Potter Amseco VSR-6 6" Vane Type Waterflow Alarm Switch

The Potter Amseco VSR-6 is a 6-inch vane-type waterflow alarm switch with adjustable retard designed for wet-pipe fire sprinkler systems. Featuring two SPDT Form C contacts, a 0-90-second pneumatic time delay, and a 450 PSI service pressure rating, it detects sustained sprinkler waterflow of 10 GPM (38 LPM) or greater. The switch installs on compatible Schedule 5-40 steel piping using a saddle-mounted vane assembly and includes a NEMA 4/IP54 weather-resistant enclosure, tamper-resistant cover screws, and separate wiring compartments for alarm and auxiliary signaling circuits.

Potter VSR-6 6-Inch Vane-Type Waterflow Alarm Switch with Retard

The Potter Amseco VSR-6 Vane-Type Waterflow Alarm Switch is a mechanical fire sprinkler monitoring device engineered to detect sustained water movement in wet-pipe sprinkler systems. Designed specifically for 6-inch (DN150) nominal steel piping, the VSR-6 provides an electrical alarm signal when waterflow indicates sprinkler activation or another qualifying flow condition. Its flexible vane extends into the sprinkler pipe, where moving water deflects the paddle and activates the internal switching mechanism after the selected retard period. The VSR-6 is UL listed for Schedule 5 through Schedule 40 steel pipe and FM approved for Schedule 10 through Schedule 40 steel pipe. Suitable applications include commercial fire sprinkler risers, industrial sprinkler piping, multi-story buildings, warehouses, and sectional waterflow monitoring within larger fire protection systems.

The VSR-6 incorporates two independent single-pole, double-throw (SPDT) Form C snap-action switches that operate simultaneously after the selected flow delay expires. Each contact set is rated at 10A at 125/250VAC or 2A at 30VDC resistive, with a minimum switching current of 10mA at 24VDC. The detector features an adjustable, instantly recycling pneumatic retard mechanism with a 0-90-second time-delay range to help prevent unwanted alarms caused by momentary water surges, trapped air, or pressure fluctuations. The manufacturer specifies a UL flow sensitivity range of 4-10 GPM (15-38 LPM), with continuous waterflow of at least 10 GPM required for alarm activation. Additional hydraulic ratings include a 450 PSI (31 bar) maximum service pressure and 18 feet per second (5.5 m/s) maximum water surge velocity.

Designed for supervised fire alarm waterflow monitoring, the Potter VSR-6 can interface with compatible fire alarm control panels, central station signaling equipment, local bells, and visual annunciators. The dual Form C contacts permit separate alarm reporting and auxiliary notification functions, with each switch housed in an independent wiring compartment. Two 1/2-inch conduit knockouts support field wiring and facilitate separation of circuits operating at different voltages. Installation uses a U-bolt saddle mounting assembly and a non-corrosive sleeve that prevents sprinkler water from contacting the metal saddle. The manufacturer specifies a 2-inch 1/8-inch pipe opening for the 6-inch model, with the flow-direction arrow positioned downstream. The detector may be mounted on horizontal or vertical piping, with horizontal installations requiring placement on the upper side of the pipe. Potter also specifies at least 6 inches of clearance from fittings that change flow direction and 24 inches from valves or drains.

The Potter VSR-6 features a NEMA 4/IP54-rated weather-resistant enclosure consisting of a high-impact, UV-resistant composite cover and a die-cast aluminum base. A factory-installed gasket and two tamper-resistant cover screws protect the internal switches and retard mechanism, while an optional cover tamper switch can provide notification of unauthorized enclosure removal. The device operates in ambient temperatures from 40 F to 120 F (4.5 C to 49 C) and is suitable for approved indoor and outdoor installations using appropriate weather-resistant conduit fittings. The retard and switch assembly is field replaceable, allowing service without removing the saddle from the pipe or draining the sprinkler system when the manufacturer's procedures are followed. Manufacturer documentation identifies UL/cUL listing, FM approval, and applicable NFPA 13, NFPA 13D, NFPA 13R, and NFPA 72 applications. Assembled in the United States, the VSR-6 provides dependable waterflow alarm signaling for commercial and industrial wet-pipe fire sprinkler systems.