VLP 18.0 - Uncategorized Flex - Free user manual and instructions

USER MANUAL VLP 18.0 Flex

These operating instructions

The “General safety instructions” for handling power tools in the enclosed booklet (leaflet no.: 315915)

The currently valid site rules and regulations for the prevention of accidents This power tool is state of the art and has been assembled in accordance with the acknowledged safety regulations. In spite of this, the power tool may pose a danger to life and limb of the user or a third party when in use, or the power tool or other items could become damaged. The power tool may be operated only

for its intended use,

in perfect working order. Faults which compromise safety must be repaired immediately. Intended use The rechargeable vacuum lifter VLP 18 is designed for: – commercial use in trade and industry – lifting, moving and positioning items such as tiles, slabs, drywall panels, glass and furniture with a maximum weight of 130 kg – use with dry, rough and lightly porous material The rechargeable vacuum lifter VLP 18 is not designed for: – as a loose load handling attachment for cranes, hoists or other hand-guided manipulators, – climbing or securing the human body in any way – climbing or carrying the weight of a person – lifting, moving or positioning items made of very porous, soft/flexible or crumbly material, e.g. simple cardboard boxes, polystyrene, dry-cast paving slabs, pressed sand or poor quality concrete. WARNING! Use of the tool for climbing or any other non- intended application can result in injuries or fatality.VLP 18

Safety instructions WARNING! Read all safety notices and instructions. Failure to comply with the safety notices and instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injuries . Keep all safety notices and instructions in a safe place for future reference. Safety instructions for vacuum lifter

Do not deliberately try to rip the load off with extreme force. There is a risk of the load crushing feet and hands and damaging the object and tool.

Do not lift objects weighing more than 130 kg (287 lbs). There is a risk the weight can fall off.

Risk of load crushing feet and hands and damaging the object and tool. Do not shake the tool while lifting, moving and placing objects. Do not swing or shake the load while lifting, moving and placing objects. Do not use the tool when the seal is worn out. Lift and carry the load with uniform speed without sudden sharp and strong movements.

Do not use the tool while the battery is low. There is a risk of injury and damage to the materials being lifted.

If the sealing force begins to noticeably decrease while the battery is fully charged, check the rubber foam seal for wear and tear or damage. Do not attempt to lift anything with the tool until you have replaced the seal.

Use caution when lifting large thin flexible sheets, like drywall, cardboard, plastic, plywood, thin sheet metal etc. Thin sheets bend and flex and can unexpectedly change curvature above their limit and detach.

Do not attach the tool to surfaces with visible puddles ofwater. Internal components are not waterproof. If water is sucked into the air ducts it can cause permanent damage to the tool. The tool is not waterproof and therefore extreme caution should be taken when using it in the rain or wet conditions.

Never let the tool fall to the floor. If it falls down inadvertently, inspect the device and the sealing lips for damage.

Do not place heavy objects on topof the tool.

Do not place the digital display indirect sunlight or near strong heat sources for prolonged periods. Extreme heat may damage the display and it may become unreadable. A damaged display does not necessarily impact the functionality of the tool.

To avoid overheating, do not cover the tool.

Ensure the switch is in the off-position before transporting the tool and when in storage. Be mindful that the tool is not switched on accidently. Use only original batteries with the voltage indicated on the type plate of your power tool. The use of other batteries, e.g. imitations, reconditioned batteries or other makes, increases the risk of injury and material damage by exploding batteries. WARNING! If the safety precautions are not heeded, the load could fall without warning. The power tool generates a strong vacuum. Failure of this kind can occur very suddenly and without any tangible indication or prewarning if the seal is damaged or the maximum permissible weight is exceeded or another factor occurs resulting in spontaneous loss of the vacuum. There will be no indication of the load detaching itself and there will be no means of stopping or catching it. This represents a high risk, particularly with heavy loads. All possible safety precautions should therefore be taken in full. NOTE Due to the high negative pressure generated by the power tool, it is strongly recommended not to attach the power tool to glass less than 6 mm thick. Glass thinner than 6 mm can break.VLP 18

Use and safety of foam seals The foam seal consists of two parts: the black foam and the red silicone seal. The Black rubber foam is mostly used to create initial vacuum. After it compresses, the red seal holds the longest and strongest seal. As long as the initial seal is created to get suction, the "strong" seal will also be created. The rubber foam seal uses patented technology and is one of the main components of the tool. It should be handled with caution as it directly impacts the overall performance and safety.

The seal can withstand an estimated 900 compression cycles, depending on force and duration of compression, without any damage.

Avoid rubbing the seal over rough surfaces. Seal material is very prone to parallel wear (moving parallel to rough surface in ironing motion). Lift perpendicularly on very rough surfaces. Rubbing the seal over a smooth surface such as granite in the presence of thick abrasives (thick sand) will damage the seal and may cause unexpected detachment.

Surfaces with very sharp edges should not be lifted in parallel hold. Edges sharper than 45 degrees may damage the seal and lead to sudden vacuum loss and sudden detachment. The motor should always be on.

Always store the seal covered with a hard cover. The seal can be easily damaged by sharp corners and edges when in storage. The seal should not be stored with any sharp tools or in contact with any hard objects (e.g. inside a toolbox).

Do not dip the seal in water. The rubber foam seal is slightly water absorbent. Unless it is fully dipped in water and soaking wet, slightly soaking the seal with water will not damage its performance. If it is soaked in water, it can be squeezed by hand like a sponge to dry without damage. It is advisable to use a dry seal to avoid water getting sucked into air ducts and inside the body. CAUTION! Do not dip or use the seal in the presence of any oil-based products. Oil and oil products (machine oil + lubricants) will permanently damage the seal and cannot be removed. If the seal has absorbed any oil, it should be disposed of safely, the base should be cleaned, and the seal replaced. CAUTION! Do not use or store the seal in the presence of chemical solvents. Kerosene, acetone, turpentine, benzene, acids, etc. and even their fumes in closed spaces or thin layers on surfaces can melt the seal and damage its structure and cause failure. Safety instructions for handling batteries Do not open the battery. Danger of short circuit. Protect the battery against heat, including prolonged sunlight, fire, water and moisture. Danger of explosion.

A damaged or incorrectly used battery may result in the emission of fumes. Ensure a supply of fresh air and consult a doctor if you feel unwell. The fumes may irritate the respiratory tracts. Liquid may leak out of the battery if the battery is used incorrectly. Avoid contact with such liquid. In the event of accidental contact, rinse with water. If liquid gets into the eyes, seek medical attention as well. Liquid ejected from the battery may cause irritation or burns. Use FLEX rechargeable batteries only in connection with FLEX tools and FLEX accessories. Only in this way is the rechargeable battery protected against dangerous overloads.

Recharge batteries using only chargers recommended by the manufacturer.

charger that is suitable for one type of battery may create a fire hazard if used with another battery.

The battery could be damaged by pointed objects such as nails or screwdrivers or by force exerted on it externally. This may give rise to an internal short circuit, causing the battery to burn, smoke, explode or overheat.VLP 18

Additional safety notices Use only adhesive signs to label the power tool. Do not drill any holes into the housing. The mains voltage must match the voltage specification on the factory plate. Noise and vibration NOTE Values for the A

rated noise level as well as the total values pertaining to vibration can be gleaned from the "Technical data" table. The noise and vibration values have been determined in accordance with EN 62841. WARNING! The specified measured values apply to new power tools. Daily use causes the noise and vibration values to change. NOTE The vibration emission level stated in these instructions has been measured in accordance with a standardised test given in EN 62841 and may be used to compare one tool with another. It can also be used for a preliminary assessment of exposure. The declared vibration emission level represents the main applications of the tool. However, if the tool is used for different applications, with different accessories or poor maintenance, the vibration emission level may differ. This may significantly increase the exposure level over the total working period. However if the tool is used for different applications, with different accessories or is poorly maintained, the vibration emission may differ. This may significantly decrease the exposure level over the total working period. Identify additional safety measures to protect the operator from the effects of vibration such as: Maintain the power tool and accessories, keep hands warm, organise work patterns

CAUTION! Wear ear defenders at a sound pressure level above 85 dB(A).VLP 18

Technical data Device VLP 18 Type Rechargeable vacuum lifter Nominal voltage V 18 Tool dimensions (LxWxH) mm 305x190x147 permissible load capacity kg max. 130 Max. vacuum bar 0,85 Battery AP 18,0/2.5 AP 18,0/5.0 AP 18,0/8.0 Weight according to "EPTA procedure 1/2003" (without battery) kg 1.38 Weight of battery - 2.5 Ah - 5.0 Ah - 8.0 Ah

Charger CA 12/18, CA 18.0-LD, CA 10.8/18.0 Working temperature °C -10 - 40 Storage temperature °C -10 - 50 Charging temperature °C 4~40 A-rated noise level in accordance with EN 62841 (see "Noise and vibration"): Sound pressure level L

dB(A) 70 Uncertainty K dB 3.0 Total vibration value in accordance with EN 62841 (see "Noise and vibration"): Emission value a

Overview 1 Foam seal 2 Air filter mat 3 Spacer 4 Air filter sealing ring 5 Base plate 6 Securing tabs 7 Handle 8 Pump start button (black) 9 Vacuum release button (red) 10 Button For switching the power tool on and off. 11 Battery charge level indicator (device) 12 Selector button for unit of measure 13 Display with selected unit of measure 14 Operating status indicator 15 Li-ion battery (2.5 Ah/5.0 Ah/8.0 Ah) 16 Battery release button 17 Battery status indicator (battery)VLP 18

Instructions for use WARNING! Before working on the tool, remove the battery. Before initial operation Unpack the device and accessories and check that no parts are missing or were damaged during transport. NOTE The batteries are not fully charged on delivery. Prior to initial operation, fully charge the batteries. Refer to the charger operating manual. Inserting/changing the battery Push the charged battery into the device until it engages fully. To remove, press the release button (1.) and pull out the battery (2.). CAUTION! When the device is not in use, protect the battery contacts. Loose metal parts may short-circuit the contacts; explosion and fire hazard! Battery charge level Press the button to check the charge level via the battery charge indicator LEDs. The indicator goes out after 5 seconds. If one of the LEDs flashes, the battery must be recharged. If none of the LEDs light up after the button is pressed, the battery is faulty and must be replaced. Switching on and off Press button (10) to switch on. Press button (10) again to switch off.VLP 18

Working with the vacuum lifter Switch on the device. The operating status indicator on the device lights up red and the digital display shows the available charge and the current pressure. NOTE As soon as the last bar of the battery charge indicator on the device flashes red, charge the battery of the device. CAUTION! If the device is used with a low battery charge, injuries can ensue and damage to the material being lifted can be caused. It is recommended to completely charge the battery before using the device. Attaching the device to the object If required, press the selector button for the unit of measure to change from bar to psi for pressure and from kg to lbs for weight. Place the device firmly on the surface of the object to be lifted. Press the black pump start button. The operating status indicator flashes red. The pump starts and within a few seconds the tool adheres to the load. Once the vacuum reaches the maximum value, the operating status indicator turns green and the motor stops automatically. Lift and move the object. NOTE If objects with dusty, dirty or damp surfaces need to be lifted, first remove as much of the dust and dirt as possible. The tool switches the pump on and off automatically

maintain the necessary pressure for safe lifting. NOTE For maximum safety, switch the display to weight units (kg/lbs) and compare the displayed values with the load to be lifted, see the "Maximum holding force" table. Do not lift loads that are heavier than the displayed value. Ending lifting After lifting and safely placing the object down: Press the black pump start button to stop the vacuum pump (1.). Then press the red vacuum release button to sever the bond and detach the tool from the object (2.).VLP 18

Securing the carrying strap To transport objects with the tool easier and more safely, a carrying strap can be attached. The carrying strap is available as an accessory. Secure the carrying strap with the hook to two of the retaining tabs as required. Operating instructions Lifting capacity NOTE A safety factor of 2 is taken into account in the officially permissible load capacity of 130 kg. The device must not be used to lift loads heavier than 130 kg, regardless of the maximum holding force of 170 kg shown on the display. Maximum holding forces (estimated), tested on various materials: NOTE If the vacuum drops below -0.65 bar (-65 kPa), the tool starts the pump automatically (if the pump is switched on) and achieves the pressure necessary for use in this way. For very uneven objects, a flexible seal is available as an accessory. Lifting techniques NOTE Think about what you want to lift and how you are going to lift it. Observe the weight of the object when doing this. Consider whether the object can be lifted alone. Ensure that the working area is flat, dry and free of obstacles. Check the route. Ensure that the path is clear. Remove trip hazards and obstacles. Check for wet or smooth surfaces. Use ergonomic equipment. Use lifting aids such as fork-lift truck, sack truck, equipment trolley, pallet truck or lifting platform. Make sure that you are suitably trained before using the equipment. Request assistance if necessary. Bulky or heavy loads should be lifted by two persons. Lift evenly and keep the load straight. Vertical holding force (kg) Parallel holding force (kg) Glass 170 120 Ceramic tile 170 120 Metal 110 Plastic 100 Wood 100 65 Subconcrete 80 Dry-cast pav- ing slabs

Lifting diagonally NOTE Use this essential lifting technique for small items by positioning yourself over the load and lifting with legs apart. Get as close to the item as possible. Stand with legs apart, one foot in front of the item and one foot to the side of the item to maintain a good balance. Keep your back straight and press your buttocks out. Bend with your legs and hips down to the item. Bring the item as close to yourself as possible. Place your hand (on the same side as the foot that you placed in front of the item) on the side of the item that is furthest away from you. Secure the load with your free hand while the load is lifted and the tool is held with one hand. Before lifting, tense your core muscles, look ahead, keep your back stiff and straight. NOTE You should not hold your breath when lifting. Do not bend and turn at the waist. Always grip with the whole hand. Do not impair your vision while carrying. Do not yank the load or lift it quickly. Do not trap your fingers or toes. Lift the load slowly, following with head and shoulders. Keep the load close to your body. Stretch your legs with back straight and exhale when lifting. Turn your feet to prevent twisting. Teaching-in mode / recalibration mode In the event of problems with the digital display, please carry out the following steps to reset the digital display. Place the tool on a non-porous surface, e.g. a polished tile. Switch on the device. Press the selector button for the unit of measurement (12) and hold for 10 seconds. As soon as the pump starts, release the selector button for the unit of measurement (12). The calibration routine takes 10-15 seconds. When the pump switches off, the calibration routine is complete. Switch the tool off and on again. The tool is now calibrated and the values on the digital display should be correct. NOTE The tool will show incorrect values on the digital display if it is not calibrated on a non- porous surface such as a tile or piece of glass. If this is the case, the calibration routine must be repeated on a non-porous material. Do NOT perform this routine on glass that is thinner than 6 mm as the glass can break. Maintenance and care WARNING! Before working on the tool, remove the battery. Cleaning WARNING! Do not use water or liquid detergents. Clean the tool and foam seal at regular intervals. The frequency of cleaning is dependent on the material and duration of use. Check the foam seal for damage at regular intervals. Clean the air filter at regular intervals using compressed air.VLP 18

NOTE As soon as the filter is significantly worn or damaged, it must be renewed (customer appraisal). This depends on the type of use:

Lifting of clean material - longer service life of filter

Lifting of dirty/dusty material - shorter service life of filter NOTE Any changes to the tool, including technical modifications, are not permitted. They can cause injuries. Failure to comply will invalidate any claims under the manufacturer's warranty. Repairs Repairs may only be carried out by an authorised customer service centre. Exchanging wear parts Replacing foam seal NOTE As soon as the foam seal is worn or damaged, it must be renewed. Pull out foam seal. Carefully fit new foam seal. Ensure that the new foam seal is seated correctly and securely. Replacing air filter NOTE A reduction in suction performance is a sign that the air filter needs to be cleaned and/or renewed. When replacing the filter, keep the air line clear of obstacles or foreign bodies. Turn the tool onto its head. With the pointed end of a screwdriver, remove the air filter sealing ring and take out the air filter mat. Two procedures are now possible: – Clean air filter with compressed air – Insert new air filter mat. Insert the air filter sealing ring again to secure the air filter. Spare parts and accessories Exploded drawings and spare-part lists can be found on our homepage: www.flex-tools.com Disposal information WARNING! End-of-life power tools must be rendered inoperable before disposal.

For battery-operated power tools, remove the battery. EU countries only Do not dispose of electric power tools in the household waste! In accordance with European directive 2012/19/EC on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment and its incorporation into national law, end-of-life power tools must be collected separately and recycled in an environmentally-friendly manner.VLP 18

Recycling raw materials instead of waste disposal. The device, accessories and packaging should be recycled in an environmentally- friendly manner. Plastic parts are identified for recycling according to material type. WARNING! Do not throw batteries into the household waste, fire or water. Do not open end-of-life batteries. EU countries only: In accordance with directive 2006/66/EC, defective or used batteries must be recycled. NOTE Please ask your dealer about disposal options. Declaration of Conformity We hereby declare that the product described under Technical data complies with the following standards or normative documents: EN 62841 according to the provisions of directives 2014/30/EU, 2006/42/EC, 2011/65/EU. Responsible for technical documents: FLEX-Elektrowerkzeuge GmbH, R & D Bahnhofstrasse 15, D-71711 Steinheim/Murr

FLEX-Elektrowerkzeuge GmbH Bahnhofstrasse 15, D-71711 Steinheim/Murr Declaration of Conformity We as the manufacturer: FLEX Elektrowerkzeuge GmbH, Business address: Bahnhofstr. 15, 71711 Steinheim, Germany declare under our sole responsibility, that the product(s) described under „Technical specifications“ fulfills all the relevant provi- sions of The Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations S.I. 2008/1597 and also fulfills all the relevant provisions of the following UK Regulations: Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulations S.I. 2016/1091, The Restriction of the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electri- cal and Electronic Equipment Regulations S.I. 2012/3032 and are manufactured in accordance with the following designated Standards: BS EN 62841-1+A11:2015, BS EN 55014-1:2021, BS EN 55014-2:2021 Place of declaration: Steinheim, Germany. Responsible person: Peter Lameli, Technical Director – FLEX-Elektrowerk- zeuge GmbH Contact details for Great Britain: FLEX Power Tools Limited, Unit 8 Anglo Office Park, Lincoln Road, HP 12, 3RH Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom.

Exemption from liability The manufacturer and its agent are not liable for any damage and lost profit due to interruption in business caused by the product or by an unusable product. The manufacturer and its agent are not liable for any damage which was caused by improper use of the power tool or by use of the power tool with products from other manufacturers. Klaus Peter Weinper Head of QualityDepartment (QD) Peter Lameli Technical Head Klaus Peter Weinper Head of QualityDepartment (QD) Peter Lameli Technical HeadVLP 18