Reading the vacuum gauge, Vacuum level on optimal surfaces, Vacuum level on other surfaces – Wood’s Powr-Grip MT5HV11AC User Manual
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Rev 19.0/1-14
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MT5HV11AC: #35086
Reading the Vacuum Gauge
The vacuum gauge indicates the current vacuum level in the lifter’s vacuum system. The gauge
needle should show a sudden surge in vacuum as the vacuum pads seal against the load. If it
takes more than 5 seconds for the vacuum level to reach 5" Hg [-17 kPa], press on any pad that
has not yet sealed. The lifter's Load Capacity is rated at a vacuum level of 17½" Hg [-59 kPa]
(see SPECIFICATIONS).
Vacuum Level on Optimal Surfaces
When the lifter is attached to clean, smooth, nonporous load surfaces, it should be able to attain
a vacuum level of 17½" Hg [-59 kPa] or more, except when used at high elevations (see
SPECIFICATIONS: Operating Elevation). If not, perform the V
ACUUM
T
EST
(see MAINTENANCE) to
determine whether there is a deficiency in the vacuum generating system.
Vacuum Level on Other Surfaces
When the lifter is attached to contaminated, rough or porous load surfaces, it may not be able to
attain 17½" Hg [-59 kPa], due to leakage in the seal between the vacuum pads and the load
surface. In the case of contamination, thoroughly clean the contact surfaces of the load and the
vacuum pads (see MAINTENANCE: V
ACUUM
P
AD
M
AINTENANCE
: Cleaning), and reapply the lifter to
the load. If the load has rough or porous surfaces,
the operator must conduct a test to
determine whether the lifter is designed to lift the load
, as follows:
1) Make sure the lifter's vacuum generating system is functioning correctly (see MAINTENANCE:
V
ACUUM
T
EST
).
2) Apply the vacuum pads to the load as previously directed.
3) When the vacuum level registers above 17½" Hg [-59 kPa] on the vacuum gauge (see T
O
L
IFT
AND
M
OVE THE
L
OAD
: Load Capacity and the Vacuum Gauge to follow), place the power switch
in the OFF position ( ).
4) Raise the load a minimal distance, to assure that it is supported by the lifter.
5) Monitor the vacuum gauge while the load is suspended for 5 minutes:
The lifter must
maintain a minimum vacuum level of 10" Hg [-34 kPa] during this time.
If not, the
load does not possess the characteristics required for using this lifter.
6
6
Certain load materials are too rough or porous to allow the lifter to form a seal which can be maintained for 5 minutes without
power. However, in geographical locations where CE Standards do not apply, it may be possible to use the lifter to lift such loads.
Contact Wood’s Powr-Grip for more information.