Using The Ric/Uac Connection - 3M SCOTT AIR-PAK X3 PRO Operating & Maintenance Instructions

OPERATING THE RESPIRATOR

Using the RIC/UAC Connection

The Air-Pak X3 Pro respirator is fitted with a Rapid Intervention Crew/Company Universal Air Connection (RIC/UAC)
System in compliance with NFPA 1981 (2013 edition). The RIC/UAC connection permits emergency replenishment
of an approved SCBA breathing air supply cylinder from an approved air supply source while in use.
The RIC/UAC System is not a quick-charge attachment; do not use it for routine recharging of the cylinder, for
"buddy breathing," for transferring air from another SCBA cylinder, or any unapproved use. The RIC/UAC is for
emergency use only when a respirator user is incapacitated within a hazardous atmosphere.
The RIC/UAC manifold is equipped with a relief valve that
opens when the supply pressure of the emergency air supply
exceeds the maximum pressure rating of the complete
respirator. See Figure 3-20. However, the supply pressure of
the emergency air supply to be connected to the RIC/UAC
must not exceed 5500 psig.
NOTE
The RIC/UAC assembly is designed with integral protection devices. Do not disassemble or modify any part
of this assembly.
Before using the RIC/UAC system
•
A member of the Rapid Intervention Crew/Company must visually inspect the cylinder and cylinder valve for
dents or gouges in the metal or fiber wrapping. If the cylinder and valve assembly shows damage or evidence
of exposure to high heat or flame (such as paint that has turned brown or black, decals that are charred or
missing, a gauge lens that has melted, or elastomeric bumper that is distorted), you must decide whether the
cylinder is suitable for recharging by this method. If you suspect that the cylinder is not safe, find another
method of supplying air to the respirator user.
•
Be certain that the cylinder you are charging is compatible with the complete respirator on which it is installed.
For example, there must be a 2216 psig cylinder installed on a 2.2 respirator; there must be a 4500 psig
cylinder installed on a 4.5 respirator. Verify by inspecting the cylinder and reducer labels to ensure that they
are rated at the same pressure.
To use the RIC/UAC system
1 Verify that the cylinder valve on the user's respirator is fully open by turning the cylinder valve knob fully
counterclockwise (approximately 2 1/2 full turns).
2 Remove the dust cap from the RIC/UAC coupling on the respirator and from the matching coupling on the
RIC/UAC charging hose assembly. Visually inspect both couplings for dirt or damage. Remove any dirt or
contamination from the couplings.
•
If the RIC/UAC charging hose assembly coupling appears damaged, do not attempt to connect the
RIC/UAC charging hose assembly to the respirator. Find an alternate RIC/UAC charging hose assembly.
•
If the RIC/UAC coupling on the respirator appears damaged, do not attempt to connect the RIC/UAC
charging hose assembly to the respirator. Find an alternate method of supplying air to the respirator user.
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RIC/UAC relief valve
Figure 3-20 RIC/UAC relief valve
P/N 595373-01 Rev C 202004