WFS - Installing the WFS Sensor and FCT Tee

The WFS sensor is designed to install within an FCT tee fitting. See chart below for tee sizes and corresponding pipe diameters.

HFS FCT Tee Fitting Models (All tees are glue/slip type fittings)
Model Material Diameter (US) Diameter (mm)
FCT 100 Schedule 40 (white) 1" 25 mm
FCT 150 Schedule 40 (white) 1.5" 37 mm
FCT 158 Schedule 80 (gray) 1.5" 37 mm
FCT 200 Schedule 40 (white) 2" 50 mm
FCT 208 Schedule 80 (gray) 2" 50 mm
FCT 300 Schedule 40 (white) 3" 75 mm
FCT 308 Schedule 80 (gray) 3" 75 mm
FCT 400 Schedule 40 (white) 4" 100 mm

For international applications, optional slip-BSP adapters are available separately for sizes up to 75 mm.

BSP Adapters
Diameter (mm) Model
25 mm 795700
37 mm 795800
50 mm 241400
75 mm 477800

Install the FCT tee fitting first, then install the WFS sensor into the fitting.

Observe the following general rules when choosing the sensor location and preparing to install:

  • Conduct a site survey to verify RF coverage. Install the wireless receiver at the controller. Install batteries in sensor/transmitter, and take to desired installation location.

  • Spin impeller by hand, and have assistant verify that green light is flashing at the receiver when the impeller is rotated.

  • Flush the irrigation system with the plug in place before installing the WFS sensor, to prevent damage to the impeller.

  • Always install WFS together with a master valve to provide overflow protection.

  • Install the WFS and master valve as close to the water supply point of connection as possible.

  • WFS requires a section of straight pipe on either side of the tee fitting to provide accurate measurement of flow. Tees, ells, and other fittings cause turbulence, which affects accuracy.

  • There must be a length of straight pipe at least 10 times the diameter of the pipe upstream from the WFS (toward the water supply).

  • There must be a length of straight pipe at least 5 times the diameter of the pipe in the downstream direction (toward the sprinklers).

  • Example: FCT-200 is installed in a 2"/50 mm diameter pipe. The tee should have 20"/50 cm of straight pipe upstream, and 10"/25 cm straight pipe downstream.

  • Install the WFS and FCT assembly in a sturdy irrigation valve box.

  • WFS has an impeller, which will turn with the flow of water. If the water source is not a public water supply, add a filter upstream from the master valve and WFS to protect the impeller from rocks or stones, which may damage the impeller.

    The FCT tee fitting is designed for glue (“slip") connection. Use approved PVC solvent-welding glue to install either slip x threaded fittings, or directly into the irrigation pipe if desired.

    Metric thread adapters are available and are listed in this manual on page 7.

NOTE: Avoid excess glue when attaching fittings. Uncured blobs of excess glue on the fitting’s interior can interfere with paddlewheel operation.

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