Would you gamble on the reliability of a single control transformer or a rectifier diode? Does it make sense to burn up the main contactor if either of the control power phases is lost?

Does all this sound scary to you? We think so, too! Many specifiers don't realize that the loss of one incoming power line can cause complete destruction of the fire pump motor. How can this happen? Simple—a storm, flood, or even a bird striking the power lines can cause a single phase situation. With only single phase power available, the fire pump motor can burn up when a start is attempted! That's why we incorporate PhaseSmart^TM circuitry and its associated visual alarm into every EC Series controller we build.

• PhaseSmart^TM logic is smart enough to keep the motor from burning up under a single phase starting condition. Once started, it's also smart enough to keep the motor running during a fire condition.
• PhaseSmart^TM control power circuitry taps all three incoming power phases, each with an independent, electrostatically shielded, control power transformer (three in all). The power is reduced to 24 VDC and rectified through a redundant rectification design that does not rely on any one rectifier or transformer. Since DC power is used, the controller circuitry is not vulnerable to the loss of any one phase. Control power is always available to ensure proper operation—no matter which phase is lost.
• PhaseSmart^TM also prevents the main contactor from energizing during a single phase start when partial line voltages exist. Without it, the main contactor or other coils can burn out when either of the control power phases is lost.
• PhaseSmart^TM can even warn you when the pump starts normally but loses a phase while operating. A new optional alarm called "Motor Single Phasing" (mod 85C) tells the operator that the fire pump is in trouble while the motor is running.