Chris is back on Tech Talk to discuss different flow devices and when you might use each of them.
BL-PFS-100 (Plastic) and BL-BSF-150 (Brass)
- Paddle-style design with a paddle wheel that sends a pulse each time it spins.
- Built-in biCoder with LED lights on top, connected to the 2-wire path.
- As water flows through, pulses are sent to the controller, which it can read.
- 6" size; smaller sizes are through-style, while larger sizes are saddle-style that mount into a pipe.
Setup Verification
- Because the flow biCoder is built in, the device is pre-programmed with the K-value and offset value.
BL-BFM-100 (Brass Flow Meter)
- Disc-style design with an internal rotating disc.
- Provides the same analog reading.
- Current flow can be viewed in the field without the controller.
- Has a built-in biCoder that connects to the 2-wire path.
- Pre-programmed.
- Includes a photodiode; for retrofitting an existing meter to a Baseline system, it’s recommended to have a meter head with photodiode output that can sit on top.
BL-BHM-150-NO (Brass Hydrometer)
- Available in 1½" and 4" sizes.
- Disc-style flow recorder combined with a master valve assembly, two devices in one.
- One biCoder reads flow from the register; another master valve connects to the solenoid.
- Compact design fits into tight spaces, ideal for retrofits.
- Horizontal turbine with built-in stream straightener.
Valve types:
- Normally Closed – Tubing from the solenoid returns to the bottom of the hydrometer body.
- Normally Open – Tubing from the top of the solenoid vents to atmosphere.
- Toggle switch with three positions:
- Close – Prevents diaphragm from opening.
- Open – Flows water continuously.
- Auto – Automated by the system to manage and monitor flow per design.
- Manual bleed via small brass trigger to open the solenoid manually if needed.
BL-CP-PFS100 (Plastic Flow Sensor)
- Built-in biCoder with integrated transducer.
- Master valve biCoder allows connection of an external master valve.
- Includes a pressure biCoder.
- Single 2-wire output.
- Available in 1", 1½", and 2" sizes.
BL-5309 and BL-5308
- Can connect with most flow devices on the market and to an output.
- BL-5309 (top right) – Has purple wire provides 12V power to external devices.
- BL-5308 (bottom) – Has blue wire for meters that do not require power (most pulsed-output devices).
- Suitable for paddle-style flow meters that operate without additional power.