Rescue Support System Paratech

Acme Thread Strut System Paratech Strut System

The RSS (rescue support system) is designed to be used in rescue situations involving collapse, containment or stabilization. Paratech Strut System

Acme Thread Strut System  The system consists of extendible struts, base plates, end plates and extensions.  Each strut contains a movable inner threaded shaft. This allows the strut to be extended or retracted manually. (struts also have an air connection which allows for the strut to be extended pneumatically….you do not have the additional hardware for this feature)  “crush” strength of the strut exceeds 50,000 lbs Paratech Strut System

Acme Thread Strut System Now let’s have a look at each component of the system Paratech Strut System

Threaded Strut end plate or extension attachment point (this is where the strut meets the vehicle or structure) 2 1/2” inner threaded shaft Threaded lock nut 3” outer tube Base plate attachment point Paratech Strut System

Threaded Strut The design of the thread strut allows for “soft”placement with sensitive positioning, and locking at an infinite number of extended positions.  Extend the strut manually to the desired extension  Thread the nut down the inner shaft to lock against the outer tube.  Inner shaft can be positioned and/or tightened against the vehicle or structure by simply turning the lock nut against the outer shaft Paratech Strut System

Hinged Base plate Hinged base plate will pivot 45 deg from vertical in either direction. Paratech Strut System

Strut Extensions 24” extension 12’ extension  Extensions can be integrated to add length to the thread strut system.  Struts are not designed to accept more than 2 extensions with a total combined length of 36” Paratech Strut System

“V” Base 3” cylinder with a “V” machined groove primarily used to stabilize anything with a corner or angle at the point of contact Paratech Strut System

Accessories Ratchet Straps Used to secure struts at the base plate to the vehicle or structure Hooks Can be combined with the ratchet straps to provide a secure hold to the vehicle or structure Paratech Strut System

Securing the Struts Paratech Strut System

Securing the Struts  Ratchet straps should be used to secure the struts from the base plate to the vehicle or structure.  Use ratchet straps to create “triangles” for the greatest strength. (refer to previous slide to see the angles that have been created)  When securing ratchet straps to the vehicle ensure that the attachment point is structurally sound. Never attach to a suspension component or other item that may break loose or may have been damaged during the accident. Car frames are the most desirable. Paratech Strut System

System Set-Up Lets have a look at the video to see the set-up of the strut system on a vehicle. Video posted on the training website (28 min) Paratech Strut System

Cleaning and Maintenance The major components require little maintenance to ensure optimum performance.  Keep the exterior free of dirt, grease and oil  Clean exterior surfaces with a clean cloth dampened with clean water  Do not paint any RSS components  Check for loose hardware, cracked or deformed parts  Components should be field tested at least once every 3 months if they have not been used during training or at an emergency call Paratech Strut System