FLEX 33 M AC Vacuum Cleaner Instruction Manual

FLEX 33 M AC Vacuum Cleaner

VCE 33 M AC

VCE 44 M AC / VCE 44 M AC Air / VCE 44 H AC

Operating elements

1. Hose hook
2. Handle
3. Accessory positions
4. Suction power control
5. Switch
6. Inlet cap
7. Castor
8. Container
9. Inlet fitting
10. Latch
11. Appliance socket
12. LED indicator*)
13. Hose diameter setting

The pictorial quick reference guide
The pictorial quick reference guide is designed for helping you when starting up, operating and storing the unit. The guide are subdivided into 4 sections, which are represented by symbols:

Safety instructions

This document contains the safety information relevant for the appliance along with a quick reference guide. Before starting up your machine for the first time, this instruction manual must be read through carefully. Save the instructions for later use.

Further support
Further information on the appliance can be found on our website at www.flex- tools.com. For further queries, please contact the Flex service representative responsible for your country. See reverse of this document.

Symbols used to mark instructions

DANGER

• Danger that leads directly to serious or irreversible injuries, or even death.

WARNING

• Danger that can lead to serious injuries or even death.

CAUTION

• Danger that can lead to minor injuries and damage.

Instructions for use

The appliance must:

• only be used by persons, who have been instructed in its correct usage and explicitly commissioned with the task of operating it
• only be operated under supervision

This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge. Children shall be supervised to make sure that they do not play with the appliance.

Do not use any unsafe work techniques. Never use the appliance without a filter. Switch off the appliance and disconnect the mains plug in the following situations:

• Before cleaning and servicing
• Before replacing components
• Before changing over the appliance
• If foam develops or liquid emerges

Besides the operating instructions and the binding accident prevention regulations valid in the country of use, observe recognized regulations for safety and proper use. Before starting work, the operating staff must be informed on and trained within:

• use of the machine
• risks associated with the material to be picked up
• safe disposal of the picked-up material

Purpose and intended use

• This mobile dust extractor is designed, developed, and rigorously tested to function efficiently and safely when properly maintained and used by the following instructions.
• This machine is suitable for industrial use, such as e.g. plants, construction sites, and workshops.
• This machine is also intended for commercial use, for example in hotels, schools, hospitals, factories, shops, offices, and rental businesses.
• Accidents due to misuse can only be prevented by those using the machine.

READ AND FOLLOW ALL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS.

• The appliance is suitable for picking up dry, non-flammable dust and liquids.
• Any other use is considered as improper use. The manufacturer accepts no liability for any damage resulting from such use. The risk for such use is borne solely by the user. Proper use also includes proper operation, servicing, and repairs as specified by the manufacturer.
• The air flow in Safety Vacuum systems has to be strictly controlled to achieve a minimum flow rate of Vmin = 20 m/s in the suction hose.
• For Dust Class H machines (with type designation H AC) following applies:
• The appliance is suitable for picking up dry, non-flammable dust, nonflammable liquids, hazardous specks of dust with OEL values, carcinogenic specks of dust, and specks of dust containing germs.
• Dust Class H machines are also approved for asbestos abatement according to TRGS 519.

Dust Class H (IEC 60335-2-69). The dusts that belong to this class are: dusts with OEL values (Occupational Exposure Limit), all carcinogenic dusts, and dusts that are mixed with pathogenic agents. Vacuums for Dust Class H are tested in their entirety and have a maximum degree of permeability of 0.005 %. The disposal must be dust-free. The safety label on the machine warns: This appliance contains dust hazardous to health. Emptying and maintenance operations, including removal of the dust collecting means, must only be carried out by authorised personnel wearing suitable personal protection. Operate only after the full filtration system has been fitted and checked. For dust extractors, ensure adequate air change rate, when the exhaust air is returned to the room. Observe national regulations before use. For Dust Class M machines (with type designation M AC) following applies: The appliance is suitable for picking up dry, non-flammable dust, nonflammable liquids, sawdust, and hazardous dusts with OEL values > 0.1 mg/m³.

Dust Class M (IEC 60335-2-69). The dusts that belong to this class are: dusts with OEL values 0.1 mg/m³ as well as sawdust. The machine is tested in its entirety by vacuums for this dust class. The maximum degree of permeability is 0.1 % and the disposal must be low dust. For dust extractors, ensure adequate air change rate, when the exhaust air is returned to the room. Observe national regulations before use.

Electrical connection
It is recommended that the machine should be connected via a residual current circuit breaker. Arrange the electrical parts (sockets, plugs and couplings) and lay down the extension lead so that the protection class is maintained. Connectors and couplings of power supply cords and extension leads must be watertight.

Extension lead
As an extension lead, only use the version specified by the manufacturer or one of a higher quality. When using an extension lead, check the minimum cross-sections of the cable:

Guarantee
Our general conditions of business are applicable about the guarantee. Unauthorised modifications to the appliance, the use of incorrect brushes in addition to using the appliance in a way other than for the intended purpose exempt the manufacturer from any liability for the resulting damage.

Important warnings

WARNING
To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury, please read and follow all safety instructions and caution markings before use. This machine is designed to be safe when used for cleaning functions as specified. Should damage occur to electrical or mechanical parts, the machine and / or accessory should be repaired by a competent service center or the manufacturer before use to avoid further damage to the machine or physical injury to the user. Do not leave the machine when it is plugged in. Unplug from the socket when not in use and before maintenance. Outdoor use of the appliance shall be limited to occasional use. Do not use a damaged cord or plug. To unplug grasp the plug, not the cord. Do not handle plug or machine with wet hands. Turn off all controls before unplugging. Do not pull or carry by cord, use the cord as a handle, close a door on the cord, or pull cord around sharp edges or corners. Do not run the machine over the cord. Keep the cord away from heated surfaces. Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers and all parts of the body away from openings and moving parts. Do not put any objects into openings or use with the opening blocked. Keep openings free of dust, lint, hair, and anything else that could reduce the flow of air do not use in outside areas at low temperatures. Do not use to pick up flammable or combustible liquids such as gasoline, or use in areas where they may be present. Do not pick up anything that is burning or smoking, such as cigarettes, matches or hot ashes. Use extra care when cleaning on stairs. Do not use it unless filters are fitted. If the machine is not working properly or has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors, or dropped into water, return it to a service center or dealer. If foam or liquid escapes from the machine, switch off immediately. The machine may not be used as a water pump. The machine is intended for vacuuming air and water mixtures. Connect the machine to a properly earthed mains supply. The socket outlet and the extension cable must have an operative protective conductor. Provide for good ventilation at the working place. Do not use the machine as a ladder or step ladder. The machine can tip over and become damaged. The danger of injury. Only use the socket outlet on the machine for purposes specified in the instructions.

Risks

Electrical components

DANGER
The upper section of the machine contains live components. Contact with live components leads to serious or even fatal injuries.

1. Never spray water on to the upper section of the machine.

DANGER
Electric shock due to faulty mains connecting lead.

Touching a faulty mains connecting lead can result in serious or even fatal injuries.

1. Do not damage the mains power lead (e.g. by driving over it, pulling or crushing it).
2. Regularly check whether the power cord is damaged or shows signs of aging.
3. If the electric cable is damaged, it must be replaced by an authorized Flex distributor or similar qualified person to avoid a hazard.
4. In no circumstances should the power supply cord be wrapped around fingers or any part of the operator’s person.

Hazardous dust

WARNING
Hazardous materials. Vacuuming up hazardous materials can lead to serious or even fatal injuries.

1. The following materials must not be picked up by the machine:
   • hot materials (burning cigarettes, hot ash, etc.)
   • flammable, explosive, aggressive liquids (e.g. petrol, solvents, acids, alkalis, etc.)
   • flammable, explosive dust (e.g. magnesium or aluminum dust, etc.)

WARNING
Using the appliance for asbestos abatement work according to German regulation TRGS 519. To pick up materials containing asbestos: Dust Class H machines (with type designation H AC) can be used for picking up asbestos.

1. Use a suction hose with a maximum diameter of 36 mm.
2. Use the closable plastic sack to ensure dust-free transport of the appliance and contaminated parts (hose, hand pipe, nozzles, etc.).

Once the asbestos appliance has been used in an exclusion area as defined in TRGS 519, it should no longer be used in so-called “white” areas. Exceptions are only permitted if the asbestos cleaner has previously been completely decontaminated by a specialist as specified in TRGS 519 No. 2.7 (e.g. not only the outer case but also, for example, the cooling air rooms, the installation rooms for electrical supplies, the supplies themselves, etc.). A written report must be made by a specialist and signed by him. When picking up materials containing asbestos the exhaust air must not be returned into the room.

1. Use the exhaust air socket and a hose with a length of a maximum 4 m and a nominal diameter of a minimum 50 mm.

Spare parts and accessories

CAUTION
Spare parts and accessories. The use of non-genuine spare parts, brushes, and accessories can impair the safety and or function of the appliance.

1. Only use original spare parts and accessories from Flex. Spare parts that can affect the health and safety of the operator and or function of the appliance, are specified below:

In an explosive or inflammable atmosphere

CAUTION
This machine is not suitable for use in explosive or inflammable atmospheres or where such atmospheres are likely to be produced by the presence of volatile liquid or inflammable gas or vapor.

Control / Operation

CAUTION
Damage due to unsuitable mains voltage. The appliance can be damaged as a result of being connected to an unsuitable mains voltage.

1. Ensure that the voltage shown on the rating plate corresponds to the voltage of the local mains power supply.

Starting and operating the machine

1. Check that the electrical switch is switched off (in position 0).
2. Check that suitable filters are installed in the machine.
3. Connect the suction hose to the suction inlet at the machine by pushing the hose forward until it fits firmly in place at the inlet.
4. Connect the tubes with the hose handle, and twist the tubes to ensure that they are properly fitted.
5. Attach a suitable nozzle to the tube. Choose a nozzle depending on what type of material is to be picked up. If used for dust extraction in connection with dust producing tool then connect end of the suction hose with the appropriate adapter.
6. Check that the hose diameter setting corresponds to the actual hose diameter.
7. Connect the plug to a proper electrical outlet.
8. Put the electrical switch into position I to start the motor.

The hose diameter and the setting for suction hose diameter must be the same.

Auto-On/Off socket outlet for power tools

CAUTION
Appliance socket. The appliance socket is designed for electrical auxiliary equipment; see technical data for reference.

1. Prior to plugging in an appliance, always switch off the machine and the appliance that is to be connected.
2. Read the operating instructions to the appliance to be connected and observe the safety notes contained in these.

An appliance socket with earthing contact is integrated in the machine. An external power tool can be connected there. The socket features permanent power on, when the electrical switch is in position , i.e. the machine can be used as an extension cord.

In position the machine can be switched on and off by the power tool connected. Dirt is picked up from the source of dust immediately. To comply with regulations, only approved dust-producing tools should be connected.The maximum power consumption of the connected
electrical appliance is stated in section “Specifications”.Before turning the switch to position ensure that the tool connected to the appliance socket is switched off.

AutoClean
The “AC” machine is equipped with an automatic filter cleaning system, AutoClean. A frequent cleaning cycle will automatically run during operation to ensure that suction performance is always at its best. If suction performance decreases or in extensive dust applications a manually filter cleaning operation is recommended:

1. Switch off the machine.
2. Close the nozzles or suction hose opening with the palm of your hand.
3. Turn the switch to position „I“ and let the machine operate at full speed for approx. 10 seconds with the suction hose opening closed.

If suction power is still reduced take out the filter and clean mechanically or replace the filter. For certain applications, like wet pick-up, it is recommended to turn off the automatic filter cleaning system. For details see Chapter 3.1.

Flow rate warning

CAUTION

Check that all the filters are present and properly fitted. The machine is equipped with a system to monitor air velocity and Dust Class H filter condition*). Before picking up dust with occupational exposure limit val-ues, check the volume flow monitor.

1. When the motor is running, hold the suction hose shut to reduce the volume flow. The LED indicator on the front panel will light after approx. 1 second. The acoustic warning sounds after some additional seconds.
2. Set the diameter setting to the actual hose size. When LED indicator lights, air velocity is below 20 m/s.check if container or filter bag is full.
3. check if air flow is reduced in suction hose, tube/ nozzle, filter.
4. The filter needs to be installed or replaced to obtain needed air flow.

Antistatic connection

CAUTION
The machine is equipped with an antistatic system to discharge any static electricity that may develop during dust pick-up. The antistatic system is placed in front part of the motor top and creates an earth-ground connection to the inlet fitting of the container. For proper function, the use of an electrical conductive or antistatic suction hose is recommended.

1. When inserting the optional disposal bag make sure the antistatic connection is kept.

Cooling air filter
To protect the electronics and motor, the machine is equipped with a cooling air diffusor. Clean the cooling air diffuser regularly. For areas with a high concentration of fine dust in the surrounding air it is recommended to equip the machine with an optional cooling air filter cartridge to prevent dust from settling inside the air channels and motor. Contact your local sales representative.

CAUTION
If cooling air filter is clogged by dust the overload protection switch in the motor can be activated.

1. In such case switch off the machine, clean the cooling air filter and allow the machine to cool for approx. 5 minutes.

Wet pick-up

CAUTION

The machine is equipped with a water level limit system which shuts off the machine when the maximum liquid level is reached.

1. When this occurs, switch off the machine.
2. Disconnect the machine from the socket and empty the container.
3. Never pick up liquids without the water level limit system and filter in place.
4. Do not pick up flammable liquids.
5. Before liquids are picked up, always remove the filter bag/waste bag and check that the water level limit works properly.
6. If foam appears, stop work immediately and empty the tank.
7. Clean the water level limiting device regularly and check for signs of damage.

Before emptying the container, unplug the machine. Disconnect the hose from the inlet by pulling out the hose. Release the latches by pulling them outwards so that the motor top is released. Lift up the motor top from container. Always empty and clean the con-tainer and water level limit system after picking up liquids. Empty by tilting the container backward or sideways and pour the liquids into a floor drain or similar. Put back the motor top to the container. Secure the motor top with the latches. Heavy maneuvers can, by mistake, trigger the water level limiting device. Should this happen; turn off the machine and wait for 3 seconds to reset the device. Continue to operate the machine afterward.

Dry pick-up

CAUTION

• Picking up environmentally hazardous materials. Materials picked up can present a hazard to the environment.

1. Dispose of the dirt by legal regulations.

CAUTION
Dust Class H machines are equipped with an upstream Dust Class H filter fitted on the bottom side of the motor top under a guard cover.

1. Check that filter guard cover and sealing are safely installed and without damage and that the filter is properly fitted. A LED indicator will light if the filter needs to be replaced, or if the filter is missing, mounted incorrectly or damaged.

Remove the electrical plug from the socket before emptying after dry pick-up. Remove the suction hose from the machine and close the inlet cap, to avoid harmful dust spreading. Release the latches by pull-ing them outwards so that the motor top is released. Lift up the motor top from the container.

• Main Filter: Check the filter. To clean the filter you can either brush or wash it. Wait until the filter is dry before re-starting dust pick-up.
• Essential Filter Dust Class H : Check the filter. Replace the filter if necessary. Wear a mask and protective clothing.
• Dustbag: Check the bag to ensure the fill factor. Replace the dust bag if necessary. Remove the old bag. The new bag is fitted by passing the cardboard piece with the rubber membrane through the vacuum inlet. Make sure that the rubber membrane is passing past the heightening at the vacuum inlet.
• Safety filter bag : Check the bag to ensure the fill factor. Replace the dust bag if necessary. Wear a mask and protective clothing when removing the old bag. Carefully remove the dust bag connection from the inlet fitting. Close the dust bag connection with the slide. Dispose of the dirt under legal regulations.
• After emptying: close the motor top to the container and secure the motor top with the latches. Never pick up dry material without a filter fitted in the machine. The suction efficiency of the machine depends on the size and quality of the filter and dust bag. Therefore – use only the Original filter and dust bags.

After using the machine

After use
After picking up hazardous dust, close the inlet cap and clean the outside of the machine. Remove the plug from the socket when a machine is not in use. Wind up the cord starting from the machine. The power cord can be wound up around the motor top or at the container or placed in the included hook, or fastening means. Some variants have special storage places for accessories.

Transport

1. Before transporting the machine, close all the latches.
2. Close the inlet with the inlet cap.
3. Do not tilt the machine if there are liquids in the dirt tank.
4. Do not use a crane hook to lift the machine.
5. Do not lift the machine by the trolley handle or the handle of the L-Boxx*).

Storage

CAUTION
Store the appliance in a dry place, protected from rain and frost. The machine shall be stored indoors only.

Accessory and tool storage
For convenient transport and storage of accessories or tools, integrated rails are found on side of the machine which allows fastening with straps or other means. A flexible strap and hooks are included on the back of the machine for the attachment of a suction hose or mains cable. For instructions see quick reference guide.An optional adapter plate*) with an attachment system can be installed on top of the machine for fastening of 2-point or 4-point storage cases. Remove the electrical plug from the socket before installing the adapter plate.

CAUTION
Do not lift machine in the adapter plate without having the storage case safely installed. Note the weight and balance of the appliance in case of storage. The maximum weight of storage cases is 30 kg.

Recycling the machine
Make the old machine unusable.

1. Unplug the machine.
2. Cut the power cord.
3. Do not discard of electrical appliances with household waste.

As specified in European Directive 2012/19/EU on old electrical and electronic appliances, used electrical goods must be collected separately and recycled ecologically.

Maintenance

Regular servicing and inspection
Regular servicing and inspection of your machine must be carried out by suitably qualified personnel per relevant legislation and regulations. In particular, electrical tests for earth continuity, insulation resistance, and condition of the flexible cord should be checked frequently.
In the event of any defect, the machine MUST be withdrawn from service, completely checked and repaired by an authorized service technician. At least once a year, a Flex technician or an instruct-ed person must perform a technical inspection including filters, air tightness, and control mechanisms. Appliances in Dust Class H must have their filtration efficiency checked once a year. If the efficiency of the filter does not fulfill the requirements for Dust Class, the filter must be replaced.

Maintenance
Remove the plug from the socket before performing maintenance. Before using the machine make sure that the frequency and voltage shown on the rating plate correspond with the mains voltage. The machine is designed for continuous heavy work. Depending on the number of running hours – the dust filter should be renewed. Keep the machine clean with a dry cloth, and a small amount of spray polish. During maintenance and cleaning, handle the ma-chine in such a manner that there is no danger for maintenance staff or other persons.

In the maintenance area

• Use filtered compulsory ventilation
• Wear protective clothing
• Clean the maintenance area so that no harmful substances get into the surroundings.

CAUTION

In the case of asbestos abatement wear additional single-use clothing. Wear a P2 breathing mask.

Before removing the machine from the area contaminated with harmful substances:

1. Clean the outside of the machine, wipe it clean or pack the machine in well-sealed packaging and avoid spreading deposited harmful dust.
2. After use, in asbestos-contaminated areas, the machine must be cleaned by an authorized person according to TGRS 519.

During maintenance and repair work all contaminated parts that could not be cleaned satisfactorily must be:

• Packed in well-sealed bags
• Disposed of in a manner that complies with valid regulations for such waste removal.

For details of after-sales service contact your dealer or Flex service representative responsible for your country. See the reverse of this document.

Further information

EU Declaration of Conformity
We hereby declare that the machine described below complies with the relevant basic safety and health requirements of the EU Directives, both in its basic design and construction as well as in the version put into circulation by us. This declaration shall cease to be valid if the machine is modified without our prior approval.

• Product: Wet and dry vacuum cleaner
• Type: VCE 33 M AC / VCE 44 M AC / VCE 44 M AC Air / VCE 44 H AC

Relevant EU Directives
2006/42/EC, 2014/30/EU, 2011/65/EC

Applied harmonized standards

• EN 60335-1:2012+A11:2014
• EN 60335-2-69:2012
• EN 55014-1:2006+A1:2009+A2:2011
• EN 55014-2:1997+A1:2001+A2:2008
• EN 61000-3-2:2014
• EN 61000-3-3:2013
• EN 50581:2012

Authorised Documentation Representative:
FLEX Elektrowerkzeuge GmbH, R & D Bahnhofstraße 15, D-71711 Steinheim/Murr

01.07.2016 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 theproduct(s) described under „Technical specifications“ fulfills all the relevant provisions 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 Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulations S.I. 2012/3032 and are manufactured in accordance with the following designated Standards:

• BS EN 60335-1+A13:2012,
• BS EN 60335-2-69:2013,
• BS EN 62233:2008,
• BS EN 55014-1:2017,
• BS EN 55014-2:2015,
• BS EN 61000-3-2:2014,
• BS EN 61000-3-3:2013

Place of declaration: Steinheim, Germany. Responsible person: Peter Lameli, Technical Director – FLEX-Elektrowerkzeuge GmbH Contact details for Great Britain: FLEX Power Tools Limited, Unit 8 Anglo Office Park, Lincoln Road, HP 12, 3RH Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom.

Specifications

FLEX-Elektrowerkzeuge GmbH Bahnhofstr. 15 71711 Steinheim/Murr

• Tel. +49 (0) 7144 828-0
• Fax +49 (0) 7144 25899
• info@flex-tools.com
• www.flex-tools.com

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