A Verdi Block Controller can automate pumps and pump controllers that accept a dry-contact control input. The Block Controller does not drive the pump motor directly. Instead, it sends a 100 ms pulse to a latching relay, and that relay opens or closes the dry contact seen by the pump starter, VFD, or engine controller.
When a Verdi Block Controller is configured as a parent device in the Verdi Dashboard, it can automatically turn on whenever one or more linked child irrigation zones are running, and turn off when no linked zones remain active.
Example pump control use cases
Single pump on/off control
A single Verdi Block Controller with a relay can be used as a simple on/off switch for a pump that accepts a dry-contact start/stop command.
VFD pump start/stop control
A single Verdi Block Controller with a relay can send a start/stop or run/enable command to a VFD-controlled pump. In this setup, the VFD continues to manage motor protection, ramping, and pressure control.
Diesel pump control through an engine controller
A single Verdi Block Controller with a relay can send a control signal to a diesel pump engine controller, such as a Murphy PowerCore® TEC-10, for remote start/stop automation.
Two control actions on one VFD
Two Verdi Block Controllers, each with its own relay, can control two separate dry-contact inputs on a single VFD. This can be used for applications such as start/stop plus pressure setpoint selection, or low-pressure/high-pressure mode selection, depending on the VFD’s available inputs and configuration.
Main pump and booster pump control
Two Verdi Block Controllers, each with its own relay, can independently control a main pump and a booster pump. This allows staged pump operation based on which irrigation zones are active.
Important note
The Verdi Block Controller is used to command external control equipment. Pump protection, engine safeties, overload protection, pressure regulation, and other critical interlocks remain the responsibility of the pump panel, VFD, or engine controller.
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FAQ
Can Verdi control a VFD?
Yes. Most VFDs have or can be configured to have an input act as a run signal. Verdi’s pump control relay dry contact output can be used with this run signal input to start a VFD in parallel with it’s existing start/stop interface. Please contact Verdi Engineering for confirmation about your specific equipment.
Can Verdi control a booster pump?
Yes. Verdi’s pump control relay can be used with magnetic starters and most VFDs to control booster pumps the same way other pumps are controlled. The Verdi Dashboard can be configured to activate the booster pumps for the designated zones.