Fire Pump Controller Pressure Transducer Alert

Eaton Corporation of Calgary, Alberta in Canada has sent an “Important Product Safety Bulletin” to the pump manufacturers and distributors for its Cutler-Hammer brand diesel and electric fire pump controllers manufactured between June 11, 2007 and August 8, 2008. These controllers are used by a number of pump suppliers, including Armstrong, Aurora, Fairbanks Morse, ITT, Patterson and Peerless. The pump suppliers are being advised that the pressure transmitters in these controllers could be damaged from voltage transients. Eaton is providing replacement pressure transducers to its customer base.

Because the manufacturing dates are so recent, many of these could still be in the process of installation. Eaton Corporation is supplying the pump manufacturers and distributors with a quantity of replacement pressure transducers based on their record of orders shipped and are asking for cooperation in making the necessary repairs. Eaton Corporation has a list of nameplate serial numbers for the controllers that are affected by this situation. In cases where the pump manufacturers and distributors have shipped the controllers to a third party, Eaton is asking that the warning notice be forwarded to the third party. As such, fire sprinkler contractors may be notified soon of equipment that they have installed. Eaton is asking that confirmation of remedial action be provided through submittal of a form they have issued.

Pressure transmitters/transducers convert pressure into an analog electrical signal. Failure of these devices can not only prevent pump operation in response to a drop in system pressure, but can also result in inadvertent pump operation.

For additional information, sprinkler contractors can contact their pump suppliers or can contact Eaton directly at 877-860-7955 or through e-mail to [email protected]