VCE 33 L AC - Vacuum Cleaner Flex - Free user manual and instructions

USER MANUAL VCE 33 L AC Flex

turn vac on, Vibeke will make

The pictorial quick reference guide The pictorial quick reference guide is designed for helping you when starting up, operating and storing the unit. The guide are subdivided into 4 sections, which are represented by symbols:

USE! 1A - Unpack accessories 2A - Filter bag installation 3A - Disposal bag installation 4A - Hose insert & operations 5A - Accessories placement 6A - Adaptor plate installation 7A - Trolley handle installation

Control/Operation 1B - ManualClean filter cleaning system 2B - AutoClean filter cleaning system 3B - Cable and hose storage

3.1 Starting and operating of the machine ........ 13

3.5 Antistatic connection

5.1 Regular servicing and inspection ................ 16

Original instruction

FLEX VCE 33 L MC / VCE 33 L AC / VCE 44 L AC / S 44 L AC 1 Safety instructions This document contains the safety information re- levant for the appliance along with a quick reference guide. Before starting up your machine for the first time, this instruction manual must be read through carefully. Save the instructions for later use. Further support Further information on the appliance can be found on our web site at www.flex-tools.com. For further queries, please contact the Flex service representative responsible for your country. See reverse of this document.

1.1 Symbols used to mark instructions

DANGER Danger that leads directly to serious or irre- versible injuries, or even death. WARNING Danger that can lead to serious injuries or even death. CAUTION Danger that can lead to minor injuries and damage.

1.2 Instructions for use

• only be used by persons, who have been in- structed in its correct usage and explicitly com- missioned with the task of operating it

• only be operated under supervision This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge. Children shall be supervised to make sure that they do not play with the appliance. Do not use any unsafe work techniques. Never use the appliance without a filter. Switch off the appliance and disconnect the mains plug in the following situations:

• Prior to cleaning and servicing

• Prior to replacing components

• Prior to changing over the appliance

• If foam develops or liquid emerges Besides the operating instructions and the binding accident prevention regulations valid in the country of use, observe recognised regulations for safety and proper use. Before starting work, the operating staff must be informed on and trained within:

• risks associated with the material to be picked

• safe disposal of the picked up material

1.3 Purpose and intended use

This mobile dust extractor is designed, developed and rigorously tested to function efficiently and safely when properly maintained and used in ac- cordance with the following instructions. This machine is suitable for industrial use, such as e.g. plants, construction sites and workshops. This machine is also intended for commercial use, for example in hotels, schools, hospitals, factories, shops, offices and rental businesses. Accidents due to misuse can only be prevented by those using the machine.

READ AND FOLLOW ALL SAFETY INSTRUC-

TIONS. The appliance is suitable for picking up dry, non- flammable dust and liquids. Any other use is considered as improper use. The manufacturer accepts no liability for any damage re- sulting from such use. The risk for such use is borne solely by the user. Proper use also includes proper operation, servicing and repairs as specified by the manufacturer. The appliance is suitable for picking up dry, non- flammable dust and liquids, hazardous dusts with OEL (Occupational Exposure Limit) value > 1mg/m³. Dust Class L (IEC 60335-2-69). Reinweiß; RAL 9010 Tiefschwarz; RAL 9005 Verkehrsrot; RAL 3020 Pastellorange; RAL 2003

For machines intended for the Dust Class L, the filter material is tested. The maximum degree of per- meability is 1% and there is no special requirement for disposal. For dust extractors, ensure adequate air change rate, when the exhaust air is returned to the room. Observe national regulations before use.

1.4 Electrical connection

It is recommended that the machine should be con- nected via a residual current circuit breaker. Arrange the electrical parts (sockets, plugs and cou- plings) and lay down the extension lead so that the protection class is maintained.*) Optional accessories / Option depending on model Original instruction

FLEX VCE 33 L MC / VCE 33 L AC / VCE 44 L AC / S 44 L AC Connectors and couplings of power supply cords and extension leads must be watertight.

As an extension lead, only use the version specified by the manufacturer or one of a higher quality. When using an extension lead, check the minimum cross-sections of the cable: Cable lenth Cross section < 16 A < 25 A up to 20 m 1.5 mm

Our general conditions of business are applicable with regard to the guarantee. Unauthorised modifications to the appliance, the use of incorrect brushes in addition to using the appli- ance in a way other than for the intended purpose exempt the manufacturer from any liability for the resulting damage.

1.7 Important warnings

WARNING To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury, please read and follow all safety in- structions and caution markings before use. This machine is designed to be safe when used for cleaning functions as specified. Should damage occur to electrical or mechanical parts, the machine and / or accessory should be repaired by a compe- tent service center or the manufacturer before use in order to avoid further damage to the machine or physical injury to the user. Do not leave the machine when it is plugged in. Unplug from the socket when not in use and before maintenance. Outdoor use of the appliance shall be limited to oc- casional use. Do not use with damaged cord or plug. To unplug grasp the plug, not the cord. Do not handle plug or machine with wet hands. Turn off all controls before unplugging. Do not pull or carry by cord, use cord as a handle, close a door on cord, or pull cord around sharp edg- es or corners. Do not run machine over cord. Keep cord away from heated surfaces. Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers and all parts of the body away from openings and moving parts. Do not put any objects into openings or use with opening blocked. Keep openings free of dust, lint, hair, and anything else that could reduce the flow of air. Do not use in outside areas at low temperature. Do not use to pick up flammable or combustible liquids such as gasoline, or use in areas where they may be present. Do not pick up anything that is burning or smoking, such as cigarettes, matches or hot ashes. Use extra care when cleaning on stairs. Do not use unless filters are fitted. If the machine is not working properly or has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors, or dropped into water, return it to a service center or dealer. If foam or liquid escapes from the machine, switch off immediately. The machine may not be used as a water pump. The machine is intended for vacuuming air and wa- ter mixtures. Connect the machine to a properly earthed mains supply. The socket outlet and the extension cable must have an operative protective conductor. Provide for good ventilation at the working place. Do not use the machine as a ladder or step ladder. The machine can tip over and become damaged. Danger of injury. Only use the socket outlet on the machine for pur- poses specified in the instructions. 2 Risks

2.1 Electrical components

DANGER The upper section of the machine contains live components. Contact with live components leads to serious or even fatal injuries.

1. Never spray water on to the upper section of the

machine. DANGER Electric shock due to faulty mains connecting lead. Touching a faulty mains connecting lead can result in serious or even fatal injuries.

1. Do not damage the mains power lead (e.g. by

driving over it, pulling or crushing it).

2. Regularly check whether the power cord is dam-

aged or shows signs of ageing.

3. If the electric cable is damaged, it must be re-

placed by an authorized Flex distributor or simi- lar qualified person in order to avoid a hazard.*) Optional accessories / Option depending on model Original instruction

4. In no circumstances should the power supply

cord be wrapped around fingers or any part of the operators person.

WARNING Hazardous materials. Vacuuming up hazardous materials can lead to serious or even fatal injuries.

1. The following materials must not be picked up

by the machine: – hot materials (burning cigarettes, hot ash, etc.) – flammable, explosive, aggressive liquids (e.g. petrol, solvents, acids, alkalis, etc.) – flammable, explosive dust (e.g. magnesium or aluminium dust, etc.)

2.3 Spare parts and accessories

CAUTION Spare parts and accessories. The use of non-genuine spare parts, brushes and accessories can impair the safety and or func- tion of the appliance.

1. Only use original spare parts and accessories

from Flex. Spare parts that can affect health and safety of the operator and or function of the ap- pliance, are specified below: Description Order No. Flat filter PTFE, 1 pcs. 445.118 Fleece filter bag, 5 pcs. 445.088 Disposal bag, 5 pcs. 445.061 Long Life filter bag, 1 pcs. 445.517 Motor cooling air filter PET, 1 pcs. 445.134

2.4 In explosive or inflammable atmosphere

CAUTION This machine is not suitable for use in explo- sive or inflammable atmospheres or where such atmospheres are likely to be produced by the presence of volatile liquid or inflammable gas or va- pour. 3 Control / Operation CAUTION Damage due to unsuitable mains voltage. The appliance can be damaged as a result of being connected to an unsuitable mains voltage.

1. Ensure that the voltage shown on the rating plate

corresponds to the voltage of the local mains power supply.

3.1 Starting and operating of the machine

Check that the electrical switch is switched off (in position 0). Check that suitable filters are installed in the ma- chine.

1. Check that the electrical switch is switched off

2. Check that suitable filters are installed in the

3. Connect the suction hose into the suction inlet at

the machine by pushing the hose forward until it fits firmly in place at the inlet.

4. Connect the tubes with the hose handle, twist

the tubes in order to ensure that they are prop- erly fitted.

5. Attach suitable nozzle to the tube. Choose noz-

zle depending on what type of material that is to be picked-up. If used for dust extraction in con- nection with dust producing tool then connect end of suction hose with appropriate adapter.

6. Connect the plug into a proper electrical outlet.

7. Put the electrical switch into position I in order to

start the motor. Turn I: Activate the machine Turn clockwise for suction power control Turn 0: Stop the machine Turn

Activate Auto-On/Off operation Turn counterclockwise for suction power control*) Optional accessories / Option depending on model Original instruction

Stop the machine. Permanent power on socket Turn

Activate Auto-On/Off operation Turn I + Off: Activate the machine with deactivated automatic filter cleaning function Turn + Off: Activate Auto- On/Off operation with deactivated automatic filter cleaning function Suction power control operation on separate turning knob

3.2 Auto-On/Off socket outlet for power tools

CAUTION Appliance socket. The appliance socket is designed for electrical auxiliary equipment; see technical data for refer- ence.

1. Prior to plugging in an appliance, always switch

off the machine and the appliance that is to be connected.

2. Read the operating instructions to the appliance

to be connected and observe the safety notes contained in these. An appliance socket with earthing contact is inte- grated in the machine. An external power tool can be connected there. The socket features permanent power on, when the electrical switch is in position , i.e. the machine can be used as an extension cord. In position the machine can be switched on and off by the power tool connected. Dirt is picked up from the source of dust immediately. To comply with regulations, only approved dust producing tools should be connected. The maximum power consumption of the connected electrical appliance is stated in section “Specifica- tions”. Before turning the switch to position ensure that the tool connected to the appliance socket is switched off.

The “MC” machine is equipped with a semi auto- matic filter cleaning system, ManualClean. The filter cleaning system must be actuated latest when the suction performance is no longer sufficient. Regular use of the filter cleaning feature maintains suction performance and increases the lifetime of the filter. For instruction see quick reference guide.

The “AC” machine is equipped with an automatic fil- ter cleaning system, AutoClean. A frequent cleaning cycle will automatically run during operation to en- sure that suction performance is always at its best. If suction performance decreases or in extensive dust applications a manually filter cleaning operation is recommended:

1. Switch off the machine.

2. Close the nozzles or suction hose opening with

the palm of your hand.

3. Turn the switch to position „I“ and let the ma-

chine operate at full speed for approx. 10 sec- onds with the suction hose opening closed. If suction power is still reduced take out the filter and clean mechanically or replace filter. For certain applications, like wet pick up, it is recom- mended to turn off the automatic filter cleaning sys- tem. For details see chapter 3.1.

3.5 Antistatic connection

CAUTION The machine is equipped with an antistatic system to discharge any static electricity that may develop during dust pick-up. The antistatic system is placed in front part of the motor top and creates an earth ground connection to the inlet fitting of the container. For proper function the use of an electrical conduc- tive or antistatic suction hose is recommended.

1. When inserting the optional disposal bag make

sure the antistatic connection is kept.

3.6 Cooling air filter

To protect the electronics and motor, the machine is equipped with a cooling air diffusor. Clean the cool- ing air diffusor regularly. For areas with a high concentration of fine dust in the surrounding air it is recommended to equip the machine with an optional cooling air filter cartridge to prevent dust from settling inside the air channels and motor. Contact your local sales representative. CAUTION If cooling air filter is clogged by dust the over- load protection switch in the motor can be activated.*) Optional accessories / Option depending on model Original instruction

1. In such case switch off the machine, clean cool-

ing air filter and allow machine to cool for ap- prox. 5 minutes.

CAUTION The machine is equipped with a water level limit system which shuts off the machine when the maximum liquid level is reached.

1. When this occurs, switch off the machine.

2. Disconnect the machine from the socket and

empty the container.

3. Never pick up liquids without the water level limit

system and filter in place.

4. Do not pick up flammable liquids.

5. Before liquids are picked up, always remove the

filter bag/wastebag and check that the water level limit works properly.

6. If foam appears, stop work immediately and

7. Clean the water level limiting device regularly

and check for signs of damage. Before emptying the container, unplug the machine. Disconnect the hose from the inlet by pulling out the hose. Release the latches by pulling them outwards so that the motor top is released. Lift up the motor top from container. Always empty and clean the con- tainer and water level limit system after picking-up liquids. Empty by tilting the container backwards or side- ways and pour the liquids into a floor drain or similar. Put back the motor top to the container. Secure the motor top with the latches. Heavy maneuvers can, by mistake, trigger the water level limiting device. Should this happen; turn off the machine and wait for 3 seconds to reset the device. Continue to operate the machine afterwards.

CAUTION Picking up environmentally hazardous materi- als. Materials picked up can present a hazard to the en- vironment.

1. Dispose of the dirt in accordance with legal

regulations. Remove the electrical plug from the socket before emptying after dry pick-up. Release the latches by pulling them outwards so that the motor top is re- leased. Lift up the motor top from container. Filter: Check the filters. To clean the filter you can shake, brush or wash it. Wait until the filter is dry before re-starting dust pick-up. Dust bag: check bag to ensure the fill factor. Re- place dust bag if necessary. Remove the old bag. The new bag is fitted by passing the cardboard piece with the rubber membrane through the vacuum inlet. Make sure that the rubber membrane is passing past the heightening at the vacuum inlet. After emptying: close motor top to the container and secure the motor top with the latches. Never pick up dry material without filter fitted in the ma- chine. The suction efficiency of the machine depends on the size and quality of the filter and dust bag. Therefore – use only Original filter and dust bags. 4 After using the machine

Remove the plug from the socket when machine is not in use. Wind up the cord starting from the ma- chine. The power cord can be wound up around the motor top or at the container or placed in the includ- ed hook, or fastening means. Some variants have special storage places for accessories.

2. Do not tilt the machine if there are liquids in the

3. Do not use a crane hook to lift the machine.

4. Do not lift the machine by the trolley handle

the handle of the L-Boxx

CAUTION Store the appliance in a dry place, protected from rain and frost. The machine shall be stored indoors only.

4.4 Accessory and tool storage

For convenient transport and storage of accessories or tools, integrated rails are found on side of machine which allows fastening with straps or other means. A flexible strap and hooks are included on back of ma- chine for attachment of suction hose or mains cable. For instruction see quick reference guide. An optional adapter plate

with attachment system can be installed on top of machine for fastening of 2-point or 4-point storage cases.*) Optional accessories / Option depending on model Original instruction

FLEX VCE 33 L MC / VCE 33 L AC / VCE 44 L AC / S 44 L AC Remove the electrical plug from the socket before installing the adapter plate. CAUTION

Do not lift machine in adapter plate without having storage case safely installed. Note the weight and balance of the appliance in case of stor- age. Maximum weight of storage cases is 30 kg.

4.5 Recycling the machine

2. Cut the power cord.

3. Do not discard of electrical appliances with

household waste. As specified in European Directive 2012/19/EU on old electrical and electronic appliances, used electrical goods must be collected sepa- rately and recycled ecologically. 5 Maintenance

5.1 Regular servicing and inspection

Regular servicing and inspection of your machine must be carried out by suitably qualified personnel in accordance with relevant legislation and regulations. In particular, electrical tests for earth continuity, in- sulation resistance, and condition of the flexible cord should be checked frequently. In the event of any defect, the machine MUST be withdrawn from service, completely checked and repaired by an authorized service technician. At least once a year, a Flex technician or an instruct- ed person must perform a technical inspection in- cluding filters, air tightness and control mechanisms.

Remove the plug from the socket before performing maintenance. Before using the machine make sure that the frequency and voltage shown on the rating plate correspond with the mains voltage. The machine is designed for continuous heavy work. Depending on the number of running hours – the dust filter should be renewed. Keep the machine clean with a dry cloth, and a small amount of spray polish. During maintenance and cleaning, handle the ma- chine in such a manner that there is no danger for maintenance staff or other persons. In the maintenance area:

• Use filtered compulsory ventilation

• Wear protective clothing

• Clean the maintenance area so that no harmful substances get into the surroundings During maintenance and repair work all contami- nated parts that could not be cleaned satisfactorily must be:

• Packed in well sealed bags

• Disposed of in a manner that complies with valid regulations for such waste removal. For details of after sales service contact your dealer or Flex service representative responsible for your country. See reverse of this document. 6 Further information

6.1 EU Declaration of conformity

We hereby declare that the machine described below complies with the relevant basic safety and health requirements of the EU Directives, both in its basic design and construction as well as in the version put into circulation by us. This declaration shall cease to be valid if the machine is modified without our prior approval. Product: Wet and dry vacuum cleaner Type: VCE 33 L MC / VCE 33 L AC /

Sound pressure level L

Klaus Peter WeinperEckhard RühleManager Research &Development (R & D)Head of QualityDepartment (QD)