Safely Lower Loads:
Many machines, both mobile and industrial, are equipped with load-holding valves. These valves typically serve two primary functions:
- They lock a loaded actuator in place in the event of a transmission line failure, and/or,
- They provide deceleration for heavy loads.
Typically, these valves do not function unless the pump is operating. However, if the pump or prime mover is disabled, there is generally no way of lowering a suspended load safely.
Safe-T-Bleed® will not only provide a means of lowering a load, but Safe-T-Bleed®'s MicroMeter™ valve can also be used to regulate the descent speed.
Current load lowering practices and associated hazards -
When a prime mover on a hydraulic system is disabled - leaving the actuator inoperable, the lowering of a suspended load, should it be necessary, is a challenge - one way or another, the oil has to be removed from the cylinder to allow it to be lowered.
The question is, how can this be achieved safely?
In some cases, the pressure setting of the load-holding valve can be lowered. In others, mechanical overrides can be used. However, in the majority of cases, "trial-and-error" methods prevail.
In the majority of cases, personnel will "crack" a connector and allow the oil to escape to atmosphere. Out of desperation, people have resorted to removing the load-holding valve cartridge - needless to say, these methods are extraordinarily hazardous and should never be used.
WARNING: The installation of Safe-T-Bleed® on cranes and aerial-lifts MUST be approved by the respective manufacturer. Failure to get the manufacturer's approval could result in serious injury or death.
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