Rev: 2 09/2010 Page:1 di 36

Operation and Maintenance Manual

(TRANSLATED VERSION)

Rev: 2 09/2010 Page:2 di 36

INTRODUCTION

Thanking you for the preference you have granted us, SUFAG Company is glad to consider you as one of its true customers and it is sure that the use of this gun is for you reason of great satisfaction. This “Use and Maintenance Handbook” and “Spare Parts” refers to the STREET model. We remember you that every gun can work well and with profit only if it used in the right way and if it receives the

maintenance needed to keep it in peak working order. In consequence of this we recommend you to read this manual

very carefully and to reread it every time you find any problem. In case of need our assistance service is available for pieces of advice or emergencies: tel. +390302295811. SUFAG reserves the right to make possible und useful changes without the obligation of updating. Copyright, recording and divulging of this publication is forbidden in any form (electronic, mechanical, by photocopy, translation or other ways) without a previous authorization of SUFAG. SUFAG doesn’t take any liability on in case of possible inaccuracy or omission being in this publication, as we are aware that we have made all the possible to make it careful and complete. SUFAG, certain of the obtained quality, hopes in the complete satisfaction of the customer.

Rev: 2 09/2010 Page:3 di 36

CONTENTS

1. GUARANTY REGULATIONS .............................................................................................................................................. 5 2. INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................................................... 6

2.1 GENERALITY ................................................................................................................................................................ 6 2.2 USE PRESCRIBED BY THE MANUFACTURER ........................................................................................................ 6 2.3 ORGANIZING PRECAUTIONS .................................................................................................................................... 6 2.4 TAKING DELIVERY OF THE MACHINE ................................................................................................................... 6

3. DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY .................................................................................................................................... 7 4. MACHINE COMPOSITION ................................................................................................................................................... 8

4.1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION ............................................................................................................................................ 8 4.2 OFFERING ...................................................................................................................................................................... 8 4.3 LIST OF THE PARTS ..................................................................................................................................................... 9 4.4 DESCRIZIONE DELLE PARTI ................................................................................................................................... 10 4.5 FUNCTIONING ............................................................................................................................................................ 10

4.5.1 Operating steps ....................................................................................................................................................... 10 5. THE EQUIPMENT ................................................................................................................................................................ 11 6. TECHNICAL CHARACTERISTICS .................................................................................................................................... 11 7. BRANDING AND IDENTIFICATION ................................................................................................................................ 13 8. GUN MOVEMENTS ............................................................................................................................................................. 13

8.1 TRANSPORT AND MOVEMENTS ............................................................................................................................. 13 9. ASSEMBLING AND INSTALLATION ............................................................................................................................... 14

9.1 PLACEMENT ................................................................................................................................................................ 14 9.2 ASSEMBLING .............................................................................................................................................................. 14

9.2.1 Fase 1: Fitting the centring tube in the foundation tube ......................................................................................... 14 9.2.2 Phase 2: combination of the turning support with the centring tube. ..................................................................... 15 9.2.3 Phase 3: assembly of the bearing support............................................................................................................... 16 9.2.4 Phase 4: Fastening of the piston ............................................................................................................................. 17 9.2.5 Phase 5: Assembly of the weather station. ............................................................................................................. 18 9.2.6 Phase 6: Assembly of the mast and lifting ............................................................................................................. 19 9.2.7 Phase 7: Assembly of the signal cables and air/water hoses. ................................................................................. 20 9.2.8 Phase 8: Assemble of the HYDROMOD valve. .................................................................................................... 21

9.3 ROTATION ................................................................................................................................................................... 22 10. USE .................................................................................................................................................................................... 23

10.1 PRECAUTIONS BEFORE USE ................................................................................................................................... 23 10.2 SWITCH-ON FOR AUTOMATIC VERSION.............................................................................................................. 23 10.3 SWITCH-ON FOR MANUAL VERSION .................................................................................................................... 23

11. VALVE UNIT.................................................................................................................................................................... 24 11.1 AUTOMATIC VALVE UNIT ....................................................................................................................................... 25

11.1.1 Wiring of ILME socket .......................................................................................................................................... 25 11.2 MANUAL VALVE UNIT ............................................................................................................................................. 26

11.2.1 Manual STEP functioning ...................................................................................................................................... 26 12. STOPPING AND SWITCHING OFF ............................................................................................................................... 27

12.1 STOPPING AND SWITCHING OFF ........................................................................................................................... 27 12.2 WITH THE MACHINE AT A STANDSTILL .............................................................................................................. 27

13. SNOW PRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................................................... 28 13.1 BASIC PRINCIPLES FOR ARTIFICIAL SNOWMAKING ........................................................................................ 28

14. STORAGE ......................................................................................................................................................................... 29

Rev: 2 09/2010 Page:4 di 36

15. PRACTICAL AND SAFETY WARNING ........................................................................................................................ 30 15.1 CORRECT USE ............................................................................................................................................................. 31

16. MAINTENANCE .............................................................................................................................................................. 32 16.1 NOZZLES ...................................................................................................................................................................... 32 16.2 EXTERNAL CLEANING ............................................................................................................................................. 33 16.3 NUCLEATORS ............................................................................................................................................................. 33 16.4 SPECIAL MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS ................................................................................................................ 34

16.4.1 Operations of periodical control of your fitting up................................................................................................. 34 16.4.2 Operations of general control for your gun ............................................................................................................ 34 16.4.3 Maintenance of the control module in the shelter .................................................................................................. 34

17. IDENTIFICATION OF THE ANOMALIES..................................................................................................................... 35 17.1 MAIN ANOMALIES..................................................................................................................................................... 35 17.2 SPARE PARTS ORDER FORM ................................................................................................................................... 36

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:5 di 36

1. GUARANTY REGULATIONS

SUFAG Company ensures that the gun described in the guaranty certificate hasn’t any kind of anomalies and defects due to the material used and the manufacture.

SUFAG Company ensures the gun for 2 winter seasons starting from the delivery date. Within this period of time it undertakes to repair or replace the components that have recognised defects of construction.

The return document of the defective components will have to contain all the data of the identification tag of the gun.

Every work done and inspection, as even possible dispatch costs and delivery changes costs are completely dependent on purchaser. All the interventions requested to the SUFAG Company could be accepted or refused according to its own opinion.

Spare parts replaced in guaranty will have to be returned in free port within at least thirty days by the seat of the SUFAG Company, on the contrary case the guaranty will end.

Reparations, replacements and breakings made during the guaranty period without the authorization of the SUFAG Company cause the end of the guaranty. Parts that for their nature or for their destination of use are subject to wear and tear, or that have been damaged by a bad maintenance or by an incorrect use are left out of the guaranty. However in any case purchaser can’t expect the compensation for damage, whatever is its nature or caused by the use of the gun.

Any controversy is devolved to the territorial competence of the judicial authority of Brescia (Italy).

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:6 di 36

2. INTRODUCTION

2.1 GENERALITY The present book helps you to examine closely all the information about your snow generator and to exploit all its possibilities of efficient use according to what is established by the manufacturer. Moreover you can find here helpful information that let you know risks and dangers in useful time to avoid them, to reduce repair costs and stop time, and at the same time to increase the life and dependability of the snow generator. The present instructions handbook has always to be at ready disposal where the snow generator works. Before stating to work, this handbook has to be read by everyone who works at or with the snow generator. And even the personnel working occasionally whit the generator (for example for the assembly or maintenance) has to read and understand this handbook. In any case you have to consider the instructions contained in this handbook. This refers particularly to the general and specific security instructions that you find in the first and proper chapter. If you have any doubt, you can consult the person in charge of protection and security in your zone.

2.2 USE PRESCRIBED BY THE MANUFACTURER Snow generator STREET in your possession is conceived only to cover the ski slopes with snow. For other different uses not described before, the Company doesn’t take any responsibility on. From the building and dependability points of view, the present snow generator is made according to the present condition of technology and in accordance with the accepted security rules. Nevertheless the snow generator could be dangerous for physical indemnity of the user or third persons. A use in accordance with what said before includes even that you stick to the use and maintenance methods expected by the manufacturer. Any kind of modification causing damages to the snow generator rules the manufacturer out of responsibility.

2.3 ORGANIZING PRECAUTIONS To complete this instructions handbook you have to consider even the general accident-prevention regulations and these on protection of the environment which exists in the country where the gun is used. It refers even to the supply of protective equipments and to the use of them by the personnel. According to what written in this handbook, make yourself sure that the personnel working at or whit the snow generator knows risks and dangers connected with the gun. Stop immediately the snow generator in case of anomalous behaviour which influence in a relevant way the security. Then you have to communicate the anomaly to the person in charge or to the proper office.

2.4 TAKING DELIVERY OF THE MACHINE When you take delivery of the gun, it’s essential to control that it has all its components; if it isn’t complete, inform immediately our proper office.

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:7 di 36

3. DECLARATION OF serial number

Type of gun: “STREET” snow generator Customer: …………………………………………………………… Serial n°:…………………………………………………………… Serial n°:……………………………………………………………

Serial n°:……………………………………………………………

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:8 di 36

4. MACHINE COMPOSITION

4.1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION STREET is a bi-fluid snow gun (high pressure) with external mixture, with fixed or modular capacity. The high pressure technology with external supply, together with the centralised nozzle layout, allows optimising the snow production on installations slopes in medium and high pressure (superior to 15 bar). In normal or marginal conditions of temperature. STREET is particularly indicated for narrow slopes (between 2 and 15 meters), in every gradient or in slopes with a difficult access. .

4.2 OFFERING

STREET, having the aim of adapting in different applications and environmental problems or problems of networking, can be found in the following models:

Two versions:

o Street Autom.: optimised for humid temperatures going from -2 and -10°C; o Street Manual: pole controlled in manual mode.

Networked operation: the gun is supplied by water by two underground pipelines, one for water and one for air;

One automatic or manual modulating valve unit: o Automatic modulating valve unit: it is made by a fixed part and by parts which are controlled by

electro-valves in order to have a progressive opening. o Manual modulating valve unit: it is made by a fixed part and by parts which are controlled manually.

Two methods of control: o Manual: Started by the operator in manual mode. o Automatic/Networking: it is piloted by supervisor software installed on the principal PC developed

by SUFAG. NOTE: STREET consists of a single compact, lightweight extruded aluminium element to ensure that installation and dismantling is as simple as possible for the snowmakers.

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:9 di 36

4.3 LIST OF THE PARTS The snow generator is essentially made up by:

1) 1 ½” WATER HOSE 2) ½” AIR HOSE 3) CONTROL CABLE FOR AUTOMATIC VALVE UNIT 4) WEATHER SENSOR (temperature & relative humidity) 5) HYDRANT CONTROL CABLE 6) STREET EXTRUDED ELEMENT 7) VALVE UNIT 8) BEARING ARM 8500 9) HEAD 10) TURNING HOLDER 11) FIXED CENTERING TUBE 12) ELEVATING CYLINDER

9

7

3

12

2

10

6

5

4

11

8

1

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:10 di 36

4.4 DESCRIZIONE DELLE PARTI

1. 1 ½” water hose : it carries the water from the hydrant to the gun. 2. Air hose: it carries the air from the compressor or from the pipe to the gun. 3. Control cable: connect the panel to valve unit for operation of the solenoid valves. 4. Weather sensor: it measures dry temperature and relative humidity. 5. Hydromod control cable: it connects the cable with the water valve 6. Extruded element: tubular aluminium section 5.5 m long (also includes the head). 7. Valve unit: Contains the solenoid valves which open the steps (also contains a heating element). 8. Bearing arm: it hooks the 8, 5m rod to the revolving frame. 9. Head: Incorporated in the extruded element; it is made up of nozzles and nucleators for the water vaporization

and nucleation, and of a heating system and electro-valves. 10. Turning holder: supports the mast. 11. Fixed centring tube: it is strictly fixed to the shelter; it carries the stick and allows its rotation. 12. Elevating cylinder : hydraulic jack for the vertical movement of the stick (it is supplied one for 5/10 sticks)

4.5 FUNCTIONING

4.5.1 Operating steps

Operating steps

Fixed level Minima

Level 1 Min.+Step 1

Level 2 Min.+Step 2

Level 3 Min.+Step 1+Step 2

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:11 di 36

5. THE EQUIPMENT

The gun is provided with the following current equipment:

N° 1 Testing card

N° 1 Technical documentation of the cannon

CAUTION: control the real presence of all the equipment listed (when you receive the gun); the manufacturer is not responsible for the missed components which are not recorded in the dispatch documents and not signed by the transporters.

6. TECHNICAL CHARACTERISTICS

General information:

1) Snow production: max 21 m3/h.

2) Voltage: 400 Volt, 50 Hz. 3) Nominal current: 1 A. 4) Power installed: 0,1. 5) Weight: 90 kg. 6) Air consumption: from 54 to 72 Nm

3/h at 5-6 bars.

7) Range: from 4 to 15 m. 8) Noise level: 31dB at 50m

Gun’s head

Material Aluminium

Nozzles 9 brass nozzles, distributed over the head vertically.

Nucleators 3, distributed over the head vertically.

Working pressure From 12 to 40 bar

Capacity From 1,6 to 9 m3/h (with 3 opened modules)

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:12 di 36

Specific information: - Protection from the frost of the valve unit with 1 thermo-resistors. - Manual lifting up of the gun adjustable on 2 positions. - Water connection with quick-coupling 1,5” Camlock. - Weather sensor to measure dry temperature (between -25 and +40°C) and humidity (from 0 and 100% RH). - Manual rotation. These data can be changed only for a technical improvement. They aren’t bound to the effects of the equipment. SUFAG reserves the right to adopt changes in any time or improvements in the project and in the making of the components without running into obligations to introduce changes in the models made before.

Overall dimensions

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:13 di 36

7. BRANDING AND IDENTIFICATION

When you receive your snow generator, check that its branding corresponds to that one in the figure below and that it is put on stick of the gun

8. GUN MOVEMENTS

8.1 TRANSPORT AND MOVEMENTS If, in case of need of transport, you have to lift or shift your gun, follow the following instructions:

Keep in safety conditions people and things which are in the place interested by the movement of the gun as the rule provides.

Be sure that it is turned off and disconnected from power supply.

Check the closure of water valve (Hydromod).

Unhook the stick from the support pole; take off the turning pole with the assembled pole and then take out the centering pipe (see chapter “assembling and installation”).

Proceed with the displacement checking that the transport is steady.

The head of the gun has to be protected from bumps.

The ILME socket on valve unit must be protected from knocks.

Be sure that the effective capacity is more or equal as the weight of the gun reported in the handbook.

CAUTION: the load doesn’t have to move above people or things, while you lift or shift the gun (packed or not) in the air.

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:14 di 36

9. ASSEMBLING AND INSTALLATION

9.1 PLACEMENT

With its light, compact and simple structure, STREET is easy and quick to assemble and disassemble.

Put the components near the shelter prepared on purpose on the slopes borders. NOTE: Warrant safety conditions for the workers and consumers of the equipment, according to the laws in force.

The gun must be installed already pointing in its future operating direction. Make sure that this is not upwind; this will cause poor snow quality and machine performance.

CAUTION: in case the gun is in a dangerous position, it has to be indicated with signs and protected with shockproof roadblocks.

Spaces around the gun will enable the maintenance and repair interventions in total safety conditions.

9.2 ASSEMBLING

CAUTION: YOU HAVE ABSOLUTELY TO RESPECT ALL THE LOWS IN FORCE ABOUT THE SAFETY.

9.2.1 Fase 1: Fitting the centring tube in the foundation tube

Operations: 1. Unscrew the fastening screw of the cover plate which is on the side of the shelter. 2. Pull the cover plate out of the foundation tube. 3. Fit the centring tube in the foundation tube.

NOTE: control that the nib goes into its place (take a look at the following page) and that the ground cable is connected.

1

3

2

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:15 di 36

9.2.2 Phase 2: combination of the turning support with the centring tube.

Operations: 1. Put the turning support on the bearing pipe 2. Fix the frame by the means of the lifting eye nut

TURNING BEARING

1

2

FIXING SCREW FOR

THE COVER PLATE

CENTERING TUBE

DI

CENTRAGGIO

NIB

COVER PLATE

SCREW FOR

THE GROUND

CABLE

FOUNDATION PIPE

EYELET FOR

NIB

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:16 di 36

9.2.3 Phase 3: assembly of the bearing support.

Operations:

1) Fix the bearing arm to the turning big pipe through the Ø 28 pin, blocking it with the proper lock. NOTE: the bearing arm has to be put in the direction of the lifting piston.

2) Block the bearing arm to the big turning pipe through the Ø 19 pin, blocking it with the proper lock as indicated in the figure below.

BEARING ARM

OF THE PIPE

BEARING ARM

PIN Ø28

SECURITY

PIN

PIN Ø19

1

2

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:17 di 36

9.2.4 Phase 4: Fastening of the piston

Operations: 1. Fit the base of the piston into the seat on the turning support tube and fix it with the Ø 16 pin. 2. Put the pin between the bearing arm and the piston-stem. 3. Fix the pins with the proper lock. NOTE: The piston is used to lift the pipe; then it will be removed.

2

3

PINS

LEVER FOR THE

PIPE LIFTING

PISTON

If the first time the jack of manoeuvres doesn’t work, it contains air: 1- open the breather (2 turns) 2- pump until the oil outlet 3- close the breather 4- pump: if the jack doesn’t work, put off the breather and add oil.

1

GREASE GUN

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:18 di 36

9.2.5 Phase 5: Assembly of the weather station.

Operations: 1. Unscrew the screw as indicated in the figure (screw M16) 2. Insert the fixing stirrup. 3. Block the support screwing the screw M16 up NOTE: to remove the sensor, unscrew the PG29 on the base of the cover.

FIXING STIRUP

METEO

SENSOR COVER

CAPANNINA

PG29

METEO SENSOR

M16 SCREW

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:19 di 36

9.2.6 Phase 6: Assembly of the mast and lifting

Operations: 1. Put the rod in the bearing arm, in the disassembled collars, and screw the 4 superior screws up. NOTE: if the weather station is disassembled, assemble it again. 1. Valve unit has to be 10 cm out of the collar (have a look at the figure). 2. Remove the Ø19 pin between the bearing arm and the big turning pipe. 3. Lift the mast by the means of the lever on the side of the piston. 4. Put the Ø19 pin between the bearing arm and the big turning pipe, fix it with the proper support.

CAUTION: on the mast, by the means of PN 95 bearing arm, you have to install before the water and air hose. 5. Take off the pressure to the cylinder with the proper handle until the pipe’s weight is supported by the

Ø19 pin. 6. Unscrew the silentblock of the bearing arm until it is touching the turning tube (this prevents the mast

from swaying).

CAUTION: Now it is possible to remove the piston.

2

1

10 cm

VENTILATION KNOB

SECURITY PIN

Ø19 PIN

3

4

5

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:20 di 36

9.2.7 Phase 7: Assembly of the signal cables and air/water hoses.

Operations : 1. Connect the communication cable between the socket on the valve unit and the control valve in the pit. 2. Connect the water and air hoses first to the hydrant in the pit and then to the gun’s camlock.

CAUTION: Always check that the snap couplings have engaged correctly before pressurising. If not properly secured, the water and air hoses may break loose and constitute a hazard when the hydrant is turned on. After connection, also ensure that the levers on the female camlock do not move from the closed position.

3. Connect the cable of the weather sensor.

2

1

3

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:21 di 36

The figure below represents the disposition of the cables with the gun shaped in networking: there isn’t the compressor and the air pin is in the shelter.

9.2.8 Phase 8: Assemble of the HYDROMOD valve.

Operations: 1- Link HYDROMOD valve with the water adduction line 2- Connect the water hose to the Hydromod valve outlet 3- Connect the air hose to the air solenoid valve.

1

3

2

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:22 di 36

9.3 ROTATION The gun has to be place in its future position of working.

Continue only after assembling completely the gun and keeping in safety the near personnel.

Take out the level which is hooked to the piston.

Fit the level into the hole show here.

Unscrew the lifting eye nut from the turning support.

Turn the gun using the level’s strength. NOTE : Pay attention that the head is not placed against the wind otherwise the snow quality and the gun working will be compromised.

Screw the lifting eye nut up.

Put the level in its starting position.

CAUTION: Pay attention that the cables aren’t taut.

LIFTING EYE NUT

PISTON LEVER

HOLE FOR THE

ROTATION

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:23 di 36

10. USE

10.1 PRECAUTIONS BEFORE USE Before the snow generator starts working, we advise you:

Keep in safety conditions people and things near the gun.

Guarantee safety conditions for workers and users of the equipment according to the regulations in force.

CAUTION: if the gun is placed in a dangerous position, it has to be marked with signs and protect with shockproof barriers.

Control that there isn’t any piece of ice on the gun that compromises its working and security.

Control that the gun is completed in all its parts and correctly assembled.

Control that the connections are correct and that the place in front of the gun is empty.

CAUTION: when you switch the gun on, it is set up in the autonomous modality; so if the weather conditions allow it, the snow production can begin immediately.

10.2 SWITCH-ON FOR AUTOMATIC VERSION

Select ON in the shelter switch.

10.3 SWITCH-ON FOR MANUAL VERSION

Open the hydrant manually.

Open the other steps if conditions allow.

CAUTION: Make a visual inspection of the water and air hoses for leaks. Check that they do not move into strange positions or kink while being pressurised. If this occurs, switch off the machine at once and position the hoses correctly. NOTE: check snow production regularly and make any changes needed for correct operation.

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:24 di 36

11. VALVE UNIT

The valve unit is located on the bottom of the stick and allows the opening up of the functioning steps of snowgun. On it are mounted rapid attacks for water hoses( female camlock 1 ½”) and air one (male camlock ½”). Moreover other two exhaust valves are available for emptying of the stick, when one of the steps is closed. . There are two versions at your disposal:

Automatic valve unit: controller electrically bu a solenoid valves from the PC control.

Manual valves unit: with obturators managed manually for the opening of each step.

CAMLOCK 1 ½” (WATER)

CAMLOCK ½” (AIR)

DRAIN VALVE

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:25 di 36

11.1 AUTOMATIC VALVE UNIT

The automatic valve unit has a conduct always opened and two more controller by a solenoid valves. When conditions permit, these are driven by system program, increasing thus the water throw of the snowgun. The solenoid valves are wired to ILME socket with 6 poles, located on the cover carter to which the control cable will be connected.

11.1.1 Wiring of ILME socket

ILME SOCKET CONTROL CABLE

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:26 di 36

11.2 MANUAL VALVE UNIT

The manual valve block has also a conduct always opened and two more managed manually by the obturators. In this case the operator can decide independently to open or to close various steps, in base of the weather conditions.

11.2.1 Manual STEP functioning

As shown in the figure below, over the manual valve block adhesive stickers were applied with indication of the first and the second step on it.

CAUTION: Do not reverse the order of steps opening, otherwise you’ll risk to do a very wet snow or ice on the shooting area.

Step in function Opening temperature

Min. -3°C

Min.+Step 1 -5°C

Min.+Step 2 -6,5°C

Min.+Step 1+Step 2 -8,5°C

OPENING

PROVISIONAL OPENING

TEMPERATURE

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:27 di 36

12. STOPPING AND SWITCHING OFF

12.1 STOPPING AND SWITCHING OFF

This section describes the difficulties which may arise if the gun is stopped incorrectly.

Enter the controlled stop procedure on the GSS and wait for the hydrant to turn off and the air valve to turn off.

CAUTION: It is important to wait for the programmed switch-off times. Otherwise, ice may form inside the machine’s water lines, causing problems for future operation. Quindi attendere pazientemente.

Switch of the electricity supply switch in the pit.

12.2 WITH THE MACHINE AT A STANDSTILL If ice and hard snow have accumulated on the head or frame of the snowmaker, clean with a hot air blower.

CAUTION: Never clean the head of the snowmaker with abrasive tools or by hitting the machine.

CAUTION: Protective goggles and gloves must be worn at all times when cleaning the gun. .

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:28 di 36

13. SNOW PRODUCTION The gun allows the production of different qualities of snow. There are 9 levels of variation and they go from quality 1 (dry snow) to quality 9 (humid and heavy snow). Usually the snow produced is that of quality 5 and it corresponds to a 400Kg/m

3 density. This density is obtained with 1,

5°C water and a dampness inferior to 80%. Many factors influence the quality of the snow produced and the main are:

Dry atmospheric temperature.

Humidity of the air

Temperature of the used water Experience made on the field has suggested us that the snow production on the slopes has to be made with different types of snow and in different moments. The essential reason is that to produce a snow of quality n.6 or 7 at the beginning of the season in order to create a more compact film DI FONDO. Snow quality n.5 is a good compromise between compactness and suitability for skiing on, and it is the kind of snow suggested for the second production phase. Snow quality n.3 is ideal to keep the snow thickness wanted up during the season.

CAUTION: Do not ever use your gun against the wind, because this can compromise its correct working and cause the freezing of the module. Below you can visualise the chart for the conversion of the dry temperature into the humid temperature

CONVERSIONE DA TEMPERATURA SECCA A TEMPERATURA UMIDA [°C] HR +3 +2 +1 0 -1 -2 -3 -4 -5 -6 -7 -8 -9 -10

90% +2,4 +1,5 +0,5 -0,6 -1,5 -2,5 -3,6 -4,5 -5,4 -6,3 -7,3 -8,4 -9,4 -10,3

80% +1,8 +0,9 -0,1 -1,1 -2,1 -3,1 -4,0 -4,9 -5,8 -6,8 -7,7 -8,6 -9,6 -10,6

70% +1,1 +0,1 -0,7 -1,7 -2,6 -3,7 -4,6 -5,5 -6,3 -7,2 -8,1 -9,1 -10,0 -11,0

60% +0,3 -0,7 -1,5 -2,3 -3,2 -4,1 -5,0 -5,9 -6,7 -7,6 -8,5 -9,3 -10,4 -11,2

50% -0,5 -1,3 -2,2 -3,0 -3,8 -4,7 -5,6 -6,4 -7,2 -8,1 -9,0 -9,9 -10,7 -11,7

40% -1,3 -2,1 -2,9 -3,7 -4,4 -5,2 -6,1 -6,9 -7,7 -8,5 -9,4 -10,3 -11,1 -12,0

30% -2,0 -2,8 -3,5 -4,3 -5,0 -5,8 -6,7 -7,4 -8,1 -9,0 -9,8 -10,6 -11,4 -12,3

20% -2,9 -3,5 -4,3 -5,0 -5,7 -6,5 -7,2 -7,9 -8,7 -9,4 -10,2 -11,0 -11,8 -12,7

10% -3,5 -4,3 -5,0 -5,6 -6,3 -7,1 -7,8 -8,5 -9,2 -9,9 -10,6 -11,4 -12,3 -13,1

13.1 BASIC PRINCIPLES FOR ARTIFICIAL SNOWMAKING That of snow production is a physical process and it realizes the shift of the water state from that liquid into that solid by the means of the cooling under the freezing point which is conventionally fixed at 0°C. This process is influenced by the following factors:

1. Air temperature and humidity: these factors are the main element of the process. From their values derive the value of the humid bulb temperature, in slang even said humid temperature, which represents the T reached by a body exposed to the external T when it is wet and consequently it tends to cool down because of the partial evaporation of its water. The “humid” temperature draws away from the dry temperature the more the relative air temperature is low and consequently a further water evaporation is favoured and consequently the down cooling, due to the evaporation, increases. When the relative humidity reaches the maximum value of 100%, and consequently any other water evaporation is not possible, both the dry and the humid temperature values coincide. In theory you can make snow when the humid temperature is inferior to the freezing point 0°C, i.e. it is a negat ive; in practise you can’t start the gun with a capacity that is both reliable and significantly and economically appreciable until about -2°C humid. This value is the remarkable result achieved in the last years after intensive works of technical development. Weather data influence the technical feasibility of the snow production, regardless of type and dimension of the gun used.

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:29 di 36

2. Water temperature: together with the weather data of the point n.1, this value is of great importance in order to improve the working of the gun; the higher is the initial water temperature, the intenser is the cooling that water has to undergo in order to go down under the freezing point. It is very important to cool the water supply of the gun at a temperature of about +1°C: in a temperature situation of -2 /-5 °C the gun reduces its working power of about 15% for every water temperature degree which is higher than +1°C. Water temperature influences unlikely the technical feasibility of the snow production, but influences the gun productivity and the starting temperature of the gun.

3. Fine atomization of the drops: a fine atomization of the drops improves decidedly the snow transformation, because, for the same weight, the cooling surface increases in the small drops. Besides it is very important that the nozzles can atomize the water in a wide field of pressure (fro 15 to 40 bar) without changing too much the size of the drops and avoiding to atomize in a too fine way the drops in high pressures.

4. Continuous adjustment of the water capacity: the differentiation of the nozzles sizes, the work flexibility between 15 and 40 bar and the presence on board of a control valve for the flow allow the gun not only to work with a perfect continuity between the minimum and maximum capacity without changes in value, but also to have the possibility to realize the same value of capacity with more than one crowns set-up and pressure. This gives the possibility to choose according to the available net pressure, to work with a higher pressure and an inferior number of crowns or, on the contrary, with more crowns at a inferior pressure.

The sum of all these elements has allowed to create a product which has unbeatable performances; above all with regard to the snow quality and even the efficiency in the field of the marginal temperatures, situation today more and more recurring.

14. STORAGE NOTE: At the end of the season you have to disassemble the gun and to put all its components in the warehouse, Before this, we recommend you to do a general control of the gun in order to control the condition of the different elements. In case you find worn out elements or in bad conditions, you have immediately to make their replacement calling the technical service of the SUFAG. Before retiring, a good maintenance of the gun involves:

A longer life of the gun.

Saving in time at the moment of the START-UP at the beginning of the season.

Time optimization. Operations:

Control the conditions of the pipes and the water pipe and be sure that they don’t have any leaks and cracks;

Control the clamping of the connectors and if necessary replace the packings;

Close the camlock of the water to avoid some dirt can enter in the water intake;

The gun has to be stored in a clean and dry place;

The head of the gun, together with the nozzles, has to be absolutely protected.

Electric material has to be stored in a clean and dry place.

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:30 di 36

15. PRACTICAL AND SAFETY WARNING

Any possible modification has to be requested directly to the SUFAG and all the distinctive information of the gun and the reasons of the modification have to be specified; in case of agreement they have to be made only by personnel authorized by SUFAG and in reference to precise indications of it. The enclosed PLC wiring diagram has to be used only by the technical specialized personnel which is able to do maintenances and controls. It is absolutely forbidden to use it in order to modify the gun. No authorized maintenance/ replacement of one or more components or groups of the gun, the use of attachments and materials different from these advised by the manufacturer could represent a danger of accident and they released the manufacturer from civil and penal liabilities.

Control that the source of energy is that of the type required and that it is in its optimal working conditions (cables, pressure pipes, etc.).

While the gun is working, make yourself sure that any unauthorized person doesn’t get closer to the gun or controls.

Unauthorized people can’t enter into the working section and above all in the near of the working (even staying) gun.

In case of the presence of third (outsiders or colleagues) in the near of the gun, the worker has to pay attention to their safety and to warn them in case of danger.

CAUTION: Before intervening on the gun, make yourself sure that the sources of energy are physically disconnected (water and current feeding).

The gun can’t be used for works which are different from these expected and for which it was built.

Keep the work and bordering zones clean and in order; fat, oil, water and any other things or materials that can be an obstacle or dangerous don’t have to be present.

While the gun is working, do not get closer to its moving components.

Do not tamper with or change the security systems.

Do not modify or temper with the gun except for the allowed operations which are expected by the instructions handbook.

Do not use components of the gun separated by the rest of the group or the configuration expected by the manufacturer.

A good rule is to install a magneto-thermic protection at the beginning of the electric net in order to preserve the wires from short circuits or overloads.

Do not keep anything flammable like petrol, solvents, gas bottles… next to the gun.

Arrange an adequate fire equipment, like a fire extinguisher loaded with CO2, in the near of the gun; do not never use water to extinguish a fire.

Pay attention to the wear and tear of the electric wires; replace them if they are damaged; use wires with an adequate section and always according to normalize rules.

The gun is furnished of every securities and control equipments; however the user has to control its right working.

Be sure of the protection equipment on the machine, particularly on the slopes.

Signal and protect places in which there are connection flexible cables, in order to avoid any damages or accidents.

Empty the flexible cables after the usage of the machine.

Pay attention not to spoil the machine during the removal operation of ice or snow on the machine.

During the functioning and the maintenance of the machine it is compulsory the usage of protecting glasses, gloves.

Do not come up to the machine with free flames.

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:31 di 36

The quality of the water usable for the snow production must be compatible with the functioning of mechanic members, so it must be lacking in stones, sand, leafs and other stuff; it must have all pureness features of drinking water.

Open and close the water manual valves very slowly to avoid impulsive pressure variations and recoils.

15.1 CORRECT USE The gun has to be used only for the employment described by the manufacturer and according to all the present security rules. The Manufacturer declines all liability for injuries or damages arising from improper use. SUFAG can’t provide for any circumstances which can represent a possible danger. Dangers considered in this handbook don’t cover all the possible risks. We always recommend that the method of work respects the general accident-prevention regulations and that the material used isn’t damaged and consequently made dangerous. .

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:32 di 36

16. MAINTENANCE Every operation of maintenance has to be made by the operator in a completely security condition and with the gun absolutely still.

CAUTION: before beginning any kind of operation, disconnect the electric supply and be sure that the gun is in a stable position and steady against sliding and unexpected movements. We advise the worker or the personnel staff to read carefully the present “Use-Maintenance” handbook in order to have a more wide knowledge about the gun working, the components and the periodical operations which have to do.

CAUTION: follow only and exclusively the operations of maintenance you find in this handbook. In case of difficulty or extraordinary operations, we advise you to call the SUFAG technical/assistance service.

16.1 NOZZLES If one or more nozzles are blocked, you can have dangerous drippings with formation of ice and a decrease of the performances of the gun. The correct/incorrect shape of the spurt is that indicated below

a) corrett b) incorrect

Instructions to clean the nozzles:

While the gun is working, locate the dirty nozzles and make a note of their positions.

CAUTION: Warn the surrounding personnel that you are working on the gun.

Stop the gun and disconnect the electric supply.

Close the manual valve of the water in the shelter. NOTE: the operations of cleanliness/ replacement of the nozzles have to be made in a clean and safety places.

Unscrew the nozzle with the provided hexagonal spanner of 12 or 17.

Clean the nozzle with an air spurt.

CAUTION: Check that there is no grease or oil on the inside.

Paying particular attention screw the nozzle in its place and screw it up with the hexagonal spanner of 12 or 17.

CAUTION: This procedure should not be carried out with the head cold, because ice slows down the operation.

After the assembly, control the seal and the correct working of the nozzles.

CAUTION: Replace all the nozzles after 5000 hours of work.

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:33 di 36

16.2 EXTERNAL CLEANING Pay attention to the formations of ice both on the frame and on the nozzles place when you use the gun in extreme atmospheric conditions (under -20°C). In any case you have to remove the ice by the means of suitable tools like: warm air generator, phon or materials that don’t hamper the surface of the gun. NOTE: do not ever use tools like: hammers, drifts, etc…you can damage the zinc-plating of the frame or break the sensor with the strong vibrations, etc…

16.3 NUCLEATORS The nucleator consists of:

1) Monobloc nucleation unit. 2) Front gasket. 3) Filter. 4) Rear gasket.

The nucleators must only be cleaned by skilled SUFAG staff. If the nucleators become clogged, contact SUFAG’s after-sales service. NOTE: The good working of these components affects greatly the working of the gun and the quality of the snow. Instructions to clean the nucleators:

While the gun is working, locate the dirty nucleators and make a note of their positions.

CAUTION: Never touch the nucleators when the machine is in operation

Stop the gun and disconnect the electric supply.

Close the manual valve of the water in the shelter. NOTE: the operations of cleanliness/ replacement of the nozzles have to be made in a clean and safety places.

Unscrew the nucleator with hexagonal spanner of 12.

Unscrew the filtering cartridge with a flat screwdriver;

Screw again the filtering cartridge.

CAUTION: Check that there is no grease or oil on the inside.

Screw again the nucleator with the spanner of 12.

After assembly, check that the nucleators are free from leaks and operating correctly.

CAUTION: Replace all the nucleators every 5000 working hours.

1

4 3 2

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:34 di 36

16.4 SPECIAL MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS

16.4.1 Operations of periodical control of your fitting up

The following list of operations has to be additional to a general visual control.

Control each gun periodically and their good external condition, the presence of all the pipes and condition of frame.

Control all the shelters periodically and be sure about their accessibility during the period of production.

Close and mark the accesses of all the guns to avoid accidents and the deterioration of the material.

Control the condition of the nozzles before the snow production.

Clear the flexible cables and the pipes from the snow after each snow production.

16.4.2 Operations of general control for your gun

The gun has to be completely checked every season in order to see possible wears and/or damages.

Normal general look.

No presence of ice, snow or foreign bodies on the gun.

Good conditions of the electric cables and connections.

Flexible pipes not freezed and in good conditions.

Empty pipes and nucleators and in good conditions.

No nut or bolt missing.

16.4.3 Maintenance of the control module in the shelter

CAUTION: do not put the components in tension to avoid electric shocks and damages during the maintenance.

Control the differential.

Connect the electric connections.

Control that any foreign body is in the control board.

Control the good condition of the sockets.

Control that any trace of humidity is in the module.

Control that there is neither trace of humidity on the pressed circuit nor the heating of the trace.

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:35 di 36

17. IDENTIFICATION OF THE ANOMALIES

17.1 MAIN ANOMALIES o The snow is too humid:

Control that the water pressure is not too low.

Control the conditions of the pipes and nucleators.

Control that the head is not turned too much towards the ground: in particular the jet has to remain for a period of time in the air to allow the transformation.

Control that the head is not turned against the wind: the air/water mixture must not be driven down onto the ground by the wind.

Control the air pressure when it comes out.

o The gun freezes:

Check that the machine is not directing its jet upwind.

Remove the ice with care (no blows): the ice can be removed with a caoutchouc pipe.

Control the water goes out from the pipes.

o Blocked hoses:

The connections have been damaged.

Check that they are not blocked with ice or kinked.

Control the good conditions of the hoses: pay attention not to damage it during its cleanliness.

CAUTION: Do not clean the pipes while the gun is working and use only flexible stools. o The jet has an irregular aspect:

Control the hose is not blocked, frozen or bent.

Control the conditions of the nucleators.

Control the cleanliness of the integrated filters in the nucleators.

Control that the water pressure is always more that 15 bar. o The air doesn’t pass through the nucleators:

The flexible air pipe is blocked.

Control the formation of ice in the air pipe.

Check that the air valve is open.

Check that the internal connections are correct.

The external nucleator can has been closed.

CAUTION: Nel caso non riusciate ad identificare la causa dell’anomalia, rivolgetevi al nostro rappresentante o direttamente a noi. Questa consultazione è molto importante per la durata del cannone e per la sua garanzia che viene da noi assicurata se la macchina è gestita nel modo corretto.

Rev: 2 09/2010 Pagina:36 di 36

17.2 SPARE PARTS ORDER FORM

SPARE PARTS ORDER FORM

Request of parts under guarantee

Request of spare parts out of guarantee

Request of the estimate

Description of the

article

Article code quantity Unit price total Note/ delivery date and

serial number of the

product if it is in guarantee

Payment conditions:

Method of transport required:

NOTE

ADRESSEE

SUFAG Service : Tel :

Fax :

SENDER COMPANY:

TYPE OF

CONTRACT:

PHONE:

FAX:

ADRESS:

DATE ORDER:

N. ORDER: