PowerQuick Powered Ascender
(14)
PQ500-1 1-Sep-15
8.10.
Manual Brake Release
The PowerQuick 500 incorporates a Manual Brake release, which can be used for finite
positioning or for emergency release in the case of loss of power.
1.
Depress the brake release lever by pinching the lever with the thumb.
It may be helpful to use the underside of the metal housing press
against.
CAUTION THE HOUSING MAY BECOME HOT DURING
USE.
2.
Do not allow the load to build up considerable speed. It is best to start and stop the
load often -- for example, every foot or so of drop. The operator may opt to lower
lighter loads, say 200 pounds, somewhat faster.
3.
To begin descent, press the lever on the end of the ascender as shown in the photo
at right. Use only brief depressions. When your thumb is removed from the lever
the PowerQuick automatically stops on the rope
4.
Use caution when becoming accustomed to this feature as the rate of descent is
more rapid than a normal powered descent.
5.
The brake will heat up during a long descent. It should be allowed to cool
periodically, particularly if the load is near the maximum rated load. We
recommend a 1 to 2 second rest every 10 feet and a 15 to 30 second rest every
200 feet regardless of load.
8.11.
Attaching the Load and Checking Lift Capacity
The unique PowerQuick load limiter feature prevents accidental overloading of the unit, increasing user safety. It will disengage
the rope handler if the load is excessive. As shown in figure 3, it is integral to the load attachment point. The load limiter function
is to clamp the rope to the capstan, until the limit load is reached. While the PQ 500 is rated for use with 500 lbs, the limit load is
set at about 900 pounds as a safety factor. The load limiter will release the tension on the rope in dynamic loading conditions.
For example if there is slack in the rope above the load that releases when the load is lifted, the load limiter will keep the shock
loads to less than 2,500 pounds in the event the load is subject to a .6 meter drop.
1. The load is always attached to the load limiter loop. Note: Do not attach the load to any other part of the ascender.
2. For proper function of the ascender,
DO NOT USE AT MORE THAN THE RATED LOAD
. Estimate the load prior to
attaching to the ascender. The following test should be conducted; however, it does not relieve the operator of
responsibility of ensuring proper loading of this equipment. (Note: the PQ-500 is rated for 500 pounds. In order to
insure proper performance with the rated load, the unit will actually lift more than that weight. Therefore, it is imperative
that you keep the load within the recommended range.)
3. The ascender has overload protection. Check the load before lifting greater than 3 feet above floor level.
4. Clutch
—A centrifugal friction clutch limits the torque from the motor. (Normal clutch operation is based on a proper
loading of the ascender and charge of the battery.) If the load is excessive and the battery voltage is low, the clutches
may slip. If this slippage continues for 2-3 seconds, they will overheat and cause the lubrication to smoke.
5. When the temperature is at freezing we recommend the ascender
be run up and down the rope a short distance five or six times to
warm the parts before using with a load.
8.11.1.
Load test
—(Note: this test
is performed with a fully charged battery. A
low charge on the battery will result in
stalling of the ascender clutch.)
1. The loaded ascender should be lifted approximately 2 feet off the
floor or ground level as appropriate. If the ascender does not lift
the load cleanly, it is either too heavy of the battery charge is low.
2. Bounce the load on the line. For example, release the manual
brake and let the load descend for about 1 foot, then engage the
brake. This action should induce a slight oscillation or bouncing of
the loaded ascender. (Note: This bouncing on the rope will
introduce dynamic loads that will cause the load limiter to trip if the
load is greater than 700 pounds.) If the brake fails to stop the
load, the ascender may be faulty and should be returned to the
manufact
ure’s qualified service center.
Figure 19: Attaching to the load limiter
Figure 18: Manual Brake
Release
Summary of Contents for PQ 500-1
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