FME Sponge information

Posted by Tina Manning on

Applies to all applications: laminated and unlaminated sponges

 
Inspect Safe-T-Sponges® before, during and after use; worn, frayed or damaged sponge should be accounted for and replaced.
 
Protect all sponges from conditions where welding slag, grinding sparks, flame and ignition sources exist.  Laminated sponges are recommended with protection (noted above) where those conditions are encountered.
 
Maximum recommended temperatures are 185°F/80°C for PL/NPL-1 through PL/N-PL-4. Recommended temps are 212°F/100°C for PL/L-PL-5 and larger. High Temperature “HT” sponges have higher temperature ratings; contact factory for details and availability
 
Do not use sponges where sharp edges or surfaces could damage the sponge material.  LE (Laminated Enclosed) sponges may be considered for these applications.
 
Do not contact with acetone and alcohol based solvents as they can damage the sponge material and weaken the laminate bond on laminated sponges.
 
Do not expose laminated sponges to hydraulic and other oils; the laminate bond may be damaged.  Incidental amounts of water based cutting fluids are acceptable.
 
Do not immerse sponges in fluids or expose to continuous amounts of water as this can decrease product effectiveness.  Isolated exposure to small amounts of water is acceptable
 
Cutting or modifying sponges is not recommended.  “Specials” are quickly available from the factory  to prints and drawings
 
Attach lanyards to Safe-T-Sponges® consistent with industry standards.  A tether connecting each handle is required for vertical down applications.
 
Do not step on sponges
 
Vacuuming debris prior to retraction of Safe-T-Sponges® is recommended.

Part # Guide

PL – Base Safe-T-Sponge®
N-PL – Nuclear Specific – small diameter (N-PL 1 – 4)
L-PL – Laminated (L-PL-5 and larger)
(Note: All PL 1-4 and NPL 1-4 are laminated)
LE – Laminate Enclosed
HT – High Temp
ADV and PL 100 and higher- Special Designs

Small Diameter Safe-T-Sponges
PL-1 through PL-4, N-PL-1 through N-PL-4

 
Place the sponge in the tube or opening with the laminate side and the coated loop tip facing up.
 
Many sizes of sponges are available; use a size that is tight but allows for easy insertion and retraction
 
The pull loop is adjustable; place below any machining or milling tools to be used afterward. Loops should be centered for easy extraction
 
Batch control codes are attached to each bag (N-PL sponges only)
 
Tracking sponges is important to insure correct use, retrieval and inventory control.  A manual inventory control system is recommended. Self stick labels are enclosed. RFID implanted sponges are available – contact factory for information.
 
The PL-1 through PL-4 loop tips contain x-ray visible materials to help find parts inadvertently left in boiler tubes. Insert sponges correctly to utilize this feature.
 
Lanyards should be attached to all N-PL sponges consistent with industry standards, where practical this is recommended for PL sponges also.

Large Diameter Safe-T-Sponges

PL/L-PL-5 and larger

 
Insure at least 3/8” (9.5 mm) squeeze on all sides
 
Insert L-PL sponges with laminate side facing up toward the opening.
 
Lanyards should be attached to all sponges consistent with industry standards for nuclear applications and are recommended where practical for fossil and industrial applications.

Custom/Special Safe-T-Sponges specials made from customer supplied specs

 
Sponges are made to customer supplied specifications for unusual openings or applications
 
We assign a unique part number that corresponds to that application
 
Locate the correct opening before use – note correct orientation.
 
Safe-T-Sponges® are designed to “squeeze” and maintain a firm fit.
 
Special lead and design time may be required. Contact factory for details.

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