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Need help?Do you have a question about the Vestil D-HEAD-1 and is the answer not in the manual?
Explains the drum deheader's vise-grip mechanism and replaceable cutting blades.
Highlights essential safety steps, including emptying drums and spark resistance.
Details the process of securing the opener and performing the cutting operation.
Provides instructions on how to remove and replace the cutting wheel.
Outlines who can request service and what constitutes a proper request.
Specifies what parts are covered, the warranty period, and Vestil's corrective actions.
Lists conditions and actions that automatically void the product warranty.
The Vestil Drum Deheader, Model D-HEAD-1, is a specialized tool designed for safely and efficiently opening permanently sealed drum lids. It operates on a principle similar to a kitchen can opener, but on a larger scale, utilizing a vise-grip style clamp to apply pressure and force rolling cutting wheels into the drum lid. This process creates a very smooth, rolled edge on the finished opening, which significantly enhances safety by eliminating sharp edges that could otherwise cut the handler.
The primary function of the D-HEAD-1 is to remove the lids of drums, preparing them for easier access to their contents or for disposal. The tool is engineered to create a clean cut, minimizing the risk of injury during handling. It achieves this by employing a cutting wheel mechanism that, when properly clamped and rotated, progressively cuts through the drum's metal lid. The design ensures that the cutting action is controlled and precise, resulting in a consistent opening. The deheader is particularly useful for industrial settings where drums with sealed lids are frequently used, providing a more efficient and safer alternative to manual or less specialized opening methods. Its robust construction is intended to withstand the demands of regular use in such environments.
Operating the Vestil Drum Deheader involves a series of straightforward steps designed for ease of use and effectiveness. Before beginning, it is crucial to ensure that the drum's contents are completely emptied, especially when dealing with hazardous materials, and that appropriate safety gear is worn. The deheader is not spark resistant, so its use with highly flammable materials or explosives is not recommended due to the potential for sparks if struck against other objects.
To begin, the drum opener is secured to the top lip of the drum. The 1/2" drive socket should face upwards, and the cutting wheel should be positioned against the inside of the lip, as low as possible on the drum lid to facilitate easier cutting. The two drive gears are designed to rest against the outer ledge of the drum ring, providing stability and leverage. Once properly positioned, the drum deheader is clamped down onto the drum ring. The clamping force is adjusted much like a vise-grip style wrench, with a recommended force that requires 20-30 lbs. to close the wrench. It's important to avoid excessive clamping pressure, as the hardened cutting wheel could break.
A 1/2" drive ratchet is then inserted into the 1/2" "socket-like" receptacle at the top of the wrench. The ratchet is rotated clockwise while holding the drum wrench at a 90° angle to the drum side. This maintains consistent force on the cutting wheel. After completing one full rotation around the drum, the clamping force should be readjusted to the 20-30 lbs. range. This readjustment may be necessary multiple times, depending on the drum's thickness. When making consecutive rotations, it's essential to stay in the same cutting path as the previous cut to ensure a clean and continuous cut. Once the drum lid has been cut through, a hammer can be used to tap the lid down into the drum for easier removal.
The D-HEAD-1 can be used with various drum styles that have permanently sealed lids. However, users should be aware that in some instances, bung nuts might come into contact with the cutting head. With careful manipulation, the deheader can often be maneuvered around these obstacles. In rare cases, some specially made drums might not be compatible with this opener.
The tool's design allows for the use of pneumatic impact wrenches or air ratchets to speed up the opening process. However, caution is advised when using air tools due to their power, which could potentially injure an operator if an obstruction is encountered. Over time, operators will likely develop a perfected style, making the operation of the drum wrench easier and more efficient.
The Vestil Drum Deheader is designed with ease of maintenance in mind, particularly concerning its cutting components. The opener utilizes replaceable cutting blades, which is a key maintenance feature. When the cutting capabilities of the blades diminish due to wear, they can be easily replaced.
To replace a blade, the user simply removes the screw located in the center of the cutting wheel. Once the screw is removed, the old wheel can be slid out from the side of the tool. The new cutting wheel is then inserted, ensuring that the offset is positioned towards the top. After placing the new wheel, the screw is reinstalled and tightened down until the cutting wheel no longer rotates. To allow for proper function, the screw is then backed out slightly, just enough to permit the cutting wheel to rotate freely again. This simple replacement process ensures that the deheader can maintain its optimal cutting performance over an extended period, reducing downtime and extending the lifespan of the tool. Regular inspection of the cutting wheel for wear and tear is recommended to ensure consistent and safe operation.
General| Material | Steel |
|---|---|
| Finish | Powder Coated |
| Model Number | D-HEAD-1 |
| Product Type | Dolly Head |
| Load Capacity | 1000 lbs |
