e. Have your soldiers continue filling the tank while monitoring the
pressure. The closed system of filling a tank allows the pressure to build
up very rapidly as the tank reaches full capacity. Make sure the soldier on
the fill hose knows that a final pressure of 4 psi minimum or 6 psi maximum
is desired.
f. After the tank is filled to the correct pressure, one soldier shuts
off the valve on the hose first, then another soldier closes the tank's
filler/discharge valve, and finally signals the soldier on the pump to idle
down and stop the pump. As they disconnect the filling hose, some loss of
water between the valves may be experienced; this is normal.
The water
between the valves is under pressure; low pressure if the filling hose is
shut off first as just described, and high pressure if the tank valve is
shut off first.
g. Have your team close the pressure gauge valve and remove the gauge.
Since the gauge is needed only to fill the tank, put the gauge in the cab of
the tractor so it is not damaged.
3. When the SMFT is filled and secured for transport, log the total gallons
of water distributed on DA Form 1714-R and have the form signed by the
convoy leader or truck driver. Inform the convoy leader/driver that regular
periodic checks for tight belts on the SMFT are required. Inform him that
the belts should be tightened at least every two hours. Emphasize that the
SMFT tank must be totally full or totally empty to be transported.
4. When supervising soldiers downloading full SMFTs, use the following
procedures:
a. SMFT tanks can be emptied either by gravity or by using a pump. To
empty the SMFT by gravity, the end of the tank opposite the valve must be at
least 8 to 10 inches higher than the valve end of the tank for complete tank
emptying. This means the valve corner should be at the lowest level of the
tank. If you have a slight grade elevation at the receiving site, have the
SMFT pull up on the rise. You can also use portable ramps under the wheels
of the trailer. Connect one end of the 4-inch hose to the filler/discharge
port and the other end of the line to the receiving container.
Open the
filler/discharge valve on the tank to start the flow.
After the tank is
empty, close the filler/discharge valve and remove the hose. If the tank is
to be used again, it should be unstrapped and rolled up to prevent damage to
the tank and valve.
The tank should be removed from the trailer if the
transporter is to be used for back-haul.
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