Wood’s Powr-Grip MTA2HV11AIR - Manual (Page 12)

Rev 10.0/12-12 10 MTA2-AIR: #35100
Load Capacity and the Vacuum Gauge
A lifter’s Load Capacity is rated at a vacuum level of 16" Hg [-54 kPa] (see SPECIFICATIONS).
Vacuum higher than this level registers in the green range on the vacuum gauge, to indicate that
the lifter is ready to lift the maximum load weight.
WARNING: Never attempt to lift load unless vacuum level registers higher than
16" Hg [-54 kPa].
Do not attempt to lift the load while vacuum registers lower than 16" Hg [-54 kPa]; such an
attempt could result in a load release and possible injury to the operator.
Monitoring the Vacuum Gauge
The vacuum gauge must remain completely visible to the operator, so that it can be monitored
throughout the entire lift.
WARNING: Vacuum gauge must be visible to operator throughout entire lift.
The lifter’s vacuum pump runs continuously to maintain sufficient vacuum for lifting the
maximum load weight. If the vacuum system experiences leakage while the lifter is attached to
the load, the vacuum gauge signals the reduction in vacuum to the operator. Make sure the
vacuum gauge shows a vacuum level of 16" Hg [-54 kPa] or higher while you are lifting a load.
If not, move away and stay clear of the load until it can be lowered to the ground or a stable
support.
WARNING: Stay clear of any suspended load while vacuum level is lower than
16" Hg [-54 kPa].
Discontinue lifter use until the cause of the vacuum loss can be determined. If the vacuum level
remains lower than 16" Hg [-54 kPa] when the lifter is attached to clean, smooth, nonporous
materials, the leakage is likely to be in the vacuum system. In this event, perform the V
ACUUM
T
EST
(see MAINTENANCE) and inspect the vacuum pads for damage (see MAINTENANCE: V
ACUUM
P
AD
M
AINTENANCE
: Inspection). If the vacuum loss cannot be remedied immediately, perform
inspection and maintenance as needed to identify and correct any deficiency before resuming
normal operation of the lifter.
Controlling the Lifter and Load
When the vacuum gauge shows that the lifter is ready, use the hoisting equipment to raise the
lifter and load as needed to clear any obstacles in their path. Use the control handle to keep the
lifter and load in the desired orientation while they are suspended from the crane. Once
sufficient clearance is established, the load can be tilted as desired (see T
O
T
ILT THE
L
OAD
to
follow).
In Case of Power Failure
WARNING: Stay clear of any suspended load in the event of a power failure.
Although the lifter is designed to support the load for at least 5 minutes without power, this
depends on many factors, including the condition of the load and the lifter’s vacuum system (see
INTENDED USE: L
OAD C HARACTERISTICS and MAINTENANCE: V ACUUM P AD M AINTENANCE , V ACUUM
T
EST
). If a power failure occurs, keep all personnel clear of the suspended load until it can safely
be placed on the ground or a stable support. Correct any deficiency before resuming normal
operation of the lifter.