System Sensor WFDT User manual

N770-05-00 1 I56-0480-012R
WFDT/WFDTH Vane-type
Waterflow Detectors
INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
3825 Ohio Avenue, St. Charles, Illinois 60174
1-800-SENSOR2, FAX: [phone]
www.systemsensor.com
Specifications
Contact Ratings: Two sets of SPDT (Form C)
10 A @ 125/250 VAC ; 2.5 A @ 24 VDC
Triggering Threshold Bandwidth (Flow Rate): 4 – 10 GPM
Static Pressure Rating: 250 PSI (Max.)
Dimensions, Installed: WFDT – 45⁄16˝H × 33⁄4˝W × 63⁄4˝D
WFDTH – 45⁄16˝H × 39⁄16˝W × 63⁄4˝D
Operating Temperature Range: 32°F – 120°F (0°C – 49°C)
Shipping Weight: 2.6 lbs.
Enclosure Rating: WFDT – NEMA Type 4, as tested by Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL)
(IP56)
WFDTH – Indoor use only, as tested by UL (IP10)
The WFDTH can be installed between 2×4 stud wall construction.
U.S. Patent Number: 5,213,205; 4,782,333; 3,845,259
Important
Please Read Carefully And Save
This instruction manual contains important information
about the installation and operation of waterflow detec-
tors. Purchasers who install waterflow detectors for use by
others must leave this manual or a copy of it with the user.
Read all instructions carefully before beginning.
CAUTION
Use vane-type waterflow detectors in wet-pipe systems
only. DO NOT USE IN DRY-PIPE, DELUGE, OR PRE-
ACTION SYSTEMS. The sudden inrush of water in such
systems may break the vane off or damage the mechanism.
Do not use in potentially explosive atmospheres. Do not
leave unused wires exposed.
Principles of Operation
Vane-type waterflow detectors mount to water filled pipes
in sprinkler systems. Water flow in the pipe deflects a vane.
Deflection of the vane produces a switched output, usually
after a specified delay.
All WFDTs have a pneumatically controlled mechanical
delay mechanism. Delays are noncumulative; they reset if
the flow of water stops before the entire delay has elapsed.
All detectors will activate on a sustained flow of water
greater than 10 gallons per minute (gpm) but will not acti-
vate if the flow rate is less than 4 gpm.
Compatible Pipe Tees/Risers
The WFDT and WFDTH fit 1˝ to 1
1⁄2˝ NPT threaded ferrous
and brass, 1˝ to 2˝ sweat brass, 1
1⁄2˝ polybutylene plastic
and 1˝ pvc plastic tees having a 1˝ threaded NPT branch
(see Figure 1 and chart for recommended tee depths). For
2˝ cast and malleable threaded tees use 2˝ paddle (p02-
0023-000) provided. The WFDT and WFDTH also fits
1˝, 1
1
/2˝, and 2˝ Reliable riser manifolds when used with
paddle tree P02-0103-000 (purchased seperately).
Installation Guidelines
Before installing any waterflow alarm device, be thorough-
ly familiar with:
NFPA 72: National Fire Alarm Code
NFPA 13: Installation of Sprinkler Systems
NFPA 25: Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of
Water-based Fire Protection Systems, Section
5.3.3.2
Figure 1. Mounting dimensions:
W0126-00
33/4˝
(WFDT)
39/16˝
(WFDTH)
3˝
4
5/16˝
Gage (End of Paddle Tree)
Must Fit Between Top of
Tee and Bottom of Flange
Tee Fitting
Plastic Vane
Tee Adapter
Tee Depth
Refer to
Tee Depth
Table
Approximate Tee Depth Requirements
(see Figure 1)
Tee Depth Threaded Sweat Poly B CPVC
CPVC/Spears/
Victaulic CPVC/Central
1 × 1 × 1˝ 21/8˝ 13/4˝ N/A 21/4˝ 215/32˝ 213/16˝
11/4 × 11/4 × 1˝ 21/2˝ 21/6˝ N/A N/A N/A N/A
11/2 × 11/2 × 1˝ 23/4˝ 21/4˝ 21/2 N/A N/A N/A
2 × 2 × 1˝ 31/4˝ 23/4˝ N/A N/A N/A N/A

N770-05-00 2 I56-0480-012R
NFPA 13D: Standard for 1 and 2 Family Dwellings and
Manufactured Homes
NFPA 13R: Standard for Multi-family DwellingsAlso, fol-
low other applicable NFPA standards, local
codes and the requirements of the authority
having jurisdiction.
Failure to follow these directions may result in failure of
the device to report a waterflow condition. System Sensor
is not responsible for devices that have been improperly
installed, tested or maintained.
1. Mount the detector where there is adequate clearance
for installation and removal and a clear view of it for
inspection. See Figure 1 for mounting dimensions.
2. Locate to protect from damage, 6-7 feet above the floor.
3. On horizontal runs, position the detector on top of the
pipe or on the side of it. Do not mount it upside down
because condensation may collect in the housing and
impair the operation of the detector.
For vertical flow applications, mount detector on pipe
where upflow conditions exist. Failure to do so may pre-
vent unit from operating properly.
4. Mount detector at least 6 inches from a fitting which
changes the direction of the water flow, or no closer
than 24 inches from a valve or drain.
5. BE SURE DIRECTION-OF-FLOW ARROW MATCHES
ACTUAL DIRECTION OF FLOW IN THE PIPE.
Mounting Instructions
1. The WFDT and WFDTH waterflow detectors are designed
to fit only the appropriate tee fitting.
NOTE: Leg of tee perpendicular to flow of water must
have a 1˝ NPT thread. Do not use a reducer to
achieve the correct thread size. Failure to follow
this instruction will result in failure of the detector
to report a waterflow condition.
2. WFDT and WFDTH units are shipped without paddles
mounted to the actuator. Select the correct size paddle
for the type of tee being used. Align hole on stem of
paddle with hole on actuator lever. Fasten together using
a #4-40×1⁄4˝ fillister head screw supplied in bag assem-
bly. See Figure 2. Use only the screw provided with the
unit. Drive screw head through hole in paddle until it
seats to actuator lever surface. No washer is required.
For paddle replacement refer to Maintenance section.
3. Carefully roll the vane opposite the direction of flow and
insert through tee. Thread detector onto tee fitting and
tighten with wrench. Use of thread sealant or tape is
recommended. Use height gage (located at end of paddle
tree) to ensure proper depth of detector on tee fitting.
See Figure 1. Height gage must fit between top of tee
fitting and under side of hex tee adapter. A gap between
gage and tee adapter is acceptable. When correctly
installed, the detector must face in the proper direction
of waterflow and be aligned with the pipe.
4. Remove the metal cover. Move the actuator lever back
and forth to check for binding. If the vane binds, remove
the detector and correct the problem before proceeding.
CAUTION
Be sure the direction-of-flow arrow points in the right direc-
tion, otherwise a waterflow condition will go unreported.
See Figure 2.
Preoperation Testing
1. Fill the sprinkler system with water and check for leaks
around the WFDT or WFDTH. If there is a leak, check to
see that the fittings are tight. If leak persists, drain the
system and remove the detector (see removal instruc-
tions under Maintenance). Check for damaged threads
or cracked fitting. Reinstall the detector and check again
for leaks. Do not proceed until all leaks have been
stopped.
2. Connect an ohmmeter or continuity tester across (COM
and B) terminal switch contacts. The ohmmeter should
show an open circuit, no continuity.
3. Deflect the actuator lever and hold it until the pneumatic
delay shaft releases the switch buttons. The ohmmeter
or continuity tester should show a short circuit after the
delay has elapsed. If there is no delay, check the setting
of the delay adjustment dial.
Figure 2. Assembly diagram:
GROUND
SCREW
(GREEN)
MOUNTING
PLATE
FLOW
WATERFLOW
FILLISTER
HEAD SCREW
ACTUATOR
LEVER
PADDLE
(PADDLE
REPLACEMENT
KIT (P/N PRK9)
COVER
SWITCH ENCLOSURE
(REPLACEMENT
P/N A77-01-02)
DELAY
MECHANISM
(REPLACEMENT
P/N A3008-00)
1˝ NPT THREAD
TAMPER PROOF
WRENCH (P/N WFDW)
GASKET
(WFDT ONLY)
W0127-00
(Cover tamper option is available.)

N770-05-00 3 I56-0480-012R
Field Wiring
WARNING
High Voltage. Electrocution Hazard. Do not handle live
AC wiring or work on a device to which AC power is
applied. Doing so may result in severe injury or death.
When utilizing switches at voltages greater than
74VDC or 49VAC means to provide all–pole
disconnection must be incorporated in the fixed wiring,
such as a circuit breaker.
1. The WFDT and WFDTH have two SPDT switches. Switch
contacts (COM and B) are closed when water is flowing
and open when water is not flowing. Connect the switch-
es as shown in Figure 3 depending on the application.
2. When connected to a listed sprinkler/fire alarm control
panel, the initiating circuit must be non-silenceable.
3. A ground screw is provided with all units. When ground-
ing is required, clamp wire with screw in hole located
between conduit entrance holes. See Figure 2.
Mechanical Delay Adjustment
The pneumatic delay is preset at 30 seconds at the factory.
To adjust the delay, turn the adjustment dial on the delay
mechanism. Turn clockwise to increase the delay, counter-
clockwise to decrease the delay. Delay can be adjusted over
a range from 0-70 seconds. See Figure 4.
NOTE: Set the delay to the minimum required to prevent
false alarms due to flow surges.
After extended service, parts of the detector may become
worn reducing the delay time and causing false alarms. If
this happens, increase the delay. If the delay is already at
maximum, replace the mechanical delay assembly. Refer to
Maintenance section for ordering replacement parts.
Figure 3. Field wiring:
NOTE: Common and B connections will
close when vane is deflected, i.e.,
when water is flowing. Dual switches
permit applications to be combined
on a single detector.
CONTACT RATINGS
125/250 VAC
24 VDC
10 AMPS
2.5 AMPS
WFDTH
WFDT
B B
COM COM
WFDTH
WFDT
B B
COM COM
Typ ical FACP Connection
T
o nonsilenceable
initiating zone of
listed FACP
end-of-line resistor
B
COM
To power source
compatible
with bell
local
bell
WFDT and WFDTH
switch assembly
Typ ical Local Bell Connection
Break wire as shown for
supervision of connection.
DO NOT allow stripped wire
leads to extend beyond
switch housing. DO NOT
loop wires.
T16-0010-XXX
B
COM
A
COM
COM
SWITCH 1 SWITCH 2
A B B A
•CAUTION •
ROUTE WIRING
AWAY FROM
SHARP EDGES
& COPONENTS
SWITCH SCHEMATIC
•READY • STATE
W0129-00
Figure 4. Delay adjustment dial:
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W0112-01

N770-05-00 4 I56-0480-012R
© 2005 System Sensor
Operational Testing
Always notify a central station monitoring waterflow
alarms before repairing, maintaining or testing waterflow
alarm devices.
1. Replace the cover and tighten the security screws with
the tamper proof wrench. Store the wrench in a secure
place.
2. Open the inspector’s test valve and time how long it
takes for the detector to indicate a flow condition. The
detector should remain activated until the inspector’s
test valve is closed. Air pockets in the sprinkler system
may increase the apparent time delay.
Maintenance
To prevent accidental water damage, control valves should
be shut tightly and the system completely drained before
waterflow detectors are removed or replaced.
Inspect detectors in accordance with applicable NFPA
codes and standards and/or the authority having jurisdic-
tion for leaks. Test detectors at least quarterly as described
under Operational Testing above to insure proper opera-
tion. This device is not designed for use on “dry pipe”
systems. Test more often if required by the authority having
jurisdiction.
Under normal conditions System Sensor waterflow detec-
tors should provide years of trouble-free service. If, how-
ever, the delay mechanism becomes faulty, replacement
kits are available. To replace the delay mechanism, request
Part No. A3008-00; for switch enclosure, request Part No.
A77-01-02. Complete instructions are enclosed with each.
Either mechanism can be easily replaced without removing
the detector from the pipe or draining the pipe. If damage
occurs to paddle, order replacement kit PRK9. Refer to pro-
cedure below for removal of detector on pipe. Do not repair
or replace any other waterflow detector components in the
field. If any other part of the detector does not perform
properly, replace the entire detector. Failure to follow this
instruction may result in failure of the detector to report
a waterflow condition.
Proceed as follows to remove a detector.
1. Drain the pipe.
2. Turn off electrical power to the detector, and then dis-
connect wiring.
3. Unscrew WFDT or WFDTH from tee fitting.
4. Lift detector clear of pipe.
CAUTION
If a vane breaks off in a pipe, find and remove it. Failure to
do so may restrict the proper flow of water to part of the
sprinkler system.
System Sensor warrants its enclosed waterflow detector to be free from
defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service for a
period of three years from date of manufacture. System Sensor makes no
other express warranty for this waterflow detector. No agent, representa-
tive, dealer, or employee of the Company has the authority to increase or
alter the obligations or limitations of this Warranty. The Company’s obliga-
tion of this Warranty shall be limited to the repair or replacement of any
part of the waterflow detector which is found to be defective in materials
or workmanship under normal use and service during the three year period
commencing with the date of manufacture. After phoning System Sensor’s
toll free number 800-SENSOR2 (736-7672) for a Return Authorization
number, send defective units postage prepaid to: System Sensor, Return
1. Waterflow detectors may not work or operate properly
if sprinkler piping being monitored is plugged with pipe
scale, mud, stones or other foreign material. Sprinkler
systems should be checked regularly for such blocking
material, following the instructions in Chapter 5 of NFPA
Standard 13A.
2. Alarms generated by the activation of waterflow detec-
tors may not be received by a central station if telephone
or other communication lines to the detector are out of
service, disabled, or open.
3. Vane-type waterflow detectors have a normal service
WARNING
The Limitations of Waterflow Alarm Devices
life of 10-15 years. Hard water systems, however, may
substantially reduce waterflow detector service life.
4. Waterflow detectors are not a substitute for insurance.
Building owners should always insure property and lives
being protected by sprinkler systems.
5. If valves controlling the water supply to a sprinkler sys-
tem are closed, vane-type waterflow detectors will not
work. All valves controlling a sprinkler water supply
should be sealed or locked in the normally open posi-
tion. The normally open position should be monitored
by a sprinkler supervisory switch.
Three-Year Limited Warranty
Department, RA #__________, 3825 Ohio Avenue, St. Charles, IL 60174.
Please include a note describing the malfunction and suspected cause
of failure. The Company shall not be obligated to repair or replace units
which are found to be defective because of damage, unreasonable use,
modifications, or alterations occurring after the date of manufacture. In no
case shall the Company be liable for any consequential or incidental dam-
ages for breach of this or any other Warranty, expressed or implied what-
soever, even if the loss or damage is caused by the Company’s negligence
or fault. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental
or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not
apply to you. This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may
also have other rights which vary from state to state.
Please refer to insert for the Limitations of Fire Alarm Systems