Technical FAQ's
Air & Water Flow
AV-D (AV-622)
No, insert the whole probe unless ducts too small and use the DPA (duct flange)
AV-W
It’s a 0-1kΩ resistive output, N= 0Ω / E =250Ω S= 500Ω / W=750Ω
Rotation is 357˚ (1kΩ) before switching back to 0Ω (N)
It’s a pulsed output, 1 contact closure per 1.493 meters. This isn’t per second or mph. There is a simple calculation to convert this to m/s:
Air Velocity (in m/s) = (number of pulses counted in 1 minute / 60) * 1.493
Example, if you count 56 pulses in 1 minute, the formula becomes;
AV = (56/60) *1.493 = 1.39 m/s
AV-EP/MPS
How accurate are the velocity probes?
It's difficult to verify the accuracy of only the velocity probes. The AV-EP & AV-MPS probes takes an average reading, which is just simplified, cost-effective way to measure air velocity. In reality, it's probably impossible to state an accuracy figure for the probe, as so many variables are involved.
How do I select the right size probe for my duct size?
You should always select the widest section of the duct, for example 600 x 1000. The AV-MPS-1000 is the right probe to use. The reason for this is to get the best sample rate across the duct. You could use the AV-EP-600 but it won't quite be as accurate.
FS-521
Can this be mounted in a vertical duct?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the sensitivity sprint to counterbalance the weight of the paddle.
The FS range of products are not WRAS approved. We have not put these forward for certification for use with drinking water.
FS-W
Do I have to buy the stainless steel paddles separate?
No the 4 paddles are supplied with the product, suitable for pipe from 1” up to 8”.
The FS range of products are not WRAS approved. We have not put these forward for certification for use with drinking water.
LS-712
How does the LS-712 work?
This is effectively a static pressure sensor, within the cable is a vented tube that must be left open to atmosphere. For every 1 meter of water above the sensor this is equal to 98.07mbar. The LS-712-A for example has a range of 0 to 300mbar, 0 to 3.06 meters
The LS range of products are not WRAS approved.
LS-CAP
How do I know what one to order?
The LS-CAP1 is for conducting liquids, water for example and the LS-CAP2 is for non-conducting liquids like oil.
Can they be cut down?
No! and we do not do custom lengths.
The LS range of products are not WRAS approved.
LS-UT
Can this be used in an oil tank?
No, oil when its pumped into a tank will foam, this will cause the ultrasonic signal to not reflect back up to the transducer. It will result in a “lost echo” and will not record any levels. The best product to use in an oil tank is the LS-CAP-2.
The LS range of products are not WRAS approved.
LS-FL
Can this be used in an oil tank?
No, the cable is PCV which is time will become brittle and break. We haven’t an option for oil. This can only be used in a clean water tank (not effluent).
The LS range of products are not WRAS approved.
LS-TM
Can this be used for either high or low alarms?
Yes, its supplied with the float being normally open so will close when the float rises (high alarm) if a low level alarm is needed, remove the circlip, reverse the float and re-site the circlip.
The LS range of products are not WRAS approved.
Air Quality
GS-AQ
What is air quality?
It’s a mixture of different things, but basically it was something that was once living. VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) these derive from things like oils, cooking smells, tobacco, perfume, paints, glues the list is not quite endless but are many more.
Will this pick up CO2?
No, you will need to buy the GS-CO2 sensor for this.
Can I use the DPA as my duct is smaller than the probe length?
No, the probe has holes which are used to create what’s known as a venturi effect. Air is naturally drawn into and out of the housing. The sensing module is inside the actual main housing not at the end of the probe as the module itself is too big.
GS-CO2
Can I mount this on the ceiling?
Not really, the speed of response will be compromised. The housing is designed to allow the air to naturally convert over the CO2 module.
What set point level should I be trying to control my room around?
Typically this is between 800 & 1000ppm (parts per million) any less you will be over ventilating the room and any more in time you will have sleepy occupants.
Can I use the DPA as my duct is smaller than the probe length?
No, the probe has holes which are used to create what’s known as a venturi effect. Air is naturally drawn into and out of the housing. The sensing module is inside the actual main housing not at the end of the probe as the module itself is too big.
Do you have a CO2 sensor with a relay output?
No, they are only active, but by using the IO-RM-A adjustable relay module you can adjust the relay on/off points to suit your switching levels.
GS-CO
What should my maximum CO levels be?
The recommended levels quoted by the HSE:
Short term exposure: 15 minutes at 100ppm
Long term exposure: 8 hours 20ppm
Although you must check with local H&S officials.
Can I use the DPA as my duct is smaller than the probe length?
No, the probe has holes which are used to create what’s known as a venturi effect. Air is naturally drawn into and out of the housing. The sensing module is inside the actual main housing not at the end of the probe as the module itself is too big
GL-CO
Can you mix the sensor types on the 2 & 3-channel versions?
Yes, you can. But you can for example only have 2 sensors on the 2-channel version you cannot daisy chain more.
Can I use a GL-CO-SRS sensor as a standalone device?
No, you must use this range of sensors with the GL-CO-RFG range of controllers.
SD-D (SD-622)
My duct is 1000mm, can I use this?
No, the maximum duct size is 450mm
How does it work?
Infra-red, inside the housing there is a sender and receiver. A mirror at the end of the probe bounces back to the receiver, if this beam is broken for more than 2 seconds the alarm will then trigger.
FC
Do you do these for 3-phase motors?
No, single phase only up to 10A. 3-Phase motors are usually controlled by a device called an inverter drive.
How does it work?
Exposed adjustment versions or from a remote signal it’s the same principle. These vary the voltage out to the motor (inverters vary the Hz, so a very different type of control).
Will they work with any motor?
Only voltage controllable, they would need to check with the motor manufacture to check if they can, it's not a question we can answer
RE
Does the lager 3-phase (≥27kW) require the extra 230V?
Yes, without this then the electronica circuit isn’t enabled and therefore won’t work.
Only 2-phases are switching.
That’s correct, control is only done via 2-phases
How does this work?
The output is pulsed on a proportional basis. The cycle time is set as default to 5 seconds, if you input a 5Vdc signal the output is on for 2.5 seconds and off for 2.5 seconds.
My load is 19kW what one do I use, can I use the RE-3P-18 as its only just over?
You always select the one where the load doesn’t exceed the power as quoted in the part code. A 19kW load MUST use the RE-3P-27.
IO-A-RM
Will this convert 0-10Vdc to 4-20mA?
Yes it will of vice versa.
Is this dual channel?
No this is single channel (will only convert one signal)
IO-DIM
Can I mix the input signals i.e. VFC & 24V?
Definitely.
The red/green LED is flashing, what does this mean?
Take a look on the corresponding data sheet, there is a breakdown of the LED status. It usually indicates that there is a problem on their side, not a product problem
IO-RM-X
The red/green LED is flashing, what does this mean?
Take a look on the corresponding data sheet, there is a breakdown of the LED status. It usually indicates that there is a problem on their side, not a product problem
OC
There must be no moving heat, this is how it detects movement.
What one do I need to go into a DI of my BMS?
The 01 and 02 versions are for this type of application. The 03 is ONLY for using to switch a load directly i.e. a lamp or some other kind of load. This has a triac switch and needs a load the others are VFC (volt free contact)
I want a fixed set point type, split core but my load I want to monitor is only 0.1A. What can I do?
You can pass the conductors though the switch multiple times. If you pass this though four times it will think that the load is 0.4A so then it will switch as its then over the minimum which is 0.25A
I want a 0-10Vdc output, can I select this on site?
No, you must add a suffix onto the part code “-V” to have a 0-10Vdc output. Without this the output is 4-20mA
PA-699, PA-DPT & PA-267
Can this measure static pressure?
Yes, connected the high port to the duct and leave the low open to atmosphere. If mounted outside, make sure that the static connection isn’t influenced by the wind. Run a section of the PCV tubing to a sheltered location if required.
PL-PSA
How do you use the set point and differential if using for falling pressure?
As this is designed for rising pressure you need to set this slightly differently. I will use the PL-PSA-2 as an example:
Switching point 1 bar, differential 0.2 bar
Set the set point to 1.2 bar and differential to 0.2 bar. When pressure then drops below 1 bar (set point - differential) the switch will change over. Not till pressure then increases to >1.2 bar the switch will then change the other way.
None of the PL range can be used in oil applications. Special versions are available, deliver typically around 3 to 4 weeks.
PL-52x
There is water coming out of the electrical connection when I opened it to the system
This is due to a pressure spike, they possibly used a ¼ turn lever valve, no matter how slowly you open these they do create a huge pressure. Best to use a gate valve where pressure will be applied more slowly.
Can we use this for natural gas (town gas)?
Our PL-52X range isn’t suited for natural gas, we recommend that the PL-680 is used instead. The reason for using this is its intrinsically safe, if you have a spark from the electronic components this could ignite the gas. Intrinsically safe products have a barrier to stop this from happening.
None of the PL range can be used in oil applications. Special versions are available, delivery is typically around 3 to 4 weeks.
PL-630-A
Can I mount this horizontally?
This is the same for all the range, the mounting position can be in any orientation, there is no preference.
None of the PL range can be used in oil applications. Special versions are available, deliver typically around 3 to 4 weeks.
Are the humidity sensors suitable for swimming pools or spas?
None of our humidity sensors are not suitable for swimming pool or spa applications. The chemicals used to treat the water will eventually corrode the humidity element and cause oxidation on the PCB. Typically, they last just a few months before failing.
Do you do these in any other finishes?
Contact technical support
TT-518
Do you do these in other finishes?
No, but we can free issue the thimble shell for you to get custom coloured, return and we will finish off the build
Can I take the thimble apart?
No, it’s not impossible but a big possibility that the sensor will be damaged during dismantling.
TT-515
Do you do these with a set point adjust?
Yes, but it is a UI-500 and need to be ordered as such, contact technical support.
TT-DA (TT-325)
Can we get a custom length?
Yes, definitely we can do any length up to 15 meters.
TT-TDA (TT-626)
Can we get a custom length?
No sorry, only available at 2 meters
TT-O (TT-331) & TT-OR (TT-332)
Which one do I use on a south facing wall?
The TT-OR will offer protection from direct sunlight, it will not totally protect it but will be far better than the TT-O. Its far better to find a north facing wall if possible or another sheltered location out of the sun
TT-D (TT-341)
Can this be used in a steam application?
No, the maximum temperature that this can be used to monitor is 100˚C. Temperatures higher than this use the TT-IH (TT-342)
Do you do longer lengths?
No, just 3 standard lengths 65, 150 & 250mm. We do also have 100mm, these are not published.
TT-C (TT-351) & TT-CD (TT-359)
Is this shipped with a clamp to secure it to the pipe?
Yes, a metal band suitable for a maximum pipe diameter of 5”
Do you have an option for larger pipe?
Yes, you can join 2 or more bands together to form a larger one. Contact sales for part number and cost.
TT-S (TT-1000)
Can I have fan speed on its own as an option?
No, there are restrictions on options:
- SP Only
- MS Only
- SP & MS
- SP & FS
- SP, FS & MS
I would like a display
No problem, but will have to use the ATC version as this is needed to power the display
But I would like a resistive output for temperature
We can do this, it’s a special and adds a small charge to the overal sales price.
Thermistors, Drayton have two types of BMS (Building Management System) DC1100 (uses the -P) and DC1400 (uses the -H)
How do I select the right thermistor?
Using our thermistor type and compatibility chart below we have listed a large number of the BMS manufacturers with associated thermistor types, if in any doubt contact Technical Support and they can guide you.
UI-AA-1-F
How do I connect an alarm input into this?
For a VFC (Volt Free Contact) this is between 0V and LOOP, not IN as you would expect. A long historical error on the screen print but we have left this as it is.
Can I have additional engraving or different plate material?
Yes, this then becomes a UI-500, contact technical support
Can I mount this outside?
No, the IP rating isn’t high enough. External mounting should be minimum of IP65 these are only IP54.
VR-G/F
I have an old valve but need a new motor (actuator)
Its best to ask for a photo of what they have on site, this way we can identify if a new linkage kit is required. The older valves and motors were a different size, we can usually supply a new linkage
VZ
The valve isn’t closing correctly
This is usually due to the DP (Differential Pressure) exceeding the maximum quoted on the data sheet. These generally can only be used on lower pressure systems
Can you supply new keys?
Sorry, no we do have spare keys, they would have to purchase new products
EP-FS
Can I have different legends on the switch positions?
Sorry, no it’s not possible to change these
WD-RS
Can this be connected directly to a DI (Digital Input)?
No it MUST be connected to a WD-AMX. This uses AC reference voltage, DI uses DC and will cause oxidation and eventual failure of the detector
WD-AMX
We would like to use 2 cable sensors can we do this?
Yes defiantly, you can connect as many cable and point sensors as you wish. The only restriction is the cable run maximum is 200 meters. The more sensors you add though the more searching f it alarms, as it’s a common alarm
Can I use the WD-AMX range of products to detect an oil leak?
No, this will only work with water.
WD-CS
How does it work?
The yellow and black twisted pair are actually the carrier for the leak detection cables. Look closely and you will see 2 exposed stainless steel wires wrapped around the outside of these. Water then comes into contact with these and creates a short, which the WD-AMX sees and goes into alarm
WD-CPS
How does this work?
Using a humidity and temperature sensor it calculates dew point, this is the point where the air can no longer hold the moisture and then turns into water
WD-CPS-UN
A humidity sensor is used, and when this is >85% the switch will activate. This version doesn’t have an LED or sensitivity adjustment like the WD-CPS
WD-CPS-R
This works very differently to the above 2 detectors, rather than going into alarm before condensation (water droplets) which is the best way to monitor chilled beams this activates when condensation has started. The face of the detector is a bit like a WD-RS, water creates a short and this is picked up by the BMS DI input. Once this has detected water it MUST be changed to reasons quoted on the WD-RS