Detailed, user friendly guide on installing the sample flow switch to the SmartBilge+ oil content meter.
Introduction
The Smart Cell bilge + monitor can be fitted with an optional flow switch, this article is designed to aid with its installation . It is assumed that the installer will ensure that he will isolate power when carrying out the installation and will not work on live equipment.
The flow switch requires an input pressure and flowrate of a minimum of 0.3 bar and 0.8 litres/minute to be able to operate successfully throughout the discharge. If this is not obtainable then the separator outlet pipework might need re-routing in order to achieve these pressures/flowrates.
Installation kit
The installation kit for the SmartBilge+ flow switch (part number 113619) contains the following parts:
|
113681 |
SPARE FLOW SWITCH ASSEMBLY |
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|
109827 |
Adaptor ¼”OD x ¼” BSP Male straight stem adaptor |
 |
|
101505 |
¼” BSP x 6mm OD Elbow |
 |
Instructions
Preparing the SmartBilge+
You may need to re-route the cable that connects the clean water solenoid so that it passes under the valve mount and into its original cable gland on the SmartBilge+ enclosure.
Remove front cover from microcontroller module using a small Philips screwdriver then remove the clear protective cover within the enclosure using a small flat bladed screwdriver.
Mounting the Flow Switch on the Solenoid
The solenoid is fitted with an extension ¼” female x ¼” male connector, this needs to be removed before fitting the ¼” elbow (part number 101505). The solenoid needs to be removed from the black mounting bracket to achieve this. The straight stem adaptor (part number 109827) needs to be inserted into the flow switch using a suitable pipe sealant or PTFE tape. The stem adaptor requires to be inserted into the elbow and tightened.
WARNING - The flow switch must be mounted on the sample line and NOT the fresh water line.
The cable from the flow switch needs to be routed through the gland shown in the image below into the enclosure. If the gland is not present then a 13mm dia hole will have to be drilled in the box to take an M12 gland.
The cable from the flow switch must plug into the header on the PCB marked "FLOW SW", shown in the image below.
Ensure the cable gland is tighten around the flow switch cable after installing onto the PCB.
Reattach the solenoid to its bracket and secure the enclosure's protective cover and front cover.
Important! - Enabling the Flow Switch - PIN Activation
After installation of the flow switch and solenoid the power needs to be restored to the monitor.
Details on how to obtain your PIN, can be found here.
Once you have obtained your PIN, please enter the menu of your SmartBilge+ Monitor and locate the "Accessories menu". The PIN can now be entered into the software for your chosen parameter.
This PIN remains active for 5 days before expiring.
Testing the Flow Switch
You can demonstrate the operation of the flow switch by starting and stopping flow to the SmartBilge+. A flow error will be displayed, both alarm relays will be activated each time the flow error is displayed on the LCD screen.
Maintenance
There is no user maintenance for the flow Switch although it can be dismantled for cleaning if it is contaminated with oil however, care should be taken when removing the flow switch cap as the spring inside can be damaged or lost. The flow switch will not operate without the spring or the slug inside it.