# ACHS14T Installation and Operation

WARNING

Reduce Lateral Flange Movement

- Before attaching the tool, make sure that at least two flange bolts remain in place 180 degrees apart with nuts loosened sufficiently enough for flange work to be carried out. These bolts will reduce the lateral flange movement during flange spreading.

1. Determine the flange joint access gap – a minimum access gap of 6 mm (0.24") is required.

2. Before installing the wedge, the hose should be connected to the respective couplings on the pump and cylinder.

3. Insert the wedge into the joint until the heel of the step is in contact with the outer surface of the joint. Make sure that the full step is used and that the jaw is positioned centrally. Inserting the wedge incorrectly may result in tool breakage and render the warranty void.

4. It is strongly recommended that two ACHS14T wedges be used on the flange joint positioned 180 degrees apart. Prime each pump individually to make sure that the flange joint opens evenly.

5. When the joint has been opened to the desired spreading distance, or the maximum spreading distance on the current step is reached, the safety block should be inserted into the joint and the pressure released back onto it.

6. The wedge can then be re-inserted on its next step and the joint opened further.

7. Once the joint has been spread and all work completed, the wedges should be removed by reversing steps 4–6. Release the wedges by turning the release valve on the pump anti-clockwise. Make sure that the wedges are released evenly until completely closed. Care should be taken not to drop any of the component parts when removing them from the flange joint. This action will prevent injuries to either the operator’s lower limbs, or to passers-by.

## Applies to: