Flow Switch integration with Fire alarm panel

Flow Switch integration with Fire alarm panel 

A water flow switch or water flow switch in an automatic fire sprinkler system or less often a fire hydrant system is an electro-mechanical alarm initiating device that has been designed to detect the flow of water through a pipe.

Flow refers to the velocity or physical movement of gas, steam, or liquid within a pipe that triggers the actuation of the flow switch. When there is no flow present, the velocity either drops or completely stops; in either case, the switch will revert to its original position. A complete stoppage or decrease in velocity gets indicated when there is no flow. Also, the stoppage allows the switch to return to its original position.

A water flow switch is typically installed in the water supply (above an alarm valve) or in a branch of an automatic fire sprinkler system or fire hydrant system and is used to detect the flow of water indicating an alarm condition. When water moves past the flow switch in the pipe the pressure of the water moves an integrated paddle (a component of the flow switch) in the direction of water flow. This movement activates a switch that triggers an alarm signal at a fire detection and alarm system.

More modern flow switches may also feature a retard mechanism that helps reduce the incidence of false alarms. Flow switches can serve numerous functions and also get used in a variety of applications. If one needs to monitor the flow rate or to protect the pump, then the flow switch can serve your purpose. The flow sensor will send an electrical signal to PLC or any other electronic controller.

Airflow switches are used to cleanroom filter systems, exhaust ventilation, and air treatment systems.

Flow switches are used in many other applications, such as:

·        Water treatment systems

·        Additive or blending systems

·        Air supply systems

·        Duct type heating

·        The flow switch triggers an alarm when the supply gets off.

·        When there is insufficient flow, the electric motor will shut down.

·        The flow switch also gets used in air conditioning and ventilator units.

·        In the central heating systems, the flow switch gets used.

·        In the chlorination systems fitted in swimming pools, flow switches can be used.

The primary purpose of an addressable fire indicator panel is to monitor each circuit, zone or point for any condition (alarm signal or other abnormal condition); display the status of that condition and to operate any required output or outputs according to the approved design of the system. These outputs are typically for the purpose of warning occupants on a fire alarm signal, notify the fire brigade, control the spread of heat, smoke or fire; or used for a wide variety of other purposes. There are many advantages of addressable systems including the ability to more effectively handle contamination over time that leads to nuisance (false) alarms, improved detection of fires and the ability to identify the precise location of a detector and its current condition or state. Do remember all input connection are potential free or dry contact.

To get Flow switch state through addressable fire alam control panel (FACP), you need input module or monitor module. Input module is one of the input devices of a fire alarm signal line. Input modules are used to get signal from 3rd party devices or other electrical or mechanical systems, like: Flow switch, probe type heat detector, LHS Cable, earthquake sensors, temperature sensors, push-buttons, magnetic contact etc. to fire alarm systems in the building. Based on programming FACP instruct Output module to create alam or notification for the same.

If you are a system integrator or Safety item installer or even a distributor, it is important to know how to integrate or application for Fire Detection Systems on behalf of the customer. Majority of the datasheets and catalogues are not really useful unless you already know what you are getting into. If need any further information contact us on ssaintegrate@gmail.com.