IP64 Rated enclosure suitable for indoor or
Enclosure outdoor use with factory installed gasket and die-cast
Environmental housing when used with appropriate conduit fitting.
The VSR switches and retard device are enclosed in a general purpose, Specifications Temperature range: 40° F to 120° F, (4,5° C to 49°
die-cast housing. The cover is held in place with two tamper resistant C) UL
screws which require a special key for removal. A field installable cover
Automatic Sprinkler NFPA-13
tamper switch is available as an option which may be used to indicate One or two family dwelling NFPA-13D
unauthorized removal of the cover. See bulletin number 5401103 for Service Use Residential occupancy up to four stories NFPA-13R
installation instructions of this switch. National Fire Alarm Code NFPA-72

*Specifications subject to change without notice.

• Installation must be performed by qualified personnel and in accordance with

all national and local codes and ordinances.
• Shock hazard. Disconnect power source before servicing. Serious injury or
death could result.
• Risk of explosion. Not for use in hazardous locations. Serious injury or death
could result.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 93 OF 118
 VSR
Vane Type Waterflow Alarm
Switch With Retard

Installation
These devices may be mounted on horizontal or vertical pipe. On horizontal pipe they shall be installed on the top side of the pipe where they will be acces-
sible. The device should not be installed within 6” (15 cm) of a fitting which changes the direction of the waterflow or within 24” (60 cm) of a valve or drain.
NOTE: Do not leave cover off for an extended period of time.
Drain the system and drill a hole in the pipe using a hole saw in a slow speed drill (see Fig. 1). Clean the inside pipe of all growth or other material for a dis-
tance equal to the pipe diameter on either side of the hole. Roll the vane so that it may be inserted into the hole; do not bend or crease it. Insert the vane so that
the arrow on the saddle points in the direction of the waterflow. Take care not to damage the non-corrosive bushing in the saddle. The bushing should fit inside
the hole in the pipe. Install the saddle strap and tighten nuts alternately to required torque (see the chart in Fig. 1). The vane must not rub the inside of the pipe
or bind in any way.

Do not trim the paddle. Failure to follow these instructions may prevent the device from operating and will void the warranty. Do not obstruct or otherwise prevent
the trip stem of the flow switch from moving when water flows as this could damage the flow switch and prevent an alarm. If an alarm is not desired, a qualified
technician should disable the alarm system.

Fig 1 Retard Adjustment

DO NOT LEAVE COVER OFF FOR
AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME The delay can be adjusted by rotating the retard adjustment knob from 0
to the max setting (60-90 seconds). The time delay should be set at the
minimum required to prevent false alarms

CAUTION
TIGHTEN NUTS
ALTERNATELY

Hole must be drilled perpendicular to the pipe and vertically centered. Refer to the
Compatible Pipe/Installation Requirements chart for size.
Correct Incorrect
MOUNT ON PIPE SO
ARROW ON SADDLE
POINTS IN DIRECTION
OF WATERFLOW

ROLL PADDLE IN 50mm

OPPOSITE DIRECTION ADAPTER
DIRECTION OF ADAPTER
OF WATERFLOW
WATERFLOW

(Flowing water activates

20mm ±2mm MAX.
device in one direction only.)
DN50 ONLY
USE (2) 5180162 ADAPTERS AS SHOWN ABOVE
DWG# 1146-1F

Compatible Pipe/ Installation Requirements

Model Nominal Pipe Nominal Pipe Pipe Wall Thickness Hole Size U-Bolt Nuts
Size O.D.
Lightwall Schedule 10 (UL) Schedule 40 (UL) BS-1387 (LPC) DN (VDS) Torque

inch mm inch mm inch mm inch mm inch mm inch mm inch mm inch mm ft-lb n-m
VSR-2 2 DN50 2.375 60.3 .065 1.651 0.109 2.77 0.154 3.91 0.142 3.6 0.091 2.3
1.25 + .125/-
VSR-2 1/2 2.5 - 2.875 73.0 .084 2.134 0.120 3.05 0.203 5.16 - - - - 33.0 ± 2.0
.062
VSR-2 1/2 - DN65 3.000 76.1 - - - - - - 0.142 3.6 0.102 2.6
VSR-3 3 DN80 3.500 88.9 .083 2.108 0.120 3.05 0.216 5.49 0.157 4.0 0.114 2.9
VSR-3 1/2 3.5 - 4.000 101.6 - - 0.120 3.05 0.226 5.74 - - - - 20 27
VSR-4 4 DN100 4.500 114.3 .084 2.134 0.120 3.05 0.237 6.02 0.177 4.5 0.126 3.2
2.00 ± .125 50.8 ± 2.0
VSR-5 5 - 5.563 141.3 - - 0.134 3.40 0.258 6.55 - - - -
VSR-6 6 DN150 6.625 168.3 .115 2.921 0.134 3.40 0.280 7.11 0.197 5.0 0.157 4.0
VSR-8 8 DN200 8.625 219.1 - - 0.148 3.76 0.322 8.18 0.248 6.3 0.177 4.5

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 94 OF 118
 VSR
Vane Type Waterflow Alarm
Switch With Retard

Knockout Removal Switch Terminal Connections

To remove knockouts: Place screwdriver at inside edge of knockouts, not in the center.
Clamping Plate Terminal
Fig 4
Fig 2
G
M IN
CO
IN

NG
G OI DWG# 923-3

O UT

An uninsulated section of a single conductor should not be looped

around the terminal and serve as two separate connections. The wire
must be severed, thereby providing supervision of the connection in
the event that the wire become dislodged from under the terminal.
DWG 1146-4 Failure to sever the wire may render the device inoperable risking
severe property damage and loss of life.
Do not strip wire beyond 3/8” of length or expose an uninsulated
conductor beyond the edge of the terminal block. When using stranded
wire, capture all strands under the clamping plate.
Do not drill into the base as this creates metal shavings which can
create electrical hazards and damage the device. Drilling voids the
warranty.
Typical Electrical Connections
Break out thin section of cover when wiring both switches from one Fig 5
conduit entrance. CONNECTOR
BELL
NEUTRAL FROM
Fig 3 BREAKER NEUTRAL FROM BELL

BREAKER LOAD TO BELL

LINE FROM BREAKER

EOL (End Of Line Resistor)

NOTE:
When connecting to a UL Listed
control panel, use the panel’s
resistor value for circuit supervision.

NOTES:
1. The Model VSR has two switches, one can be used to operate a central
station, proprietary or remote signaling unit, while the other contact is
used to operate a local audible or visual annunciator.
2. For supervised circuits, see “Switch Terminal Connections” drawing
and warning note (Fig. 4).    

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 95 OF 118
 VSR
Vane Type Waterflow Alarm
Switch With Retard

Testing
The frequency of inspection and testing for the Model VSR and  its associated protective monitoring system shall be in accordance with applicable NFPA
Codes and Standards and/or the authority having jurisdiction (manufacturer recommends quarterly or more frequently).
If provided, the inspector’s test valve shall always be used for test purposes. If there are no provisions for testing the operation of the flow detection device on
the system, application of the VSR is not recommended or advisable.
A minimum flow of 10 GPM (38 LPM) is required to activate this device.

Advise the person responsible for testing of the fire protection system that this system must be tested in accordance with the testing
instructions.

Maintenance
Inspect detectors monthly. If leaks are found, replace the detector. The VSR waterflow switch should provide years of trouble-free service. The retard and switch
assembly are easily field replaceable. In the unlikely event that either component does not perform properly, please order replacement retard switch assembly
stock #1029030 (see Fig. 8). There is no maintenance required, only periodic testing and inspection. Vane type watearflow switches have a normal service life
of 10-15 years. However, the service life may be significantly reduced by local environmental conditions.

Mounting Dimensions
Fig 6 Fig 7
GREEN GROUND
5.56 in SCREWS
3.50 in (141.2 mm)
2.00 in
(89.0 mm) (50.8 mm)

2.34 in
(59.4 mm)

PIPE DIA.
U-BOLT NUT + 5.25 in
(+ 133.4 mm)
U-BOLT WASHER

PIPE SADDLE

PIPE
PLASTIC PADDLE DWG. 1146-14

U-BOLT NOMINAL PIPE DIA. +2.875 in (+73 MM) FOR DN 50 – 2 in

NOMINAL PIPE DIA. +3.375 in (60,3 MM) FOR DN 65 – 2.5-3.5 in DWG 1146-15
NOMINAL PIPE DIA. +2.125 in (+54.0 MM) FOR DN 80 – DN 200 3–8 in

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 96 OF 118
 VSR
Vane Type Waterflow Alarm
Switch With Retard

Retard/Switch Assembly Replacement

NOTE: The Retard/Switch Assembly is field-replaceable without draining the system or removing the waterflow switch from the pipe.
1. Make sure the fire alarm zone or circuit connected to the waterflow switch is bypassed or otherwise taken out of service.
2. Disconnect the power source for local bell (if applicable).
3. Identify and remove all wires from the waterflow switch.
4. Remove the (2) mounting screws holding retard/switch assembly to the base. Do not remove the (2) retard housing screws.
5. Remove the retard assembly by lifting it straight up over the tripstem.
6. Install the new retard assembly. Make sure the locating pins on the retard/switch assembly fit into the locating pin bosses on the base.
7. Re-install the (2) original mounting screws.
8. Reconnect all wires. Perform a flow test and place the system back in service.
Fig 8
REMOVE (2) ORIGINAL MOUNTING
SCREWS HOLDING RETARD/SWITCH
ASSEMBLY TO BASE

BREAK OUT THIN SECTION OF COVER

WHEN WIRING BOTH SWITCHES
FROM ONE CONDUIT ENTRANCE. (2) ORIGINAL MOUNTING
SCREWS
RETARD/SWITCH ASSEMBLY

(2) LOCATING PINS

(2) LOCATING PIN

DO NOT REMOVE BOSSES IN BASE
(2) RETARD HOUSING
SCREWS

BASE

DWG# 1146-10

Removal of Waterflow Switch

• To prevent accidental water damage, all control valves should be shut tight and the system completely drained before waterflow detectors are removed or
replaced.
• Turn off electrical power to the detector, then disconnect wiring.
Loosen nuts and remove U-bolts.
Gently lift the saddle far enough to get your fingers under it. With your fingers, roll the vane so it will fit through the hole while continuing to lift the
waterflow detector saddle.
• Lift detector clear of pipe.

Ordering Information
Ordering Information Nominal Pipe Size Model Part Number
Nominal Pipe Size Model Part Number 4" DN100 VSR-4 1144404
2" DN50 VSR-2 1144402 5" - VSR-5 1144405
2 1/2" DN65 VSR-2 1/2 1144425 6" DN150 VSR-6 1144406
3" DN80 VSR-3 1144403 8" DN200 VSR-8 1144408
3 1/2" - VSR-3 1/2 1144435 Optional: Cover Tamper Switch Kit, stock no. 0090148
Replaceable Components: Retard/Switch Assembly, stock no. 1029030

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 97 OF 118
 VSR-S
Vane Type Waterflow Alarm
Switch With Retard

Features
• Assembled in USA
• 0-90 second field replaceable electronic retard
• Fits 1” to 2” CPVC, copper, or iron TEE’s
• Comes with all necessary paddles
• Two SPDT (form C) contacts
• Weatherproof
• Easy to read wire terminal designations
• Easy to read time delay adjustment knob

CAUTION
Waterflow switches that are monitoring wet pipe sprinkler systems shall
not be used as the sole initiating device to discharge AFFF, deluge,
or chemical suppression systems. Waterflow switches used for this
application may result in unintended discharges caused by surges, trapped
air, or short retard times.

Important: This document contains important information on the installation and operation of the VSR waterflow switches. Please read all instructions carefully
before beginning installation. A copy of this document is required by NFPA 72 to be maintained on site.

Description Technical Specifications

The Model VSR-S is a vane type waterflow switch for use on wet Service Pressure Up to 300 PSI (20,7 BAR)
sprinkler systems that use 1” (25mm), 1¼” (32mm), 1½” (38mm) or 2”
(50mm) pipe size. The unit may also be used as a sectional waterflow 10 GPM (38 LPM)-UL
To ensure a minimum flow rate of 10 gpm, a minimum
detector on large systems. pressure is required at all sprinklers with a k-factor of 3 or
The unit contains two single pole double throw snap action switches and Flow Required for less.
Alarm K3: 10 PSI - K2.8: 12 PSI
an adjustable, instantly recycling pneumatic retard. The switches are If used at less than 10 GPM, it is the installers responsibility
actuated when a flow of 10 gallons per minute (38 LPM) or more occurs to conduct a calibrated flow test at the lowest expected flow
downstream of the device. The flow condition must exist for a period of rate to ensure proper rotation of flowswitch.
time necessary to overcome the selected retard period. Maximum Surge 18 FPS (5,5 m/s)

Enclosure Enclosure
Die-cast, red enamel finish
Cover held in place with tamper resistant screws
The VSR-S switches and retard device are enclosed in a general purpose, Two sets of SPDT (Form C)
die-cast housing. The cover is held in place with two tamper resistant Contact Ratings 10.0 Amps at 125/250VAC
2.0 Amps at 30VDC Resistive
screws which require a special key for removal. A field installable cover
tamper switch is available as an option which may be used to indicate Two knockouts provided for 1/2” conduit. Individual switch
Conduit Entrances
compartments suitable for dissimilar voltages.
unauthorized removal of the cover. See bulletin number 5401103 for
installation instructions of this switch. Listed plastic, copper and schedule 40 iron pipe.
Fits pipe sizes - 1” (25mm), 1 1/4” (32mm), 1 1/2” (38mm)
and 2” (50mm)
Usage NOTE: 12 paddles are furnished with each unit, one for each
pipe size of threaded and sweat TEE, one for 1” (25mm)
CPVC, one for 1” (25mm) CPVC (Central), one for 1” threaded
• Installation must be performed by qualified personnel and in ac- Nibco CPVC, and one for 1 1/2” (38mm) threaded (Japan).
cordance with all national and local codes and ordinances.
• Shock hazard. Disconnect power source before servicing. Serious NEMA-4/IP65 Rated enclosure suitable for indoor or
injury or death could result. Environmental outdoor use with factory installed gasket and die-cast
• Risk of explosion. Not for use in hazardous locations. Serious Specifications housing when used with appropriate conduit fitting.
injury or death could result. Temperature range: 40° F to 120° F, (4,5° C to 49° C) UL
Automatic Sprinkler NFPA-13
One or two family dwelling NFPA-13D
Service Use
Residential occupancy up to four stories NFPA-13R
National Fire Alarm Code NFPA-72

*Specifications subject to change without notice.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 98 OF 118
 VSR-S
Vane Type Waterflow Alarm
Switch With Retard

Installation
These devices may be mounted in horizontal or vertical pipe. On horizontal pipe they should be installed on the top side of the pipe where they will be acces-
sible. The units should not be installed within 6” (15cm) of a valve, drain or fitting which changes the direction of the waterflow. Select the proper paddle for
the pipe size and type of TEE used see Fig. 1 for instructions on changing paddle. The unit has a 1” NPT bushing for threading into a non-corrosive TEE. See
Fig. 2 for proper TEE size, type and installation. Use no more than three wraps of teflon tape.
Screw the device into the TEE fitting as shown in Fig. 2. Care must be taken to properly orient the device for the direction of waterflow.
The vane must not rub the inside of the TEE or bind in any way. The stem should move freely when operated by hand.
Note: Do not leave cover off for an extended period of time.

Do not trim the paddle. Failure to follow these instructions may prevent the device from operating and will void the warranty. Do not obstruct or otherwise prevent
the trip stem of the flow switch from moving when water flows as this could damage the flow switch and prevent an alarm. If an alarm is not desired, a qualified
technician should disable the alarm system.

Fig 1
COVER TAMPER SWITCH Retard Adjustment
The delay can be adjusted by rotating the retard adjustment knob from 0
to the max setting (60-90 seconds). The time delay should be set at the
minimum required to prevent false alarms.
Screw the device into the tee fitting as shown. Care must be taken to
properly orient the device for the direction of waterflow. On sweat tees,
no threaded bushings, inserts, or adapters are permitted, unless they com-
ply with the dimensions listed in the chart below.
Important - The depth to the inside bottom of the tee should have the
following dimensions:

MOUNT SO
ARROW ON
BUSHING POINTS Approximate Depth Requirement
IN DIRECTION OF
WATERFLOW Tee Size Threaded Sweat CPVC DIRECTION OF
WATER FLOW
1" x 1" x 1" 2 1/16" 1 3/4" 2 7/16"
1” NPT 1 1/4" x 1 1/4" x 1" 2 7/16" 2 7/16" N/A
THREADED
FITTING ON 1 1/2" x 1 1/2" x 1" 2 11/16" 2 1/4" N/A
ALL SIZES 2" x 2" x 1" 3 3/16" 2 3/4" N/A
DWG# 737-31
RUN OF THE TEE
MAY BE
THREADED OR
SWEAT PIPE

DIRECTION OF There are 12 paddles furnished with each unit. One for each size of
WATERFLOW threaded, sweat or plastic TEE as described in Fig. 2. These paddles
have raised lettering that shows the pipe size and type of TEE that they
DWG# 802-30A
are to be used with. The proper paddle must be used. The paddle must
be properly attached (see drawing) and the screw that holds the paddle
must be securely tightened.
Shown with optional Cover Tamper Switch Kit.

Fig 2

Use only factory TEE’s with a 1” NPT boll. Reducing bushings, 4,3MM
APPROX.
mechanical TEE’s and weld-o-lets are not allowed. (1 11/16”)
* Do not use more than three wraps of teflon tape.

DEPTH

DWG# 735-33

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 99 OF 118
 VSR-S
Vane Type Waterflow Alarm
Switch With Retard

Knockout Removal Switch Terminal Connections

To remove knockouts: Place screwdriver at inside edge of knockouts, not in Clamping Plate Terminal
the center. Fig 6
Fig 3
NG
O MI
INC

G
O IN DWG# 923-3
TG
OU

DWG 1146-4

An uninsulated section of a single conductor should not be looped

around the terminal and serve as two separate connections. The wire
must be severed, thereby providing supervision of the connection in
the event that the wire become dislodged from under the terminal.
Do not drill into the base as this creates metal shavings which can create electrical Failure to sever the wire may render the device inoperable risking
hazards and damage the device. Drilling voids the warranty. severe property damage and loss of life.
Do not strip wire beyond 3/8” of length or expose an uninsulated
Fig 4 conductor beyond the edge of the terminal block. When using stranded
wire, capture all strands under the clamping plate.
Break out thin section of cover when wiring both switches from one
conduit entrance.
Typical Electrical Connections
Fig 7
CONNECTOR
BELL
NEUTRAL FROM
BREAKER NEUTRAL FROM BELL

LOAD TO BELL
BREAKER

LINE FROM BREAKER

EOL (End Of Line Resistor)

NOTE:
When connecting to a UL Listed
control panel, use the panel’s
resistor value for circuit supervision.

Cover Tamper Switch Wiring

Fig 5 NOTES:
1. The Model VSR has two switches, one can be used to operate a central
(Shown with cover in place)
station, proprietary or remote signaling unit, while the other contact is
used to operate a local audible or visual annunciator.
2. A condition of LPC Approval of this product is that the electrical entry
must be sealed to exclude moisture.
3. For supervised circuits, see “Switch Terminal Connections” drawing
and warning note (Fig. 6).     
C N.O. N.C.
(WHT) (RED) (BLK)
DWG# 8810018-2

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 100 OF 118

 VSR-S
Vane Type Waterflow Alarm
Switch With Retard

Testing
The frequency of inspection and testing for the Model VSR-S and its associated protective monitoring system should be in accordance with applicable NFPA
Codes and Standards and/or the authority having jurisdiction (manufacturer recommends quarterly or more frequently.)
An inspector’s test valve shall always be used for test purposes. If there are no provisions for testing the operation of the flow detection device on the system,
application of the VSR-S is not recommended or advisable.
A minimum flow of 10 gpm (38 Lpm) is required to activate this device.
Important Notice
Please advise the person responsible for testing of the fire protection system that this system must be tested in accordance with the testing instructions.
Maintenance
Inspect detectors monthly for leaks. If leaks are found, replace the detector. The VSR-S waterflow switch should provide years of trouble-free service. The
retard and switch assembly are easily field replaceable. In the unlikely event that either component does not perform properly, please order replacement
retard switch assembly stock #1029030. There is no maintenance required, only periodic testing and inspection. Vane type watearflow switches have a normal
service life of 10-15 years. However, the service life may be significantly reduced by local environmental conditions.

Removal
• To prevent accidental water damage, all control valves should be shut tight and the system completely drained before waterflow detectors are removed or
replaced.
• Turn off electrical power to the detector, then disconnect wiring.
• Use a wrench on the flats of the bushing. Turn the switch counterclockwise to disengage the pipe threads.
• Gently lift with your fingers, roll the vane so it will fit through the hole while continuing to lift the waterflow detector.
• Lift detector clear of pipe.

Mounting Dimensions
Fig 8
3.50" 5.56"
(89.0 mm) (141.2 mm)
GROUND SCREWS

2.00"
(50.8 mm)

2.34"
(59.4 mm)

4.89"
(52.3 mm)

1"-11 1/2 NPT

DWG# 1206-5
Ordering Information
Model Description Stock No.
Vane Type Waterflow Alarm Switch with
VSR-S 1144440
Retard

Optional: Cover Tamper Switch Kit, Stock No. 0090148

(See Fig. 4 for terminations)
Replaceable Components: Retard/Switch Assembly, stock no. 1029030
Paddle Tree, stock no. 5559001
Paddle Tree, stock no. 5490374

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 101 OF 118

 VSR-SG
Vane Type Waterflow Alarm Switch
With Retard and Glue-In Union

Features
• Assembled in USA
• 0-90 second field replaceable electronic retard
• Fits 1’ to 2” CPVC
• Comes with all necessary paddles
• Easy to read wire terminal designations
• Easy to read retard time delay adjustment knob
• Union coupling for installations in confined locations

CAUTION
Waterflow switches that are monitoring wet pipe sprinkler systems shall not be used as
the sole initiating device to discharge AFFF, deluge, or chemical suppression systems.
Waterflow switches used for this application may result in unintended discharges caused
by surges, trapped air, or short retard times.

Description Technical Specifications

The Model VSR-SG is a vane type waterflow switch for use on wet sprin- Service Pressure Up to 175 PSI (12,07 BAR)
kler systems using CPVC plastic fittings (manufactured by Tyco, Nibco,
Victaulic, Ipex, and Spears Manufacturing Company) that use 1”, 1 ¼”, 1 Flow Required 4-10 GPM (15-38 LPM) - UL
for Alarm
½”, or 2” pipe sizes. It is equipped with a union to accommodate installa-
tion in confined spaces. Maximum Surge 18 FPS (5,5 m/s)
The VSR-SG contains two single pole, double throw, snap action Two sets of SPDT (Form C)
switches and an adjustable, instantly recycling pneumatic retard. The Contact Ratings 10.0 Amps at 125/250VAC
switches are actuated when a flow of 10 GPM (38 LPM) or more occurs 2.0 Amps at 30VDC Resistive
downstream of the switch. The flow condition must exist for a period of Conduit En- Two knockouts provided for 1/2” conduit. Individual
time necessary to overcome the selected retard period. trances switch compartments suitable for dissimilar voltages.
NEMA-4/IP65 Rated enclosure suitable for indoor or
Enclosure outdoor use with factory installed gasket and die-cast
Environmental housing when used with appropriate conduit fitting.
The VSR-SG switches and retard switch are enclosed in a general Specifications Temperature range: 40° F to 120° F, (4,5° C to 49°
purpose, die-cast housing. The cover is held in place with two tamper C) UL
resistant screws which require a special key for removal. A field install-
British Standard B59251
able cover tamper switch is available as an option which may be used to Automatic Sprinkler NFPA-13
indicate unauthorized removal of the cover. See bulletin number 5401103 Service Use One or two family dwelling NFPA-13D
for installation instructions of this switch. Residential occupancy up to four stories NFPA-13R
National Fire Alarm Code NFPA-72

• Installation must be performed by qualified personnel

and in accordance with all national and local codes and
ordinances.
• Shock hazard. Disconnect power source before servicing. Serious
injury or death could result.
• Risk of explosion. Not for use in hazardous locations. Serious
injury or death could result.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 102 OF 118

 VSR-SG
Vane Type Waterflow Alarm Switch
With Retard and Glue-In Union

Installation
These switches may be mounted on horizontal or vertical pipe. On horizontal pipe they shall be installed on the top side of the pipe where they will be acces-
sible. The switch should not be installed within 6” (15 cm) of a fitting which changes the direction of the waterflow or within 24” (60 cm) of a valve or drain.
The unit has a 1” male fitting for gluing into a CPVC plastic tee.
Note: Do not leave cover off for an extended period of time.
Loosen the union nut and separate the 1” male fitting from the VSR-SG. Glue the 1” male fitting into the TEE following the TEE manufacturer’s instructions
for preparation and gluing of CPVC piping systems. (Note: The 1” male fitting must bottom out on the stop of the TEE for proper operation of the VSR-SG.
See Fig. 1.) Wait 2 to 4 hours to allow the glue to dry before attaching the VSR-SG to the 1” male fitting. Select the proper paddle for the pipe size and type of
TEE used. See Fig. 3 for instructions on how to change paddle. Verify that the o-ring is properly positioned in its groove. Hand tighten the nut on the union
after orienting the switch in the appropriate direction to detect waterflow as shown in Fig. 5 & Fig. 7.
The vane must not rub the inside of the TEE or bind in any way. The stem should move freely when operated by hand.

CAUTION CAUTION
Do not trim the paddle. Failure to follow these instructions may prevent Do not over-tighten the union nut, hand tighten only. Use of a wrench may
the switch from operating and will void the warranty. damage the union nut.
Fig 1 Retard Adjustment
OPTIONAL COVER TAMPER SWITCH The delay can be adjusted by rotating the retard adjustment knob from 0
Do not leave cover off for extended period of time to the max setting (60-90 seconds). The time delay should be set at the
minimum required to prevent false alarms

RETARD
ADJUSTMENT
KNOB

MOUNT SO ARROW ON
BASE POINTS IN DIRECTION
OF WATERFLOW

11 paddles are furnished with each unit to accommodate the various sizes
and manufacturers of TEES. The paddles have raised lettering that show the
1" MALE FITTING ON pipe size and the TEE manufacturer they are to be used with. The proper
ALL SIZES
paddle must be used. The paddle must be properly attached (see Fig. 3) and
the screw that holds the paddle must be securely tightened.

Fig 2
DWG# 1205-1A

RUN OF THE TEE

MAY BE 1”, 1 ¼”, 1
½”, or 2”
Flowing water activates switch in one
direction only.

Glue the 1” male fitting into the TEE following the TEE manufacturer’s
instructions for preparation and gluing of CPVC piping systems. Wait 2
to 4 hours to allow the glue to dry before attaching the VSR-SG to the 1”
male fitting.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 103 OF 118

 VSR-SG
Vane Type Waterflow Alarm Switch
With Retard and Glue-In Union

Break out thin section of cover when wiring both switches from one Switch Terminal Connections
conduit entrance.
Clamping Plate Terminal
Fig 3
Fig 5

DWG# 1205-4

Typical Electrical Connections An uninsulated section of a single conductor should not be looped
around the terminal and serve as two separate connections. The wire
Fig 4 must be severed, thereby providing supervision of the connection in
the event that the wire become dislodged from under the terminal.
Failure to sever the wire may render the device inoperable risking
CONNECTOR
BELL
NEUTRAL FROM severe property damage and loss of life.
BREAKER NEUTRAL FROM BELL
Do not strip wire beyond 3/8” of length or expose an uninsulated
conductor beyond the edge of the terminal block. When using stranded
wire, capture all strands under the clamping plate.
LOAD TO BELL

BREAKER

LINE FROM BREAKER

EOL (End Of Line Resistor)

Testing
The frequency of inspection and testing for the Model VSR-SG and  its
associated protective monitoring system shall be in accordance with ap-
plicable NFPA Codes and Standards and/or the authority having jurisdic-
NOTE: tion (manufacturer recommends quarterly or more frequently).
When connecting to a UL Listed
control panel, use the panel’s A method of testing the VSR-SG must be provided. The valve used for
resistor value for circuit supervision.
testing shall be easily reached and shall produce a minimum flow of 10
GPM to activate the switch. The discharge orifice shall be equal to the
smallest sprinkler used in the system.

Notes:
1. The Model VSR-SG has two switches, one can be used to operate a central
station, proprietary or remote signaling unit, while the other contact is
used to operate a local audible or visual annunciator. Advise the person responsible for testing of the fire protection
2. For supervised circuits, see “Switch Terminal Connections” drawing and system that this system must be tested in accordance with the
warning note (Fig. 6).    testing instructions.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 104 OF 118

 VSR-SG
Vane Type Waterflow Alarm Switch
With Retard and Glue-In Union

Mounting Dimensions
Fig 6

5.56 in 90°
(141.2 mm)
3.50 in 2.00 in
(89.0 mm) (50.8 mm)

3.91 in
(99.33 mm)

PIPE DWG# 1205-15

DWG# 1190-1
PLASTIC PADDLE

CAUTION
Flow switch must be properly orientated. Side of cover must be perpendicular with the pipe. Improper orientation could delay or prevent notification of
waterflow.

Maintenance
Inspect the waterflow switch monthly. If leaks are found, replace the waterflow switch. The VSR-SG waterflow switch should provide years of trouble-
free service. The retard and switch assembly are easily field replaceable. In the unlikely event that either component does not perform properly, please order
replacement retard switch assembly stock #1029030 (see Fig. 9). There is no maintenance required, only periodic testing and inspection.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 105 OF 118

 VSR-SG
Vane Type Waterflow Alarm Switch
With Retard and Glue-In Union

Retard/Switch Assembly Replacement

The Retard/Switch Assembly is field-replaceable without draining the system or removing the waterflow switch from the pipe.
1. Make sure the fire alarm zone or circuit connected to the waterflow switch is bypassed or otherwise taken out of service.
2. Disconnect the power source for local bell (if applicable).
3. Identify and remove all wires from the waterflow switch.
4. Remove the (2) mounting screws holding retard/switch assembly to the base. Do not remove the (2) retard housing screws.
5. Remove the retard assembly by lifting it straight up over the tripstem.
6. Install the new retard assembly. Make sure the locating pins on the retard/switch assembly fit into the locating pin bosses on the base.
7. Re-install the (2) original mounting screws.
8. Reconnect all wires. Perform a flow test and place the system back in service.
Fig 2
(2) ORIGINAL MOUNTING
REMOVE (2) ORIGINAL MOUNTING SCREWS
SCREWS HOLDING RETARD/SWITCH
ASSEMBLY TO BASE BREAK OUT THIN SECTION OF COVER
WHEN WIRING BOTH SWITCHES
FROM ONE CONDUIT ENTRANCE.
RETARD/SWITCH ASSEMBLY

(2) LOCATING PINS

DO NOT REMOVE
(2) RETARD HOUSING (2) LOCATING PIN
SCREWS BOSSES IN BASE

BASE

DWG# 1190-2

Removal of Waterflow Switch

• To prevent accidental water damage, all control valves should be shut tight and the system completely drained before waterflow detectors are removed or
replaced.
• Turn off electrical power to the detector, then disconnect wiring.
• Loosen nuts and separate unit from the glued-in fittings.
• Gently lift the unit far enough to get your fingers under it. With your fingers, roll the vane so it will fit through the hole while continuing to lift the
waterflow detector.
• Lift detector clear of pipe.

Ordering Information
Model Description Stock No. Optional: Cover Tamper Switch Kit, Stock No. 0090148
(See Fig. 4 for terminations)
Vane Type Waterflow Alarm Switch with Replaceable Components: Retard/Switch Assembly, stock no. 1029030
VSR-SG 1144460
Retard and Glue-In Union

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 106 OF 118

 VSR-ST
Vane Type Waterflow Alarm Switch
FOR SMALL PIPE With Retard

Features
• Assembled in USA
• 0-90 second field replaceable electronic retard
• Comes with all necessary paddles
• Easy to read wire terminal designations
• Easy to read retard time delay adjustment knob

WARNING
Installation must be performed by qualified personnel and in
accordance with all national and local codes and ordinances.
Shock hazard. Disconnect power source before servicing. Serious
injury or death could result.
Risk of explosion. Not for use in hazardous locations. Serious injury
or death could result.

Do not over-tighten the union nut, hand tighten only.

Description Technical Specifications

The Model VSR-ST is a vane type waterflow switch for use on wet sprinkler Service Pressure Up to 175 PSI (12,07 BAR)
systems that use 1", 1-1/4", 1-1/2" or 2" pipe sizes. It is equipped with a
Flow Required 10 GPM (38 LPM)
union to accommodate installation in confined spaces. for Alarm
The unit contains two single pole double throw snap action switches and an
adjustable, instantly recycling pneumatic retard. The switches are actuated Maximum Surge 18 FPS (5,5 m/s)
when a flow of 10 gallons per minute (38 liters per minute) or more occurs Two sets of SPDT (Form C)
downstream of the device. The flow condition must exist for a period of time Contact Ratings 10.0 Amps at 125/250VAC
necessary to overcome the selected retard period. 2.0 Amps at 30VDC Resistive
Conduit En- Two knockouts provided for 1/2” conduit. Individual
Installation trances switch compartments suitable for dissimilar voltages.
Suitable for indoor or outdoor use with factory
These devices may be mounted in horizontal or vertical pipe. On horizontal installed gasket and die-cast housing.
pipe they should be installed on the top side of the pipe where they will be Environmental For NEMA 4/IP55 rated enclosure - use with appro-
accessible. The units should not be installed within 6" (15 cm) of a valve, Specifications
priate conduit fitting and/or plugs.
drain or fitting which changes the direction of the waterflow. The unit has a Temperature range: 40° F to 120° F (4,5° C to 49° C)
1" NPT fitting for threading into a non-corrosive TEE. See Fig. 1 for proper
TEE size, type and installation. Select the proper paddle for the pipe size and Automatic Sprinkler NFPA-13
Service Use One or two family dwelling NFPA-13D
type of TEE used. See Fig. 3 for instructions on how to change the paddle. Residential occupancy up to four stories NFPA-13R
Loosen the union nut and separate the 1" NPT fitting from the VSR-ST. Use National Fire Alarm Code NFPA-72
no more than three wraps of teflon tape as thread lubricant. Reattach the
VSR-ST to the 1" NPT fitting, verifying that the o-ring is properly positioned
in its groove. Hand tighten the nut on the union after orienting the device in
the appropriate direction to detect waterflow as shown in Fig. 2.
The vane must not rub the inside of the TEE or bind in any way. The stem
should move freely when operated by hand.
The device can also be used in copper or plastic pipe installations with the
proper adapters so that the specified TEE fitting may be installed on the
pipe run.
Note: Do not leave cover off for an extended period of time.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 107 OF 118

 VSR-ST
Vane Type Waterflow Alarm Switch
FOR SMALL PIPE With Retard

Fig. 1 Fig. 2 Shown with optional Cover Tamper Switch.

Do not leave cover off for an
Retard Adjustment: extended period of time.
The delay can be adjusted
by rotating the retard RETARD
ADJUSTMENT
adjustment knob from 0 KNOB
to the max setting (60-
90 seconds). The time
delay should be set at
the minimum required to
prevent false alarms.
Screw the fitting into the TEE fitting as shown.
On sweat TEE's, no threaded bushings, inserts or adapters are permitted
unless they comply with the dimensions listed in the chart below.
Important - the depth to the inside bottom of the TEE should have the
following dimensions: MOUNT SO ARROW
CAUTION ON BASE POINTS
Approximate Depth Requirement INSURE THAT O-RING
IN DIRECTION OF
WATERFLOW
IS IN O-RING GROOVE
Tee Size Threaded Sweat CPVC BEFORE INSTALLING 1" NPT MALE
SWITCH. FITTING ON ALL
SIZES
1" X 1" X 1" 2-1/16" 1-3/4" 2-7/16"
DWG# 1204-1A
1-1/4" X 1-1/4" X 1" 2-7/16" 2-7/16" N/a
1-1/2" X 1-1/2" X 1" 2-11/16" 2-1/4" N/a
2" X 2" X1" 3-3/16" 2-3/4" N/a

CAUTION RUN OF THE TEE

To prevent leakage apply teflon tape sealant to the 1" NPT male fitting MAY BE 1" , 1 1/4",
1 1/2", OR 2"
only. Do not use any other type of lubricant or sealant.

Fig. 3 Switch Terminal Connections

Clamping Plate Terminal
Fig. 4

N G
O MI
I NC

G
IN DWG# 923-3
T GO
OU

WARNING WARNING
There are 12 paddles furnished with each unit. One for each size of An uninsulated section of a single conductor should not be looped around
threaded, sweat or plastic TEE as described in Fig. 1. The paddles have the terminal and serve as two separate connections. The wire must be
raised lettering that show the pipe size and type of TEE that they are severed, thereby providing supervision of the connection in the event that
to be used with. The proper paddle must be used. The paddle must be the wire become dislodged from under the terminal. Failure to sever the
properly attached (see Fig. 3) and the screw that holds the paddle must wire may render the device inoperable risking severe property damage
be securely tightened. and loss of life.
Do not strip wire beyond 3/8” of length or expose an uninsulated
conductor beyond the edge of the terminal block. When using stranded
wire, capture all strands under the clamping plate.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 108 OF 118

 VSR-ST
Vane Type Waterflow Alarm Switch
FOR SMALL PIPE With Retard

Typical Electrical Connections Testing

Fig. 5
The frequency of inspection and testing for the Model VSR-ST and  its
Notes:
associated protective monitoring system should be in accordance with
1. The model VSR-ST has two switches, one can be used to operate a applicable NFPA Codes and Standards and/or the authority having
central station, proprietary or remote signaling unit, while the other is jurisdiction (manufacturer recommends quarterly or more frequently).
used to operate a local audible or visual annunciator.
If provided, the inspector’s test valve, that is usually located at the end of the
2. For supervised circuits see “Switch Terminal Connections” drawing
most remote branch line, should always be used for test purposes. If there
and CAUTION note (Fig. 4).
are no provisions for testing the operation of the flow detection device on
the system, application of the VSR-ST is not recommended or advisable.
NEGATIVE DC OR
BELL A minimum flow of 10 GPM (38 LPM) is required to activate this device.
NO

NEUTRAL AC
NC

Maintenance
COM

POSITIVE DC
OR HOT AC

Inspect detectors monthly for leaks. If leaks are found, replace the detector.
The VSR-ST waterflow switch should provide years of trouble-free service.
COM

WATERFLOW ZONE The retard and switch assembly are easily field replaceable. In the unlikely
NC

EOLR
ON FIRE PANEL
event that either component does not perform properly, please order
NO

replacement retard switch assembly stock number 1029030. There is no

maintenance required, only periodic testing and inspection.
DWG# 1146-3A

Cover Tamper Switch

(Shown with cover in place)
Inspection and Testing
Check the operation of the unit by opening the inspector’s test valve at the
end of the sprinkler line or the drain and test connection, if an inspector’s
test valve is not provided.
C N.O. N.C. If there are no provisions for testing the operation of the flow detection device
(WHT) (RED) (BLK)
on the system, application of the VSR-ST is not recommended or advisable.
DWG# 8810018-2
The frequency of the inspection and testing and its associated protective
monitoring system should be in accordance with the applicable NFPA

CAUTION Codes and Standards and/or authority having jurisdiction (manufacturer

recommends quarterly or more frequently).
Waterflow switches that are monitoring wet pipe sprinkler systems shall
not be used as the sole initiating device to discharge AFFF, deluge, Important Notice
or chemical suppression systems. Waterflow switches used for this Please advise the person responsible for testing of the fire protection system that
application may result in unintended discharges caused by surges, this system must be tested in accordance with the testing instructions.
trapped air, or short retard times.
Removal
Fig. 6
• To prevent accidental water damage, all control valves should be
Break out thin section of cover when wiring both switches from one conduit
shut tight and the system completely drained before waterflow
entrance.
detectors are removed or replaced
• Turn off electrical power to the detector, then disconnect wiring
• Loosen union nut and separate unit from the glued in fitting.
• Gently lift the unit far enough to get your fingers under it. With
your fingers, roll the vane so it will fit through the fitting while
continuing to lift the waterflow detector.
• Lift detector clear of pipe

Ordering Information
Model Description Stock No.
Vane Type Waterflow Alarm Switch with
VSR-ST 1144465
DWG# 1205-4 Retard
Vane Type Waterflow Alarm Switch with
VSR-ST 1144466
Retard w/TSK

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 109 OF 118

 WCS
Water Column Switch

Features
• Assembled in USA
• Automatically resets when water in the system is lowered below
probe location

CAUTION
Not for use in hazardous locations.

General Information Technical Specifications

The Water Column Switch is an electronic supervisory switch used to Maximum Working
Up to 175 PSI (12,07 BAR)
detect the presence of a conductive fluid (water) that can accumulate or Pressure
become trapped in the piping directly above the clapper on a Dry-Pipe Input Supply
120VAC unswitched
or Pre-Action valve. The electronic circuitry of the WCS is designed to Voltage
indicate the presence of water accumulated to a specific elevation, that if SPDT 10.0 Amps @ 120VAC
Contact Ratings
left unattended could impair or prevent the operation of a dry pipe or pre- 2.0 Amps @ 30V DC resistive
action automatic sprinkler valve. The yellow LED indicates the presence Two knockouts provided for 1/2” conduit. Individual switch
of water. The green LED indicates that the input voltage is present. Conduit Entrances
compartments suitable for dissimilar voltages.
Probe Installation (See Fig. 1) Probe Fitting
½” and ¾” NPT
Note: Apply a small amount of pipe sealant to the external threads of the Thread Connection:
probe. NEMA Type 1 for indoor use only. Formed sheet metal

CAUTION Environmental with powder coat/paint finish. Four openings for ½”

Specifications conduit fittings.
DO NOT use teflon tape. If a mechanical tee is used: A grounding wire from the Temperature range: 40° F to 120° F (4,5° C to 49° C)
pipe to the mechanical tee may be required to ensure proper operation.
Service Use Dry Pipe/Pre-Action Automatic Sprinkler Systems NFPA 13
1. Be sure the probe is installed above the priming water line and
below the point where the riser exits the valves heated enclosure. 2. Then remove the first lock washer/nut from the probe threads.
2. Be sure the exposed portion of the stainless steel probe is a 3. Orient the slotted holes in the control unit over the heads of the
minimum of 1/4” from any grounding surface inside the sprinkler mounting screws of the probe and turn the control unit counter-
system piping to prevent the probe from shorting. (See Fig. 1) clockwise so that the ends of the slot are fully under the mounting
3. Tighten the probe into the connection point with a wrench, using screw heads. Tighten screws securely.
the bushing flats provided. 4. Replace the lock washer and nut onto the probe and tighten.
4. Align the two mounting screws vertically along the center line of
the riser. (See Fig. 2)
Control Unit Mounting Onto The Probe (See Fig. 3)
1. Make sure the heads of the two mounting screws in the probe
bushing are loosened approximately 1/8” from the bushing surface.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 110 OF 118

 WCS
Water Column Switch

Testing Requirements Terminal Block Connections Clamping

NFPA Standards (NFPA 25: [Link].2.2 and [Link].2.3) Plate Terminal
Testing Procedure (See Fig. 4) INCOMING
Test the dry and pre-action valves as directed by the valve manufacturer.
During a partially open control valve test, the control valve must be left OUTGOING
in the partially open position for a period of time sufficient to allow water
to reach the probe location. When the yellow LED on the WCS becomes
illuminated, close the control valve. Following the valve manufacturers
instructions, drain the system and reset the valve. The WCS will
automatically reset when the water level drops below the probe location.
If priming water is required, make sure that the level of the priming water
is in accordance with the valve manufacturers requirements and below the
location of the probe.

CAUTION CAUTION
Make sure that water entering the system during test does not enter in to the An insulated section of a single conductor should not be looped around
system piping that is exposed to current freezing conditions. the terminal and serve as two seperate connections. The wire must be
severed, thereby providing supervision of the connection in the event
that the wire becomes dislodged from under the terminal. Use 18 AWG
(min.), or as required by local code. Wire insulation rating must be at
least 167°F (75°C).
Dimensions
3.66

1.83

(4) Ø.886 ELECTRICAL KNOCKOUTS 3.75

FOR 1/2" CONDUIT CONNECTION 1.68
1.00
.84

.79

2.60

5.53
.75

1.31
3/4" or 1/2" NPT FITTING

DWG. #1158-4

Ø.188

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 111 OF 118

 WCS
Water Column Switch

WCS WIRING DIAGRAM WCS WIRING DIAGRAM WCS WIRING DIAGRAM

USING PANEL SUPERVISORY USING 120VAC ALARM DEVICE ONLY USING 24VDC ALARM DEVICE
INPUTS

+ 24VDC -
SUPERVISORY +

SUPERVISORY -

ALARM

ALARM
LINE (HOT)

LINE (HOT)
NEUTRAL

NEUTRAL
LINE (HOT)
NEUTRAL

JUMPER
EOL

N H COM NC NO N H COM NC NO N H COM NC NO

AC POWER OUTPUT CONTACTS AC POWER OUTPUT CONTACTS AC POWER OUTPUT CONTACTS

DWG. #1158-5 DWG. #1158-5 DWG. #1158-5

Probe Spacing Requirements Probe Installation

(Fig. 1) (Fig. 2)
1/4" MIN.

1/4" MIN.

MOUNTING
SCREW

MOUNTING
SCREW

1/4"
DWG. #1158-1
MIN.

Note: Mount only with probe facing horizontally or vertically downward.

Do not mount with probe angled upward. Maintain probe clearances as
indicated.

Control Unit Mounted On Probe Installation

PROBE LOCK WASHER
AND NUT (Fig. 3)
GROUND SCREW

YELLOW "WATER" LED

GREEN "POWER" LED TERMINAL BLOCK

PROBE
DWG. #1158-2
MOUNTING SCREWS DWG. #1158-3

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 112 OF 118

 WCS
Water Column Switch

Probe Cleaning And Replacement

(Fig. 4)
Probe must be inspected annually for scale build-up. Clean all scale from
probe and teflon sleeve taking care not to damage the teflon sleeve.
Probe should be replaced every 10 years.
The Control Unit should be replaced every 15 years. In areas of high
humidity and heavy dust or other airborne contaminants, more frequent
replacement may be required.

DWG #1108-8

TEFLON SLEEVE INSULATOR

(Be careful not to damage during cleaning)

Ordering Information
Model Description Stock No.

WCS WCS ½” NPT Probe 1010118

WCS WCS ¾” NPT Probe 1010119

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 113 OF 118

 WFSR-F
Waterflow Alarm Switch with Retard

Features
• Adjustable instant recycling pneumatic retard
• Independent switch adjustment, no tools needed.
• Two conduit / cable entrances.
• Separate isolated wiring chambers.
• Non-corrosive pressure connection.
• Solid metal enclosure.

CAUTION
This device is not intended for applications in explosive environments.

Description Technical Specifications

The Model WFSR-F is a pressure operated switch with an adjustable, 5 9/16”H x 3 1/2”W x 5 7/8”D
instantly recycling pneumatic retard to prevent false alarms due to water Dimensions
(14,1cm H x 8,9cm W x 14,9cm D)
pressure variation. The WFSR-F is connected into the alarm port of a wet
sprinkler system alarm check valve (see " WARNING", page 2). Weight 1.5 lbs. (3,3 kg.)

Two Sets of SPDT (Form C)

Installation Contact Ratings 15.0 Amps at 125/250VAC
A male ½" NPT pipe fitting is provided for connection to the alarm port of 2.0 Amps at 30VDC Resistive
the alarm check valve. No additional mounting or support is required. Allow 40°F to 120°F (4,5°C to 49°C)
5" (12,7cm) to the front of the unit for removal of the cover. Install with the Environmental NEMA 4 Enclosure - when used with proper conduit
Specifications
pressure connection down. fittings

Testing Pressure Con-

nection 1/2” Male NPT
Operation of the unit is checked by opening the by-pass test valve or Pressure Factory adjusted to operate between 5 and 8 PSI
inspector's test valve. The frequency of the inspection and testing for the Adjustments (0.35 and 0,55 BAR) on rising pressure
Model WFSR-F and its associated protective monitoring system should Maximum
be in accordance with applicable NFPA Codes and Standards and/or System Pressure 175 PSI (12,1 BAR)
authority having jurisdiction (manufacturer recommends quarterly or more NEMA Type 1 for indoor use only. Formed sheet
frequently). metal with powder coat/paint finish. Four openings
Environmental
Specifications for ½” conduit fittings.
Temperature range: 40° F to 120° F (4,5° C to 49° C)
Automatic Sprinkler NFPA-13
One or two family dwelling NFPA-13D
Service Use
Residential occupancy up to four stories NFPA-13R
National Fire Alarm Code NFPA-72

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 114 OF 118

 WFSR-F
Waterflow Alarm Switch with Retard

WFSR-F Typical Electrical Connections

Fig. 1 Fig. 2
TO SPRINKLERS 2 SETS OF NORMALLY
OPEN CONTACTS WATERFLOW ZONE EOLR FROM
WFSR-F CLOSE ON ALARM ON FIRE PANEL FIRE PANEL
EOLR

COM NO NC COM NO NC
RETARD
CHAMBER

COM NO NC COM NO NC
RBVS

THE N.C. AND N.O. MARKINGS ON POSITIVE DC

THE SWITCH ARE FOR AN ALARM OR HOT AC
CONDITION. BELL
NEGATIVE DC OR
THE CONTACTS ARE REVERSED NEUTRAL AC
WHEN THE DEVICE IS IN THE
DWG# 761-2
NORMAL CONDITION.
BY-PASS Note: For supervised circuits see “Switch Terminal Connections” draw-
TEST VALVE TO ing and caution note (Fig. 4).
FROM WATER DRAIN
SUPPLY DWG# 987-1A

Fig. 3 Switch Terminal Connections

DO NOT LEAVE COVER
OFF FOR EXTENDED Clamping Plate Terminal
PERIOD OF TIME

Fig. 4

N G
O MI
INC
Retard Adjustment:
To change time turn knob (either
direction) for desired time delay. Use
the minimum amount of retard neces-
sary to prevent false alarms, a “B” G
IN DWG# 923-3
setting is usually adequate for this. T GO
Factory set at “B”. OU
DWG# 987-30

APPROX. RETARD SETTINGS (IN SEC.) WARNING

0 A B C D E An uninsulated section of a single conductor should not be looped around
0 10-25 20-40 35-55 50-70 60-90 the terminal and serve as two separate connections. The wire must be
severed, thereby providing supervision of the connection in the event that
the wire become dislodged from under the terminal. Failure to sever the
wire may render the device inoperable risking severe property damage
and loss of life.
Do not strip wire beyond 3/8” of length or expose an uninsulated
conductor beyond the edge of the terminal block. When using stranded
wire, capture all strands under the clamping plate.

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 115 OF 118

 WFSR-F
Waterflow Alarm Switch with Retard

Typical Wet System ALARM CHECK VALVE

OPTION 1 OPTION 2 TO WATER
Fig. 5 MOTOR GONG
WFSR PS10
RISER TO WATERFLOW
DEVICE
WATERFLOW
PRESSURE SWITCH
SPRINKLER WITH RETARD

WARNING HEADS

Use teflon tape sealant only. Apply only to

male threads of connectors.
Use of pipe cement voids warranty as this SHUTOFF
(OPEN)
material may obstruct pressure aperture
WATER PRESSURE GAUGE
(SYSTEM PRESSURE)

resulting in loss of alarm signal. (OPEN)

ALARM LINE
SHUTOFF VALVE, PETCOCK
SUPERVISED (OPEN)
Device must be installed before any shut (OPEN) PETCOCK
BY-PASS LINE (OPEN)
off valve on alarm port line unless it is
CHECK VALVE
supervised by a supervisory switch such as USE TO BUILD
SMALL EXCESS RETARD
Potter Model RBVS. SURGES CHAMBER

WATER PRESSURE GAUGE CHECK DRAIN

The system should be tested on a quarterly (CITY PRESSURE) (OPEN) VALVE
(CLOSED)
basis or more frequently to insure proper RBVS

operation. OSYSU
TAMPER WATER BY-PASS
DEVICE TEST VALVE STRAINER
(CLOSED) DRIP

Due to the possibility of unintended CUP

discharges caused by pressure surges,

trapped air, or short retard times, waterflow
OSY CONTROL VALVE
switches that are monitoring wet pipe (OPEN)

sprinkler systems shall not be used as the CHECK

VALVE DWG. #8700023-2A

sole initiating device to discharge AFFF,

deluge, or chemical suppression systems. DRAIN
WATER PRESSURE
PIPE
FROM CITY MAINS

Ordering Information
Model Description Stock No.
WFSR-F Waterflow Alarm Switch with Retard 1010080

Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC • St. Louis, MO • Tech Support: 866-956-0988 / Customer Service: 866-572-3005 • [Link]

PAGE 116 OF 118

Notes:
Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC 866.572.3005
1609 Park 370 Place 314.595.6900
St. Louis, MO 63042 Fax: 800.768.8377
[Link]