TransTank INTERNATIONAL FireCombat Portable Fire Fighter Instruction Manual

TransTank INTERNATIONAL FireCombat Portable Fire Fighter Instruction

Manual

“HELPING TO DEVELOP AND PROTECT THE LAND”

Disclaimer
All information, illustrations, and specifications contained in this manual are based on the latest product information available at the time of this publication’s printing. TransTank International (TTi) reserves the right to alter and substitute specifications and methods at any time, in line with our commitment to continuous improvement.

No patent liability is assumed with respect to the use of information contained within this manual. While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this manual, TTi assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions.

Thank you for purchasing a FireCombat™ Portable Fire Fighting Unit (FireCombat), which will provide many years of reliable service when operated and maintained in accordance with this manual.

TTi manufactures the FireCombat unit as a 400 litre tank fitted with a petrol driven pump. This manual describes the operation, driving stability and maintenance procedures applicable to the unit.

All TTi FireCombat tanks are rotationally moulded from quality polyethylene, purpose designed and manufactured to high standards. The FireCombat is a compact portable unit for the back of a utility or trailer and designed for firefighting, tree watering and washdown activities.

The FireCombat unit is supplied complete, tested and ready to go. TTi recommends that only water be used in the FireCombat unit. TTi warrants that the FireCombat has been designed and built for its intended purpose for dispensing water for activities such as firefighting, tree watering and washdown.

The owner is responsible to ensure that the equipment is operated in accordance with this manual, with Australian WorkSafe requirements, applicable road rules and local council regulations. TTi is not liable for any loss, injury or death resulting from the failure to observe all safe working regulations as required by law.

Included with your FireCombat unit is the following documents:

• Operator’s Handbook (this manual, which includes the Warranty Registration Card)
• Integral Honda Petrol engine and Davey pump manufacturer’s handbooks
• Tank Quality Check Form. This is your verification that the unit has been quality checked, and verifies the serial number affixed to the unit.

Safety

This manual is intended for use by personnel experienced in the use of this and similar equipment. Read and understand this manual before attempting to operate or perform routine maintenance on this equipment. Your safety is of prime priority.

WARNING highlights an essential operating or maintenance procedure, practice, condition or statement, which, if not strictly observed, could result in injury or death of personnel, or long-term health hazards.
CAUTION highlights an essential operating or maintenance procedure, practice, condition or statement, which, if not observed, could result in damage or destruction of equipment.
****NOTE highlights or clarifies an essential systems description, operating or maintenance procedure, condition or statement.

General Safety Instructions

1. This unit is designed and manufactured solely for the purpose of carrying and pumping water for firefighting, tree watering and washdown duties. Under no circumstances should it be used for any other purpose. It must never be used for transporting fuel or chemicals.
2. Only authorised and trained personnel are to operate this equipment. Operators must have read and fully understood this manual before operating the FireCombat unit.
3. Do not operate this equipment while under the influence of alcohol or any drugs that could impair your capabilities in any way.
4. Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) must be worn when refuelling or operating the pump on the FireCombat. Exposure to excessive noise over an extended period can cause impairment or loss of hearing.
5. Avoid unleaded petrol contact with skin and eyes, and avoid breathing vapours or mists. Refer to the relevant Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
6. Any spillage of fuel while refilling the pump engine’s tank should be immediately cleaned up and the materials used in the clean-up disposed of safely and in accordance with relevant regulations applying to the safe use, storage and disposal of fuel.
7. Ensure the capacity of the vehicle is suitable for the loaded mass of the FireCombat. Refer to the vehicle’s operator manual for safe working loads and relevant safety instructions. Do not exceed the carrying and braking capacity as specified by the vehicle manufacturer. As a guide, one litre of water weighs one kilogram (kg), therefore a full 400 litre FireCombat unit will weigh in excess of 490kg.
8. The unit must be securely restrained on the vehicle. Ensure all fasteners are tightened and secure before operation.
9. The FireCombat must never be left unattended while being filled with water.
10. Do not operate the pump when there is no water in the tank.
11. Do not disconnect any hoses, nozzles or filters while the equipment is operating. Disconnecting any components while under pressure may result in uncontrolled water discharge which may be hazardous.
12. Care should be taken at all times, particularly when operating on rough or steep terrain. Drivers should be aware of fluid surge affecting the centre of gravity.
13. The FireCombat has safety labels affixed to various locations on the unit. These labels should be kept clean and legible, and replaced if damaged.
14. Any unauthorised modifications to this equipment may affect its function and create a serious safety risk. Any unauthorised modifications will void any warranty on the unit.

General Information

Specifications

Description

The TTi FireCombat is designed to carry and distribute water using a self- contained pump and firefighting hose system. The FireCombat has the following features, refer to Figure 1.

Tank

All TTi tanks are constructed from UV stabilised, impact resistant, virgin material polyethylene and are fully drainable. Due to the rotational moulding process, there may be a small variance in the overall dimensions of the tank, therefore, calibration markings should be used as a guide only. The top- mounted filler cap has a large opening with integrated breather vent.

Pressure Regulator

A pressure regulator is fitted to the pump discharge flange to control line pressure and prevent pump cavitation. The factory-set regulator feeds excess water back to the tank and is set to relieve at 50 – 60 psi.

Pump Unit

The FireCombat is fitted with a single impeller Davey firefighting pump as standard. The pump is coupled to a Honda GX160 recoil (pull) start engine, capable of delivering 500L/min. The pump unit is fitted to a stainless steel mounting plate on the top of the tank. The mounting plate incorporates a bracket to secure the fire hose, or provides the base for the optional hose reel.

Quick Fill Hose Kit

Each FireCombat is supplied with a 6m quick fill hose. The hose is fitted with a filter at one end and a camlock coupling on the opposite end, for direct connection to the pump.

Fire Hose

An 18m 19mm fire hose is provided as standard, complete with a nozzle that adjusts from closed through to jet and mist sprays, depending on the requirement.

Hose Reel

Optionally available is a 36m 19mm diameter fire hose mounted on a manually operated heavy duty hose reel. The hose is fitted with an adjustable nozzle which locates in a securing bracket on the hose reel support when the hose is stowed. The nozzle adjusts from closed through to jet and mist sprays, depending on the requirement.

Ball Control Valves

The FireCombat has a ball control valve fitted on the discharge line from the tank, prior to entering the pump. This valve isolates the tank from the pump, and enables drawing of water via the quick fill suction kit. A ball control valve is fitted to the outlet manifold, for the return line to the tank. This valve is closed for normal operations, and only opened when filling the tank via the quick fill suction kit using the integral pump.

Machine Limitations

The FireCombat unit is subject to operating limitations. It is the operators’ responsibility to ensure that this equipment is being operated safely and within these limitations.

Driving Stability

The FireCombat unit is heavy when filled with water. To maintain stability while operating this unit:

• Ensure the vehicle’s tyres are inflated to their correct pressure at all times. Underinflated tyres can cause excessive lateral motion of the tyre, which may cause a rollover.
• Allow extra room for braking and turning when the tank is full.
• Ensure any side gradient (slope) is accounted for, especially when the FireCombat tank is full, as the unit will have a higher centre of gravity.

Operating Instructions

Before first use

Your FireCombat Portable Fire Fighting Unit is delivered fully assembled. Before use, it needs to be set up using the following instructions:

• Complete the warranty registration online at www.tti.com.au/warranty-registration, or use the Warranty Registration Card at the back of this handbook.

• Store this handbook, along with the Tank Quality Check Form and pump unit’s manual in the provided pouch, in a safe and easily accessible place for future reference.
  NOTE! The operator must fully understand all aspects of this handbook. Do not operate the FireCombat if you are unfamiliar with its operation until you have read this handbook.

• Read and thoroughly understand this handbook, paying particular attention to all safety requirements, before using the FireCombat for the first time.

• Check that all fittings, valves, hoses and electrical leads are secure following transit, and are not damaged in any way.

• Inspect the tank for any damage or abrasions.
  CAUTION! The unit must be securely mounted to the vehicle. Failure to do so may result in the unit moving or falling off the moving vehicle. Warranty is conditional on the unit being correctly mounted.

• Position your FireCombat onto the vehicle and mount securely to the tray. If using tie-down straps, they must be rated to at least the total mass of the unit when filled with water. There are two tie-down recesses across the FireCombat tank. Alternatively, the tank incorporates four horizontal mounting holes on its base, to enable a bolt and bracket system to secure the unit to the vehicle.
  CAUTION! The engine must be inspected and prepared in accordance with the manufacturer. Failure to fulfil this requirement may void the engine’s warranty.

• Prepare the pump engine in accordance with the Honda manual supplied with your FireCombat unit. Fill the fuel tank with fresh unleaded petrol.

Filling the Tank

The FireCombat tank can be filled in either of the following two ways:
****WARNING! The FireCombat unit is designed for water use only. It must not be used for chemicals or fuel.

• Standpipe filling method using a standpipe or hose to fill directly into the top of the tank via the large filling lid.
• Quick fill suction method, using the pump to draw water from a dam or other source.

Standpipe Filling Operation

The FireCombat tank is filled by gravity from an overhead standpipe or supply hose as follows:

•  Remove the filling lid from the tank’s top opening.
•  Position the FireCombat unit’s top-mounted fill point under the standpipe, or insert a supply hose.
• At the water supply’s valve, move it to the OPEN position, to allow water to flow into the tank.
  ****NOTE! To prevent overflow, do not leave the filling operation unattended.

Quick Fill Suction Operation

The tank can be filled by drawing water using the FireCombat’s pump as follows, referring to Figure 2:

****CAUTION! Ensure the ball valves have been correctly set prior to commencing the filling operation, and that all camlock fittings are securely engaged and fully locked.

1.  Ensure the ball valve on the suction line from the tank to the pump is in the CLOSED position.

2. Position the FireCombat unit adjacent to a water supply, such as a dam or tank.

3.  Remove the camlock cap from the suction port of the pump.

4.  Attach the supplied quick fill suction hose’s camlock end to the pump’s suction port.

5.  Place the filter end of the bottom fill hose into the water source. Ensure the filter is deep enough in the water to prevent it sucking air.

6.  On the pump’s discharge manifold, turn the ball valve to the OPEN position. This will allow water to feed directly into the top of the FireCombat’s tank.

7.  If required, prime the pump by unscrewing the cap at the top of the pump and filling it with water. Once full, replace the cap and tighten firmly.

8.  Referring to the Pump Operation Procedure, start the pump.

9.  Ensure the pump is drawing water and discharging it into the FireCombat’s tank.
   ****CAUTION! To prevent overflow, do not leave the filling operation unattended.

10. Observe the water level directly in the tank. When the tank is filled, stop the pump.

11. At the discharge manifold, move the ball valve to the CLOSED position.

12.  Disconnect the quick fill suction hose from the pump’s suction port.

13.  Reinstall the camlock cap to the pumps’ suction port.

14.  At the suction line, move the ball valve to the OPEN position.

15.  Drain and clean the quick fill suction hose, then stow it in a convenient location for future use.

Pump Operation Procedure

The FireCombat’s petrol pump engine is started as follows, refer to Figure 3:

• Turn the fuel lever to ON.

• If the engine is cold, turn the choke lever to ON.
  ****CAUTION! Ensure the engine’s throttle is set to idle if the engine is cold. Do not adjust the throttle to maximum speed until the engine has warmed up.

• Set the throttle lever to idle for cold starting. If restarting a warm engine, the throttle can be left at normal engine operating speed.

• Turn the power switch to ON. Pull the recoil starter handle until the engine starts, then back off the choke lever to OFF.
  ****CAUTION! The FireCombat unit will not pump as the ball valve on the suction line to the pump is closed. This procedure describes the starting of the pump’s engine only.

• Once the engine is warmed up, adjust the throttle to increase the engine speed to normal operating revs.

• When the engine needs to be stopped, turn the power switch to the OFF position.

If the FireCombat is not going to be used within the next few hours, shut the system down by turning the fuel tap to OF

FireCombat Operation

The FireCombat Portable Fire Fighting Unit is operated as follows:

1.  Fill the tank from an appropriate water source, refer to the Filling the Tank procedure above.

2. At the suction line from the tank, check that the ball valve is in the OPEN position.

3. At the pump’s discharge manifold, check that the ball valve is in the CLOSED position

4. If required, prime the pump by unscrewing the cap at the top of the pump and filling it with water. Once full, replace the cap and tighten firmly.

5.  Start the pump’s engine (referring to the Pump Operation Procedure above) and allow to warm up. The regulator (bypass valve) fitted to the top of the pump will divert the water back into the tank.
   ****CAUTION! To prevent damage, do not operate the pump for more than five minutes with the hose nozzle closed.

6.  Unwind the fire hose from its bracket on the end of the FireCombat. If fitted with the optional hose reel, unlock the reel and release the nozzle from its retaining bracket. Pull out the required length of hose. Ensure the fire hose’s nozzle in closed.

7.  Adjust the pump engine’s speed to achieve the optimum flow rate.

8. Open the fire hose’s nozzle by rotating it to achieve the desired spray pattern.

9. Upon completion of the task, close the fire hose nozzle and turn the pump engine to OFF, referring to the Pump Operation Procedure above.

10.  Open the fire hose nozzle again to release the residual pressure.

11.  Rewind the hose onto its mounting bracket, or on to the optionally fitted reel by manually winding the handle on the side of the reel. Close the nozzle and lock the nozzle back into its bracket.

Risk Assessment

Maintenance

Your FireCombat Portable Fire Fighting Unit requires minimal maintenance but regular cleaning and checks will ensure safe and reliable service over its lifetime. Periodic checks and inspections will identify any potential issues, enabling timely rectification and minimising downtime.

Periodic Checks

CAUTION! In dusty, dirty or smoky environments, cleaning, inspection and servicing of the unit on a regular basis is essential. The cleaning, inspection and servicing must be undertaken more frequently in harsh conditions to avoid damage or destruction of equipment.

The following checks and cleaning operations should be undertaken on a regular basis. The frequency of
these activities will depend on the nature of the operating environment and the operational hours of the
FireCombat unit. Refer to the maintenance schedule tables below for details of maintenance intervals.

1. Clean the unit and inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. Replace any safety labels if they are damaged or illegible.
2. Check all hoses, fasteners and fittings are firmly secured, tighten if necessary.
3. Unwind the hose from it’s bracket or from the optional hose reel fully to check that hose is in good order. Pressurise the line and check operation of spray nozzle. Rewind the hose onto its bracket or the reel, ensuring it retracts all the way.
4. Check the engine’s oil level weekly. Top up as required.
5. Check for any signs of fuel or oil leaks. If detected, investigate and rectify immediately.
6. If the FireCombat is to be stored for an extended period, ensure the tank and all pipelines are empty and are not pressurised. Store the unit is a clean, dry and well-ventilated area.

Maintenance Schedule

The following tasks are be conducted in accordance with each of the schedules. All scheduled tasks are to be undertaken concurrently. For example, at the three month maintenance interval, all task listed are to be undertaken, in addition to the daily, weekly and monthly tasks.

****NOTE! Maintenance is important. Keep a record of all maintenance tasks conducted on the FireCombat unit.

TTi recommends photocopying these schedules in order to keep a detailed log of all maintenance tasks. A copy of these schedules will be required to support any warranty claim.

Daily Tasks
The following tasks are to be undertaken daily, or prior to each use, of the FireCombat unit.

Weekly Tasks
The following tasks are to be undertaken each week or 10 operating hours, whichever occurs first.

Monthly Tasks
The following tasks are to be undertaken each month or 20 operating hours, whichever occurs first.

Three Monthly Tasks
The following tasks are to be undertaken every three months or 50 operating hours, whichever occurs first.

Six Monthly Tasks
The following tasks are to be undertaken every six months or 100 operating hours, whichever occurs first.

Twelve Monthly tasks
The following tasks are to be undertaken every twelve months or 200 operating hours, whichever occurs first.

Two-Yearly tasks
The following tasks are to be undertaken every 24 months or 500 operating hours, whichever occurs first.

Trouble Shooting

If a fault develops with the FireCombat, the following trouble shooting table provides guidance to identify and rectify the problem.

Warranty

Warranty Policy
TTI will, at its option, repair or replace without charge any part covered by this warranty which is found to be defective in material and/or workmanship within one (1) year after date of sale to the original retail purchaser. If the product is used for rental purposes, this warranty is limited to ninety (90) days.

Upon request, the customer will make the defective part available for inspection and/or return the defective part to TTi, transportation charges prepaid. All parts and components are covered by this warranty except the following, which are warranted separately by their respective manufacturers:

• engines
• gearboxes
• pumps
• regulators

TTi does not assume any warranty obligation, liability or modification for these items, which are covered exclusively by the stated warranty of the respective manufacturers.

What this Warranty Does Not Cover?
This warranty does not cover:
1. defects caused by depreciation or damage caused by incorrect mounting, normal wear, accidents, improper maintenance, improper use or abuse of the product, alterations or failure to follow the instructions and warnings provided.
2. Any charges for making service calls, clean up time and transport charges.
3. The use of non-genuine parts on equipment supplied by TTi. This will automatically negate any warranty.

How to Obtain Service Under this Warranty?
Warranty service can be arranged by contacting your dealer, or by contacting TTi directly on 1800 816 277.
Proof of warranty registration and date of purchase may be required to verify warranty coverage. Any defective parts returned to TTI must be accompanied by a Return Goods Note. This form can be obtained by contacting Product Support on 1800 816 277 or emailing ProductSupport@tti.com.au.

Warranty Limitations
Warranty limitations are as follows:
1. There is no other express warranty. Any warranty that may be implied from this purchase including merchantability and fitness for purpose is hereby limited to the duration of this warranty and to the extent permitted by law. Any and all implied warranties are excluded.
2. TTI will not be liable for any incidental, consequential or special damages and/or expenses in connection with the purchase or use of this equipment, to the extent permitted by law.
3. Only the warranty expressed in this limited warranty shall apply and no dealer, distributor or individual is authorised to amend, modify, or extend this warranty in any way. Accordingly, additional statements, whether oral or written, do not constitute warranties by TTi, and should not be relied upon.

1800 816 277
sales@tti.com.au
PO Box 137, Nathalia, VIC, 3638
Murray Valley Hwy, Nathalia, VIC 3638

www.tti.com.au

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References

• Trans Tank® International (TTi) » Helping to Develop & Protect the Land
• Warranty - Trans Tank® International (TTi)

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