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CARE and HANDLING
In order to obtain the
most from your investment, certain care and handling procedures
must be observed. Niedner lay flat hose is unique in that it is
extremely flexible and light for its strength. Unlike rubber covered
hose, it reacts differently during use. The following hints will
ensure long life and optimum performance.
Storage
| Although this is
a synthetic hose, foreign materials entrapped in the fabric can
become a breeding ground for mildew. While the mildew will not
attack the hose physically, it does detract from the appearance
and will have an odor. It could also spread to other more susceptible
equipment or apparel. It is, therefore, recommended to clean
the hose in mild detergent (DO NOT use solvent) and then dry
it before storing. This will ensure the longest possible life
span, as well as being an opportunity to visually inspect the
hose for damage. Because the hose is so compact, it is sometimes folded in the hose bed on its edge. This should be avoided as the constant vibration of the truck could lead to premature wear on the selvage edge. The hose should always be wig-wagged flat. The hose bed should also be inspected for any protrusions, rough edges or corners. If any are found, they should be removed before the hose is loaded into the truck. When left stored for any length of time the hose should be allowed to be exposed to air. |
Usage
| Because of certain
features, Niedner lay flat hose cannot be handled like rubber
hose. The most important difference is the breaking down and
reloading aspect of it. Due to its flexible nature, the hose
inner jacket will tend to collapse and fold over on itself if
the entire lay is allowed to drain at once. If this does happen,
the hose gives the appearance of a twist in the inside jacket.
This is not the case and it may be easily removed simply by charging
the line and letting it flatten out properly. To properly drain Niedner lay flat hose the lay should be broken at every 100 foot or 200 foot connection. As the water is draining, the couplings should be rolled over so that the edges of the hose are in its original lay flat position. This is easily done if the hose still has water in it. Once this is done, the hose will flatten completely in its original form and can then be completely drained by walking it with a bar. It then will pack up in the same amount of space it was originally stored in. |
Inspection
| As with all hose,
Niedner lay flat hose should be service tested and inspected
annually. Any physical damage to the hose should be addressed
immediately. Although the purpose of the outside jacket is to
provide protection for the hose, it could be severely damaged
and yet the hose still remains completely functional. However,
it should never be allowed in service with any known damage.
If damage has occurred simply cutting out the affected area and
recoupling will resolve the problem. Be sure to retest after
any coupling alterations. Besides the exterior, the interior hose should also be inspected. If damage is evident, hose should be cut back and recoupled. If a problem extends too far down into the hose, it is most likely defective and should be brought to the attention of the dealer or the manufacturer. A proper annual inspection will ensure years of trouble free service, for the safety of the persons using it. |
