AMES FIRE WATERWORKS C400-FS Colt Series Stainless Steel Reduced Pressure Zone Assembly Backflow Preventers with Flood Sensor Installation Guide
- October 30, 2023
- AMES FIRE WATERWORKS
Table of Contents
- C400-FS Colt Series Stainless Steel Reduced Pressure Zone Assembly
- Installation Guidelines
- Maintaining the Check Modules
- Servicing the Relief Valve
- Testing Reduced Pressure Zone Assemblies
- Replacement Parts
- Troubleshooting
- References
- Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
- Download This Manual (PDF format)
- 4 Phillips screwdriver or 3 /8″ diameter rod, length sufficient to span the diameter of the checks (See Figures A and B.)
RP/IS-A-C400/C500-FS Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Manual
Colt™ Series C400-FS, C500-FS, LFC500-FS
C400-FS Colt Series Stainless Steel Reduced Pressure Zone Assembly
Backflow Preventers with Flood Sensor
Reduced Pressure Zone Assemblies Reduced Pressure Detector Assemblies
WARNING
Read this Manual BEFORE using this equipment.
Failure to read and follow all safety and use information can result in death,
serious personal injury, property damage, or damage to the equipment. Keep
this Manual for future reference.
WARNING
Local building or plumbing codes may require modifi cations to the information
provided. You are required to consult the local building and plumbing codes
prior to installation. If the information provided here is not consistent with
local building or plumbing codes, the local codes should be followed. This
product must be installed by a licensed contractor in accordance with local
codes andordinances.
WARNING
Need for Periodic Inspection/Maintenance: This product must be tested
periodically in compliance with local codes, but at least once per year or
more as service conditions warrant. All products must be retested once
maintenance has been performed.
Corrosive water conditions and/or unauthorized adjustments or repair could
render the product ineffective for the service intended. Regular checking and
cleaning of the product’s internal and external components helps assure
maximum life and proper product function.
WARNING
This device must be tested periodically in compliance with local codes, but at
least once per year or more as service conditions warrant. If installed on a
fire sprinkler system, all mechanical checks, such as alarm checks and
backflow preventers, should be flow tested and inspected internally in
accordance with NFPA 13 and NFPA 25.
NOTICE
For Australia and New Zealand, line strainers should be installed between the
upstream shutoff valve and the inlet of the backflowpreventer.
Testing
For field testing procedure, refer to Ames installation sheets IS-A-ATG-1 at
www.amesfirewater.com.
For technical assistance, contact your local Ames representative.
2 1 ⁄2″ – 10″
Series C400-FS, C500-FS, and LFC500-FS are each equipped with an integrated
flood sensor that detects excessive relief valve discharges and triggers
notification of potential flood events.
NOTICE
An add-on connection kit is required to activate the integrated flood sensor.
Without the connection kit, the flood sensor is a passive component and will
not communicate with any other device. (A retrofit sensor connection kit is
also available for existing installations. See “Add-on and Retrofit Sensor
Connection Kits,” for ordering details.)
NOTICE
Use of the integrated flood sensor does not replicate the need to comply with
all required instructions, codes, and regulations related to installation,
operation, and maintenance of this product, including the need to provide
proper drainage in the event of a discharge. Watts ® is not responsible for
the failure of alerts due to connectivity or power issues.
NOTICE
The information contained herein is not intended to replace the full product
installation and safety information available or the experience of a trained
product installer. You are required to thoroughly read all installation
instructions and product safety
information before beginning the installation of this product. Inquire with
governing authorities for local installation requirements.
Installation Guidelines
- Most field problems occur because dirt and debris are present in the system at the time of installation and becomes trapped in check #1. The system should be flushed before the backflow valve is installed. If the system is not flushed until after the backflow valve is installed, remove both check modules from the valve and open the inlet shutoff to allow water to flow for a sufficient time to flush debris from the water line. If debris in the water system continues to cause fouling, a strainer can be installed upstream of the backflow assembly.
- Series C400-FS, C500-FS, and LFC500-FS can be installed in either horizontal, “N” pattern, or “Z” pattern position as long as the backflow assembly is installed in accordance with the direction of the flow arrow on the assembly and the local water authority approves the installation.
- The assembly should be installed with adequate clearance around the valve to allow for inspection, testing, and servicing. A minimum clearance of 12″ should be between the lower portion of the assembly and the floor or grade. The valve should be protected from freezing.
- Installing a backflow preventer in a pit or vault is not recommended.
- Normal discharge and nuisance spitting are accommodated by the use of an Ames air gap fitting and a fabricated indirect waste line. Floor drains of the same size must be provided in case of excessive discharge.
- Series C400, C500, and LFC500 backflow preventers should be tested by a certified tester at the time of installation.
NOTICE Assembly body should not be painted.
Maintaining the Check Modules
WARNING
Before servicing any Ames valve, it is mandatory to shut down the water system
by closing both the inlet and outlet shutoff valves. After the shutoff valves
are closed, open test cocks No. 2, No. 3, and No. 4 to relieve pressure within
the backflow assembly.
- After test cock No. 3 has been opened to relieve pressure, remove the test cock from the housing. (See Figure A.)
- Insert a #3 screwdriver through the hole on the top of the cover sleeve and using both hands rotate the cover sleeve approximately a quarter turn clockwise and a quarter turn counterclockwise to break the sleeve O-ring seals. Using the screwdriver, slowly slide the cover sleeve to the downstream side of the housing. (See Figure B.)
- Remove the stainless steel check retainer from the housing. (See Figure B.)
- Remove the check #1 module by inserting two flat blade screwdrivers into the slots on either side of the check module and gently pry the check module toward the open zone. (See Figure C.)
- Remove the check #2 module with the same instructions as in step 4. (For servicing 6″ checks, see the maintenance instructions for sizes 8″ to 10″.)
- To clean or inspect either check module, insert a #3 screwdriver through the downstream side of the check module. (See Figures D and E.) When the screwdriver is in place, remove the E-clip and pin connecting the structural members. (See Figure F.) The check clapper opens with no tension.
- Thoroughly clean the seating area. The sealing disc can be removed, if necessary, by detaching the screws connecting the keeper plate to the clapper. Reverse and reinstall the sealing disc if the elastomer is cut or damaged.
- Wash the check module and O-ring and inspect for any damage. If damaged, reinstall new parts.
- After a thorough cleaning, lubricate the O-ring with an FDA Approved lubricant, replace the pin and E-clip in the structural members, remove the screwdriver, and reinstall the check modules. Assemble the housing in reverse order of these instructions.
Maintaining the Check Modules
8″ – 10″
Tool Requirements
-
4 Phillips screwdriver or 3 /8″ diameter rod, length sufficient to span the diameter of the checks (See Figures A and B.)
- 1 /2″ – 13 x 5 fully threaded hex bolt (service bolt)
- 3 /4″ open end or socket wrench
NOTICE
Due to shipping, storage, and general handling, the Victaulic Coupling for the
shutoff valves may have loosened and should be retightened during
installation. Instructions
WARNING
Before servicing any Ames valve, it is mandatory to shut down the water system
by closing both the inlet and outlet shutoff valves. After the shutoff valves
are closed, open test cocks No. 2, No. 3, and No. 4 to relieve pressure within
the backflow assembly.
- After test cock No. 3 has been opened to relieve pressure, remove the test cock from the housing. (When repairing an 8″ or 10″ device, remove both Victaulic couplers from the body. Slide the downstream Victaulic coupler gasket to the downstream side of the housing. The upstream Victaulic coupler gasket stays in place.)
- Remove checks that are to be serviced.
- Locate the service hole and thread in the service bolt by hand until it contacts the linkage. (See Figure A.)
- Continue to thread in service bolt with the wrench until the service hole in the linkage is aligned with the service notches on the spring arbors. (See Figure A.)
- Insert the Phillips screwdriver through the arbors and service hole of the linkage making sure that the tip of the screwdriver extends past the ends of the arbors by a minimum of 1 /4″. (See Figure B.)
- Loosen the service bolt until the load is transferred to the screwdriver. Continue to loosen the service bolt until there is sufficient clearance to remove the complete spring mechanism.
- To disconnect the linkage, remove the retaining clip and pin. Store both items in a safe location for reinstallation.
- To remove the spring mechanism, grasp the screwdriver at the center and pull the complete assembly straight out and store in a safe place.
- Reinstall the components in reverse order of these instructions.
WARNING
While the spring mechanism is removed for check servicing, never pull the
screwdriver out or off the support notches on the arbors. Doing so may cause
bodily injuries.
Servicing the Relief Valve
WARNING
Before to servicing the relief valve, it is mandatory to shut down water
system by closing both the inlet and outlet shutoff valves and relieving
pressure within the assembly by opening test cocks No. 2, No. 3, and No. 4.
DO NOT REMOVE SPIDER BUSHING FOR SERVICING
-
Detach the activation module, if installed, from the flood sensor.
-
Use a #2 Phillips screwdriver to remove the sensor from the relief valve.
-
Disconnect the hose from the bottom cover plate to the relief valve.
-
An O-ring seals the relief valve body to the main housing.
Avoid tightening the connection beyond firm hand tightening.
The relief valve should be removable by unscrewing the relief valve from the housing. -
Remove the cover plate of the relief valve by detaching the four connecting screws.
-
Remove the rubber diaphragm from the relief valve. Notice how the diaphragm is configured so that it can be reinstalled in the same manner. The hard rubber tab in the diaphragm fits into a similar socket in the head of the piston. (See Figure A.)
-
Hold the relief valve in both hands with the threaded end up and both thumbs on the head of the piston. Push up on the piston until the piston shaft with the attached E-clip is exposed. Remove the E-clip. (See Figure B.)
-
Remove the piston and spring from the relief valve housing and thoroughly clean all parts including the diaphragm. Inspect all rubber parts for damage; if any are damaged, replace with new parts.
-
Reassemble the relief valve in the reverse order of these instructions.
Testing Reduced Pressure Zone Assemblies
Follow the requirements of each test when performed to ensure successful
installation, operation, and maintenance of the backflow preventer.
Test No.1
Purpose: To test check valve No. 2 for tightness against reverse flow.
Requirements: Valve must be tight against reverse flow under all pressure
differentials. Slowly open the ‘high’ valve A and the ‘vent’ valve C, and keep
the ‘low’ valve B closed. Open test No.
4. Indicated pressure differential is expected to decrease slightly.
If pressure differential continues to decrease (until the vent opens) check
valve No. 2 is reported as ‘leaking.’ Test No. 2
Purpose: To test shutoff No. 2 for tightness.
Requirements: After passing test No. 1, continue to test No. 2 by closing test
cock No. 2. The indicated pressure differential is expected to decrease
slightly. If pressure differential continues to decrease (approaching ‘zero’),
shutoff No. 2 is reported to be ‘leaking.’
Test No. 3
Purpose: To test check valve No. 1 for tightness.
Requirements: Valve must be tight against reverse flow under all pressure
differentials. Close ‘high’ valve A and open test cock
No. 2. Close test cock No. 4. Disconnect vent hose at test cock No. 4. Open
valves B and C, bleeding to atmosphere. Then closing valve B restores the
system to a normal static condition. Observe the pressure differential gauge.
If there is a decrease in the indicated value, check valve No. 1 is reported
as ‘leaking.’
Test No. 4
Purpose: To test operation of pressure differential relief valve.
Requirements: The pressure differential relief valve must operate to maintain
the ‘zone’ between the two check valves at least 2 psi less than the supply
pressure. Close ‘vent’ valve C. Open ‘high’ valve A. Open the ‘low’ valve B
very slowly until the differential gauge needle starts to drop. Hold the valve
at this position and observe the gauge reading when the first discharge is
noted from the relief valve. Record this as the opening differential pressure
of the relief valve.
NOTICE
The differential gauge needle MUST drop slowly. Close test cocks No. 2 and No.
3. Use the ‘vent’ hose to relieve pressure from the test kit by opening valves
A, B, and C. Remove all test equipment and open shutoff No. 2.
Replacement Parts
For repair kits and parts, refer to Backflow Prevention Products Repair Kits & Service Parts price list PL-A-RP-BPD found on www.amesfirewater.com.
Troubleshooting
PROBLEM | CAUSE | SOLUTION |
---|---|---|
Relief valve discharges water while system is not flowing | Check #1 is fouled |
Remove and clean check #1
Relief valve does not properly close| Service relief valve
Municipal water pressure is fluctuating| Install check valve upstream of
backflow assembly
Relief valve does not shut off properly| Fouled relief valve seat| Service
relief valve
Incorrectly Installed diaphragm| Remove diaphragm and correctly install
Damaged rubber surface on piston| Replace with new piston
Damaged or plugged pressure hose| Repair or replace hose
Add-on and Retrofit Sensor Connection Kits for Building Management Systems
ORDERING CODE | ADD-ON/RETROFIT KIT | DESCRIPTION |
---|---|---|
88009418 |
| FP-BF-BMS-21/2-10
BMS Sensor Connection Kit
Series C400-FS, C500-FS, LFC500-FS
Sizes 2½” to 10″| Includes sensor activation module with cable, ground wire,
and power adapter. Use
this kit to activate the integrated flood sensor and enable flood detection
capabilities
on the relief valve of a new installation linked to a BMS controller (not
included).
88009419| | FP-RFK-BF-BMS-
CFS-21/2-10
BMS Sensor Retrofit Connection Kit
Series C400, C500, LFC500
Sizes 2½” to 10″| Includes flood sensor, sensor activation module with cable,
ground wire, and
power adapter. Use this kit to install the flood sensor and enable flood
detection
capabilities on the relief valve of an existing installation linked to a BMS
controller
(not included).
Add-on and Retrofit Sensor Connection Kits for Cellular Communication
ORDERING CODE | ADD-ON/RETROFIT KIT | DESCRIPTION |
---|---|---|
88009420 | FP-BF-CFS-21/2-10 |
Cellular Sensor Connection Kit
Series C400-FS, C500-FS, LFC500-FS
Sizes 2½” to 10″| Includes sensor activation module with cable, Cellular
Gateway with mounting kit, ground wire, and power adapter. Use this kit to
activate the integrated flood sensor
and enable flood detection capabilities on the relief valve of a new
installation linked to a cellular network to send alerts by email message, SMS
text message, or voice call.
88009421| FP-RFK-BF-CFS-21/2-10
Cellular Sensor Retrofit Connection Kit
Series C400, C500, LFC500
Sizes 2½” to 10″| Includes flood sensor, sensor activation module with cable,
Cellular Gateway with mounting kit, ground wire, and power adapter. Use this
kit to install the flood sensor and enable flood detection capabilities on the
relief valve of an existing installation linked to a cellular network to send
alerts by email message, SMS text message, or voice call.
Limited Warranty: Ames Fire & Waterworks (the “Company”) warrants each product
to be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal usage for a
period of one year from the date of original shipment. In the event of such
defects within the warranty period, the Company will, at its option, replace
or recondition the product without charge. THE WARRANTY SET FORTH HEREIN IS
GIVEN EXPRESSLY AND IS THE ONLY WARRANTY GIVEN BY THE COMPANY WITH RESPECT TO
THE PRODUCT. THE COMPANY MAKES NO OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. THE
COMPANY HEREBY SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR
IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
The remedy described in the first paragraph of this warranty shall constitute
the sole and exclusive remedy for breach of warranty, and the Company shall
not be responsible for any incidental, special or consequential damages,
including without limitation, lost profits or the cost of repairing or
replacing other property which is damaged if this product does not work
properly, other costs resulting from labor charges, delays, vandalism,
negligence, fouling caused by foreign material, damage from adverse water
conditions, chemical, or any other circumstances over which the Company has no
control. This warranty shall be invalidated by any abuse, misuse,
misapplication, improper installation or improper maintenance or alteration of
the product.
Some States do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts,
and some States do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or
consequential damages. Therefore the above limitations may not apply to you.
This Limited Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may have other
rights that vary from State to State. You should consult applicable state laws
to determine your rights. SO FAR AS IS CONSISTENT WITH APPLICABLE STATE LAW,
ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES THAT MAY NOT BE DISCLAIMED, INCLUDING THE IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ARE
LIMITED IN DURATION TO ONE YEAR FROM THE DATE OF ORIGINAL SHIPMENT.
RP/IS-A-C400/C500-FS 2303
A WATTS Brand
USA: Backflow T: (978) 689-6066 • F: (978) 975-8350
• AmesFireWater.com
USA: Control Valves T: (713) 943-0688 • F: (713) 944-9445
• AmesFireWater.com
Canada: T: (888) 208-8927 • F: (905) 481-2316
• AmesFireWater.ca
Latin America: T: (52) 55-4122-0138
• AmesFireWater.com
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