Amerex 322 User manual

INSPECTION, MAINTENANCE AND
RECHARGE SERVICE MANUAL
P/N 05603
All fire extinguishers should be installed, inspected and maintained in
accordance with the National Fire Protection Association standard titled
"Portable Fire Extinguishers", NFPA-10 and the requirements of local
authorities having jurisdiction.
When maintenance is indicated, it should be performed by trained
persons having proper equipment. Fire extinguishers are pressure
vessels and must be treated with respect and handled with care. They
are mechanical devices and require periodic maintenance to be sure that
they are ready to operate properly and safely. Amerex strongly
recommends that the maintenance of portable fire extinguishers be done
by a trained professional –your local authorized Amerex Distributor.
Amerex Corporation makes original factory parts available to insure
proper maintenance –USE OF SUBSTITUTE PARTS RELEASES
AMEREX OF ITS WARRANTY OBLIGATIONS. Amerex parts have
machined surfaces and threads that are manufactured to exacting
tolerances. O-rings, hoses, nozzles, and all metal parts meet precise
specifications and are subjected to multiple in-house inspections and
tests for acceptability. There are substitute parts available that may be
incorrectly labeled as UL component parts, some are advertised as
Amerex type. None of these meet UL requirements and all of them voids
the Amerex extinguisher warranty and UL listing. DO NOT
SUBSTITUTE.
RECHARGE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS IMMEDIATELY AFTER ANY USE
REFERENCES IN THIS MANUAL: AVAILABLE FROM:
NFPA-10 Portable Fire Extinguishers National Fire Protection Association
1 Batterymarch Park, P.O, Box 9101
Quincy, MA 02269-9101
CGA C-1 Methods for Hydrostatic Testing of Compressed Gas Association, Inc.
Compressed Gas Cylinders 4221 Walney Road, 5th Floor
CGA C-6 Standard for Visual Inspection of Chantilly, VA 20151-2923
Compressed Gas Cylinders
AMEREX CORPORATION –P.O. BOX 81 –TRUSSVILLE, ALABAMA 35173-0081
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone]
e-mail: [email protected] Web Page: http://www.amerex-fire.com
Printed in U.S.A.
OM05603C Rev. 3/11
CARBON DIOXIDE HAND PORTABLE
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
Model 322 –5 LB Model 331 –15 LB Model 330 –10 LB Model 332 –20 LB

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FIVE YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
Amerex warrants its fire extinguishers to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a
period of five (5) years from the date of purchase. During the warranty period, any such defects
will be repaired or the defective extinguisher replaced if only factory replacement parts and
recommended service equipment have been used to service the extinguisher. This warranty does
not cover defects resulting from modification, alteration, misuse, exposure to unusually corrosive
conditions nor improper installation or maintenance. All implied warranties, including, but not
limited to, warranties of fitness for purpose and merchantability, are limited to the timer periods as
stated above. In no event shall Amerex Corp. be liable for incidental or consequential damages.
Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts or the exclusion or
limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so that the above limitations or exclusions may
not apply to you. Amerex Corp. neither assumes nor authorizes any representative or other
person to assume for it any obligation or liability other than expressly set forth herein. This
warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which may vary from
state to state. To obtain performance of the obligation of this warranty, write to Amerex
Corporation, P. O. Box 81, Trussville, AL 35173-0081 for instructions.
INSPECTING THE EXTINGUISHER
AMEREX CORPORATION DOES NOT SERVICE, MAINTAIN OR RECHARGE FIRE
EXTINGUISHERS. THIS MANUAL IS PUBLISHED AS A GUIDE TO ASSIST
QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL IN THE INSPECTION, MAINTENANCE AND
RECHARGE OF AMEREX FIRE EXTINGUISHERS ONLY. NO INSTRUCTION MANUAL
CAN ANTICIPATE ALL POSSIBLE MALFUNCTIONS THAT MAY BE ENCOUNTERED
IN THE SERVICE OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS. DUE TO THE POSSIBILITY THAT PRIOR
SERVICE PERFORMED ON THIS EQUIPMENT MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY
DONE, IT IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT THAT ALL WARNINGS, CAUTIONS AND
NOTES IN THIS MANUAL BE CAREFULLY OBSERVED. FAILURE TO HEED THESE
INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.
AMEREX ASSUMES NO LIABILITY FOR SERVICE, MAINTENANCE OR RECHARGE
OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS BY PUBLISHING THIS MANUAL.
This extinguisher should be inspected at regular intervals (monthly or more often if
circumstances dictate) to insure that it is ready for use. Inspection is a "quick check"
that a fire extinguisher is available and is in operating condition. It is intended to give
reasonable assurance that the fire extinguisher is fully charged. This is done by
verifying that it is in its designated place, that it has not been actuated or tampered
with, and that there is no obvious physical damage or condition to prevent its operation.

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OPERATION
NOTE: Persons expected to use this extinguisher should be trained in
initiating its operation and in the proper fire fighting technique.
Familiarize all personnel with this information before an emergency
occurs.
WARNING: Carbon Dioxide extinguishes fires by diluting the surrounding
atmosphere with inert gas keeping the oxygen level below the
percentage required for combustion. When it is used in an
unventilated space, such as a small room, closet or other confined
area, prolonged occupancy of that space can result in loss of
consciousness due to oxygen deficiency. Avoid skin contact –CO2
is extremely cold and could cause burns or frostbite.
1. Remove extinguisher from wall hanger or vehicle bracket and move it to within
approximately 6 feet (5 lb.) or 10 feet (10, 15 or 20 lb.) of the fire site.
2. Hold the extinguisher upright, twist and pull ring (safety) pin.
3. Stand back 6 feet (5 lb.) or 10 feet (10, 15, or 20 lb.) from the fire and aim the horn at base
of flames nearest you. Hold horn at base hand grip only –grasping the horn or swivel
discharge tube could cause cold burn.
4. Keeping the extinguisher upright, sweep side to side across the base of the fire and past
both edges. Progressively follow up until the fire is extinguished. Work the fire away from
you while being alert for flashbacks. Move closer as the fire is extinguished but not so close
as to scatter or splash the burning materials.
5. When the fire is out, release the valve lever to stop discharge. Stand by and watch for
possible re-ignition.
6. Evacuate and ventilate the area immediately after extinguishing the fire. The fumes and
smoke from any fire may be hazardous and can be deadly.
DISCHARGE TIME (APPROXIMATELY)
5 lb –9 seconds
10 lb –10 seconds
15 lb –12 ½ seconds
20 lb –19 seconds
DISCHARGE RANGE (APPROXIMATELY)
5, 10, 15, 20 lb –3 to 8 feet
RECHARGE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS IMMEDIATELY AFTER ANY USE

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INSPECTING THE EXTINGUISHER
This extinguisher should be inspected at regular intervals (monthly or more often if
circumstances dictate) to insure that it is ready for use. Inspection is a "quick check"
that a fire extinguisher is available and is in operating condition. It is intended to give
reasonable assurance that the fire extinguisher is fully charged. This is done by
verifying that it is in its designated place, that it has not been actuated or tampered
with, and that there is no obvious physical damage or condition to prevent its operation.
PERIODIC INSPECTION PROCEDURES
(Monthly or more often if circumstances dictate)
[NFPA-10] Periodic inspection of fire extinguishers shall include a check of at least the following items:
1. Location in designated place.
2. No obstruction to access or visibility.
3. Operating instructions on nameplate and facing outward.
4. Safety seals and tamper indicators not broken or missing.
5. Examination for obvious physical damage, corrosion, leakage, or clogged nozzle.
6. Determine fullness by weighing or hefting.
MAINTENANCE
[NFPA-10] At least once a year or more frequently if circumstances require, maintenance
should be performed. Maintenance is a "thorough check" of the extinguisher. It is intended to
give maximum assurance that a fire extinguisher will operate effectively and safely. It includes
a thorough examination for physical damage or condition to prevent its operation and any
necessary repair or replacement. It will normally reveal if hydrostatic testing or internal
maintenance is required.
MAINTENANCE –SERVICE PROCEDURE
1. Clean extinguisher to remove dirt, grease or foreign material. Check to make sure that the
instruction nameplate is securely attached and legible. Inspect the cylinders for corrosion,
abrasion, dents or weld damage. If any damage is found, hydrostatically test in accordance with
instructions in CGA C-1 and C-6 and NFPA 10.
2. Inspect the extinguisher for damaged, missing or substitute parts. Only factory replacement
parts are approved for use on Amerex fire extinguishers.
3. Weigh the extinguisher and compare with weight printed in the "Maintenance" section on the
nameplate (label). Recharge extinguisher if weight is not within indicated allowable tolerances.
4. Check the date of manufacture stamped on the cylinder dome. The agent cylinder must be
hydrostatically tested every 5 years to the test pressure indicated on the nameplate in
accordance with DOT requirements.

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5. Check ring pin for freedom of movement. Replace if bent or if removal appears difficult.
6. Inspect discharge lever for any dirt or corrosion which might impair freedom of movement.
Inspect carrying handle for proper installation. If lever, handle or rivets are damaged replace
with proper Amerex part(s).
7. Remove the horn and discharge tube (5 lb) or hose & horn assembly (10, 25 & 20 lb), inspect
for damage, replace as necessary. Replace the horn if brittle, cracked or deformed. Blow air
through nozzle and nozzle assemblies to insure passage is clear of foreign material.
8. Carbon dioxide hose assemblies have a continuous metal braid that connects to both couplings
to minimize static shock. A hose continuity test should be performed using a basic conductivity
tester consisting of a flashlight having an open circuit and a set of two wires with a conductor
(clamps or probe) at each end. (NFPA 10)
9. Inspect the valve assembly for corrosion or damage to hose thread connection. Visually inspect
the safety relief assembly for obstruction or damage –replace with complete Amerex factory
assembled safety relief P/N 04000 (tighten assembly to 250 in-lbs of torque) if necessary. DO
NOT SUBSTITUTE. Valve removal and/or valve part replacement should be made only
after completely discharging the contents of the cylinder.
10. Inspect the 10, 15 & 20 lb elbow and diffusion tip for blockage or damage. The Amerex 5 lb
CO2 diffuser is built into the discharge tube. Check elbow and discharge tube for blockage or
damage. Replace damaged parts with genuine factory replacement parts only.
11. Reinstall horn and discharge tube (5 lb) or hose and horn assembly (10, 15 & 20 lb) to
discharge valve. Check horn clip (10, 15 & 20 lb) for damage or proper positioning. Replace,
tighten or realign as necessary.
12. Install new tamper seal and record service data on the extinguisher inspection tag.
13. Replace the extinguisher on the wall hanger or in the vehicle bracket making sure that it fits the
bracket properly and the bracket is securely attached –replace the bracket if necessary.

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RECHARGE
WARNING: Before attempting to disassemble, be sure the extinguisher is completely
empty/depressurized.
Use only an approved source of carbon dioxide (see minimum
specifications in NFPA 10 "Inspection, Maintenance & Recharging". Do not
use dry ice convertors.
Use an approved pump, hose and recharge adapter to insure safe and
efficient charge operations.
RECHARGING PROCEDURE
1. Perform steps 1 through 10 of the "Maintenance-Service Procedure" section.
2. Discharge all remaining pressure and contents, making sure that there is no remaining
pressure. Retighten valve assembly to 100 ft-lbs using a 16 inch wrench.
3. Check the extinguisher nameplate (label) for the proper amount of CO2 to be pumped into
the extinguisher.
4. Install the proper Amerex recharge adapter. Adapter must fit over diffuser tip on 5 lb
Discharge Tube and elbow on 10, 15 & 20 lb without blocking diffuser holes Do not remove
5 lb discharge tube or 10, 15, 20 lb elbow.
5. Place extinguisher on an accurate scale and attach carbon dioxide supply line to the
recharge adapter.
6. Attach a device such as a "Pony Spring Clamp" to hold the extinguisher valve lever in the
squeezed position or open position. Pump the proper amount of CO2 into the extinguisher.
When the proper weight is reached, release the clamp, shut off the CO2 pump and vent the
supply line.
7. Remove the CO2 supply line and recharge adapter from the extinguisher valve.
8. Check the collar and valve for leaks using a leak detection fluid or a solution of soapy water.
Remove leak detection fluid from the valve assembly and wipe exterior of the extinguisher to
dry.
9. Install ring pin with ring facing the front of the extinguisher.
10. Install tamper seal. Record recharge date and attach new recharge tag.
11. Install the horn or hose and horn assembly to the extinguisher valve.
12. Weigh assembled extinguisher and confirm that the total weight is within the allowable
tolerances indicated in the Maintenance section of the nameplate (label).

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TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
WARNING: Determine the source of a leak before the extinguisher is depressurized. The
extinguisher must be completely depressurized before any attempt is made to devalve it and
correct a leakage problem. To depressurize –hold the extinguisher in a vertical position and
slowly squeeze the discharge handle.
Amerex CO2 valve bodies and aluminum cylinders are 1-1/8"-12 UNF straight threads. When
reinstalling the valve assembly, the cylinder must be placed in a suitable securing vice and
valve installed to 100 ft-lbs of torque using a 16" wrench. Use a proper straight thread adapter
when hydrostatically testing. Thoroughly clean all valve parts after depressurization and valve
removal.
PROBLEM
CORRECTIVE ACTION
1.
Leak at collar o-ring
Remove valve assembly, clean collar thoroughly
and install new collar o-ring. Lubricate with Visilox
V-711 and reinstall valve to a maximum of 100 ft-
lbs torque.
2.
Leak through valve
Check valve stem seating area for scratches or
foreign matter. Clean seating area with a tooth
brush and soft cloth. Install new valve stem
assembly.
3.
Leak at safety relief nut
Remove safety nut, disc and gasket assembly.
Replace with new Amerex P/N 04000 safety nut,
disc and gasket assembly. Tighten assembly to
250 in-lbs of torque.
4.
Leak during discharge
under discharge lever
Remove valve assembly, downtube, spring and
valve stem assembly. Install new valve stem
assembly. Check valve seat for scratches or
foreign matter.
5.
Leak during discharge at
hose connection elbow
Tighten hose connection at elbow (10, 15, 20 lb).
replace o-ring and/or elbow on 5 lb.
6.
Leak in the cylinder
Contact Amerex if under warranty –otherwise
mark "Rejected" and remove from service or
return to the owner.

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Item
Part
No.
Description
Std
Pkg
1
03090
Valve Assembly (does not
include elbow or downtube
1
2
04000
Safety Disc, Gasket & Nut
6
3
00160
Ring Pin, Stainless Steel
24
3A
00532
Chain (Nylon) for Ring Pin
24
4
01387
Lockwire Seal (Yellow)
500
5
07762
Lever & Rivet
1
5A
01563
Rivet only for Lever
24
6
09020
Handle & Rivets
1
6A
01564
Rivet only for Handle (2 reqd)
24
7
05689
O-ring for Elbow
6
8
02735
Elbow with O-ring
1
9
01769
Discharge Tube
1
10
01772
Horn
1
11
05235
Valve Stem O-ring
24
12
01539
Valve Stem Assembly
6
13
00501
Spring
6
14
00503
Retainer
1
15
00533
Downtube
1
16
01124
Collar O-ring 1-1/8"
24
ALL BRACKETS –SEE BRACKET PAGE
ALL FILL & HYDROTEST ADAPTERS –SEE ADAPTER PAGE
ALL VALVE ASSEMBLIES INCLUDE VALVE BODY, VALVE
STEM ASSEMBLY, SPRING, RETAINER, LEVER & HANDLE
PARTS LIST
for
5 lb. Carbon Dioxide
Extinguisher Model
322
322MN

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PARTS LIST
for
10-15-20 lb. Carbon Dioxide
Extinguisher Models
330
331
332
Item
Part
No.
Description
Std
Pkg
1
03090
Valve Assembly (does not
include elbow or downtube
1
2
04000
Safety Disc, Gasket & Nut
6
3
00160
Ring Pin, Stainless Steel
24
3A
00532
Chain (Nylon) for Ring Pin
24
4
01387
Lockwire Seal (Yellow)
500
5
07762
Lever & Rivet
1
5A
01563
Rivet only for Lever
24
6
09020
Handle & Rivets
1
6A
01564
Rivet only for Handle (2 req'd)
24
7
02309
Elbow with O-ring & Spacer
1
7A
05689
O-ring for Elbow
6
7B
02216
Nylon Spacer for Elbow
6
8
01776
Hose Assembly–330,331,332
1
9
01782
Hose & Horn Assembly-330
1
01705
Hose & Horn Assembly-331,332
10
00594
U-Pin
6
11
01777
Nozzle
1
12
00572
Horn –330
1
00593
Horn –331, 332
13
05235
Valve Stem O-ring
24
14
01539
Valve Stem Assembly
6
15
00501
Spring
6
16
00503
Retainer
1
17
00564
Downtube –330
1
00589
Downtube –331, 332
1
18
01124
Collar O-ring –1 1/8"
24
19
02073
Horn Clip (Red)
1
20
05442
Strap (Red) for Horn Clip-
330,331
1
05441
Strap (Red) for Horn Clip - 332
*
04489
Screw & Nut for Horn Clip Strap
Assembly (NOT SHOWN)
12
ALL BRACKETS –SEE BRACKET PAGE
ALL FILL & HYDROTEST ADAPTERS –SEE ADAPTER PAGE
ALL VALVE ASSEMBLIES INCLUDE VALVE BODY, VALVE
STEM ASSEMBLY, SPRING, RETAINER, LEVER & HANDLE

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