Abacus Lighting, Sutton-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, NG17 5FT, England. Tel: (+44) 01623 511111, www.abacuslighting.com
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4.3. Counterbalances
Technical details are as follows;
The rating refers to the maximum turning moment about the hinge of the mast. For details of the
full range of safe working loads refer to the manufacturer's mast data. Note that the safe working
load for a counterbalance unit varies with mast height.
The unit is supplied ex works with Renolin Hydraulic Oil CL Range Ref CL46 (or equivalent) in
the tank. For export the unit is supplied empty and the tank must be filled with oil before use. The
correct oil level is 30mm below the upper face of the filler port with the tank horizontal. Note that
if this level is exceeded with the ram extended, oil will be ejected during operation of the
equipment. The pump incorporates a breather unit/filler port in the top of the tank and when not
in use the counterbalance should be stored with the tank in an upright position to avoid leakage.
The base of the ram is fitted with a flow control valve which will allow the mast to lower at a fixed
rate in the event of a major hydraulic failure such as a severed hose. The valve is of the fixed
orifice type and is not adjustable.
The hydraulic circuit is fitted with 3 filters. A suction strainer is fitted inside the reservoir, a return
line filter is located below the tank and a micro strainer is located inside the flow control valve
poppet. All filters are adequate for the life of this unit and will only need replacing if
contaminated oil has been used to refill the unit.
Due to its irregular usage it is difficult to specify a periodic maintenance schedule. Storage of the
counterbalance without use for long periods of time may lead to seals drying out. It is therefore
recommend that the following simple checks, including extending and retracting the ram, be
carried out at a minimum of 12 monthly intervals and any defective items replaced.
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