Technical Specifications
| Model Number | MA-WFS-CT |
| Product Name | T-Tap Flow Switch |
| Category | Water Flow Detection Device |
| Certification | UL Listed (UL353) |
| Manufacturer | Maple Armor / Tongfang |
| Warranty | 2-Year Standard |
| Switch Type | Vane-type Flow Switch |
| Contact Configuration | SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw) |
| Contact Rating | 5A @ 30VDC, 3A @ 125VAC |
| Contact Material | Silver Alloy |
| Flow Setting Range | 10-250 GPM (38-946 LPM) |
| Pressure Rating | 175 PSI (12 bar) Maximum |
| Operating Temperature | 32°F to 150°F (0°C to 65°C) |
| Storage Temperature | -20°F to 160°F (-29°C to 71°C) |
| Humidity | 0% to 95% RH (Non-condensing) |
| Enclosure Rating | NEMA 4X, IP66 |
| Enclosure Material | Stainless Steel (316) |
| Mounting Type | Pipe Mount (T-Tap Connection) |
| Pipe Sizes | 2" to 8" (50mm to 200mm) |
| Dimensions (Body) | 6.5" x 3.5" x 2.5" (165mm x 89mm x 64mm) |
| Weight | 3.5 lbs (1.6 kg) |
| Wire Gauge | 14-22 AWG |
| Terminal Type | Screw Terminals |
| Connection Type | Normally Open or Normally Closed |
| NFPA 13 Compliance | Yes (2019 Edition) |
| NFPA 72 Compliance | Yes (2019 Edition) |
| Expected Life | 500,000 mechanical cycles |
Compatible Pipe Types
Steel Pipe
Schedule 40 steel sprinkler pipe
CPVC Pipe
Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride
Copper Pipe
Type L copper sprinkler pipe
Water Flow Detection
Detects water flow when sprinklers activate
Product Overview
The MA-WFS-CT T-Tap Flow Switch is a critical component in automatic fire sprinkler systems, designed to detect water flow when sprinklers activate. It provides immediate notification to the fire alarm system when water begins flowing through sprinkler pipes, enabling rapid emergency response and minimizing fire damage.
Water Flow Detection
Accurate detection of water flow in sprinkler pipes.
Early Fire Detection
Immediate notification of sprinkler activation.
Adjustable Settings
Field adjustable flow settings for different systems.
Key Characteristics
Flow Detection: Vane-type mechanism for reliable flow sensing
Corrosion Resistant: 316 stainless steel construction
Adjustable: Field adjustable flow settings (10-250 GPM)
Flexible Configuration: Normally open or normally closed operation
Electrical Rating: 5A @ 30VDC contact rating
Pressure Rating: Up to 175 PSI operation
Typical Applications
Commercial Buildings
Office towers, shopping centers
Industrial Facilities
Manufacturing plants, warehouses
Healthcare
Hospitals, clinics, care facilities
Educational
Schools, universities, libraries
Flow Switch Importance: According to NFPA statistics, properly functioning sprinkler systems control 96% of fires in which they operate. Flow switches like the MA-WFS-CT ensure that fire departments are notified immediately when sprinklers activate, reducing response times and minimizing property damage. They are required by NFPA 13 and NFPA 72 for all automatic sprinkler systems.
Product Features
Mechanical Features
- Vane-type flow detection mechanism
- Silver alloy contacts for long electrical life
- 5A @ 30VDC, 3A @ 125VAC contact rating
- Field adjustable flow settings (10-250 GPM)
- Visual flow indicator for verification
- 500,000 mechanical cycle life expectancy
- Manual test lever for periodic testing
Construction Features
- Stainless steel enclosure (316 grade)
- NEMA 4X, IP66 weatherproof rating
- Corrosion-resistant construction
- T-Tap connection for easy installation
- Screw terminal connections
- Conduit entry with sealing grommet
- Tamper-resistant cover
Electrical Features
- SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw) configuration
- Normally open or normally closed operation
- 14-22 AWG wire compatibility
- Compatible with Class A or Class B wiring
- End-of-line resistor compatible
- Low current supervisory circuit
Installation Features
- T-Tap connection to sprinkler pipe
- Fittings included for 2" to 8" pipes
- Installation hardware provided
- Clear installation instructions
- Visual position indicator
- Test lever for periodic verification
- Drain connection for winterization
Flow Switch Requirements: NFPA 13 requires that all automatic sprinkler systems have waterflow detection devices installed on each system riser. The MA-WFS-CT must be installed downstream of the control valve and upstream of the first sprinkler to ensure proper detection of water flow when sprinklers activate.
Installation & Configuration
Horizontal Pipe
Horizontal sprinkler pipe mounting
Vertical Pipe
Vertical riser pipe mounting
System Riser
Main system riser installation
Installation Guidelines
- Install downstream of control valve
- Mount on horizontal pipe where possible
- Ensure proper pipe size compatibility
- Follow NEC and NFPA requirements
- Use proper pipe threading techniques
- Ensure weatherproof installation
- Test switch operation after installation
Wiring & Configuration
Circuit Type
Initiating circuit (Class A or Class B).
Contact Configuration
Set as normally open or normally closed.
Flow Setting
Adjust for system flow requirements.
Testing
Verify operation with test valve.
Installation Steps
- Verify sprinkler system is drained and safe to work on
- Select appropriate location on sprinkler pipe
- Drill and tap pipe for T-Tap connection
- Install flow switch body onto pipe fitting
- Adjust flow setting to system requirements
- Route wiring in approved conduit to switch location
- Connect wires to screw terminals
- Seal conduit entry with provided grommet
- Test switch operation using test valve
- Verify fire alarm system receives waterflow signal
- Document installation and testing results
- Label flow switch with appropriate identification
Installation Locations
System Riser
Main sprinkler system riser.
Cross Mains
Cross main piping sections.
Branch Lines
Large branch line sections.
Compatibility & Applications
Compatible Systems
- Maple Armor FW2000 Series FACP
- Maple Armor FW2100 Series
- Maple Armor FW2200 Series
- Most fire alarm control panels
- Addressable and conventional systems
Typical Applications
- Wet pipe sprinkler systems
- Dry pipe sprinkler systems
- Pre-action sprinkler systems
- Deluge sprinkler systems
- Combined dry pipe/pre-action systems
System Types
Wet Systems
Constantly charged with water.
Dry Systems
Charged with air or nitrogen.
Pre-action
Double interlock systems.
Benefits
Early Detection: Immediate notification of sprinkler activation
Code Compliance: UL353, NFPA 13, NFPA 72 compliant
Reliable: 316 stainless steel for harsh environments
Weatherproof: NEMA 4X rating for outdoor applications
Long Life: 500,000 mechanical cycles
Easy Installation: T-Tap connection simplifies mounting
Insurance Benefits: Proper installation of waterflow detection devices like the MA-WFS-CT is often required by insurance companies for commercial properties. These devices can lead to reduced insurance premiums by providing documented evidence of a functioning fire detection system that minimizes potential water damage through early notification.
