FRC DFA400 User manual

DFA400 Rev0708
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FIRE RESEARCH CORPORATION
www.fireresearch.com
26 Southern Blvd., Nesconset, NY11767
TEL ( 631 ) 724-8888 FAX ( 631 ) 360-9727 TOLL FREE 1-800-645-0074
DIGITAL
FLOWMETER
MODEL DFA400
Document Number:
XE-DFA4PM-R0A

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CONTENTS
Table of Contents
CONTENTS ................................................................................................................ 2
INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................... 4
Overview ................................................................................................................ 4
Features .................................................................................................................. 4
Specifications ......................................................................................................... 5
GENERAL DESCRIPTION ....................................................................................... 6
Components ........................................................................................................... 6
Controls and Indicators .......................................................................................... 7
INSTALLATION ........................................................................................................ 8
Install Display Module .......................................................................................... 8
Install Flow Sensor .............................................................................................. 10
OPERATION ............................................................................................................ 16
Datalink Interface ................................................................................................ 16
Program Features ................................................................................................. 17
TOTAL Button .................................................................................................... 17
PROGRAMMING .................................................................................................... 18
Inputs ................................................................................................................... 18
Display Module Identification Mode ................................................................... 18
Program Access Mode ......................................................................................... 19
Program Code Descriptions ................................................................................. 22
CALIRBRATION ..................................................................................................... 26
Flow Calibration, Single Point (Code 321) ......................................................... 26
Flow Calibration, Multiple Point (Code 322) ...................................................... 27
WIRING .................................................................................................................... 28
Display Module ................................................................................................... 28
Flow Sensor ......................................................................................................... 29

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List of Tables
Table 1. Program Code Quick Reference ................................................................ 20
List of Figures
Figure 1. Controls and Indicators ............................................................................... 7
Figure 2. Display Module Mounting Dimensions ..................................................... 8
Figure 3. Flow Sensor Location Guide ................................................................... 11
Figure 4. Saddle Clamp Installation ......................................................................... 13
Figure 5. Weldment Installation ............................................................................... 15
Figure 6. Display Module Wiring ............................................................................ 28
Figure 7. Flow Sensor Wiring .................................................................................. 29

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INTRODUCTION
Overview
The digital flowmeter has a 4-digit LED display with daylight bright digits 0.56
inch high. The meter electronics are self-contained and all program features are accessed
via pushbutton switches on the front of the display module.
The flowmeter communicates with other display modules over a datalink. This
technology allows for remote displays, the display of flow rate through multiple discharges
(summing), and the totalization of flow for multiple discharges (accumulation). Flow
rate information is provided by a paddlewheel type flow sensor mounted in the discharge.
This information is processed and shown on the digital display.
There are two operator-selectable modes; display module identification and program
access. In the display module identification mode, the digital display shows the module
serial number, manufactured date, software revision, module function, and ID number.
In the program access mode the display shows program options and operator input
selections. Operator-selected modes are accessed and selections are made using two
pushbutton switches on the front of the display module.
All controls and indicators are located on the front of the display module. Controls
are simple pushbuttons.
Features
High and Low Flow Warnings
LED Display Brightness Automatically Adjusts for Day/Night Viewing
Datalink Interface for Primary/Remote Operation
Multiple Flow Rate Calibration Points

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Specifications
Display Module
SupplyVoltage: 9 to 30 VDC
Current: 1.5 Amps Maximum
Dimensions:
Height 3 1/4"
Width 3 1/4"
Depth 2"
Flow Sensor
Model Number: XE-MF15P
Type: Paddlewheel
Sensor Material: Acetal (Delrin) with Stainless Steel (316) Shaft
Excitation Voltage: 5 VDC

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GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Components
The flowmeter kit consists of the following components:
Display Module
Paddlewheel Flow Sensor and Mounting Assembly
Cables
Display Module
The display module is waterproof and has dimensions less than 3 1/4 inches high
by 3 1/4 inches wide by 2 inches deep. All controls and indicators are located on the
front of the display module. (Refer to Controls and Indicators.)
Paddlewheel Flow Sensor
The flow sensor provides an input signal to the display module proportional to
discharge flow rate. It is mounted in the discharge piping. Placement of the sensor in the
piping is critical to obtain accurate flow rate information. Refer to Installation Section
for detailed information on mounting locations. The electrical connector is waterproof
and molded into the flow sensor housing.
Cables
A standard cable is provided. (Refer to Wiring Section.)

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Figure 1. Controls and Indicators
Controls and Indicators
All controls and indicators are located on the front of the display module. (Refer
to Figure 1.)
Display
During normal operation the 4-digit LED display indicates flow rate. When the
display module identification or program access modes are selected, module specific
information, program codes, and settings are displayed. (Refer to Programming Section
for more information.)
MODE Button
The MODE button accesses the display module identification mode. It is used
with the TOTAL button to input data when in the program access mode. (Refer to
Programming Section for more information.)
TOTAL x 100 LED
This red LED is on to indicate that the display indicates total accumulated flow
and the value shown in the display is times 100.
TOTAL Button
The TOTAL button allows the operator to display total flow for a discharge. When
the button is pressed, the value shown in the digital display, times 100, is the total flow.
It is used with the MODE button to input data when in the program access mode. (Refer
to Programming Section for more information.)

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INSTALLATION
Note: Plumbing systems are always unique and may cause small deviations
in the factory calibration. It is recommended that the flowmeter is checked
after installation for accuracy and calibrated when necessary.
Install Display Module
Display modules are interchangeable. It is recommended to check display accuracy
if modules are swapped and calibrated when necessary.
1. Measure and mark mounting location for display module panel cutout and
mounting screw holes. Make sure there is clearance behind the panel for
the display and cables before cutting holes. Refer to Figure 2 for layout and
dimensions.
2. Cut out a 2 3/4 inch diameter hole and drill four holes (clearance or tapped)
for 10-32 mounting screws.
3. Place display module in position and secure with four screws.
4. Connect the cables and wires. (Refer to Wiring Section.)
Figure 2. Display Module Mounting Dimensions
3 1/4"
3 1/4"
1/4"
2"
2 3/4"
Mounting holes are
clearance or tapped
for 10-32 screws.
Panel Cutout
2 3/4" Diameter
2.7"
.95"
C
L

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Install Flow Sensor
There are several ways to install paddlewheel type flow sensors. Mounting options
include saddle clamps, weldments, pipe tees, and special adapters. Each mount meets
a particular plumbing requirement.
Flow sensors are interchangeable. It is recommended to check display accuracy if
sensors are swapped and calibrated when necessary.
The maximum flow sensor pressure is 600 PSI.
Flow Sensor Location
Locating the flow sensor in the plumbing system is critical. The flow of water
at and around the sensor must be laminar, or smooth, to ensure accurate flow rate
measurement. There must be enough straight pipe before the flow sensor for the water
stream to stabilize into a uniform flow. Guidelines for selecting flow sensor locations
are outlined in Figure 3.
Turbulent Water
When the flow sensor is mounted after an area in the plumbing that tends to increase
water stream turbulence (a valve, increase in pipe diameter, etc.), it is critical that steps
are taken to stabilize the flow. When a pipe is reduced in diameter, the water stream
tends to be squeezed into a more uniform flow. This can help stabilize flow when there
is not sufficient straight pipe up stream.
Linearizer Feature
This meter features a Linearizer function in the calibration programming. This
function should be used when the flow sensor is installed in a plumbing location
where flow is not linear. It corrects for nonlinear flow by calibrating the display at
multiple flow rates (up to 9). This provides more accurate flow rate readings. (Refer
to Calibration Section.)

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Figure 3. Flow Sensor Location Guide
Flow Sensor Location Guide
The preferred location for mounting
a flow sensor is on the top half of the
pipe. The best orientation is vertical. If
the sensor is mounted on the bottom of
the pipe, it may be susceptible to dirt
accumulation impacting operation.
When mounting a sensor after the pipe
diameter is reduced, length L must be at
least 2 times the pipe diameter.
When mounting a sensor after a valve,
length L must be at least 14 times the pipe
diameter.
When mounting a sensor after an elbow,
length L must be at least 6 times the pipe
diameter.
When mounting a sensor before a valve or
an elbow, length L must be at least equal
to the pipe diameter.
Before Valve or Elbow
L > 1 X PIPE DIA.
After Elbow
L > 6 X PIPE DIA.
After Valve
L > 14 X PIPE DIA.
After Reduction
L > 2 X PIPE DIA.
Best Orientation
is Vertical
L
L
L
L

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Saddle Clamp Installation
Note: Ensure that the mounting location meets the requirements for uniform
water flow. (Refer to Flow Sensor Location Guide.)
Note: Ensure that there is enough room for the saddle clamp, sensor, and connector
to fit. (Refer to Figure 4.)
1. Drill and deburr a 1 11/16" to 1 3/4" diameter hole at mounting location.
2. Clean pipe surface in area where saddle clamp gasket seals.
Note: The sensor housing is epoxied in the saddle clamp with the alignment
tab in the correct position. It is not meant to be removed.
3. Place saddle clamp over hole with sensor housing centered.
4. Tighten saddle clamp nuts until gasket makes a tight seal.
5. Insert flow sensor into sensor housing. Align flat spot on sensor rim with
alignment tab and maybe sure o-ring is in groove.
Note: The retainer cap is hand-tightened. There is an inside lip that stops
the cap from turning when it makes contact with the alignment tab. This
provides the correct pressure to make the seal at the o-ring. Make sure the
flow sensor engages the alignment tab and does not rotate.
6. Install retainer cap and hand-tighten.
7. Connect cable from display module to flow sensor (cable is color coded blue).
(Refer to Wiring Section.)

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Figure 4. Saddle Clamp Installation
Note: Allow a minimum of
2 inches clearance above the
sensor for connector removal/
installation.
Note: When the retainer cap is
tightened make sure the flow
sensor engages the alignment
tab and does not rotate.
Note: Dimensions are typical and are an
aid to determine flow sensor mounting
locations.
Pipe Size Dimensions
(Sch 40) A B C
2 5.5 3.9 2.9
2.5 5.5 3.9 2.8
3 5.9 3.9 2.8
3.5 6.8 4.3 2.8
4 6.8 4.3 2.8
5 8 4.3 2.8
Measurements are in inches.
A
C
B
Retainer
Cap
O-Ring
Paddlewheel
Flow Sensor
Sensor
Housing
Saddle
Clamp
Alignment
Tab

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Weldment Installation
Note: Ensure that the mounting location meets the requirements for uniform
water flow. (Refer to Flow Sensor Location Guide.)
Note: Ensure that there is enough room for the weldment, sensor, and
connector to fit. (Refer to Figure 5.)
1. Drill and deburr a 1 11/16" to 1 3/4" diameter hole at mounting location.
2. Center weldment mount over hole and weld it to pipe. The weld must be
continuous around the fitting with no gaps or voids.
3. Screw sensor housing into weldment far enough to make sure it goes through
the pipe freely, then back it out.
Note: The paddlewheel sensor must be correctly aligned in the water stream.
The alignment tab is used to set the sensor position. Make sure the
alignment tab is centered on the pipe centerline. (Refer to Figure 5.)
4. Set sensor housing to dimension A in Figure 5. Make sure alignment tab is
centered on the pipe as shown (it can be on upstream or downstream side).
5. Install tru-seal locknut and tighten with 2" wrench using light to medium torque.
Make sure the sensor housing alignment tab remains centered and the sensor
housing does not rotate causing dimension A to change.
6. Insert flow sensor into sensor housing. Align flat spot on sensor rim with
alignment tab and make sure o-ring is in groove.
Note: The retainer cap is hand-tightened. There is an inside lip that stops
the cap from turning when it makes contact with the alignment tab. This
provides the correct pressure to make the seal at the o-ring. Make sure the
flow sensor engages the alignment tab and does not rotate.
7. Install retainer cap and hand-tighten.
8. Connect cable from display module to flow sensor (cable is color coded blue).
(Refer to Wiring Section.)

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Figure 5. Weldment Installation
Pipe Size Dimension
(Sch 40) A
1.5 1.95 to 1.80
2 1.95 to 1.80
2.5 1.90 to 1.75
3 1.88 to 1.73
3.5 1.88 to 1.73
4 1.85 to 1.70
Measurements are in inches.
Note: When the retainer cap is
tightened make sure the flow
sensor engages the alignment
tab and does not rotate.
Note: Allow a minimum of 2 inches
clearance above the sensor for
connector removal/installation.
Make sure that the alignment tab
is centered on the pipe centerline.
Note: Dimensions are
typical and are an aid to
determine flow sensor
mounting locations.
2.5"
2.8"
Retainer
Cap
Sensor
Housing
Weldment
O-Ring
Paddlewheel
Flow Sensor
Alignment
Tab
Tru-Seal
Locknut
Alignment
Tab
A
C
L

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OPERATION
On power-up the flowmeter is in normal operating mode. Information from a
paddlewheel type flow sensor or from the datalink interface is processed and displayed.
When a display is set as a remote, it receives all pressure and flow information via the
datalink.
Datalink Interface
The datalink interface is standard on all flowmeters and provides a way of
connecting multiple display modules on a shared data bus. The DFA400 (digital
flowmeter), FPA400 (pressure/flow indicator), and FPA500 (pressure/flow indicator)
series display modules can operate as independent displays or interconnected to provide
remote displays, the display of flow rate through multiple discharges (summing), and
the totalization of flow for multiple discharges (accumulation).
Primary Display Module
Primary displays are programmed with the module function Pri. A primary display
receives inputs from the pressure sensor and flow sensor. When programmed with Id 0,
no information is output to the datalink. When programmed with Id 1 to Id 99, it provides
information (via the datalink) to remote, summing, and accumulator displays.
Remote Display Module
Remote displays are programmed with the module function SLA (slaved to a
primary). A remote display must be programmed with the same ID number as the
primary display. It receives flow rate from the primary display over the datalink. All
remote display features are programmed independently of the primary display. No
calibration is necessary on a remote display.
Summing Display Module
Summing displays are programmed with the module function SU. A summing
display shows the actual flow rate for all primary displays on the datalink except for
those with Id 0.
Accumulator Display Module
Accumulator displays are programmed with the module function ACC. An
accumulator display shows the total accumulated flow for all primary displays on the
datalink except for those with Id 0. The value shown is times 100.
Note: A single display module can be used for both summing and accumulation
functions. When program it as a summing display, pressing the TOTAL
button shows total accumulated flow for all primary displays on the
datalink.

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Program Features
See Programming Section for more detailed information.
High and Low Flow Warning (Codes 315 and 316)
When the flow rate is above the programmed high flow value, a flashing -HI- is
shown in the digital display. When the flow rate is below the programmed low flow
value, a flashing -LO- is shown in the digital display.
Flow Cutoff (Codes 318 or 319)
The digital display indicates 0 when the flow rate is below the programmed flow
cutoff value.
TOTAL Button
The TOTAL button performs two functions, display total flow for a discharge or
reset the totalized flow value to 0 (if totalizer reset function is set to YES).
Display Total Flow
When the TOTAL button is pressed and released the digital display shows the total
accumulated flow and the TOTALx100 LED is on. (The value shown is times 100.)
Press and release the TOTAL button again to show normal flow rate.
Reset Total Flow to 0
The totalizer reset (code 317) has two program settings, YES or no. (Refer to
Programming Section). To enable the reset function the program totalizer reset is set
to YES.
Total flow resets and starts from 0 when power is applied to the control module.
Flow total is reset to 0 during operations by displaying the total flow and then pressing
and holding the TOTAL button until the display shows 0.

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PROGRAMMING
The program access mode is selected and inputs are made using the two pushbutton
switches on the front of the display module. The digital display shows stored data and
operator inputs. (Refer to Figure 1.)
Note: When entering codes in the program access mode there is a time-out
feature that requires an operator input every three seconds. If an input is not
detected within five seconds the program returns to normal operation.
Inputs
The two pushbutton switches on the front of the display module allows the operator
access to stored data and program functions.
Both the MODE and TOTAL buttons are used to enter program codes.
Once a program code is entered, the MODE button selects the digit to change and
the TOTAL button changes the digit or option choice.
Display Module Identification Mode
When in the module identification mode, the digital display shows the module
serial number, manufactured date, software revision, function code, and ID number.
The module identification mode is a display-only mode and no changes can be made
to program information.
Note: There is a time-out feature that returns the program to normal operation
in five seconds if input is not detected.
Select Display Module Identification Mode
Turn on power. Press and hold the MODE button, then press the TOTAL button
and release both. The program enters the display module identification mode and the
display shows the module serial number. Press the MODE button a second time and
the display shows the manufacturing date. Each time the MODE button is pressed the
display shows the next block of stored identification data.
If the button is not pressed for five seconds the program reverts to normal
operation.

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Program Access Mode
To gain access to the program features a three-digit program code must be entered.
Review the Program Code Descriptions or refer to Table 1. Program Code Quick
Reference for the proper three-digit code.
Note: There is a time-out feature that returns the program to normal operation
in five seconds if input is not detected.
Select Program Access Mode
Turn on power. Press the MODE button and hold it until the display shows four
dashes. The program is ready for a three-digit program code to be entered.
Enter Program Code
Note: There is a time-out feature that returns the program to normal operation
in five seconds if input is not detected.
1. Select the Program Access Mode (four dashes are shown in the display).
2. Press the MODE button. The number 100 shows in the display with the first
digit (1) flashing. Each time the MODE button is pressed the number increments
by 1. Set the first digit to the desired number.
3. Press the TOTAL button. The second digit flashes. Each time the TOTAL button
is pressed the number increments by 1. Set the second digit to the desired
number.
4. Press the MODE button. The third digit flashes. Each time the MODE button
is pressed the number increments by 1. Set the third digit to the desired
number.
When a valid three-digit program code is entered, a program value or an option
shows in the display. If an invalid code is entered an error code shows in the display.
Note: When a valid code has been entered and a program value or an option
shows in the display, the time-out feature is disabled.
Change Values or Options
Press the MODE button to select the digit to be change. The digit flashes. Press
the TOTAL button to change the digit or the option choice.
Exit Program Access Mode
Press both the MODE and TOTAL buttons and hold them until the display shows
four dashes. Release the buttons and enter a new code, or after five seconds the program
times out and returns to normal operation.

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CODE FEATURE OPTION
311 Flow Rate Increment Set Point 0000 to 9999
312 ID Number 0 to 99
313 Module Function Pri, SLA
315 High Flow Warning 0001 to 9999
0 = Disabled
316 Low Flow Warning 0001 to 9999
0 = Disabled
317 Totalizer Reset Yes = Resets to 0 at Power On
No = Stores Total Flow at Power Off
318 Flow Cutoff (Frequency) 0 to 99.9 Hz
319 Flow Cutoff (Flow Rate) 0 to 999
321 Flow Calibration (Single Point) 1 Calibration Point
322 Flow Calibration (Multiple Point) 9 Calibration Points
340 CAN Terminator On, Off
E202 Invalid Program Code Entered Re-Enter Code
E204 No Flow Sensor Signal Check Water Flow and Wiring
E206 Invalid Calibration Point Select Different Calibration Point
E208 Memory Failure Contact Factory
E210 Exceeded Maximum Calibration
Points
Exit Calibration Procedure
Table 1. Program Code Quick Reference
Notes:
- Refer to Program Code Descriptions for detailed information.
- The time-out feature returns the program to normal operation in five
seconds if input is not detected.
- When a valid code has been entered and a programed value or option is
shown in the display, the time-out feature is disabled.