Flow Switches

Flow Switches

Flow Switches are part of a fire sprinkler suppression system.  The flow valve has a built in circuit that when tripped triggers a fire alarm condition. 

When a sprinkler head is tripped it releases the water into the area where the fire started.  The water moves through the flow valve thus closing the circuit and tripping the fire alarm.

Flow Switches are subjected to various water conditions One such condiiton is known as a water hammer.  These water hammers can and cause the flow valve to trip and cause a false fire alarm condition.   Flow valves may need adjustment from time to time. Its imperative that you have a fire suppression sprinkler contractor test and inspect the fire sprinkler suppression system every year. This is often required by law and insurance companies also require that these systems be tested and maintained properly. Failure to maintain and to comply with these requirements not only increase false alarms but may result in loss of life if the system doesn't work properly.

Water hammer is a pressure shock wave induced in plumbing supply systems whenever there is a sudden change in the steady state condition of a non-compressible liquid such as water. Pumps, valves, faucets, toilets, and fast solenoid-activated valves (such as commonly found in washing machines and dishwashers) are all examples of devices that can induce water hammer within a typical plumbing system. Water hammer can result in noisy, banging sounds as pipes rattle and expand to absorb the pressure wave. Shock waves in typical water pipes travel at up to 4500 feet/second and can exert tremendous instantaneous pressures, sometimes reaching 150 to over 1,000 PSI. If left unchecked, water hammer can damage pipes, valves and eventually weaken joints. However, the lack of noise does not mean that water hammer is not present.