CMC Rescue, Inc.
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A Z VORTEX User’s Manual
3
Selecting Feet for the AZ VORTEX
The AZ VORTEX comes with two sets of feet for best performance on different types of
surfaces. The performance of each foot design should be considered when setting up the AZ
VORTEX.
Raptor Foot
. Dubbed the “Raptor” because of its shape, the carbide tip on the
Raptor Foot penetrates the surface, helping to anchor the foot in place. The design
of the leg allows the Raptor Foot to rotate to best direct the claw’s force downward,
or to gain purchase on various rock features such as small holes or cracks.
Flat Foot
. This design works well on flat surfaces such as floors, roadways, or
roofs. The wide surface area of the foot helps prevent penetration.
Smooth Surface
/
Flat Foot
Recommended
An example of a smooth surface would be a concrete or asphalt roadway, metal tank cover, or
roof. For most set ups, the legs may be secured by tying them together.
Soft Soil, Undisturbed
/
Raptor Foot
Recommended
The Raptor Feet of the AZ VORTEX are designed to penetrate into this type of substrate with
minimal outward force on the A-frame legs. Use the heel of your boot on each Raptor Foot to
firmly press the foot into the soil. All legs must still be independently hobbled to each other or to
independent anchors.
Soft Soil, Disturbed
/
Raptor Foot
Recommended
A disturbed soil condition requires additional soil pickets (not supplied) for anchoring the AZ
VORTEX. The Raptor Foot on each leg should be placed up against the driven picket so that
force on the AZ VORTEX forces the Claw down, not out. Secure the AZ VORTEX by lashing
each individual foot to the pickets.
Industrial Grating
/
Depends on the grating type
Select the desired feet depending on the type of grating. Only secure the feet to the grating
IF
the grating is stable and secure.
Roofing
/
Flat Foot
Recommended
In conditions where the roof surface cannot be marred or punctured by the Raptor’s point, use
the Flat Foot. The Flat Foot protects the roofing, but may allow a skidding action with the AZ
VORTEX legs. Anchor the legs together, or to the roof structure or parapet.
Rock, Not Fractured
/
Raptor Foot
Recommended
In rock that is not fractured, use short chains looped through the Raptor Foot chain slots.
Secure each side of the chain using
≥
3/8-inch diameter expansion (Rawl) or epoxy bolts.
Rock, Fractured
/
Raptor Foot
Recommended
Without placing bolts, use standard rock protection hardware to anchor the feet of the AZ
VORTEX. After placing the hardware, lash the feet tightly to these anchors.
