Neptune Systems Flow Sensor - 1/2"(1.3cm) with adapters FS-50

Usually used with aquarium accessories like reactors, carbon/GFO filters, etc., this flow sensor can be placed in line with the flow on any pipe, connected to the FMM, and communicate to your Apex the flow rate of water through that pipe. The flow sensor itself uses BSPP threads so for North American customers we have included two specially designed PVC adapters with slip fittings to adapt it to standard 1/2″ PVC plumbing.  The FS-50 will work with flow rates from 30-250 gph.  The sensor has a wire length of 5 meters.

 The Neptune Systems 1/2" Flow Sensor (FS-50) is another valuable component for the Apex ecosystem, designed for monitoring medium flow rates in aquarium plumbing. What makes this specific sensor particularly user-friendly, especially for those in regions like Australia where PVC plumbing standards might differ, is the inclusion of adapters.

Purpose and Common Applications:

The FS-50 is ideal for monitoring flow in various auxiliary systems within your aquarium, with a typical operating range of 30-250 gallons per hour (GPH), or approximately 113-946 liters per hour (LPH). Common uses include:

Media Reactors: This is a very common application. Place the FS-50 on the output line of carbon, GFO (Granular Ferric Oxide), biopellet, or other media reactors.

Verify Operation: Instantly know if the reactor pump has failed or if the flow has significantly reduced.

Fine-tuning: Use the real-time flow data to precisely adjust the flow rate to optimize media contact time and performance. This is especially useful for biopellet reactors where specific tumbling or flow is required.

Clog Detection: Get alerted if the reactor media becomes clogged or if channeling occurs, indicated by a drop in flow.

Protein Skimmer Feed Pumps (external): If you use a separate pump to feed your protein skimmer, the FS-50 can monitor its flow, ensuring consistent performance.

UV Sterilizers/Clarifiers: Confirm that your UV unit is receiving adequate flow for effective sterilization.

Chiller/Heater Circulation: Monitor the flow through your chiller or inline heater to ensure proper heat exchange.

Water Changing Systems: If you have an automated or semi-automated water change system, an FS-50 can monitor the flow of new or old water.
Key Features:

1/2" Sensor Body: The main sensor unit is designed for 1/2" pipe.
Includes Adapters (Crucial!): This is a key selling point. The FS-50 flow sensor itself typically uses BSPP (British Standard Parallel Pipe) threads. For easy integration into standard PVC plumbing systems, particularly those common in North America and often used in Australia (which often align with US PVC sizes), Neptune Systems includes two specially designed PVC adapters with slip (socket) fittings. These adapters convert the sensor's BSPP threads to 1/2" slip PVC connections, allowing you to glue them directly into your PVC plumbing runs.
Without these adapters, connecting the sensor to standard PVC plumbing would require sourcing separate, potentially hard-to-find, threaded fittings.

Connects to FMM: Like other Neptune Systems flow sensors, the FS-50 must be plugged into one of the four sensor ports on a Neptune Systems FMM (Fluid Monitoring Module). The FMM then transmits the flow data to your Apex controller.

Real-time Data and Datalogging: You get instant flow rate readings on your Apex Fusion dashboard, and the data is continuously logged, allowing you to view historical flow trends and diagnose issues.

Automation and Alerts: Leverage the power of the Apex to:
Send email or SMS alerts if the flow goes outside your desired range (e.g., "Reactor pump stopped!").
Trigger automated actions, such as shutting off a pump if no flow is detected, or adjusting other equipment based on flow changes.

Durable Construction: Made with industrial-grade materials for reliable long-term use in saltwater environments. The internal mechanism is typically a paddle-wheel or turbine.
Installation and Setup:

Placement: Choose a straight section of your 1/2" plumbing line for optimal accuracy. Ensure the flow direction matches the arrow on the sensor body. Avoid placing it immediately after elbows or significant bends.
Cut Plumbing: Carefully cut a section of your 1/2" PVC pipe where you intend to install the sensor.
Glue Adapters: Apply PVC cement to the 1/2" slip fittings of the included adapters and glue them onto the cut ends of your 1/2" PVC plumbing.
Thread Sensor: Once the cement is dry, thread the FS-50 sensor body into the newly installed threaded adapters. Ensure a snug fit, but avoid over-tightening.
Connect to FMM: Plug the cable from the FS-50 into any available sensor port on your FMM.
Configure in Apex Fusion: Access your Apex Fusion dashboard. The Apex should auto-detect the flow sensor. You can then go into the FMM's configuration page to name the sensor, specify the unit (GPH or LPH), and set up any desired alerts or control rules.
The Neptune Systems 1/2" Flow Sensor (FS-50) with its included adapters is a practical and powerful tool for monitoring and automating critical auxiliary equipment in your aquarium, helping you maintain a more stable and resilient system.