Clemco Aerolyte Systems Soft King User manual

Do not proceed with
these instructions*
until you have READ
the orange cover of
this MANUAL and YOU
UNDERSTAND its
contents.
These WARNINGS are
included for the health
and safety of the
operator and those in
the immediate vicinity.
*If you are using a Clemco Distributor
Maintenance and Part Guide, refer to
the orange warnings insert preceding
the Index before continuing with the
enclosed instructions.
Electronic files include a Preface
containing the same important
information as the orange cover.
SOFT KING
BLAST CLEANING SYSTEM
O. M. 21598
WARNING
© 2010 CLEMCO INDUSTRIES CORP.
One Cable Car Dr.
Washington, MO 63090
Phone [phone]
FAX [phone]
Email: [email protected]
www.clemcoindustries.com
®
MC FILE NUMBER: 1180-0895
DATE OF ISSUE: 08/95
REVISION: D, 09/10

PREFACE
•Read and follow ALL instructions before using
this equipment.
•Failure to comply with ALL instructions can result
in serious injury or death.
•In the event that the user, or any assistants of the
user of this equipment cannot read or cannot
completely understand the warnings and
information contained in these instructions, the
employer of the user and his assistants must
thoroughly educate and train them on the proper
operation and safety procedures of this
equipment.
NOTICE TO PURCHASERS AND USERS OF OUR
PRODUCTS AND THIS INFORMATIONAL MATERIAL
The products described in this material, and the information
relating to those products, is intended for knowledgeable,
experienced users of abrasive blasting equipment.
No representation is intended or made as to the suitability of
the products described herein for any particular purpose or
application. No representations are intended or made as to the
efficiency, production rate, or the useful life of the products
described herein. Any estimate regarding production rates or
production finishes are the responsibility of the user and must
be derived solely from the user’s experience and expertise,
and must not be based on information in this material.
The products described in this material may be combined by
the user in a variety of ways for purposes determined solely by
the user. No representations are intended or made as to the
suitability or engineering balance of the combination of
products determined by the user in his selection, nor as to the
compliance with regulations or standard practice of such
combinations of components or products.
Abrasive Blast Equipment is only a component of the range of
equipment used in an abrasive blasting job. Other products
may include an air compressor, abrasive, scaffolding, hydraulic
work platforms or booms, paint spray equipment,
dehumidification equipment, air filters and receivers, lights,
ventilation equipment, parts handling equipment, specialized
respirators, or equipment that while offered by Clemco may
have been supplied by others. Each manufacturer and supplier
of the other products used in the abrasive blasting job must be
contacted for information, training, instruction and warnings
with regard to the proper and safe use of their equipment in the
particular application for which the equipment is being used.
The information provided by Clemco is intended to provide
instruction only on Clemco products. All operators must be
trained in the proper, safe, use of this equipment. It is the
responsibility of the users to familiarize themselves with, and
comply with, all appropriate laws, regulations, and safe
practices that apply to the use of these products. Consult with
your employer about training programs and materials that are
available.
Our company is proud to provide a variety of products to the
abrasive blasting industry, and we have confidence that the
professionals in our industry will utilize their knowledge and
expertise in the safe efficient use of these products.
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS
Described herein are some, BUT NOT ALL, of the major
requirements for safe and productive use of blast
machines, remote control systems, operator respirator
assemblies, and related accessories. Completely read ALL
instruction manuals prior to using equipment.
The user's work environment may include certain
HAZARDS related to the abrasive blasting operation.
Proper protection for the blaster, as well as anyone else
that may be EXPOSED to the hazards generated by the
blasting process, is the responsibility of the user and/or
the employer. Operators MUST consult with their employer
about what hazards may be present in the work
environment including, but not limited to, exposure to dust
that may contain TOXIC MATERIALS due to the presence
of silica, cyanide, arsenic or other toxins in the abrasive,
or materials present in the surface to be blasted such as
lead or heavy metals in coatings. The environment may
also include fumes that may be present from adjacent
coatings application, contaminated water, engine exhaust,
chemicals, and asbestos. The work area may include
PHYSICAL HAZARDS such as an uneven work surface,
poor visibility, excess noise, and electrical hazards. The
operator MUST consult with his employer on the
identification of potential hazards, and the appropriate
measures that MUST be taken to protect the blaster and
others that might be exposed to these hazards.
ALL machines, components and accessories MUST be
installed, tested, operated and maintained only by trained,
knowledgeable, experienced users.
DO NOT modify or substitute any Clemco parts with other
types or brands of equipment. Unauthorized modification
and parts substitution on supplied air respirators is a
violation of OSHA regulations and voids the NIOSH
approval.
OPERATIONAL INSTRUCTIONS
OPERATOR SAFETY EQUIPMENT
•Blast operators and others working in the vicinity of
abrasive blasting must always wear properly-
maintained, NIOSH-approved, respiratory protection
appropriate for the job site hazards.
•DO NOT USE abrasives containing more than one
percent crystalline (free) silica. Ref. NIOSH Alert
#92-102
•Inhalation of toxic dust (crystalline silica, asbestos,
lead paint and other toxins) can lead to serious or
fatal disease (silicosis, asbestosis, lead or other
poisoning).
•ALWAYS wear NIOSH-approved supplied-air respirators
as required by OSHA, in the presence of any dust including,
but not limited to, handling or loading abrasive; blasting or
working in the vicinity of blast jobs; and cleanup of expended
abrasive. Prior to removing respirator, an air monitoring
WARNING
WARNING
I

PREFACE
instrument should be used to determine when surrounding
atmosphere is clear of dust and safe to breathe.
•NIOSH-approved, supplied-air respirators are to be worn
ONLY in atmospheres:
• NOT IMMEDIATELY dangerous to life or health and,
• from which a user can escape WITHOUT using the
respirator.
•Clemco supplied-air respirators DO NOT REMOVE OR
PROTECT AGAINST CARBON MONOXIDE (CO) OR ANY
OTHER TOXIC GAS. Carbon monoxide and toxic gas removal
and/or monitoring device must be used in conjunction with
respirator to insure safe breathing air.
•Air supplied to respirator MUST BE AT LEAST GRADE D
QUALITY as described in Compressed Gas Association
Commodity Specification G-7.1, and as specified by OSHA
Regulation 1910.139 (d).
•ALWAYS locate compressors to prevent contaminated air
(such as CO from engine exhaust) from entering the air intake
system. A suitable in-line air purifying sorbent bed and filter or
CO Monitor should be installed to assure breathing air quality.
•ALWAYS use a NIOSH-approved breathing air hose to
connect an appropriate air filter to the respirator. Use of a non-
approved air hose can subject the operator to illness caused
by the release of chemical agents used in the manufacture of
non-approved breathing air hose.
•ALWAYS check to make sure air filter and respirator
system hoses are NOT CONNECTED to in-plant lines that
contain nitrogen, acetylene or any other non-breathable gas.
NEVER use oxygen with air line respirators. NEVER modify air
line connections to accommodate air filter/respirator breathing
hose WITHOUT FIRST testing content of the air line. FAILURE
TO TEST THE AIR LINE MAY RESULT IN DEATH TO THE
RESPIRATOR USER.
•Respirator lenses are designed to protect against
rebounding abrasive. They do not protect against flying
objects, glare, liquids, radiation or high speed heavy materials.
Substitute lenses from sources other than the original
respirator manufacturer will void NIOSH-approval of this
respirator.
BLAST MACHINES AND REMOTE CONTROLS
•ALWAYS equip abrasive blast machines with
remote controls.
•Abrasive blast machine operators must wear NIOSH-
approved supplied-air respirators (ref: OSHA
regulations 1910.94, 1910.132, 1910.139 and
1910.244).
•NEVER modify OR substitute remote control parts. Parts
from different manufacturers are NOT compatible with Clemco
equipment. If controls are altered, involuntary activation, which
may cause serious injury, can occur.
•Inspect the air control orifice DAILY for cleanliness.
NEVER use welding hose in place of twinline control hose. The
internal diameter and rubber composition are UNSAFE for
remote control use.
•UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED, maximum working
pressure of blast machines and related components MUST
NOT exceed National Board approved 125 psig (8.5 BAR).
•NEVER weld on blast machine. Welding may affect
dimensional integrity of steel wall and WILL VOID National
Board approval.
•Point nozzle ONLY at structure being blasted. High
velocity abrasive particles WILL inflict serious injury. Keep
unprotected workers OUT of blast area.
•NEVER attempt to manually move blast machine when it
contains abrasive. EMPTY machines, up to 6 cu. ft.(270kg)
capacity, are designed to be moved:
• on flat, smooth surfaces by AT LEAST two people;
• with the Clemco "Mule"; or
• with other specially designed machine moving devices.
•Larger empty blast machines or ANY blast machine
containing abrasive MUST be transported by mechanical lifting
equipment.
AIR HOSE, BLAST HOSE, COUPLINGS, AND NOZZLE HOLDERS
•Air hose, air hose fittings and connectors at compressors
and blast machines MUST be FOUR times the size of the
nozzle orifice. Air hose lengths MUST be kept as short as
possible AND in a straight line. Inspect DAILY and repair
leakage IMMEDIATELY.
•Blast hose inside diameter MUST be THREE to FOUR
times the size of the nozzle orifice. AVOID sharp bends that
wear out hose rapidly. Use SHORTEST hose lengths possible
to reduce pressure loss. Check blast hose DAILY for soft
spots. Repair or replace IMMEDIATELY.
•ALWAYS cut loose hose ends square when installing hose
couplings and nozzle holders to allow uniform fit of hose to
coupling shoulder. NEVER install couplings or nozzle holders
that DO NOT provide a TIGHT fit on hose. ALWAYS use
manufacturers recommended coupling screws.
•Replace coupling gaskets FREQUENTLY to prevent
leakage. Abrasive leakage can result in dangerous coupling
failure. ALL gaskets MUST be checked SEVERAL times during
a working day for wear, distortion and softness.
•Install safety pins at EVERY coupling connection to
prevent accidental disengagement during hose movement.
•ALWAYS attach safety cables at ALL air hose AND blast
hose coupling connections. Cables relieve tension on hose and
control whipping action in the event of a coupling blow-out.
WARNING
II

PREFACE
MAINTENANCE
•ALWAYS shut off compressor and depressurize blast
machine BEFORE doing ANY maintenance.
•Always check and clean ALL filters, screens and alarm
systems when doing any maintenance.
•ALWAYS cage springs BEFORE disassembling valves IF
spring-loaded abrasive control valves are used.
•ALWAYS completely follow owner's manual instructions
and maintain equipment at RECOMMENDED intervals.
ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE
•Training and Educational Programs.
Clemco Industries Corp. offers a booklet, Blast-Off 2,
developed to educate personnel on abrasive blast equipment
function and surface preparation techniques. Readers will learn
safe and productive use of machines, components and various
accessories, including selection of abrasive materials for
specific surface profiles and degrees of cleanliness.
•The Society for Protective Coatings (SSPC) offers a video
training series on protective coatings including one entitled
"Surface Preparation." For loan or purchase information,
contact SSPC at the address shown below.
TECHNICAL DATA AND RESEARCH COMMITTEES
•The following associations offer information, materials and
videos relating to abrasive blasting and safe operating
practices.
The Society for Protective Coatings (SSPC)
40 24th Street, Pittsburgh PA 15222-4643
Phone: [phone] • FAX [phone]
Email: [email protected] • Website: www.sspc.org
National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE)
1440 South Creek Drive, Houston TX 77084
Phone: [phone] • FAX [phone]
Email: [email protected] • Website: www.nace.org
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)
100 Barr Harbor Dr., West Conshohocken, PA 19428
Phone [phone] • FAX [phone]
Email: [email protected] • Website: www.astm.org
NOTICE
This equipment is not intended to be used in an area that might
be considered a hazardous location as described in the
National Electric Code NFPA 70 1996, article 500.
WARRANTY
The following is in lieu of all warranties express, implied or
statutory and in no event shall seller or its agents, successors,
nominees or assignees, or either, be liable for special or
consequential damage arising out of a breach of warranty. This
warranty does not apply to any damage or defect resulting
from negligent or improper assembly or use of any item by the
buyer or its agent or from alteration or attempted repair by any
person other than an authorized agent of seller. All used,
repaired, modified or altered items are purchased “as is” and
with all faults. In no event shall seller be liable for
consequential or incidental damages. The sole and exclusive
remedy of buyer for breach of warranty by seller shall be repair
or replacement of defective parts or, at seller’s option, refund
of the purchase price, as set forth below:
1. Seller makes no warranty with respect to products used
other than in accordance hereunder.
2. On products seller manufactures, seller warrants that all
products are to be free from defects in workmanship and
materials for a period of one year from date of shipment to
buyer, but no warranty is made that the products are fit for a
particular purpose.
3. On products which seller buys and resells pursuant to this
order, seller warrants that the products shall carry the then
standard warranties of the manufacturers thereof, a copy of
which shall be made available to customer upon request.
4. The use of any sample or model in connection with this
order is for illustrative purposes only and is not to be construed
as a warranty that the product will conform to the sample or
model.
5. Seller makes no warranty that the products are delivered
free of the rightful claim of any third party by way of patent
infringement or the like.
6. This warranty is conditioned upon seller’s receipt within ten
(10) days after a buyer’s discovery of a defect, of a written
notice stating in what specific material respects the product
failed to meet this warranty. If such notice is timely given, seller
will, at its option, either modify the product or part to correct the
defect, replace the product or part with complying products or
parts, or refund the amount paid for the defective product, any
one of which will constitute the sole liability of seller and a full
settlement of all claims. No allowance will be made for
alterations or repairs made by other than those authorized by
seller without the prior written consent of seller. Buyer shall
afford seller prompt and reasonable opportunity to inspect the
products for which any claim is made as above stated.
Except as expressly set forth above, all warranties, express,
implied or statutory, including implied warranty of
merchantability, are hereby disclaimed.
DAILY SET-UP CHECK LIST
•ALL piping, fittings and hoses MUST be checked
DAILY for tightness and leakage.
•ALL equipment and components MUST be thoroughly
checked for wear.
•ALL worn or suspicious parts MUST be replaced.
•ALL blast operators MUST be properly trained to
operate equipment.
•ALL blast operators MUST be properly outfitted with
abrasive resistant clothing, safety shoes, leather gloves
and ear protection.
•BEFORE blasting ALWAYS use the following check list.
□1. PROPERLY MAINTAINED AIR COMPRESSOR sized
to provide sufficient volume (cfm) for nozzle and other tools
PLUS a 50% reserve to allow for nozzle wear. Use large
compressor outlet and large air hose (4 times the nozzle orifice
size). FOLLOW MANUFACTURERS MAINTENANCE
INSTRUCTIONS.
□2. BREATHING AIR COMPRESSOR (oil-less air pump)
capable of providing Grade D Quality air located in a dust free,
contaminant free area. If oil-lubricated air compressor is used
to supply respirator, it should have high temperature monitor
and CO monitor or both. If CO monitor is not used, air MUST
be tested FREQUENTLY to ensure proper air quality.
WARNING
III

PREFACE
□3. Clean, properly maintained NIOSH-APPROVED
SUPPLIED-AIR RESPIRATOR. ALL components should
ALWAYS be present. NEVER operate without inner lens in
place. Thoroughly inspect ALL components DAILY for
cleanliness and wear. ANY substitution of parts voids NIOSH
approval i.e. cape, lenses, breathing hose, breathing air supply
hose, air control valve, cool air or climate control devices.
□4. OSHA required BREATHING AIR FILTER for removal
of moisture and particulate matter from breathing air supply.
THIS DEVICE DOES NOT REMOVE OR DETECT CARBON
MONOXIDE (CO). ALWAYS USE CO MONITOR ALARM.
□5. ASME CODED BLAST MACHINE sized to hold 1/2
hour abrasive supply. ALWAYS ground machine to eliminate
static electricity hazard. Examine pop up valve for alignment.
Blast machine MUST be fitted with a screen to keep out foreign
objects and a cover to prevent entry of moisture overnight.
□6. AIR LINE FILTER installed AS CLOSE AS POSSIBLE
to machine inlet. Sized to match inlet piping or larger air supply
line. Clean filter DAILY. Drain OFTEN.
□7. REMOTE CONTROLS MUST be in PERFECT
operating condition. ONLY use APPROVED spare parts,
including twin- line hose. DAILY: test system operation and
check button bumper and spring action of lever and lever lock.
DO NOT USE WELDING HOSE.
□8. BLAST HOSE with ID 3 to 4 times the nozzle orifice.
Lines MUST be run AS STRAIGHT AS POSSIBLE from
machine to work area with NO sharp bends. Check DAILY for
internal wear and external damage.
□9. HOSE COUPLINGS, NOZZLE HOLDERS fitted
SNUGLY to hose end and installed using PROPER coupling
screws. Coupling lugs MUST be snapped FIRMLY into locking
position. Gasket MUST form positive seal with safety pins
inserted through pin holes. Check gaskets and replace if ANY
sign of wear, softness or distortion. ALWAYS install safety
cables at every connection to prevent disengagement. Check
nozzle holder for worn threads. NEVER MIX DIFFERENT
BRANDS OF COMPONENTS. Check each of these
components DAILY.
□10. Inspect NOZZLE and GASKET DAILY for wear.
Replace nozzle when 1/16" larger than original size or if liner
appears cracked. Check nozzle threads for wear.
□11. Use abrasive that is properly sized and free of harmful
substances; such as, free silica, cyanide, arsenic or lead.
Check material data sheet for presence of toxic or harmful
substances.
□12. Test surface to be blasted for toxic substances. Take
appropriate, and NIOSH required, protective measures for
operator and bystanders which pertain to substances found on
the surface to be blasted.
3. NIOSH
Approved
Supplied-Air
Respirator
11. Silica-free Abrasive 5. ASME Coded
Blast Machine
8. Blast Hose
10. Appropriately
Sized Nozzle
2. Breathing Air Compressor
4. CPF Air-Filter
6. Air Line
Filter
9. Hose Couplings and
Safety Cables
1 Air Compressor
(or)
2. Ambient Air Pump
for low pressure
respirator
7. Remote
Controls
IV

SOFT KING BLAST CLEANING SYSTEM Page 1
© 2010 CLEMCO INDUSTRIES CORP. •www.clemcoindustries.com •Manual No. 21598
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Scope: This manual covers set-up, operation,
maintenance, troubleshooting, and replacement parts for
Aerolyte Soft King bicarbonate of soda blast cleaning
machines. The following separate instruction manual is
provided for the remote control handle.
RLX Control Handle, Manual No. .........................10574
Do not operate the machine without first reading the
control handle and accessory operating instructions.
1.1.2 These instructions contain important information
that is required for safe operation of the machine. The
operator must be qualified to safely operate the blast
machine and remote controls, and all other equipment
used with the blast machine. To ensure safe blasting, all
operators and personnel involved with the abrasive
blasting process must read and understand the manual,
including the information included in the orange cover,
for all devices used with the blast machine.
1.1.3 The Clemco booklet "Abrasive Blasting Safety
Practices" is included with every blast machine, and
contains important safety information about abrasive
blasting that may not be included in equipment operation
manuals. Copies are available from Clemco Industries
and may be requested through our website
www.clemcoindustries.com or requested via email to
[email protected].
1.2 Safety Alerts
1.2.1 Clemco uses safety alert signal words, based on
ANSI Z535.4-1998, to alert the user of a potentially
hazardous situation that may be encountered while
operating this equipment. ANSI's definitions of the signal
words are as follows:
This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to
alert the user of this equipment of potential
personal injury hazards.
Obey all safety messages that follow this symbol to
avoid possible injury or death.
CAUTION
Caution used without the safety alert symbol
indicates a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, may result in property
damage.
CAUTION
Caution indicates a potentially hazardous
situation which, if not avoided, may result in
minor or moderate injury.
WARNING
Warning indicates a potentially hazardous
situation which, if not avoided, could result in
death or serious injury.
DANGER
Danger indicatesanimminently hazardous
situation which, if not avoided, will result in
death or serious injury.
1.3 General Description
1.3.1 The Soft King Blast Machine is designed for use in
a wide variety of blasting applications, and has the
following distinctive features:
• Operates within a pressure range of 5 psi to 150 psi for
delicate surfaces at very low pressure or difficult jobs at
high pressure.
• Can be used for dry blasting or wet blasting.
1.4 Components and Operating Principles
1.4.1 The main components of the machine are shown
in Figure 1. They include the blast machine with anti-
bridging agitator, remote controls, pressure regulators,
moisture separator/filter, and water injector.
1.4.2 Blast Machine
1.4.2.1 Clemco blast machines (pressure vessels) are
manufactured to American Society of Mechanical
Engineers (ASME) standards, as described in Section
VII, Div. 1, and carry a National Board certification. It is
the owner’s responsibility to maintain the integrity of the
vessel as may be required by some states. This may
include regular inspection and hydrostatic testing as
described in National Board Inspection Code and
Jurisdictional Regulations and /or Laws.

SOFT KING BLAST CLEANING SYSTEM Page 2
© 2010 CLEMCO INDUSTRIES CORP. •www.clemcoindustries.com •Manual No. 21598
Figure 1
WARNING
Welding, grinding, or drilling on the blast
machine could weaken the vessel.
Compressed air pressure could cause a
weakened blast machine to rupture, resulting
in death or serious injury. Welding, grinding,
or drilling on the blast machine vessel, without
a National Board ″R″stamp voids the ASME
and National Board certification.
1.4.2.2 All welding repairs done on the vessel must be
performed by certified welders, at shops holding a
National Board ″R″Stamp. Welding performed by any
welder not properly qualified per the ASME Code voids
ASME and National Board certification of the vessel.
1.4.2.3 The Soft King blast machine is rated for a
maximum of 150 psi (pounds per square inch); do not
exceed the rated pressure.
WARNING
Excessive air pressure could cause a blast
machine to rupture. To prevent serious injury
or death, do not exceed the rated pressure of
the blast machine vessel.
1.4.2.4 Blast machines DO NOT require pressure relief
valves when air compressors supplying air to the blast
machines are built to ASME(1) specifications and comply
with OSHA(2) regulations. ASME Manual section VIII,
Division 1, UG-125, paragraph A90 (g) states pressure
relief valves or protective devices "...need not be installed
directly on a pressure vessel when the source of pressure
is external to the vessel and is under such positive control
that the pressure in the vessel cannot exceed the
maximum allowable working pressure at the operating
temperature...". OSHA regulation 1910.169 references
the above ASME code when describing the necessity of
pressure relief valves on compressed air equipment. DO
NOT use air compressors that are not equipped with
suitable pressure relief valves in working order.
Exhaust Muffler
Inlet Valve
Pressure Regulator,
Blast Machine Pressure
Outlet Valve
Optional Water Pump
Choke Valve
Water Supply
Hose Connection
Pressure Regulator,
Blast Pressure
Choke Valve
Safety Petcock
Check Valve
Blast Hose Connection
Anti-Bridging
Agitator
High Pressure Water
Hose Connection
Air Hose Connection
Air Filter
Media Metering Valve
Some Items Rotated for Clarity.

SOFT KING BLAST CLEANING SYSTEM Page 3
© 2010 CLEMCO INDUSTRIES CORP. •www.clemcoindustries.com •Manual No. 21598
(1) American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Boiler and Pressure
Vessel Code, 1989
(2) Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 29 CFR 1910, Subpart
M - Compressed Gas and Compressed Air Equipment.
1.4.2.5 The blast machine is equipped with remote
controls that allow the operator to pressurize the machine
to start blasting, and depressurize it to stop blasting, from
the nozzle.
1.4.2.6 An anti-bridging agitator ensures continuous
media flow. Agitator pressure, which controls its
frequency is adjusted by a pressure regulator mounted on
the panel.
1.4.3 Remote Controls
1.4.3.1 Aerolyte remote controls operate pneumatically
on the "return air" principle. The control handle, located
near the blast nozzle, is the activator for the remote
control system. When the control handle lever is in the up
(no blast) position, air travels down the outbound twinline
and escapes through an opening located under the lever.
When the control handle lever is pressed, the opening is
sealed, and air in the outbound line flows through the
return line to open the inlet valve and close the outlet
valve. The pop-up valve automatically closes as the blast
machine pressurizes, and blasting begins. Releasing the
handle exhausts the control air, which closes the inlet
valve, and opens the outlet valve to depressurize the
blast machine and stop the blasting.
1.4.3.2 The remote control system is an OSHA-
required safety device. When the operator intentionally
or unintentionally removes hand-held pressure from the
remote control handle, the machine depressurizes,
stopping air and media flow through the nozzle. The
remote control system “fails to safe”, which means any
interruption in the control-air circuit for reasons, such as
a break in the line, the compressor stops running, or
the operator drops the blast hose, the remote controls
deactivate the blast machine.
WARNING
Never modify or substitute remote control
parts. Parts from other manufacturers are not
compatible with Clemco equipment. If ANY
part of the remote control system is altered,
involuntary activation, which may cause
serious injury, can occur.
1.4.4 Pressure Regulators
1.4.4.1 The Soft King is furnished with four pressure
regulators to perform the following functions:
•Blast pressure regulator: controls blasting pressure.
•Blast machine regulator: controls differential pressure
between the blast pressure and blast machine
pressure. Blast pressure should never be higher than
blast machine pressure.
•Agitator regulator: controls the frequency of vibration
used on the anti-bridging system.
•Water pump regulator: controls air inlet pressure to
the water pump.
1.4.5 Moisture Separator/Filter
1.4.5.1 Compressed air passes through the filter,
removing condensed moisture before entering the
machine. Water is drained by use of a manual drain, at
the bottom of the filter.
1.4.6 Optional Water Injector
1.4.6.1 The water injector system includes the following
items:
•4:1 air-driven water pump.
•Nozzle adaptor: threads to the end of the blast hose
between the nozzle holder and nozzle.
•High-pressure water hose: delivers water from the
pump outlet to the nozzle adaptor.
•Water shutoff valve: located at the end of the high-
pressure hose, enables the operator to start and stop
the water flow without changing the flow adjustment.
•Needle control valve: attached at the end of the high-
pressure hose between the shutoff valve and nozzle
adaptor, regulates the volume of water.
1.4.6.2 The injector allows the machine to be used for
wet or dry blasting. Wet blasting (injecting water into the
blast stream) eliminates dust, and increases the removal
of residual dust particles and water-soluble corrosive
salts. The pump is disabled when the control handle is
released.
1.4.6.3 The water injector enables the operator to isolate
or combine any of the four following functions:
•Dry media blasting
•Wet media blasting
•Washing down
•Air drying
1.4.6.4 The water source can be from either a static
water tank, or a faucet. If a rust inhibitor is required,
premix the solution in a static water tank.

SOFT KING BLAST CLEANING SYSTEM Page 4
© 2010 CLEMCO INDUSTRIES CORP. •www.clemcoindustries.com •Manual No. 21598
Figure 2
2.0 SET-UP
These instructions include set-up for wet blasting. If the
system does not include the wet blast option or if wet
blasting is not required, omit from set-up.
2.1 Blast Hose and Control Hose Connections,
Refer to Figure 2.
2.1.1 Uncoil and stretch out the blast hose, and lay the
50-foot twinline hose and high-pressure water hose
alongside it. Hoses should be of equal length.
2.1.2 Band the control handle to the blast hose just
behind the nozzle holder, using the nylon ties provided.
Clip the tie ends so they will not snag clothing or interfere
with the operation of the control handle.
2.1.3 Attach the 50-foot twinline hose to the two fittings
on the control handle. Either line can be attached to either
fitting.
2.1.4 Screw the wetblast adaptor into the nozzle
holder. Make sure a nozzle washer is seated in the
holder, ref. Figure 3. The injector flange should seat tightly
against the washer.
2.1.5 Connect the high-pressure water hose to the
shutoff valve located on the nozzle adaptor assembly. To
facilitate the connection, the end of the high-pressure
hose that connects to the shutoff valve, is equipped with a
male swivel connector.
2.1.6 Working from the control handle back, band or
tape the twinline hose to the blast hose every four to six
feet, and as close to the couplings as possible. The water
hose may not always be used; therefore it should be left
separate for easy removal.
2.1.7 Make sure the coupling gaskets are in place
and in good condition before connecting the blast hose
to the quick coupling on the blast machine. When
connecting the hose, make sure the coupling spring
lock pins are at 180 degrees (Pins should enter the
unused hole of the adjoining coupling). The spring lock
pins help prevent accidental separation of hose
couplings during blasting. Safety cables are listed in
Section 8.1 of this manual.
WARNING
Hose disconnection while under pressure
could cause serious injury or death. Use safety
lock pins and safety cables on all coupling
connections to help prevent hose couplings
from accidental disconnection.
Inlet Valve
3-Foot
Twinline Hose Safety Petcock
Twinline Unions
50
-F
oot
Twinlin
e
H
ose
Nozzle Holder
RLX Control Handle
Outlet Valve
Blast Hose
Blast Hose Coupling
Twinline Tee Fitting
Orifice Fitting
N
y
lon Tie
3/16" x 18-inch Control Hose
Some Items Rotated for Clarity.

SOFT KING BLAST CLEANING SYSTEM Page 5
© 2010 CLEMCO INDUSTRIES CORP. •www.clemcoindustries.com •Manual No. 21598
Figure 3
2.1.8 Connect one end of the 3-foot twinline control
hose to fitting No. 1 (orifice fitting) and No. 2 (tee fitting) on
the inlet valve.
2.1.9 Use the unions provided to connect the other ends
of the 3-foot twinline hose to the 50-foot twinline hose.
Either hose line can go to either union.
2.1.10 Band the 3-foot twinline hose on the blast machine
side of the unions to the quick coupling nipple.
2.1.11 Attach the high-pressure water hose to the water
pump outlet. To facilitate the connection, the pump end of
the high-pressure hose is equipped with a quick
disconnect.
2.1.12 Screw the nozzle into the nozzle holder or
wetblast adaptor if used, make sure the nozzle washer is in
place.
CAUTION
Make sure all fittings are tight. Leaks will cause
the system to malfunction.
2.2 Air Hose Connection
2.2.1 Connect the air hose from the compressor to the
air filter inlet. For best blasting performance, use 1-1/4" ID
or larger air line when using up to a 5/16" nozzle, and 1-
1/2" or larger when using up to 1/2" nozzle.
2.3 Water Hose Connection
2.3.1 The water hose should be at least 3/4" ID. The
water source may be from a faucet or from a static water
tank.
2.3.2 Before connecting the water hose to the water
pump, turn on the water supply to clear debris from inside
the hose, and to clean the hose connection.
2.3.3 Turn off the water supply, and attach the hose to
the water pump inlet.
2.4 Agitator Check
2.4.1 During the initial set-up, make sure the agitator
assembly is correctly in place. See Section 6.6.
3.0 OPERATION
3.1 Start-Up
3.1.1 Make sure all hose connections are secure and
that lock pins are in place.
3.1.2 Inspect blast hose for wear; look for soft spots.
Replace if worn.
3.1.3 Make sure the choke valve is open. The valve is
open when the handle is in-line with the valve.
3.1.4 Close the media metering valve. The valve is
closed when the knob is turned fully clockwise.
3.1.5 Make sure that the control handle lever is in the
up (no blast) position, and that the handle lever and
safety lock move freely. Make sure that it will not engage
unless the safety lever lock is pulled down.
WARNING
Malfunctioning control handles could cause
unintentional actuation of a blast machine, or
prevent a machine from deactivating upon
release. Malfunctioning control handles must be
taken out of service immediately and repaired or
replaced. Serious injury or death can result from
unintentional blasting.
Hi
g
h Pressure Water Hose
Water Shut-off Valve Flow Control Needle Valve
Twinline Hose
RLX Control Handle
Nozzle Holde
r
Nozzle
Nozzle Adaptor
Nozzle Washers

SOFT KING BLAST CLEANING SYSTEM Page 6
© 2010 CLEMCO INDUSTRIES CORP. •www.clemcoindustries.com •Manual No. 21598
3.1.6 Locate the compressor upwind from the blasting
operation to prevent contaminated air from entering the
compressor intake. Start the compressor, and bring it up to
operating temperature and pressure. The pressure must
be more than 50 psi (pounds per square inch) but no more
than 150 psi.
3.1.7 Make sure that the safety petcock located on the
lower side of the inlet valve is open. Open position is
when the lever is in-line with the petcock, as shown in
Figure 4.
Figure 4
WARNING
To prevent severe injury from accidental
activation of the blast machine, open the safety
petcock when the blast machine is not in use.
Opening the petcock prevents unintentional
blasting. The control handle can not activate
the machine when the petcock is open.
3.1.8 Slowly open the compressor supply valve to
pressurize the air supply line. Listen for any open lines or
leaks.
3.1.9 If wet blasting, follow the additional start-up
instructions in Section 3.2.
3.1.10 Adjust the pressure regulators for the anti-bridging
agitator, blast pressure, and blast machine pressure. See
Section 4.0.
WARNING
Always open the safety petcock before filling
the machine with media. This step is especially
important if a pot tender loads the machine with
media while another worker operates the
control handle, and can pressurize the machine
before the tender is ready. Media could be
forced out of the top of the machine when the
machine is pressurized and cause injury.
3.1.11 Load media into the machine by following the
instructions in Section 3.7.
3.1.12 When the blast operator is ready to blast, either
the operator or the machine tender, while standing back
and facing away from the concave filling head of the
blast machine, closes the safety petcock. Closing the
petcock prepares the machine for remote operation and
activation by the control handle. Air should be heard
escaping from the orifice under the control handle lever
but nowhere else. The noise from air escaping at the
control handle is an audible signal that air is supplied to
the blast machine, and will activate if the control handle
is pressed.
3.2 Additional Start-Up for Wet Blasting
3.2.1 Close the water-shutoff valve located on the
wetblast adaptor.
3.2.2 Open the water supply valve (faucet).
3.2.3 The water pump pressure regulator controls the
air supply to the water pump. Adjust pump pressure per
Section 4.4. Set the pressure to 0 psi when the water
injector system is not in use.
NOTE: The pump will not energize until the remote control
handle is pressed.
3.3 Blasting Attire
3.3.1 Operators and anyone else that may be
exposed to the hazards generated by the blasting
process must wear appropriate protective gear,
including abrasive-resistant clothing, leather gloves, eye
and hearing protection, and a NIOSH-approved Type CE
Supplied-Air Respirator.
Open
Closed

SOFT KING BLAST CLEANING SYSTEM Page 7
© 2010 CLEMCO INDUSTRIES CORP. •www.clemcoindustries.com •Manual No. 21598
WARNING
Before blasting, test the coating and substrate
for toxic materials (such as lead or other heavy
metals, or asbestos). These hazards require
special measures to protect the operators and
the environment.
No dust is safe to breathe. Abrasive blasting
produces harmful dust. Failure to wear
approved respirators could result in serious
lung disease or death. Blast operators must
wear properly fitted and maintained NIOSH-
approved, type-CE supplied-air respirators
approved for abrasive blasting.
During abrasive blasting, abrasive particles and
dust in the area around the blast machine and
blast nozzle become airborne. Everyone
working in the vicinity of abrasive blasting must
wear properly-maintained, NIOSH-approved,
respiratory protection appropriate for the job
site hazards.
Loud noise generated by the use of
compressed air could cause hearing damage.
Everyone in the blasting area must wear
approved eye and hearing protection.
3.4 Blasting
3.4.1 Don all protective blasting attire per Section 3.3.
3.4.2 Hold the blast hose securely and point the nozzle
only at objects intended to be blast cleaned.
3.4.3 Pull back the safety lever lock and depress the
remote control handle. Be prepared as blasting will begin
within a few seconds.
WARNING
OSHA requires the use of remote controls on all
blast machines when an operator controls the
nozzle. To comply with OSHA regulations, the
remote control handle, which starts and stops
the flow of air and abrasive, must be held down
manually. Do not tie down the control handle
lever or attempt to bypass any part of the
remote control system. Doing so will defeat the
purpose of the fail-to-safe feature of the remote
control. Serious injury or death could result
from uncontrolled blasting. Ref. 29 CFR
1910.244 (b).
3.4.4 If the media valve was closed as instructed in
Paragraph 3.1.4, only air will come out the nozzle.
3.4.5 Adjust media flow per Section 4.1.
3.4.6 If wet blasting, open the water-shutoff valve, and
adjust water flow per Section 4.5.
3.5 Stop Blasting
3.5.1 If wet blasting, close the water shutoff valve.
3.5.2 When the control handle lever is released, the
control handle safety lever will flip up to lock the handle
lever in the up (no blast) position.
3.5.3 Make sure that the control handle safety lever
lock is up, and that it prevents the handle lever from
engaging.
3.5.4 Always open the safety petcock during work
breaks and before filling the blast machine. Opening the
petcock prevents unintentional blasting.
3.6 Shut-Down
3.6.1 Shut-down for wet blasting. If not wet blasting,
skip to Section 3.6.2.
3.6.1.1 Turn off the water supply valve (faucet).
3.6.1.2 Set the water pump pressure regulator to 0 psi.
3.6.1.3 Point the nozzle down and open the water-shutoff
valve to drain the water hose. Do not permit water to enter
the blast hose.
3.6.1.4 If wet blasting is complete, detach the water
supply hose from the water pump inlet.
3.6.1.5 Shutdown dry blasting per Section 3.6.2.
3.6.2 Shutdown for dry blasting
3.6.2.1 Empty the machine per Section 3.8.
3.6.2.2 When finished blasting, and after cleanup is
completed, remove the respirator outside the respirator-
use area and where the air is safe to breathe.
3.6.2.3 Close the compressed-air supply valve at the
compressor.

SOFT KING BLAST CLEANING SYSTEM Page 8
© 2010 CLEMCO INDUSTRIES CORP. •www.clemcoindustries.com •Manual No. 21598
3.6.2.4 Drain receiver tank, filters, and water collecting
devices, and bleed the compressed-air supply hose.
3.6.2.5 Shutdown the compressor.
3.6.2.6 Cover the blast machine when not in use.
3.7 Loading Media into the Blast Machine
WARNING
When approaching an idle blast machine, and
before loading the blast machine with abrasive,
always check to make sure the safety petcock
is open. If it is closed, open it while standing
back and facing away from the concave head
and exhaust muffler. This step is especially
important if one worker (a machine tender)
loads the machine with abrasive while another
worker (the blast operator) controls the
blasting. The blast operator could pressurize
the machine before the machine tender has
moved away from the machine. During
pressurization, abrasive could be forced out of
the top of the machine, and cause injury.
3.7.1 Load media into the machine by pouring it into
the concave head. Use an optional screen placed over
the head to prevent objects from falling inside. Foreign
objects will jam the machine. Media flows through the
filling port into the machine. Keep the media level below
the pop-up valve. Media resting on the pop-up valve
could be forced up and out of the top of the machine
when the machine is pressurized.
3.7.2 When the blast operator is ready, either the
operator or the machine tender, while standing back and
facing away from the blast machines concave filling
head, closes the safety petcock.
3.8 Empty Media from the Blast Machine
3.8.1 Empty the machine of all media when shutting
down for the day. This will eliminate trouble from moist
media when starting a new day's blasting. One way to
avoid having to empty the machine is to load only as much
media as will be used during the work period. If the
machine must be purged of media, do the following.
3.8.2 With the blast machine off, adjust the blast
pressure regulator to 0 psi.
3.8.3 Close the choke valve, and open the media
metering valve by turning the knob fully counterclockwise.
3.8.4 Direct the media discharge into a container
suitable to hold the media.
3.8.5 While holding the hose securely, press the control
handle and turn the blast pressure regulator up slowly until
the machine pressurizes (usually around 5 psi). A heavy
flow of media will be discharged out the nozzle.
3.8.6 When the machine is empty, release the control
handle lever, open the safety petcock, and return the
choke valve to the full open position.
4.0 ADJUSTMENTS
4.1 Media Metering
4.1.1 Adjust media flow by turning the knob on the
metering valve. The valve is closed when the knob/handle
is fully clockwise. To adjust, close the valve and slowly turn
the knob counterclockwise to increase media flow. Use as
little media as possible to do the job while maintaining the
best cleaning rate. Generally, with the correct mixture,
media should barely be seen as light discoloration as it
exits the nozzle.
4.1.2 Some conditions such as fine media, moist air, or
high ambient humidity, affect media flow. Increased blast
machine pressure and adjustment of the anti-bridging
agitator may be required. See Section 4.2 blast pressure
adjustment and 4.3 agitator adjustment.
4.2 Blast Pressure and Blast Machine Pressure
4.2.1 The blast pressure regulator and blast machine
regulator must initially be set at the same pressure. Most
blasting should be done using balanced pressure (when
blast pressure and blast machine pressure are the same).
4.2.2 Blast pressure regulator
4.2.2.1 Blasting pressure (the pressure coming out the
nozzle) is set by adjusting the blast pressure regulator.
4.2.2.2 Blast pressure may be regulated between a low 5
psi to a maximum of 150 psi. Most bicarbonate of soda
blasting is done between 30 and 60 psi. The following
chart shows pressure starting points for typical
applications.

SOFT KING BLAST CLEANING SYSTEM Page 9
© 2010 CLEMCO INDUSTRIES CORP. •www.clemcoindustries.com •Manual No. 21598
Application psi
Cleaning masonry ...........................................................55
Graffiti removal ................................................................55
Dry stripping on delicate substrates ............................5-50
Coating removal from durable substrates .................15-90
Degreasing ...................................................................5-25
4.2.3 Blast machine regulator
4.2.3.1 The blast machine pressure regulator is used to
increase the machine pressure to a setting slightly higher
than blast pressure. This should be done only when media
is unable to flow when the pressure is balanced. Once the
pressure differential is set, it will remain constant
regardless of the blast pressure. For example: If blast
pressure is set at 50 psi and the blast machine pressure is
set at 51 psi, when blast pressure is reduced to 25 psi,
blast machine pressure is automatically reduced to 26 psi.
The blast machine pressure should never be set lower
than blast pressure. Adjust as follows:
4.2.3.2 Adjust the blast pressure regulator to 50 psi.
4.2.3.3 Adjust the blast machine regulator to 50 psi. Both
the blast gauge and blast machine gauge should register
as the regulator is turned.
4.2.3.4 Start blasting and adjust the media metering valve
per Section 4.1.
4.2.3.5 If media flow is too rich (too much media),
decrease blast machine pressure by 0.5 psi increments,
readjusting the media valve after each setting until the
correct mixture is obtained.
4.2.3.6 If media flow is too lean (too little media), increase
blast machine pressure by 0.5 psi increments, readjusting
the media valve after each setting until the correct mixture
is obtained.
CAUTION
Try to obtain a consistent media flow through
media metering and the anti-bridging agitator.
Operating the machine with unbalanced pressure
may accelerate wear on the media metering valve
and lower piping.
4.3 Anti-Bridging Agitator
4.3.1 Aerolyte's unique anti-bridging system is adjusted
by the agitator pressure regulator mounted on the panel.
NOTE: The agitator will not energize until the remote
control handle is pressed.
4.3.2 If media tends to bridge through the metering
valve, activate the agitator by turning the regulator to 40
psi. Increase or decrease pressure as needed to find
optimum resonation.
4.4 Wetblast Injector Pump Pressure
4.4.1 The injector pump operates at a 4:1 pressure ratio.
The pump will pressurize water four times greater than the
air pressure used to drive the pump. Example: If the
pumps air inlet pressure is set at 30 psi, the water outlet
pressure will be 120 psi (4 x 30 = 120)
4.4.2 Water pressure needs to be high enough to
overcome blast pressure and atomize the water. The
minimum water pressure should be 1-1/2 times the blast
pressure. For example if blast pressure is 40 psi, water
pressure should be a minimum of 60 psi. Since the pump
is 4:1, air pressure for the pump should be set at a
minimum of 15 psi. (40 x 1.5 = 60 : 4 = 15).
4.4.3 If water pulsates during blasting, the pump
pressure may need to be increased. See Water Flow in
Section 4.5
CAUTION
The pump is designed to operate within the range
of 10 to 100 psi air pressure. Pressure higher
than 100 psi may damage the pump. A relief valve
is plumbed into the controls to prevent excessive
pressure. DO NOT by-pass the relief valve.
4.5 Water Flow, Volume
4.5.1 Water flow is controlled by the shut-off valve
located on the nozzle adaptor, and upstream of the needle
valve (ref Figure 3). This valve enables the operator to start
and stop wet blasting without changing the water flow rate.
4.5.2 Water flow rate is adjusted by the needle valve
attached to the nozzle adaptor. Open the valve only as
much as necessary to atomize the water and saturate the
media to control dust.
4.5.3 If water pulsates while blasting, one of two
conditions is occurring. The needle valve is either open too
far, or the pump pressure is too low. Adjust the pump
pressure and needle valve together to obtain a steady
water flow and atomization. Maximum water flow is
approximately 2.6 gallons per minute.

SOFT KING BLAST CLEANING SYSTEM Page 10
© 2010 CLEMCO INDUSTRIES CORP. •www.clemcoindustries.com •Manual No. 21598
5.0 PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE
NOTE: These preventive maintenance instructions
pertain to the blast machine and remote controls only.
Read the owners manuals for all blast accessories, for
their inspection and maintenance schedules.
5.1 Daily
5.1.1 With the air off, before blasting, do the following:
• Inspect the blast hose for wear; look for soft spots.
Soft spots mean the hose is worn. Replace the blast
hose before the tube wears as far as the fabric plies.
WARNING
Worn blast hose could suddenly fail by
bursting. Couplings and nozzle holders may not
adequately grip worn hose causing them to
blow off under pressure. Compressed air and
abrasive escaping from a burst hose, or
disconnected coupling or nozzle holder, could
cause severe injury.
• Check to make sure that couplings are secure and
lock pins and safety cables are in place.
• Make sure the nozzle washer is in place and not
worn.
WARNING
The threads on the nozzle and nozzle holder
must be inspected each time the nozzle is
secured to the holder. Check that the threads
are not worn, and that the nozzle holder
securely grips the nozzle. The nozzle washer
must also be inspected for wear. Worn nozzle
washers cause thread erosion. A loose fitting
nozzle may eject from the holder under
pressure and could cause severe injury.
• Inspect the RLX Control Handle; refer to the control
handle manual and inspect the following:
• The lever must not seal the opening on the control
unless the safety lever lock is pulled down.
• The handle lever must return to the "up" position
when released.
• The safety lever lock must return to the "up"
position when the handle lever is released.
• Both the handle lever and safety lever lock must
move freely with no drag or binding.
WARNING
Malfunctioning control handles could cause
unintentional actuation of a blast machine, or
prevent a machine from deactivating upon
release. Malfunctioning control handles must
be taken out of service immediately and
repaired or replaced. Serious injury or death
could result from unintentional blasting.
5.1.2 During blasting, do the following:
• Check the control handle for leaks. Refer to the
control handle manual.
• Inspect all couplings and coupling gaskets for leaks.
• Check the blast machine for leaks. If leaks are found
around the pop-up valve, inspection door, or pipe-
fittings at the bottom of the cone, stop blasting
immediately and repair or replace worn parts. If
leaks are allowed to continue, abrasive erosion
could cause irreparable damage to the blast
machine.
• Check all external piping, control hoses, and valves
for leaks. If leaks are found, stop blasting and repair.
• Inspect blast hose, couplings, and nozzle holders for
leaks. At the first sign of a leak, stop blasting and
inspect all items for wear.
WARNING
Leaks around couplings and nozzle holders
indicate worn or loose-fitting parts. Nozzle
holders and couplings that do not fit tight on
hose, and nozzles that do not fit tight in nozzle
holders could disconnect while under pressure.
Impact from nozzles, couplings, hoses, or
abrasive, from parts disconnected by pressure
during operation could cause severe injury.
5.2 Weekly
5.2.1 With the air off, before blasting, do the following:
•Remove the nozzle for inspection. Replace if the
diameter is worn 1/16″or more, or if the liner is
cracked.
• Inspect the air filter element, and clean the bowl.
5.2.2 During Blasting do the following:
• Note the time it takes to fully depressurize the
machine after the control handle is released. When
depressurizing time increases noticeably, inspect
the exhaust muffler per Section 6.5.

SOFT KING BLAST CLEANING SYSTEM Page 11
© 2010 CLEMCO INDUSTRIES CORP. •www.clemcoindustries.com •Manual No. 21598
5.3 Monthly inspection
5.3.1 With the air off, before blasting, do the following:
• Check the pop-up valve’s urethane coating for
cracks and grooves. Replace the pop-up valve at
the first sign of wear. See Section 6.3.
• Inspect the rubber pop-up seal, and replace at the
first sign of wear, drying, or cracking. See Section
6.4.
• Inspect the exhaust muffler for blockage and wear,
per Section 6.5.
• Inspect agitator system. See Section 6.6.
5.4 Periodic Inspection
5.4.1 After transporting check to make sure that the
agitator assembly is in place. See Section 6.6. NOTE:
Keeping the machine upright during transporting will
prevent the agitator from falling out of place.
5.4.2 The remote control system is a safety device.
For safety and to avoid unscheduled down-time,
periodically inspect the internal parts of the inlet valve
and outlet valve. Inspect for wear and lubrication of O-
rings, pistons, springs, seals, and castings. Refer to
Section 6.0 for service maintenance.
5.4.3 The control handle is the actuator of the remote
control system. Periodically clean around the springs,
handle lever, and safety lever lock to ensure that the unit
is free of abrasive and debris that may cause the handle
lever or safety lever lock to bind. Refer to the RLX
Owners Manual for service instructions.
5.5 Lubrication
5.5.1 Once per week while the air is off, put one or
two drops of light weight machine oil in the inlet valve
through the safety petcock. This will lubricate the piston
and O-rings in the inlet and outlet valves.
6.0 SERVICE MAINTENANCE
WARNING
Failure to observe the following before
performing any maintenance could cause
serious injury or death from the sudden release
of compressed air.
•Depressurize the blast machine.
•Lockout and tagout the compressed air
supply.
•Bleed the air supply line to the blast
machine.
6.1 Inlet Valve Inspection and Service. Refer to
Figure 5.
6.1.1 Using a 6-mm hex key, remove the four socket
head cap screws from each cover plate, and remove both
cover plates and gaskets.
6.1.2 The inlet piston assembly must be taken apart
before it can be removed from the body. To dismantle the
piston assembly, insert the peg spanner (Clemco Stock
No. 100027) into the two bore holes in the end of the
piston, while using a 6-mm hex key to remove the
countersunk hex screw.
6.1.3 Using a wooden dowel or similar object, apply
pressure through the screw hole to push the piston out the
inlet side.
6.1.4 Remove the U-seal piston and U-seal assembly.
6.1.5 Carefully remove the U-seal remaining in the
body.
6.1.6 Clean all items and inspect for wear. Replace
worn or damaged parts. The U-seals must fit snug against
the valve body and pistons.
6.1.7 Place a U-seal into the groove in the valve body.
The open side of the seal must face the inlet as shown.
6.1.8 Place a U-seal on the U-seal piston as shown in
Figure 7. The smaller lip on the open side of the seal must
fit within the groove as shown.
6.1.9 Lubricate U-seals with a silicon-based valve
lubricant.
6.1.10 Insert the U-seal piston assembly into the body.
The countersunk side of the piston faces outside as shown
in Figure 5.

SOFT KING BLAST CLEANING SYSTEM Page 12
© 2010 CLEMCO INDUSTRIES CORP. •www.clemcoindustries.com •Manual No. 21598
Figure 5
6.1.11 Insert the countersunk screw. Use the peg
spanner and hex key to tighten the screw securely.
6.1.12 Replace both cover plates and gaskets, using new
gaskets if the used ones are damaged.
6.1.13 If fittings on the body were removed, be certain the
.052" orifice fitting is screwed into port number 1.
6.2 Outlet Valve Inspection and Service. Refer to
Figure 6
6.2.1 Using a 6-mm hex key, remove the four socket
head cap screws from the upper body.
6.2.2 Carefully separate the lower body, piston guide
and piston assembly, and diaphragm.
6.2.3 Clean all items and inspect for wear. Replace
worn or damaged parts.
•Replace the diaphragm if the surface is worn.
•The U-seal must fit snug against the lower body and
piston.
•Examine the upper body and outlet pipe fittings for
wear.
6.2.4 If the piston guide and piston assembly need to be
dismantled, insert the peg spanner into the two bore holes
in the end of the diaphragm piston, while using a 6-mm hex
key to remove the countersunk hex screw.
Figure 6
6.2.5 Place a U-seal on the U-seal piston as shown in
Figure 7. The smaller lip on the open side of the seal must
fit within the groove as shown.
6.2.6 Reassemble in reverse order. The diaphragm
piston must be toward the diaphragm, and the U-seal
piston must fit snug into the lower body.
The open end of the piston U-seal must
face the smaller lip on the piston.
The inside edge of the U-seal must fit into the groove on
the
p
iston, and be tucked behind the smaller li
p
.
The open end of the valve body
U-seal must face toward the
inlet end of the valve.
Port No. 2
Socket Head Ca
p
Screw
(
8
)
Countersunk Hex Scre
w
U-Seal Piston
Cover Plate
(
2
)
Cover Plate Gasket
(
2
)
U-Seal
(
2
)
Piston
Port No. 1
Orifice Fitting
U-Seal Piston
Piston
Socket Head Cap Screw (4)
Upper Body
Piston Guide
Upper Body
U-Seal
Diaphragm
Countersunk
Hex Screw

SOFT KING BLAST CLEANING SYSTEM Page 13
© 2010 CLEMCO INDUSTRIES CORP. •www.clemcoindustries.com •Manual No. 21598
Lubricate the U-seal with a silicon based lubricant
Figure 7
6.2.7 Inspect the exhaust muffler per Section 6.5 before
reassembly.
6.3 Replacing the Pop-Up Valve
6.3.1 To gain access to the pop-up valve, remove the
inspection door assembly.
6.3.2 Use a small pipe wrench to unscrew the pop-up
valve guide, by turning it counter-clockwise. Remove the
pop-up valve and guide from the machine.
6.3.3 Slide the new guide over the pop-up valve stem.
Screw the valve guide (with the pop-up valve in it) into
position inside the machine. Tighten the guide snug with a
wrench, but not wrench-tight. Over-tightening the guide will
make it difficult to remove, next time the pop-up valve
needs replacement.
6.3.4 Put a new gasket on the inspection door assembly
before bolting the door back onto the machine.
6.4 Replacing the Pop-Up Seal
6.4.1 Remove the old seal using fingers, screwdriver, or
similar object, to work the seal out of the retaining groove.
6.4.2 Push the new seal all the way through the port and
then fit it into the retaining groove. For the last few inches,
pull up on the seal and allow it to pop into position.
6.5 Cleaning the Exhaust Muffler.
6.5.1 Clean or replace the muffler body when
depressurizing time increases noticeably. (Average time to
depressurize the blast machine is approximately 2-3
seconds).
6.5.2 To clean, remove the lock-nuts and screws,
separate the parts, and clean the interior of the body with
solvent or compressed air. If the interior is so clogged that
these methods do not clear the muffler, it must be
replaced. The cap must also be replaced, if the urethane
coating is worn away.
6.6 Inspect Agitator System
6.6.1 Empty the machine of media. Turn off the air
supply. Lock-out and tag-out the air supply.
6.6.2 To gain access to the agitator, remove the
inspection door assembly.
6.6.3 Make sure that all fasteners on the tree assembly
are tight.
6.6.4 Make sure that all hose connections are tight.
6.6.5 Inspect mounting pads. Replace before rubber
wears to the metal.
6.7 Media Metering Valve
6.7.1 Empty the machine of media. Turn off the air
supply. Lockout and tagout the air supply and bleed the air
line.
6.7.2 Turn the metering knob counterclockwise to fully
open.
6.7.3 Remove the four cap screws securing the cover
and remove the cover.
6.7.4 Remove the rubber diaphragm.
6.7.5 Inspect all parts, replacing any that are worn.
6.7.6 Reassemble in reverse order. Tighten cap screws
uniformly.
6.8 Removing Damp Media or Clearing
Obstructions From the Blast Machine
6.8.1 To clear minor obstructions or damp media: with
the machine in operation, rapidly open and close the choke
valve several times.
6.8.2 For more difficult obstructions proceed as follows:
6.8.2.1 With the blast machine off, adjust the blast
machine pressure regulator to 0 psi.
6.8.2.2 Close the choke valve, and open the media
metering valve by turning the knob fully counterclockwise.
The open end of the piston U-seal must
face the smaller lip on the piston.
The inside edge of the U-seal must fit
into the groove on the piston, and be
tucked behind the smaller lip.

SOFT KING BLAST CLEANING SYSTEM Page 14
© 2010 CLEMCO INDUSTRIES CORP. •www.clemcoindustries.com •Manual No. 21598
6.8.2.3 Remove the nozzle and nozzle washer, and direct
the hose discharge into a container suitable to hold the
media.
6.8.2.4 While holding the hose securely, press the control
handle and slowly increase pressure at the blast pressure
regulator until the machine pressurizes (around 5 psi). A
heavy flow of media will come out the end of the hose.
6.8.2.5 Continue until the media is dry or the machine is
empty, and then release the control handle.
6.8.2.6 Thoroughly inspect the nozzle holder threads for
wear before reconnecting the nozzle washer and nozzle.
WARNING
The threads on the nozzle and nozzle holder
must be inspected each time the nozzle is
secured to the holder. Check that the threads
are not worn, and that the nozzle holder
securely grips the nozzle. The nozzle washer
must also be inspected for wear. Worn nozzle
washers cause thread erosion. A loose fitting
nozzle may eject from the holder under
pressure and could cause severe injury.
7.0 TROUBLESHOOTING
Refer to the control schematic in Figure 8 to confirm that
control line connections are correct.
WARNING
To avoid serious injury, observe the following
when troubleshooting the machine and remote
controls.
•Turn off the compressed air and Lockout
(Be certain the air supply is off and that it
cannot be started while work is in process)
and tagout (Be certain the air supply is
clearly marked to prevent re-starting while
work is in process) the compressed air
supply.
•When checking the controls requires air,
always enlist the aid of another person to
operate the control handle while holding the
nozzle securely and pointing it in a safe
direction.
•Never strap the remote control handle lever
down in the operating position.
NOTE: This section only identifies conditions and
problems in the blast machine and remote control
system. Always refer to the appropriate section of this
manual, or manuals for accessory equipment, before
servicing the equipment.
7.1 Neither Media Nor Air Comes Out The Nozzle
While The Machine Is Under Pressure
7.1.1 Depressurize the blast machine. After the pop-up
valve has dropped, remove the nozzle, and check for
obstruction.
7.1.2 Make sure the media metering valve and choke
valve are both open.
7.2 Air Only (No Media) Comes Out The Nozzle
7.2.1 Media metering valve may be closed or needs
adjustment. Adjust media flow per Section 4.1.
7.2.2 Blast machine may be empty.
7.2.3 Damp media. See Section 6.8.
7.2.4 Check the media metering valve for obstruction.
See Section 6.7.
7.2.5 Blast pressure may be higher than blast machine
pressure. Adjust pressure per Section 4.2.
7.2.6 Agitator may be turned off, or requires adjustment.
See Section 4.3
7.2.7 Agitator assembly may require service. Inspect
agitator assembly per Section 6.6.
7.3 Heavy Media Flow
7.3.1 Make sure the choke valve is open.
7.3.2 Media metering valve may be open too far. Adjust
media flow per Section 4.1.
7.3.3 Blast machine pressure may be too high above
blast pressure. See Section 4.2
7.4 Media Surging
7.4.1 A certain amount of media surge is normal at
start-up. Should the flow of media continue to surge,
reduce the amount of media in the air stream by adjusting
the metering valve per Section 4.1.

SOFT KING BLAST CLEANING SYSTEM Page 15
© 2010 CLEMCO INDUSTRIES CORP. •www.clemcoindustries.com •Manual No. 21598
Figure 8
Agitator Schematic
Refer to Figure 14
Control Panel Schematic
Refer to Figure 16
Water Pump Schematic
Refer to Figure 15
Remote Control Schematic
Refer to Figure 2
Plumbing Schematic
Refer to Figure 9
Blast Pressure
Regulator
Blast Machine
Regulator
Agitator Pilot Regulator
Blast Pressure Pilot Regulator Blast Machine Pilot Regulator
Water Pump Pilot Regulator
3-Way Valve, Water Pump
3-Way Valve, Agitator
NOTE: Control panel view is from
back of panel. Items are mirrored
when viewed from the front.