The new variety in valve monitoring

The FM Data Sheet 2-81 provides comprehensive guidelines for the inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM) of fire protection systems. These measures are crucial to ensure the operational readiness and reliability of the systems, thereby protecting property and lives. The guideline sets out clear procedures and frequencies for ITM activities and emphasises the importance of enhanced security through advanced monitoring devices.

Overview of Benefits for Property Owners

  • Increased Security - through early detection of problems and continuous monitoring.
  • Reduced Maintenance Costs - by avoiding unnecessary maintenance tasks and extending inspection intervals.
  • Efficient Resource Utilisation - through optimised maintenance plans and targeted repairs.
  • Compliance - with fire protection regulations and standards, including the requirements of the FM 2-81 standard.
  • Insurance Benefits - with lower premiums or other advantages for buildings equipped with advanced security and monitoring systems, as the risk of fire and water damage is reduced.
  • Increased Property Values - through building trust - installing modern monitoring systems increases tenants' and buyers' confidence in the safety of the property.
  • Sustainability and Environmental Protection - Regular maintenance and prevention of system failures contribute to more environmentally friendly building management by conserving resources and extending the lifespan of the systems.

Overview of Benefits for Maintenance Companies

  • Increased Efficiency - Precise monitoring and automatic alarms reduce the need for manual inspections and facilitate the planning of maintenance tasks.
  • Cost Savings - Accurate knowledge of system status enables maintenance companies to plan their operations more efficiently and avoid unnecessary trips, saving time and costs.
  • Reduced Downtime - Faster detection and resolution of issues lead to shorter system downtimes, increasing customer satisfaction and avoiding potential penalties.
  • Enhanced Safety - Continuous monitoring and early detection of problems minimise potential safety risks for maintenance personnel and building occupants.
  • Improved Compliance - Adherence to legal regulations and standards such as FM 2-81 is made easier through the use of modern monitoring technology, reducing legal risks.
  • Competitive Advantage - Companies that utilise modern monitoring technology like supervisory switches can position themselves as innovative and reliable service providers.
  • Increased Customer Retention - Providing a top-notch, efficient, and transparent maintenance service contributes to long-term customer loyalty.
  • Resource Efficiency - Optimised maintenance processes and reduced emergency trips contribute to more sustainable operations by lowering the company's carbon footprint.
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Requirements/Properties of FM 2-81

The FM 2-81 guideline sets specific requirements for the inspection, testing, and maintenance of fire protection systems to ensure their proper function and reliability, including:

Regular Inspections and Tests:

  • Weekly visual inspection of control valves for completeness, secured position, and accessibility.
  • Annual verification of the full movement of all control valves.

Enhanced Security and Monitoring:

  • Use of Enhanced Security Supervisory Devices to detect and report tampering.
  • Installation of Smart Valve Monitors for near real-time monitoring of critical valves./li>

Technical Features:

  • Switch latches in actuated position in case of tempering or wrong valve position (conventional version).
  • Continuously monitored switch housing to detect tampering attempts.

Dimensions (mm):

Design of the Supervisory Switch with Enhanced Security

  1. Supervisory switch UW3

  2. LED indicator

  3. Magnet unit

  4. Indicator flag

  5. Gearbox cover

  6. Adjustment kit

Installation Options

All available mounting kits offer the flexibility to install the supervisory switch in either a normally open or normally closed configuration.

Here is an example:

  • Normally open installation:The supervisory switch remains open in its default state and closes when the valve is in the correct position.
  • Normally Closed Installation:The supervisory switch remains closed in its default state and opens when the valve is in the correct position.

This versatility allows for easy integration into various fire protection system designs and ensures optimal performance based on specific system requirements.

Closed valve position

Closed valve Indicator

Open valve position

 

Open valve indicator

 

Communication:

SystemModuleArticle code
ApolloApollo FM approvalUW30-AE5A1
ApolloApollo LPCB and VdS approvalUW30-AE5A2
Apollopre-wired for corresponding moduleUW30-AE5AX
HoneywellMircom MIX-M501AP Mini MonitorUW30-AE5HA
HoneywellNotifier FMM-101 MonitorUW30-AE5HB
HoneywellSilent Knight SK-Minimon Intelligent Mini MonitorUW30-AE5HC
HoneywellSystem Sensor M501MUW30-AE5HD
HoneywellFire Lite MMF-301 MonitorUW30-AE5HE
HoneywellGamewell AMM-2F Addressable MonitorUW30-AE5HF
HoneywellJohnson Controls M301MJ Mini MonitorUW30-AE5HG
HoneywellMorley - IASUW30-AE5HH
HoneywellSecutron MRI - M501MUW30-AE5HJ
HoneywellEST / Edwards M501MFUW30-AE5HK
Honeywellpre-wired for corresponding moduleUW30-AE5HX
PotterPotter - PAD100 - MIMUW30-AE5P1
Potterpre-wired for corresponding moduleUW30-AE5PX
WirelessTransmitter for switchUW30-AE5WA
WirelessReceiver for point to pointUW30-AE5WR
MarchwoodMarchwood MI 10104 
 PSR Module – End of line relayZB-UW3-PSR
 

Mounting Kits for OS&Y, NRS and Ball Valves available on request:

ManufacturerModelNominal diameterArticle code
Reliable300W / 300 WC2½“ (DN65) … 8“ (DN 200)ZB-UW3B01
Reliable300GT / 300 GTC2“ (DN 50) … 10“ (DN 250)ZB-UW3B01
Reliable363 GT / 363 GTS2“ (DN 50) … 10“ (DN 250)ZB-UW3B01
TycoBFV-300 / BFV-300C2“ (DN 50) … 12“ (DN 300)ZB-UW3B02
VictaulicFire lock 705 / 7652“ (DN 50) … 8“ (DN 200)ZB-UW3B03
VictaulicFire lock 705 / 76510“ (DN 250) … 12“ (DN 300)ZB-UW3B05
VikingBVG-1-MON2“ (DN 50) … 12“ (DN 300)ZB-UW3B04