Potter PE-HSWC Fire Alarm 170003
The Potter PE-HSWC (P/N 170003) is a horizontal waterflow switch for fire alarm systems integrated with wet pipe sprinkler systems. When a sprinkler head activates during a fire, water flows through the sprinkler pipe — and the PE-HSWC detects this flow and sends an alarm signal to the fire alarm control panel. The "C" designation in PE-HSWC indicates the unit includes an integrated cover tamper switch, which signals the fire alarm system if the switch housing is opened or tampered with between inspections.
The PE-HSWC is designed for horizontal pipe installation and is an essential fire alarm notification appliance interface component in any wet pipe sprinkler system connected to a Potter fire alarm control panel. It is a cornerstone of the fire sprinkler alarm infrastructure, ensuring that sprinkler activations are immediately reported to building monitoring systems, fire departments, and building occupants through the fire alarm signalling network.
For fire protection contractors and fire alarm equipment supplies professionals, the Potter PE-HSWC 170003 is a high-value specification item for commercial and industrial sprinkler system installations. Its UL listing and compatibility with Potter fire alarm control panels make it a standard choice for projects requiring integrated fire alarm and sprinkler system monitoring per NFPA 72 and NFPA 13 requirements.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Potter Electric Signal Company |
| Part Number | 170003 |
| Model | PE-HSWC |
| Type | Horizontal Waterflow Switch with Cover Tamper |
| Application | Wet pipe sprinkler systems — horizontal pipe installation |
| Compatible Systems | Potter fire alarm control panels |
| Certifications | UL Listed, FM Approved |
Mounting Requirements
The PE-HSWC must be installed on a horizontal pipe section per the manufacturer's installation instructions. Pipe vibration and water hammer can cause nuisance alarms if the retard timing is not adjusted correctly after installation. Follow the Potter installation manual for retard adjustment procedures specific to your system's flow characteristics.
Wiring to Fire Alarm Panel
Connect the PE-HSWC to the fire alarm control panel's initiating device circuit (IDC) or SLC loop as specified in the system design. The cover tamper switch wires connect to a separate supervisory zone. Verify correct zone assignment and verify alarm and tamper signals at the fire alarm control panel before commissioning.
Annual Testing
Per NFPA 72 and NFPA 25, waterflow switches must be tested annually using the inspector's test valve. The PE-HSWC should generate an alarm signal at the fire alarm control panel within the NFPA-specified time delay. Fire alarm inspection and test records must be retained for the minimum period required by the AHJ — typically three to five years.
What is the difference between PE-HSWC and PE-HSW?
The PE-HSWC (170003) includes an integrated cover tamper switch that signals the fire alarm system if the housing is opened. The PE-HSW (170002) is the same horizontal waterflow switch without the tamper feature. Specify the PE-HSWC where tamper supervision of the switch housing is required by the AHJ or system design.
Is this compatible with non-Potter fire alarm panels?
The PE-HSWC uses standard dry contact outputs compatible with most conventional and addressable fire alarm control panels. However, for optimal integration and guaranteed compatibility, it is designed and listed for use with Potter fire alarm systems. Verify compatibility with your specific panel before installation.
What pipe sizes is this compatible with?
Refer to the Potter PE-HSWC installation data sheet for the full range of compatible pipe sizes. The switch is designed for wet pipe sprinkler system piping in commercial and industrial applications and accommodates the most common sprinkler pipe diameters used in NFPA 13 systems.
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