New Features in Garage Equipment
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ONE of the most popular ranges of equipment is that supplied by Tecalemit, Ltd., Great West Road, Brentford, Middlesex. Amongst the new products is a series of air compressors brought out since the Motor Show. The earlier type has single-cylindered air compressors, but now each outfit has its corresponding model with two-stage compression, and at very little more cost.
The maximum pres sure in the single-cylindered type is 150 lb. per sq. in,, and in the twin stage 200 lb. per sq. in, The higher pressure is mainly required where
commercial-vehicle lifts are in operation, and we illustrate a 7-ton example of such a lift in use by the Standard Haulage Co., Ltd., Derby. It is known as the flush-fitting type.
Some operators who employ large pneumatics prefer the two-stage machines because the higher pressure, in conjunction with a reducing valve, gives a bigger reserve of air and avoids a quick drop of pressure in the reservoir.
In connection with towers for the supply of air and water, a particularly attractive unit is marketed at £25. This stands on its own heavy rectangular base, and has an overall height of 12 ft. The water hose is kept in a reel in the base casting. There are twin air outlet hoses and chucks, and a springloaded extension arm by which vehicles can be serviced over a wide radius.
A large demand from users of commercial vehicles is being experienced for the portable combined high-pressure lubricator and tyre inflator known as the Lubrifiator, and marketed at £36. It consists of a small air compressor, a storage tank and a high-pressure drum pump. The air pressure is up to 200 lb., and grease can be delivered at up to 28 times the air pressure supplied. An advantage is that the grease is pumped up from the original drum in which it is delivered, and there is no transference, so that contamination is avoided.
This type is electrically operated, but in another model, which is even more portable, air is supplied from a steel bottle carried on the outfit. In each case a non-return valve on the union permits any adaptor to be removed or replaced, without the loss of grease.
Lubrication batteries are also becoming popular, and the Major type includes pumps for Tecalemit special synchromesh and preselector oils in addition to the more ordinary grades. Here, again the original containers are utilized. Apart from the controls for the oils and grease, two are provided for operating lifts, and there is an overhead swing arm and a 20-ft. air hose, the price being £105.