The Ashbys Sensei is a compact cleaning extractor designed for both water extraction and hot solvent cleaning, offering versatility for various cleaning tasks. It is manufactured by Ashbys Cleaning Equipment, located at 5-7 Chapel Park, Stadium Way, Sittingbourne, Kent, ME10 3RW, UK.
Function Description:
The Sensei primarily functions as a cleaning extractor, capable of performing two distinct cleaning methods: water extraction and hot solvent cleaning.
- Water Extraction Cleaning: This method involves using Ashbys approved water extraction detergent mix to clean carpets, upholstery, and hard floors. The machine heats water (if fitted with an internal heater) to approximately 75°C, mixes it with detergent, and then sprays it onto the surface. A powerful vacuum system extracts the dirty water, leaving the surface clean and damp.
- Hot Solvent Cleaning: For specific applications, the Sensei can perform hot solvent cleaning, provided it is equipped with a built-in Hot Recirculating Solvent Cleaning System PC2001. This method uses Ashbys Dry Clean Extra PC4502 solvent, which is heated and recirculated through a copper heat exchange system. The solvent is then applied to the surface, and a dedicated solvent vacuum system extracts the used solvent. This method is particularly suitable for delicate fabrics or situations where water-based cleaning is not appropriate.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Power Supply: The Sensei operates on a 13 amp electrical supply and requires an earth leakage trip (R.C.D.) for safe operation.
- Heater (Optional): If fitted with an internal heater, it can heat water to a pre-set temperature of approximately 75°C. The heater element and low-level float switch must be covered by water for the heater to operate. The heater will only function when the water temperature is below the fixed thermostat setting and the water level is above the low-level safety cut-off.
- Vacuum System: The machine incorporates a powerful vacuum motor to extract cleaning solutions. For water extraction, the vacuum hose is a larger diameter hose that connects to a hose barb on the machine. For solvent cleaning, a lightweight solvent vacuum hose is used.
- Solution Delivery System: The solution hose carries the cleaning solution from the machine to the tool head. It features self-sealing brass fittings for secure connections. The flow control valve (if fitted) allows adjustment of the flow rate and pressure.
- Recovery Tank: The Sensei has a recovery tank for collecting dirty water or used solvent. A float valve activates to block the vacuum when the tank is full, preventing overflow. The recovery tank can be emptied via a dump valve located on the back of the Sensei.
- Solvent System (PC2001 Model): This specialized system includes a copper coil heat exchanger for heating solvent, a solvent intake hose, a solvent recirculation hose, and a solvent bleed hose. It requires specific Ashbys solvents (e.g., PC4502) and must be properly vented to the outside atmosphere using a heavy-duty exhaust hose to prevent fire or toxic contamination.
- Dimensions and Weight: While not explicitly stated, the description of it as a "compact extractor" suggests a design intended for portability and ease of use in various environments.
- Components: Key components include a 3-stage vacuum motor, various switches (mains, heater, pump, vacuum), a panel lamp, casters for mobility, and a range of hose and tool connectors.
Usage Features:
- Ease of Connection: Hoses and tools connect easily; vacuum hoses push on with a friction fit, while solution hoses use self-sealing brass fittings that "lock" into place.
- Tool Versatility: The Sensei supports various cleaning tools, including:
- Hand Tool: For upholstery, stairs, hard-to-reach areas, and rugs.
- Floor Tool: For main carpet areas, allowing cleaning in a standing position.
- Power Brushes: For extra agitation on heavily soiled carpets.
- Hard Floor Wet Pick-up Tool: For cleaning hard floors, featuring a squeegee head with a spray jet for rinsing and drying.
- Flow Control: An adjustable flow control valve (if fitted) allows operators to manage the flow rate and pressure of the cleaning solution.
- Safety Features:
- Requires an earth leakage trip (R.C.D.) for electrical supply.
- The heater has a low-level safety cut-off.
- Float valve in the recovery tank prevents vacuum motor damage when the tank is full.
- Specific warnings are provided for solvent cleaning, emphasizing the use of appropriate safety gear (nitrile gloves, eye goggles/face visor, respirator mask and filter) and proper ventilation to outside atmosphere.
- Only Ashbys approved detergents and solvents should be used to maintain warranty and prevent damage or hazards.
- Mobility: The machine is designed to be moved on its rear wheels to prevent damage to the front castors.
Maintenance Features:
- Post-Cleaning Procedure: After water extraction, the recovery tank should be emptied via the dump valve, and residual water in the solution tank drained using the Pump-Out Hose. The vacuum motors should be run with the recovery tank lid removed for approximately 3 minutes to dry them out, prolonging their life.
- Solvent System Drainage: After solvent cleaning, the system must be drained of solvent using the solvent bleed hose and pump, ensuring proper disposal of used solvent.
- Freeze Protection: It is crucial to prevent the machine, tools, and hoses from freezing, as expanding water can cause serious damage to internal components like pipes and pumps.
- Vacuum Cut-Out Cage Maintenance: The vacuum cut-out cage in the recovery tank must be kept clean and clear of obstructions (e.g., fluff). Periodically, the cage should be removed to check that the ball forms a good seal around the nylon washer at the top of the cage.
- Exhaust Vent Monitoring: Spits of water from the exhaust vent indicate a problem with the float cage, which should be replaced if distorted. Using Ashbys Supreme Defoamer in the recovery tank is recommended.
- Body Cleaning: The polyethylene body can be cleaned with a damp cloth and soapy water, avoiding electrical components. The machine should always be unplugged first.
- Aesthetic Maintenance: For best results and appearance, the machine can be cleaned with a silicone-blended finishing product like a Dashboard Renovator.
- Servicing: Regular servicing every 6 months, or as required, at Ashbys premises is recommended to prolong the machine's life and performance. This includes checking hoses, hand tools, and wands.
- Flow Control Knob: The flow control knob should not be overtightened to avoid stripping the internal thread; it should only be screwed in until full flow is achieved.
- Wand Filter Cleaning: The filters in the Ashbys twin-jet stainless steel wand should be cleaned occasionally by unscrewing the jet restraining nut, removing the jet, and cleaning the filter with a nail brush.
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