APS Typical Installation Guide – South-Tek Systems

This article provides general installation guidance for the AutoPurge System (APS) used with supported South-Tek N2-BLAST fire protection systems.

The APS is installed at the riser to provide controlled purging of oxygen-rich trapped air from the fire protection piping. Proper installation is important for purge performance, long-term reliability, and accurate system tuning.

This article is intended as a general installation reference. Field tuning and flow adjustment should be completed in accordance with the applicable APS setup instructions.

APS installation overview

The AutoPurge System is typically installed at each riser and tied into the existing fire protection piping arrangement. The assembly includes the APS body, strainer, valve, and related fittings required for connection to the riser.

One APS is typically installed per riser unless otherwise specified by the system design.

Recommended installation location

The APS should be mounted at a point where water will not collect within the fire protection piping. South-Tek recommends installing the APS as far from the pump room as practical.

Proper mounting location is important because trapped water or improper placement can affect purge performance and long-term reliability.

Horizontal and vertical pipe installation

The APS may be installed on horizontal or vertical sections of pipe depending on the field layout. The piping arrangement should match the applicable South-Tek installation drawing for the APS configuration being installed.

When installing on a vertical section of pipe, certain components shown in the standard arrangement may need to be removed or repositioned to match the approved vertical installation configuration.

Always confirm that the installed assembly matches the intended pipe orientation before placing the system into service.

Key installation components

APS body with flow adjustment
Ball valve
Wye strainer
Required bushings, tees, elbows, and adapters
Output adapter port for nitrogen purity verification or connection to Quick-Check equipment

Output adapter port

The APS output adapter port can be used for checking nitrogen purity with compatible South-Tek Quick-Check equipment. Depending on the system configuration, this port may also be used for connection to a Quick-Check purity manifold using 1/4" OD tubing.

Verify that all tubing and accessory connections are properly secured after installation.

Water-sensitive installations

In water-sensitive areas, the APS output adapter port may be piped to a drain using the appropriate South-Tek drain adapter kit where applicable.

This may help reduce the risk of unwanted discharge in areas where water release would be a concern.

Hydrostatic testing

The APS valve should be closed during hydrostatic testing.

After hydrostatic testing is complete, return the APS to its normal operating position before startup, tuning, or system operation.

Before startup

Before placing the system into operation, confirm the following:

APS is installed at the correct riser location
Piping orientation matches the intended installation layout
Ball valve is in the proper position for normal operation
Strainer and fittings are installed correctly
Any Quick-Check tubing or accessory connections are secure
APS is ready for field tuning

Need additional support?

Phone: (910) 415-1880
Email: support@southteksystems911.zendesk.com