What is the purpose of a tamper switch on a valve?
A tamper switch is a mechanical and electrical device connected to a fire protection valve that signals a warning if the valve partially or fully closes. Regardless of the type of tamper switch, they all function similarly. The tamper switch features an actuating unit, usually a lever or cable with a resting position.
What is an OS&Y tamper?
This Tamper Switch for OS&Y Valves prevents tampering and unwanted closure by activating a nearby alarm or fire alarm control panel when the valve reaches 1/5 of its travel distance or two full turns.
What is a valve tamper switch?
Valve tamper switches are mounted on the various fire sprinkler control valves to monitor the position of the valve. It’s critical that the sprinkler control valves remain open because, otherwise, the water will not flow through the pipes when there is a fire emergency.
What does OS&Y mean on a valve?
outside stem and yoke
One type of valve commonly used to control water flow to fire sprinkler systems is known as an OS&Y gate valve. OS&Y means “outside stem and yoke” or “outside screw and yoke”.
How do you know if OS&Y is open?
An OS&Y valve is open when the threaded stem extends from the valve. The valve is closed when the stem is not visible above the control wheel.
What are tampers and flows?
Flow switches detect water movement or drop in pressure, and activate alarms. Tamper switches detect when a sprinkler valve has been partially to fully closed and usually activates a trouble signal at the control, although some cities require them activate alarms.
What is a tamper error?
This error can also occur if the terminal’s case is opened. The tamper error is a security feature designed to prevent hackers from accessing the inner parts of your terminal and to protect your terminal from unwanted modification, for example, the addition of card skimmers.
How does the OS and Y tamper switch work?
The OS&Y tamper switch provides added peace-of-mind by monitoring the valve’s status. The next tamper switch works for two different types of valves. The first is a very common valve in most modern sprinkler systems called a butterfly valve, named after the way the valve’s gate turns on a vertical axis instead of a moving up and down.
What are the different types of tamper switches?
Let’s highlight three primary types: 1 Outside Screw and Yok (OS&Y) Gate Valve Tamper Switch 2 Butterfly Valve or Post Indicator Valve Tamper Switch 3 Special Purpose Plug-In Tamper Switch More
Why do you need a tamper switch for fire protection system?
If someone closes this valve, the building’s fire protection system is nothing more than an expensive accessory. Therefore, it is crucial that the valve remains open. The OS&Y tamper switch provides added peace-of-mind by monitoring the valve’s status. The next tamper switch works for two different types of valves.
Where is the tamper switch on a sprinkler system?
The water in the sprinkler line is monitored by a pressure gauge usually located near the main fire riser and waterflow switch. Also you will find a tamper switch located in strategic places as to separate the system into different sections as needed for maintenance and or emergencies. These will be typically located on each level of a facility.