Straight answers to the questions people ask most when finding and fitting spare parts for a stainless steel 160 mm fume extraction arm.
How do I identify the right spare for my stainless steel extraction arm?
Check the data plate or label on the arm first, along with the manual if you have it. It gives the arm type, size and version, which is what the spare must match. Then identify the part you need, such as a tube, joint, hose, gas spring or damper.
Stainless arms are made in more than one length and strength version, so the exact version matters. Take a photo of the part and the label, and our team can help you confirm the correct spare if you are not sure.
Why are some extraction arms made of stainless steel?
Stainless steel resists corrosion and is easy to clean, so it is chosen where the arm is used in damp, washed-down, hygienic or chemically aggressive environments. Typical examples are food, drink, pharmaceutical and some chemical settings.
When replacing a part on a stainless arm, keep to the same material. A mild steel or painted part may rust, shed particles or fail to meet the hygiene needs of the area, so check the material as well as the dimensions.
What does 'food grade' mean for a replacement hose?
In the UK, materials meant to touch food are covered by the food contact materials rules. In general they must be made so that they do not pass substances into food in amounts that could harm health, change the food's make-up, or affect its taste, smell or appearance. 'Food grade' is a trade description of a hose meant to meet that kind of requirement.
If your arm works in a food or hygiene-sensitive area, replace the hose with one described as suitable for food contact, not an ordinary industrial hose. Ask the supplier for the maker's description or declaration of compliance, and check your site's own requirements.
What are the signs that a gas spring needs replacing?
The main sign is that the arm no longer holds its position. If it sags, rises by itself, or needs a lot of effort to move, the spring has probably lost pressure. You may also see oil weeping from the spring body or a bent rod.
Replace springs with the same force rating as the original, because the arm is balanced to that rating. Using a stronger or weaker spring will upset the balance, and may overload the joints.
Is it safe to replace a gas spring myself?
A competent person can do it by following the maker's instructions, but gas springs are pressurised and the arm can move suddenly when a spring is released. Support the arm before you start, wear eye protection and gloves, and keep fingers clear of pinch points.
Never drill, cut or heat a gas spring. Take the arm out of use while you work, and check that it balances properly before it returns to service. If you are not confident, use a qualified engineer.
What is a shut-off damper used for?
A damper is a valve in the ducting that lets you close off or throttle the airflow to an arm. It is useful when several arms share one extraction system, because closing the arms not in use keeps the suction strong at the one you are working at.
The damper must match the diameter of the arm's duct. After fitting one, check that the system still extracts properly at every working point, since changing one part of the system can change the airflow elsewhere.