©Copyright AMKUS Rescue Systems 2020-2021
10
LAL-002 August 3, 2021 Rev01
7.1 CONTROL VALVE ACTUATOR
The control valve actuator has three positions, OPEN, OFF, and CLOSE. The control valve actuator includes a deadman safety feature
which returns the control valve actuator to the OFF position (neutral) when released. When the control valve is in the OFF position, the
tool movement stops, and holds position and load.Verify operation of control valve actuator by checking to see it returns automatically to
the neutral position when released.
7.2 CUTTING
Rotating the control valve actuator regulates the hydraulic flow rate and power delivered to the tool. Turning the control valve actuator to
the end stops provides maximum hydraulic flow rate and power.
Figure 7.2
To perform a cutting operation, first, open the cutter blades. Place the blades around the object being cut. Close the blades to cut the
object. Obtain the maximum cutting forces nearest the pivot point. Start the cut with the blades as fully engaged as possible. Make the
cut. Open the blades and remove the tool when finished.
WARNING
When
When operating the cutter, take care to be positioned to the side of the cutter. As the cutter blades
meet resistance, the rescue tool may rotate or drift. If tool rotation places the user, operator, or
others in jeopardy, immediately release the control valve actuator. The deadman safety feature of
the control valve actuator should immediately return the control valve actuator to the center
(neutral) position stopping blade movement. Reposition the cutter as needed for optimal cutting
performance.
WARNING
Blades can break if positioned incorrectly, causing hazardous projectiles and an inoperable tool. If
blades start to flex sideways (tool rolls as space between blades increases), stop immediately and
reconsider cutting strategies.
CAUTION
The blades on AMKUS cutters effectively cut steering columns, brake pedals, door mechanisms,
and other vehicle items as necessary for extrication. However, using AMKUS cutters as a piercing
tool for heavy metal is not recommended. Therefore, when cutting, take care to insure the blade tips
move through a clear path of travel. The blade tips can pierce automotive sheet metal body panels.
Avoid obstacles like the heavy metal backing plates hidden behind seat belt mounts, door hinges,
and latching mechanisms or locks.
NOTICE
Cutting hardened metals can potentially dent or deform the blade’s cutting edge. Blades may break
at these weak spots on subsequent cuts, especially if cutting near the tips. Avoid cutting hardened
solids of unknown strength such as:
• Padlock shackles
• Tie rods
• Leaf springs
• Spindles
• Hardened bolts
• Tool steel
• Heat treated chain
Blade damage or breakage that results from cutting hardened metals or solids is not covered by the
AMKUS Rescue Systems warranty.
The blades are intended and designed to cut hardened auto bodies and components without
damage.
We recommend an Authorized AMKUS Rescue Systems Dealer inspect, evaluate, and replace
dented or damaged blades as necessary.
