FLEX FLX481491 VC 6 L MC 18.0 Compact Vacuum Cleaner 18V Bare Unit Instruction Manual

FLEX FLX481491 VC 6 L MC 18.0 Compact Vacuum Cleaner 18V Bare Unit

Symbols used in this manual

WARNING!
Denotes impending danger. Non-observance of this warning may result in death or extremely severe injuries.
CAUTION!
Denotes a possibly dangerous situation. Non-observance of this warning may result in slight injury or damage to property.
NOTE
Denotes application tips and important information.

Symbols on the device

The device is suitable for the following applications:

• A device of dust category L is suitable for the collection of dry, non-flammable dust, wood chips and hazardous dust with an exposure level of > 1 mg/m³. The device must be fitted with a suitable filter that equates to the hazard cate-gory of the dusts to be collected.
• Only remove hazardous substances according to IEC/EN 60335-2-69 (category L) using a suitable vacuum cleaner. Using the device to collect other hazardous sub-stances is not permissible.

For your safety

• Read instructions!

WARNING!
Before using the polisher, please read and follow:

• these operating instructions,

• the “General safety instructions” on the handling of power tools in the enclosed booklet (leaflet-no.: 315.915),

• the currently valid site rules and the regulations for the prevention of accidents.
  This polisher is state-of-the-art and has been constructed in accordance with the acknowledged safety regulations. Nevertheless, when in use, the power tool may be a danger to life and limb of the user or a third party, or the power tool or other property may be damaged. The polisher may be used only

• as intended,

• in perfect working order.
  Faults which impair safety must be repaired immediately.

Intended use
A series of extensive tests was carried out to ensure that this vacuum cleaner works efficiently and safely provided it is cor-rectly maintained and used in accordance with the instructions.
The product described here is a vacuum cleaner for commer-cial use, e.g. in hotels, schools, factories, businesses, offices and also in the construction industry and for the renovation of buildings. It is suitable for dry use only.
The device is suitable for the following applications:

• Collection of dry, non-flammable dust, wood chips and haz-ardous dust with exposure level > 1 mg/m³ (dust category L).

Safety instructions

WARNING!
Warning notice! Read all safety notices and general instructions. Failure to observe the safety notices and other instructions can result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.
Keep all safety information and general instructions for later reference.

• This product is not intended to be used by persons (including children) with physical, sensory or mental disabilities or by persons without the relevant experience and/or knowledge.
• The device may only be used by persons who are familiar with its operation, have been trained in safe handling of the device and understand the dangers associated with it. The device is not designed for use by children.
• Children must be supervised to ensure that the device is not used incorrectly. Do not allow unsupervised children to clean the device or perform maintenance tasks on it.
• Do not use water, oil, grease or cleaning agents.
• Do not use benzine or other flammable liquids for cleaning purposes.
• When cleaning or servicing, exchanging parts and convert-ing the device to a different function, it is necessary to disconnect at least the positive terminal (B+) or negative terminal (B-) of the rechargeable battery or adopt a similar procedure (isolator) to safely disconnect the device from the power supply. If there is no safety extra-low voltage (SELV), both terminals of the battery must be disconnected.
• Observe the procedure with which covers from compartments that are not dustproof have to be removed for cleaning.

Blower function designed

• for commercial use in industry and trade. Possible applica-tions are cleaning large surfaces of wood chips and other large particles by means of compressed air.
  Not permitted are

• Air sweeping hot, combustible or explosive materials.

• Air sweeping dust containing hazardous substances (e.g. hardwood flour or quartz in concrete dust) or classified as hazardous material.

Usage and care of rechargeable batteries
The device works with the rechargeable batteries listed in the product specifications.
Observe the special regulations and instructions for transport, storage and use of lithium-ion batteries.

• Do not expose the rechargeable batteries to high tempera-tures, direct sunlight or fire.
• Do not dismantle, diminish or burn rechargeable batteries and do not expose them to temperatures above 80°C.
• Do not use or recharge batteries that show signs of dam-age or have fallen on the ground. In this event, always con-tact your FLEX Service.
• If the rechargeable battery cannot be touched due to ex-cessive heat build-up it is likely to be faulty. In this case, place the product in a fire-safe area, far away from flamma-ble materials where it can be kept under observation and allowed to cool down. In this event, always contact your FLEX Service.

Additional safety instructions
WARNING!
Risk of explosion!
Certain materials can generate explosive vapours or mixtures through the intake of air.
The following materials must never be removed/vacuum cleaned:

• Explosive or flammable gases, liquids and dust particles (reactive dust particles)
• Reactive metallic dust particles (e.g. aluminium, magnesium, zinc) in combination with strong alkaline or acidic cleaning agents
• Hot, burning or glowing objects that have a temperature in excess of 40°C. At temperatures above 40°C there is a risk of fire.
• Not suitable for extracting harmful dust (according to dust categories M and H).
• The device must not be operated in areas with a risk of ex-plosion. Furthermore, the substances listed may result in materials of the device becoming corroded.

Work area safety

• Keep onlookers, children and visitors away from the area in which the vacuum cleaner is being used. Distractions can cause loss of control over the vacuum cleaner.
• With vacuum cleaner, ensure that there is a sufficient ex-change of air L in the room if the exhaust air is recirculated. Observe the applicable statutory safety regulations.

Electrical safety

• Avoid physical contact with earthed or earth-connected surfaces such as pipes, radiators, cooking equipment, ov-ens and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if a human body is earthed.
• Never expose the vacuum cleaner to rain or wet conditions. Water ingress in the vacuum cleaner increases the risk of electric shock.

Personal safety

• Stay alert. Watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating electrical equipment. Do not use electrical equipment when fatigued or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication. Severe injuries can ensue the moment attention is lost during the operation of electrical equipment.
• Use personal protective equipment and always wear eye protection. Depending on the type and purpose of the electrical equipment/power tool, the risk of injury is mitigated by wearing safety equipment (dust mask, non-slip safety footwear, hard hat/helmet or ear defenders).
• Do not use the vacuum cleaner in extremely dusty conditions. The liquid may leak out of the rechargeable battery if the equipment is used incorrectly. Avoid any contact with the liquid.
• Liquid discharged from the rechargeable battery can cause skin irritation or burns. If parts of the body come into con-tact with the liquid, rinse them with water straight away. In the event of the liquid coming into contact with the eyes, flush the eyes with copious amounts of water and consult a medical doctor.

General instructions for operating and handling electrical equipment/vacuum cleaners

• Keep electrical equipment out of reach of children when it is not in use. Prevent the device being used by persons who are not familiar with it or these instructions. Electrical equipment becomes hazardous in the hands of inexperi-enced persons.
• Look after the electrical equipment well. Check that all moving parts function correctly and do not seize. Ensure that the func-tion of the electrical equipment is not impaired by broken or damaged parts. Have damaged parts repaired before using the electrical equipment. Many accidents are caused by poorly maintained electrical equipment.
• Use electrical equipment, accessories, tools/attachments etc. as per these instructions. Take heed of the working conditions and the work to be performed. Use of the elec-trical equipment for operations other than those intended could result in hazardous situations.
• Use the right tool/device for the task at hand. Do not use the device for operations for which it was not designed.
• Only use it in the way intended and in a serviceable condition.
• Do not bring the vacuum cleaner into operation unless the filter is fitted.
• Do not bring the device into operation accidentally. Switch the device off before inserting the rechargeable battery and before lifting or transporting it. Never carry the device with a finger on the main switch. Always remove the rechargeable battery when the device is not being used, before maintenance work, before replacing accessories and when preparing it for transport as well as during transport.
• Do not sit or stand on the device.
• Before initial use, the operator must be provided with information, instructions and training on how to use the device and the substances with which it is to be used. This must also include a procedure for the safe removal and disposal of the extracted material.
• The manufacturer or an appointed person shall carry out a technical inspection at least once per year. The filter is in-spected for damage, for example, and the air-tightness of the device as well as correct operation of the controls are checked.
• When performing maintenance or repair work, all contaminated items that cannot be cleaned sufficiently must be dis-posed of. Use non-transparent sacks in accordance with the applicable regulations to dispose of this waste.
• This device is designed to be used only in enclosed spaces.

CAUTION!

• This device is designed for dry use only.
• This device is designed to be used only in enclosed spaces.
• This device may only be stored in enclosed spaces.

CAUTION!

• Do not use the vacuum function in the vicinity of a persons head when using the nozzle and suction hose.

CAUTION!

• Safety equipment serves to protect the user and must not be manipulated or circumvented.

Overview (Figure A)

1. ON/OFF switch
2. Battery docking station
3. Head section
4. Storage location for crevice nozzle
5. Inlet opening
6. Dust bag
7. Lock
8. Filter cleaning button
9. Blower opening
10. Storage location for nozzle pipe
11. Handle
12. Filter holder
13. Filter
14. Nozzle pipe
15. Air flow regulator
16. Hose
17. Connector
18. Upholstery nozzle
19. Brush nozzle
20. Dust bag
21. Crevice nozzle
22. Shoulder strap

Instructions for use

Before initial operation

• Carefully read the safety instructions in this manual before bringing the device into operation for the first time.
• Unpack the power tool and accessories and check that no parts are missing or damaged.

Accessories (Figure B)
The nozzles and accessories for the device are located in the dust container for transport. To open the dust container, re-lease the fasteners (1) and remove the head section (2). Re-move the parts (3) and fit the head section again. Secure the head section with the fasteners.

Using the dust bag (Figure C)
To remove the dirt/dust from the dust container without any dust escaping, a disposal bag can be used.

• Insert the bag in the dust container. Secure the box at the front of the dust container in the ribs.

Inserting the hose (Figure D)

• Insert the connector in the suction opening (3) for vacuum cleaning operation. Use the blower opening (4) for blower operation.
• Insert the hose in the connection (1) and twist to lock (2).

Air flow regulator (Figure E)
The air flow can be controlled at the end of the hose by turning the air flow regulator.
Using a suitable nozzle (Figure F)
All of the nozzles shown can be inserted in the nozzle pipe (1). The nozzle pipe (3) can be removed for vacuum cleaning by pressing the clips (1) and pulling out the nozzle (2).
Using the shoulder strap (Figure G)

• To use the shoulder strap, insert the clasps in the fasten- ers. Carry the vacuum cleaner as shown in figure H.

Handling the rechargeable battery (Figure I)
Use a suitable 18V FLEX rechargeable battery. Before insert-ing the battery, ensure that the device is switched off.

• Insert the rechargeable battery in the guide. The recharge-able battery must engage with an audible “click”.
• Make sure that the rechargeable battery is seated securely.
• To remove the rechargeable battery, press the button on the battery and pull the battery upwards.

Switching on and off (Figure J)
The main switch of the device has two positions (ON/OFF). The device is switched on and off by pressing the main switch.
Accessory container (Figure K)
All accessory parts can be stored conveniently on the device.

Troubleshooting

Vacuum does not start:

• The battery is discharged. Charge the battery and try again.

• The battery is too hot or too cold. Allow the battery to cool down or warm up slowly to room temperature.

• Thermal overload trigger. See below.
  Motor stops:

• A thermal overload protector will shut off the motor if the motor temperature is too high. If this occurs, turn the switch off. Wait 15-30 minutes for the motor to cool. Turn switch on and resume operation.

Suction power is reduced

• The tank may be full and needs to be emptied.
• The hose and nozzle may be clogged and need to be cleaned.
• Any of the above may be damaged and need to be re-placed.
• The filter may be clogged. Use the Filter Cleaning System to clean the filter.
• Replace the filter or make sure the filter is installed properly.
• The hose connection is loose and need to be tightened.

The battery does not engage with an audible double click.

• The retaining lug on the battery is dirty. Clean the retaining lug and push the battery in until it engages

Static shocks:

• If the environment is too dry, add moisture to air. If possi-ble, use a humidifier.
• In case the relative humidity of air is low, please note that this situation will not have any effect on use of the vacuum cleaner.

Maintenance and care

NOTE
This vacuum cleaner has an integrated thermal overload protection feature to protect the motor against high tempera-tures. This can occur under strenuous operating conditions. If the motor switches off during operation, switch off the device using the main switch and allow the motor to cool down for 15-30 minutes. The device can then be switched back on again.

WARNING!

• Before cleaning and performing maintenance work, switch off the device and remove the mains cable if the device is connected to a power supply.
• Switch off the device before changing to a different function.
• Maintenance work may only be carried out on this device by authorised customer service centres or specialists who are familiar with the relevant safety regulations. Observe the local safety regulations for portable, commercially used equipment.
• The manufacturer or an appointed person shall carry out a technical inspection at least once per year. The filter is inspected for damage, for example, and the air-tightness of the device as well as correct operation of the controls are checked.
• When performing maintenance or repair work, all contaminated items that cannot be cleaned sufficiently must be disposed of. Use non-transparent sacks in accordance with the applicable regulations to dispose of this waste.
• The outside of the device must be thoroughly cleaned and freed of any hazardous substances. Alternatively, a sealed coating can be applied before the device is removed from the hazardous area.
• Once they are removed from the hazardous area, all items of the device are deemed to be contaminated. Suitable measures must be implemented to prevent the dust from spreading.
• During transport or maintenance of the device, the intake opening must be sealed using the plug.
• Danger of harmful dust. Always wear disposable clothing and masks (P2 or higher) during maintenance work (e.g. filter replacement).
• On a device of category H or M, the outside of the equipment must be decontaminated using a vacuum cleaner and wiped down or covered in a sealing agent before it is removed from the hazardous area. Once removed from the hazardous area, all items of the device are deemed to be contaminated. Suitable measures must be implemented to prevent the spread of dust.

Cleaning
NOTE
Do not use cleaning agents containing silicone for cleaning.

• No external assistance is required for the execution of basic maintenance and cleaning.
•  The outside of the device and the inside of the container must be cleaned at regular intervals with a damp cloth.

Filter cleaning system (Figure L)
The device is equipped with a semi-automatic filter cleaning system. It cleans the filter and restores the suction power.

• Switch on the device (1) to use the filter cleaning system.
• Insert the nozzle pipe in the opening of the device (2) to close it for air flow and to generate the maximum vacuum in the dust container.
• Press the filter cleaning button three times to clean the filter.

Manual filter cleaning (Figure M)
If the filter is soiled, rinse it in cold water (1) and allow it to dry (2). Install the filter again once it has dried.

Changing the filter (Figure N)
After an extended period of use, the filter must be replaced by a new one. If the filter is heavily soiled or clogged, manually cleaning must be carried out as semi-automatic filter cleaning will not be sufficient to clean the filter.

• To remove the filter, loosen the screw (1) and remove the parts (2).
• Install the filter in the reverse order of removal. Make sure that the screws are not overtightened.

Repairs
Have repairs carried out by an authorised customer service centre only.
Spare parts and accessories
Other accessories can be found in the manufacturer’s catalogues. Exploded drawings and sparepart lists can be found on our homepage: www.flex-tools.com

Disposal information

WARNING!
Render redundant power tools unusable by removing the power cord.

EU countries only
Do not throw electric power tools into the household waste!

In accordance with the European Directive 2012/19/EU on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment and transposition into national law used electric power tools must be collected separately and recycled in an environmentally friendly manner.

NOTE
Please ask your dealer about disposal options!

Declaration of Conformity

We hereby declare that the product described on page 6 corre-sponds with the following standards or normative documents:

EN 60335-1, EN 60335-2-69, EN 55014-1, EN 55014-2, in accordance with the provisions of the directives 2014/30/EU, 2006/42/EG, 2011/65/EU.
Responsible for technical documents: FLEX-Elektrowerkzeuge GmbH, R & D Bahnhofstrasse 15, D-71711 Steinheim/Murr

References

• Power tools for professional craftsmen | FLEX - FLEX

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