THE PADDLEWHEEL

To meet the needs of modern firefighting, FRC utilizes a paddlewheel flow sensor which is rugged, simple,and tough. This page provides information on the paddlewheel flow sensor, mounting options, and the requirements of for mounting locations.

MF15P The MF15P has replaced the MF10P for most applications.

MF10P This style is commonly used with FRC AutoFoam systems.

Standard Features

• No magnets in the paddlewheel rotor.
• Completely sealed electronics.
• Multiple mounting options.
• Can be used on large diameter pipes

Specifications

• Body Material - Acetal (Delrin)
• Rotor - 6-bladed
• Rotor Shaft - Stainless Steel (316)
• Excitation Voltage - 5 volts DC
• Output Frequency - 3 to 150 Hz
• Maximum Pressure - 600 PSI

Flow causes the paddlewheel to rotate on a stainless steel pin. The sensor is resistant to damage from debris in the water because the paddle is free spinning and moves with the flow. The paddlewheel revolutions are converted into electrical signals and the flow sensor provides an output signal with a frequency proportional to the flow rate.

MOUNTING OPTIONS

Saddle Clamp

A saddle clamp is the standard mounting for 2" through 6" pipe sizes. (Some larger sizes are available). Drill and deburr a 1¾" hole for the sensor and clamp this fitting down over the hole. A thick rubber gasket prevents leaks. The sensor housing is epoxied in place at the factory and is notched so the sensor inserts in the correct orientation. Not a victaulic clamp, our clamps use a simple "U-bolt" type fitting. Pictured with brass sensors housing, brass retaining cap, and sensor.

Weldment

Weldment fittings can be installed in the pipe when you do not have enough room for a saddle clamp. It is available in aluminum, steel and stainless steel. Enduser must ensure that the sensor housing is orientated with the flow, as the parts are not supplied epoxied. A True-Seal locknut is provided to hold the sensor housing in place and prevent leaks. Standard sizes range from 2.5" through 6". Pictured with the brass sensor housing, True-Seal locknut (to prevent leaks), brass retaining cap, and sensor.

Pipe Tee

Pipe Tee fittings are NPT threaded, " for applications where standard pipe fittings are the easiest solution. The sensor housing is epoxied in place at the factory and is notched so the sensor inserts in the correct orientation. Standard sizes range range from 1.5" through 4. Pictured with brass sensor housing, brass retaining cap, and sensor.

Third Party Spacer Adapters

Third party spacer adapters are available for side discharge applications where a spacer is the only thing that will fit. Enduser must ensure that the sensor housing is orientated with the flow, as the parts are not supplied epoxied. Custom adapters require a print with all dimensions and bolt patterns. The brass sensor housing may be fit with an O-ring for certain third-party spacers or adapters.

MOUNTING RECOMMENDATIONS

Why is it important?

The location of 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 run before the flow sensor location to allow the water stream to stabilize into a uniform flow.

Where does it get mounted?

The pressure sensor is normally mounted after the discharge valve, the flow sensor needs to be mounted before the valve. A paddlewheel flow sensor needs smooth water flow for the best results. Plumbing that distorts water flow such as elbows, pipe expansions, or valves need to be considered when choosing a flow sensor location.

Some Guidelines