3
REPAIRING MERCURY LEAKS
If a mercury leak exists at the top or bottom of the plastic tube, the
silicone rubber washers, which provide a seat for the ends of the
plastic tube, should be replaced. Remove the cartridge tube. Then
use a small screwdriver to remove the old silicone rubber washers,
and replace with correct size new washer. Replace the graduated
plastic tube.
If a mercury leak exists at the bottom of the reservoir, see the follow-
ing section “
How to Clean or Replace Mercury
,” which includes steps
for replacement of the reservoir gasket.
After a mercury leak has been repaired, check the level of the mercury
meniscus (the top rim of the mercury column in the plastic tube). If it is
below the “0” calibration, add enough mercury to bring it up to the
correct level. This is done by unscrewing the knurled chrome cap at
the top of the plastic tube and pouring a small amount of mercury
into the tube with the help of a small paper cone or funnel. The in-
strument is then tipped in the direction of the reservoir and returned
to a vertical position before the new mercury level is observed. Re-
peat the process as necessary to bring the mercury up to the “0” cali-
bration mark.
HOW TO CLEAN OR REPLACE MERCURY
When removing the mercury from an instrument we strongly suggest
you wear disposable rubber gloves and goggles. Be sure to remove
all jewelry. Also, an inexpensive plastic storage box makes an excel-
lent portable work station. Unscrew the knurled cap at the top of the
graduated plastic tube. Then carefully pour all the mercury into a paper
cup or glass container and tap reservoir in order to get all the mer-
cury out of the reservoir.
Note:
The diaphragm filter is designed to dampen oscillations of the
mercury during inflation and deflation while preventing escape of the
mercury. If clogged due to accidental over inflation, it may require re-
placement.
3. The graduated plastic tube should be clean. If it is streaked with
mercury which has oxidized, the tube and mercury should be
cleaned as described in this booklet.
4. The inflation system, consisting of the ADCUFF
™
, inflation
bladder, bulb, and ADFLOW
™
valve can be tested for air leaks.
