Valley Rainger Linear, Руководство пользователя

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92 Rainger Linear
MAINTENANCE
Winterization
In regions where the temperature during the winter months will drop below 40°F (4°C) and/or the growing season is
6 months or less, the irrigation machine must be winterized.
•
Flush and drain the irrigation machine and all plumbing components as specified in the flushing procedure
section. After flushing for winterization, ensure the water has been allowed to drain completely from all
drains and plumbing components before replacing drains and plugs to prevent freezing and splitting of the
pipeline.
• All underground pipe MUST be drained below the frost line. When drainage is complete, re-install all plugs
to prevent rodent infestation.
• Perform all post-season maintenance as specified in the recommended maintenance section.
• Winterize auxiliary equipment such as pumps, power units, mainline pipes and hoses according to the
auxiliary equipment manufacturers recommendations.
Parking the Machine
The metal in the irrigation machine will expand and contract with variances in temperature. When the machine is be-
ing operated, this poses no threat. However, if the machine is parked in the wheel tracks which were created during
the year, shrinking due to the contraction of the metal could cause structural damage.
The possibility of structural damage due to metal contraction increases as the machine length increases. Machines
which are 1500 ft (457 m) or longer are susceptible to these stresses, especially where extreme temperature vari-
ances occur (90°F (32°C) down to -0°F (-17°C)) and when wheel tracks are present.
To reduce the possibility of structural damage due to expansion and contraction of the metal, the operator should
consider one of the following methods when parking the machine in the off season:
1. Park the machine in an area where the wheel tracks have been eliminated.
2. Place wooden 2 in x 12 in planks over the wheel tracks. Park the machine with the tires on the center of the
planks.
3. Towable Drive Units – Place every third drive unit’s wheels in the tow position.
4. Remove all wheel tracks and run the machine dry (without water) for approximately 100 yards (92 m) to 200
yards (183 m) monthly. Only run the pivot if the temperature is above 40°F (4°C).
5. If an irrigation machine has more than 8 spans of 10 in (254 mm) pipe, the spans must be disconnected.
Each span should be supported off the end of the previous span with chains to allow for contraction during
cold weather.
Contact your Valley dealer for other winter storage/parking information and tips.
Off Season Storage of Hose
Never leave the hose laying in the field during the winter. The hose can be easily covered by snow, mud, or dust and
can quickly become damaged by farm equipment. Driving over the top of the hose can cause damage. Since some
hoses contain PVC or rubber, extended exposure to sunlight can lead to cracking or checking problems.
After the final irrigation pass of the season, purge the hose of any remaining water.
Store the hose in a protected area where it will be sheltered from the weather and safe from livestock and rodents.
Store the hose away from gas or diesel fuels, contaminates, transformers, and welding areas that can produce
ozone.
Off Season Storage of Electric Cord
Never leave the electric cord laying in the field during the winter. The electric cord can be easily covered by snow,
mud, or dust and can quickly become damaged by farm equipment. Driving over the electric cord can cause dam-
age.
After the final irrigation pass of the season, shut off power and disconnect electric cord plug from power receptacle.
Install cap on plug and carefully coil and hang electric cord on machine.