Fire Facilities training towers require minimum maintenance on
a regular basis. For routine upkeep, an inspection schedule must
be developed and conducted regularly. The frequency of these inspections
will vary depending on the training schedule and the severity of
the scenarios.
Visual Inspection
A basic visual inspection of all Westemp® panels should be performed following each day of training. The
purpose of this inspection is to ensure the panels are in good condition
and have not been damaged. Any panels that are punctured or cracked
all the way through must be replaced prior to the next burn exercise.
The temperature monitoring system should also be checked at this
time to assure it is working properly. Install fresh batteries if
necessary and confirm that all thermocouples respond properly.
Clean and Lubricate
After each training day, clean out all left over debris. Clean out
any ash or unburned fuel that may have accumulated on the floor
decks. Pay close attention to nails or screws that may be left behind
from burning pallets or the like.
On a regular basis (2 to 6 times per year) lubricate all door
and shutter hinges with a light film of penetrating lubricant to
assure they work easily. At the same interval, clean off any heavy
accumulation of soot and dirt from the vents and fans. Soot does
not need to be removed from the structure, inside or out, nor do
the Westemp panels require any cleaning. This is a good time to
look at the exterior painted surfaces and touch-up any scratches.
The primer on the stairs and structural steel can also be inspected
and repainted if necessary.
Rappelling Rings
Inspect all rappelling
rings to assure they are tight and that the safety pin is in
place. Check to make sure all rings and mountings are in perfect
condition. Replace any ring that shows any sign of wear or damage,
no matter how minor it may seem. Do not use or even allow a damaged
or worn ring to remain in place. Immediately remove any unfit or
suspect rings.
Exhaust Fans
Belts tend to stretch after time. They should be checked periodically
for wear and tightness. When replacing belts, use the same type
as supplied with the unit. Matched belts should always be used on
units with multi-groove pulleys.
For belt replacement, loosen the tensioning device far enough
to allow removal of the belt by hand. Do not force belts on or off.
This may cause cords to break, leading to premature belt failure.
Once installed, adjust belts as shown in the “Pre-Starting Checks”
section of the installation manual.
Shaft bearings are classified into two groups: relubricating and
non-relubricating. All bearings on standard Model CWB fans are factory
lubricated and require no further lubrication under normal use (between
-20°F and 180°F in a relatively clean environment). Units installed
in hot, humid or dirty locations should be equipped with special
bearings. These bearings will require frequent lubrication. Use
caution to prevent over-packing or contamination. Grease fittings
should be wiped clean. The unit should be in operation while lubricating.
Extreme care should be used around moving parts. Grease should be
pumped in very slowly until a slight bead forms around the seal.
A high grade lithium base grease is recommended.
Motor maintenance is generally limited to cleaning and lubrication
(where applicable). Cleaning should be limited to exterior surfaces
only. Removing dust build-up on motor housing ensures proper motor
cooling. Greasing of motors is only needed when fittings are provided.
Many fractional motors are permanently lubricated and should not
be lubricated further. Motors supplied with grease fittings should
be greased in accordance with manufacturers’ recommendations. Where
motor temperatures do not exceed 104°F (40°C), the grease should
be replaced after 2,000 hours of running time.
Wheels require very little attention when moving clean air. Occasionally,
oil and dust may accumulate causing imbalance. When this occurs,
the wheel and housing should be cleaned to ensure smooth and safe
operation. The unit should be made non-functional when cleaning
the wheel or housing (fuses removed, disconnect locked out, etc.).
All fasteners should be checked for tightness each time maintenance
checks are performed prior to restarting the unit.
A proper maintenance schedule program will ensure dependable service
for years to come.
