Wood’s Powr-Grip EL Series - Manual (Page 22)

Rev 0.2/12-12 20 ELWC, etc: #35003
sunlight, as well as the condition of the load's contact surface (see INTENDED USE: L
OAD
C HARACTERISTICS ). Pads that have surface contamination must be thoroughly cleaned (see
Cleaning discussion to follow). Over time, the rubber in a pad may experience hardening or
leaching of chemicals, resulting in stiffness or surface glaze. Pads that exhibit wear, stiffness or
glaze must be replaced.
In addition, all pads should be replaced on a regular basis, preferably after no more than 2 years,
to ensure that the friction coefficient is not compromised. If necessary, contact your dealer or
Wood's Powr-Grip for more information.
Inspection
Inspect each vacuum pad for the following deficiencies routinely, as directed in the preceding
I
NSPECTION
and T
ESTING
S
CHEDULES
. Correct any deficiency before using the hand cup.
• Contaminates on the pad face or sealing edges: Soil build-up can prevent pads from sealing
adequately or reduce the friction coefficient (see discussion preceding). Follow the directions
to clean pads as necessary (see discussion to follow).
• Air filter missing from pad face: This filter helps prevent debris from contaminating the vacuum
pump. Replace any missing filter immediately (see hand cup instructions).
• Nicks, cuts or abrasions in sealing edges: Pad damage can reduce the lifting capacity. Replace
any damaged pad immediately (see hand cup instructions).
WARNING: Replace vacuum pad if sealing edge has any nicks, cuts or abrasions.
• Wear, stiffness or glaze: See Friction Coefficient preceding. Replace any pad that exhibits
wear, stiffness or glaze (see hand cup instructions).
Cleaning
Regularly clean the face of each vacuum pad to remove oil, dust and any other contaminates.
Acceptable cleaning agents include soapy water and other mild cleansers. Do not use solvents,
petroleum-based products (including kerosene, gasoline and diesel fuel) or any harsh chemicals
for cleaning. Do
not use unauthorized rubber cleaners or conditioners, such as those intended
for cleaning tires or vinyl surfaces, because those products can leave a hazardous film on vacuum
pads which significantly reduces their lifting capacity (see Friction Coefficient preceding). The
use of any unauthorized cleaning agent is prohibited because it could damage the pad and/or
create a hazard to the operator or others.
WARNING: Never use solvents, gasoline or other harsh chemicals to clean
vacuum pad.
WARNING: Never use unauthorized rubber cleaners or conditioners to clean
vacuum pad.
To prevent liquid from contaminating the vacuum pump during cleaning, cover the suction hole
in the recess for the air filter or make sure the pad faces downward. Use a clean sponge or lint-
free cloth to apply an authorized cleanser and wipe the pad face clean. A toothbrush (or similar
brush with bristles that do not harm rubber ) may be used to remove contaminates clinging to
sealing edges. 5 Wipe all residue from the pad face, and allow the pad to dry completely before
using the hand cup.
5
If these cleaning methods are not successful, contact Wood’s Powr-Grip or an authorized dealer for assistance.