Air Compressor Requirements
To operate the press, a suitable air compressor capable of delivering 90 pounds per square
inch (90 PSI) at 5 cubic feet per minute (5 CFM) must be used. It is best to choose an air
compressor with a storage tank of at least 15 gallons in size, and in general, the larger
the storage tank the better. This will help minimize the run time of the compressor and
avoid delays while operating of the block press.Air/Hydraulic Jack
The block press uses an air/hydraulic jack to compress the soil into a block. The size and
capacity of the jack has been carefully chosen to match your machine. Should it become
necessary to replace the jack, use only one having the same capacity rating (expressed in
tons). Using a smaller jack will result in poor performance, while choosing a larger one
may cause damage to the block press.
Working Temperature
The manufacturer of the air/hydraulic jack specifies a minimum working temperature of 50º
Farenheit. At lower temperatures, the lubricant inside the jack becomes too stiff to allow
smooth operation and in fact, it may not operate at all. This is for the best, however.
Making blocks during cold weather, especially when the possibility of freezing exists, is
ill-advised since a "green" block (one that is not fully cured) will almost
certainly crack if permitted to freeze.
Jack Release Handle
The jack release handle releases pressure from the jack, allowing the piston to return to
its "home" (bottom) position. Before operating the air control valve (where the
air compressor hose is connected), be sure to turn the jack release handle fully
clockwise. Once the jack's piston has been raised, turn the jack release handle
counter-clockwise to release the pressure and lower the piston to its home position.
Jack Release Handle
|
