Paratech Air Struts

SECTION: Tools and EquipmentISSUED: 02-2011 REVISED: ##-####

Objectives

• To provide an understanding of the following– Specifications– Use– Maintenance– Safety

Specifications

• Acmethread Strut 25-36– 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 ProcedurePressure Regulator

• Attach to an SCBA cylinder

• Adjust outlet pressure• Turn adjusting knob to

set at 135 psi

Operating ProceduresDual 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