Paratech Air Struts SECTION: Tools and Equipment ISSUED: REVISED: ##-####
Objectives To provide an understanding of the following –Specifications –Use –Maintenance –Safety
Specifications Acmethread Strut –2 ½” diameter aluminum alloy inner threaded shaft –3” diameter aluminum alloy outer tube –50,000lb. axial crush strength –25” – 36” length
Specifications Tips –Steel cone point base Adds 1 ½” to strut length –V base –Rigid base 12”x12”
Specifications Extensions –12” strut extension –24” strut extension
Pressure Regulator Piston type regulator Up to 6000 psi incoming pressure Safety valve set 135 or 150 Depending on model
Dual Deadman Controller Maximum operating pressure 118 psi Safety valve setting 118 psi Single inlet and dual outlets Quick connect fittings With locking rings
Supply Hose 16 ’ in length 3/8 ” diameter Maximum working pressure of 250 or 300 psi Depending on model Burst pressure at 1000 psi Equipped with threaded lock rings Black hose From regulator to dual deadman control valve Color hose From dual deadman control valve to lifting bag
Use Trench collapse –Attach proper tips and hoses prior to lowering into trench Building collapse Vehicle stabilization
Operating Procedure Pressure Regulator Attach to an SCBA cylinder Adjust outlet pressure Turn adjusting knob to set at 135 psi
Operating Procedures Dual Deadman Controller Attach black hose from regulator Complete with locking ring Attach colored hose(s) to outlet(s) Complete with locking ring Dual safety deadman valves Up is green Down is red
Maintenance Check overall condition of strut Clean with mild soap and water Check elasticity of rubber gasket Ensure movement of strut Ensure locking collar moves freely Check threads for damage or burrs
Safety Wear appropriate PPE –Minimum of helmet, gloves, and eye protection Ensure tips/extensions are locked in place before use Lock strut in place with locking collar Never over pressurize strut Never lift load with strut Never use more than 2 extensions per strut for maximum of 3 feet extension Maximum strut length 6 feet