Amerex 05603 - Manual (Page 4)

PERIODIC INSPECTION PROCEDURES
(Monthly or more often if circumstances dictate)
NFPA-10 Periodic inspection of fire extinguishers shall include a check of at least the following items:
1. Location in designated place.
2. No obstruction to access or visibility.
3. Operating instructions on nameplate and facing outward.
4. Safety seals and tamper indicators not broken or missing.
5. Examination for obvious physical damage, corrosion, leakage or clogged nozzle.
6. Determine fullness by weighing or hefting.
MAINTENANCE
MAINTENANCE - SERVICE PROCEDURE
1. Clean extinguisher to remove dirt, grease or foreign material. Check to make sure that the instruction nameplate
is securely fastened and legible. Inspect the cylinder for corrosion, abrasion, dents or weld damage. If any of
these conditions are found and you doubt the integrity of the cylinder, hydrostatically test in accordance with CGA
Pamphlets C-1 and C-6 and NFPA 10.
2. Inspect the extinguisher for damaged, missing or substitute parts. Only factory replacement parts are approved
for use on Amerex fire extinguishers.
3. Weigh the extinguisher and compare with weight printed in the “Maintenance” section on the nameplate (label).
Recharge extinguisher if weight is not within indicated allowable tolerances.
4. Check the date of manufacture stamped on the cylinder dome. The agent cylinder must be hydrostatically tested
every 5 years to the test pressure indicated on the nameplate in accordance with DOT requirements.
5. Check ring pin for freedom of movement. Replace if bent or if removal appears difficult.
6. Inspect discharge lever for any dirt or corrosion which might impair freedom of movement. Inspect carrying
handle for proper installation. If lever, handle or rivets are damaged replace with proper Amerex part(s).
7. Remove the horn and discharge tube (2 1/2 & 5 lb.) or hose & horn assembly (10, 15, & 20 lb.),
8. Remove the horn and discharge tube (2 1/2 & 5 lb) or hose & horn assembly (10, 15 & 20 lb), inspect for dam-
age, replace as necessary. Replace the horn if brittle, cracked or deformed. Blow air through nozzle and nozzle
assemblies to insure passage is clear of foreign material.
9. Carbon dioxide hose assemblies have a continuous metal braid that connects to both couplings to minimize static
shock. A hose continuity test should be performed using a basic conductivity tester consisting of a flashlight hav-
ing an open circuit and a set of two wires with a conductor (clamps or probe) at each end. (NFPA 10)
10. Inspect the valve assembly for corrosion or damage to hose thread connection. Visually inspect the safety relief
assembly for obstruction or damage . If necessary , replace with complete Amerex factory assembled safety relief
P/N 04000 (tightening assembly to 250 in-lbs of torque). DO NOT SUBSTITUTE. Valve removal and/or valve
part replacement should be made only after completely discharging the contents of the cylinder.
11. Inspect the 10, 15 & 20 lb elbow and diffusion tip for blockage or damage. The Amerex 2 1/2 & 5 lb CO2 diffuser
is built into the discharge tube. Check elbow and discharge tube for blockage or damage. Replace damaged
parts with genuine factory replacement parts only.
At least once a year, or more frequently if indicated by an inspection, Maintenance should be performed. Mainte-
nance is a "thorough check" of the extinguisher. It is intended to give maximum assurance that an extinguisher
will operate effectively and safely. It includes a thorough examination and any necessary repair or replacement.
It will normally reveal the need for hydrostatic testing.