INSTRUCTION

MANUAL
N - MODEL

421 Schantz Road

Allentown, PA 18104
800-553-3414
610-398-0451
Fax 610-398-9244
 WARNING

DO NOT ATTEMPT TO OPERATE

THIS EQUIPMENT WITHOUT A
THOROUGH UNDERSTANDING OF THE
OPERATING, MAINTENANCE AND SAFETY
CONSIDERATIONS CONTAINED IN
THIS TECHNICAL MANUAL

TO PREVENT DAMAGE TO
EQUIPMENT AND/OR INJURY TO YOURSELF
OR OTHER PERSONNEL, THESE
INSTRUCTIONS MUST BE
FOLLOWED CAREFULLY.

A COPY OF THIS MANUAL SHALL ACCOMPANY THE UNIT AT ALL TIMES.

1
 FOR PARTS AND SERVICE PLEASE
CALL OUR TOLL FREE NUMBER

PARTS: 800-553-3414 Ext. 14

SERVICE: 800-553-3414 Ext. 19

To help us assist you, please have equipment Model

and Serial Number available at time of inquiry.

The Model and Serial Number are available on the

equipment Data Tag attached to the frame of the equipment.

Record the following information on this

equipment below:

Model No. ________________________

Serial No. ________________________

Date Purchased ___________________

2
New Equipment Warranty
Seller expressly warrants that its new equipment will be fit and sufficient for the purpose(s)
intended, and free from defects in material and workmanship. This warranty shall remain in effect
for a period of six months from date on which the equipment is first put to intended use, with first
date of use not being later than three months from date of shipment. This warranty shall apply
only to equipment in normal use and service, and shall not apply to equipment which has been
subjected to misuse, negligence or accident, or otherwise not used in accordance with Seller’s
recommendations or specifications regarding operation and/or maintenance.

All items found defective as to material, workmanship or manufacture, in the sole judgment of
Allentown Equipment Div., will be replaced or repaired free of charge, F.O.B. Allentown,
Pennsylvania. This warranty does not cover the cost of labor in replacement or transportation.

Certain parts of the equipment in contact with mortar, concrete or refractory mixture, such as
rotors, wear plates, seals, hoses, nozzles, tips, etc., are subject to normal wear associated with
abrasive materials. Such normal wear is not covered by this warranty and Allentown Equipment
Div. shall not be liable for consequential damages, expenses, losses, or delays of any kind
incidental to any failure of equipment. Under no circumstances shall Seller’s liability exceed the
price for the equipment or parts for which liability is claimed.

Seller makes no warranty of its outside purchased components such as engines, air motors,
hydraulic pumps, wheels, tires, etc., as these items are subject to the warranties of their respective
manufacturers.

There is no implied warranty of marketability or fitness for particular performances.

Any attempt to remedy a claimed defect by persons or entities not expressly authorized to perform
such work by Seller shall void this warranty.

421 Schantz Road

Allentown, PA 18104
800-553-3414
610-398-0451
Fax 610-398-1934

3
INTRODUCTION
The Allentown N-Model gun operates on compressed air for Guniting, Shotcreting or refractory
gunning. This manual describes the operation, maintenance, and safety considerations which
must be followed. Close attention to these details by the operator, nozzleman and maintenance
personnel is necessary to assure a minimum of problems while striving for maximum productivity
and safety.

Prior to operation the operator must be thoroughly familiar with the equipment and its operation so
that he can operate it in a SAFE manner. His eligibility to operate the gun shall be based on the
following qualifications.

OPERATOR QUALIFICATIONS
1. Only experienced operators or trainees under the direct supervision of an experienced
operator should operate equipment. No unauthorized person should be permitted to assist
or remain in the immediate vicinity of the unit while it is in operation or during the
performance of any maintenance, inspection, cleaning, repair, or make-ready operations.
2. Equipment should not be operated by individuals who cannot read and understand the
signs, notices, and operating instructions that are a part of the job (the language in which
this manual is printed).
3. Individuals who are not familiar with the equipment operation must not operate it until they
receive adequate on-the-job supervised training, and become familiar with the signal codes
used at the construction site.
4. Equipment should not be operated by anyone under the age of 21 years.
5. Equipment should not be operated by anyone with seriously defective eyesight, hearing
and physical or mental impairment (such as epilepsy, heart disease, or progressive neuro-
muscular deterioration), and that this be verified by a physical examination at least
annually.
6. Equipment should not be operated while the operator is eating, drinking, reading, or is more
than six feet distance from the controls.
7. An operator who has asked to be relieved because he feels physically or mentally unfit
should not operate equipment.
8. Equipment should not be operated at any new site, or at the start of a new shift, until a
visual inspection is made of the equipment’s condition.
9. An equipment sign-off sheet should be attached where an operator can report any damage,
defects, problems or accidents to the next shift operators and work supervisor.

4
OPERATIONAL SAFETY
Any person assigned to operate, troubleshoot, maintain or repair the Allentown N-Gun, must be
thoroughly familiar with the operating and safety instructions. Your safety and the safety of others
are at all times very important. To work safely, you must understand the job you do. If in doubt,
use extreme caution and obtain assistance from trained personnel.

The Allentown N-Gun is constructed with safety features for operating personnel. However,
construction features alone cannot ensure complete safety. Safe work practice, observance of
O.S.H.A. regulations, specific work methods and procedures, timely maintenance and an alert,
well trained operator are all factors contributing to safe operation. In order to highlight the
situations which have historically been the cause of accidents, the information in this manual
addressing safety is preceded with a graphic symbol to identify the principal hazard. Within the
frame of the graphic symbol, the following signal words indicate the likelihood of occurrence and
the degree of potential injury or damage. If in doubt about this classification, assume the worst
case since some hazards, which are minor at the time of occurrence, can develop into hazards
with a severe degree of potential injury or damage.

SIGNAL WORD LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURANCE DEGREE OF POTENTIAL

INJURY OR DAMAGE

DANGER Will occur if warning is ignored Severe

WARNING Can occur if warning is ignored. Severe

CAUTION Will or can occur if warning is ignored. Minor

Various hazards and their usual causes are described below and shown with the associated
graphic symbol. The graphic symbols associated with any of the signal words are repeated
throughout this manual when the likelihood of the hazard exists. The symbol provides an index
permitting reference to this section for a more extensive discussion of the hazard.

The gun operates on compressed air. Kinks in the incoming air line or material
hose can cause the material hose line to whip about. The nozzleman must be
holding the hose properly before air is introduced to the gun and the air must
not be turned on until the nozzleman signals that he is ready. Proper
communication must be maintained between the nozzleman and gun operator
at all times the gun is operational. The nozzleman must be on a firm support
with adequate platform area to adjust his position to maintain balance and

5
control of the nozzle. Be especially careful when working on scaffolding and tie the material hose
securely to limit whipping of the nozzle. You or other personnel can be knocked off balance and
fall, resulting in serious injury or death.

The N-Gun is powered with compressed air, which can develop a maximum
pressure of 125 psi. Failure to wear safety goggles or a face shield can result in
eye damage from particles propelled by compressed air. Serious bodily injury or
loss of sight can result.

The inhalation of dust created by shooting a dry mixture can be hazardous to the
respiratory system. Damage to the respiratory system can result with potential
serious injury or death. Make sure all pressure connections are tight and hose is
not worn to the point of failure. The nozzleman and operator must wear safety
glasses, hard hat, and a respirator at all times while operating the equipment.

Pinch points and moving components are capable of capable of amputation.

Serious injury or death can occur. Follow proper safety precautions explained in this
manual.

RESPONSIBILITY OF EMPLOYERS AND OWNERS

As an owner or employer using this equipment, it is your responsibility to ensure that the operator
is qualified, has read this manual, and has received training in the safe operation of the N-Gun
and the safe work practices for the job to be accomplished. It is also your responsibility to provide
for regularly scheduled preventative maintenance and repair of the N-Gun by trained repair
personnel using only parts supplied by Allentown Equipment. Modification of any part of the N-
Gun can create a new safety hazard. If the N-Gun is modified or rebuilt it must be done under
direction of the Allentown Equipment Service Department. No field modification of the N-Gun is
permitted, unless authorized in writing by Allentown Equipment.

It is a further responsibility of the owner or employer to train the operating personnel in all of the
specific requirements, government regulations, precautions, and work hazards which exist in a
work situation and ensure that all involved take the necessary precautions and safety measures.

6
DRY-MIX OPERATING PROCEDURES
MATERIAL
The Allentown N-Gun will convey any size material particle up to 5/8 inch and, with modifications
to the Feedwheel, can handle a maximum size of 3/4 to 1 inch. However, with coarse aggregate,
more problems can occur with the gun and nozzle since angular stones can stick in the system.
In order to work efficiently, the material mix must be properly graded for grain size.

The moisture content of the spraying material may be as high as 6 percent. A moisture content of
3-5 percent is recommended. Too dry a mix can cause dusting at the nozzle and too wet will lead
to feeding problems in the gun and plugging in the material conveying line.

GUNNING APPLICATIONS
The common mix for “Gunite” construction work is 1:3 or 1:4 cement-sand ratios by volume. On
some work it can be as rich as 1:2 and on backfilling as lean as 1:6.

The sand used is ordinary concrete sand with maximum particle sizing of .25 -.37 inch and a
gradation meeting the specifications of the American Concrete Institute.

When the sand and cement are mixed to the proper moisture level, cement particles will coat the
sand grains and start to hydrate. For maximum material strength and ease of operation, the
mixing should be done just before feeding the gun.

On small jobs, mixing can be done by hand or in a small paddle-mixer. A mobile gunning rig
provides an excellent and complete system for mixing the materials and delivering them to the
gun. In some regions sand and cement can be purchased and delivered to the job site in ready-
mix trucks.

When gunning bagged refractory or shotcrete mixes a predampener is recommended to add

moisture prior to delivering it to the gun. This helps reduce dust at the gun and nozzle and
improves the product strength.

Use care when specifying the sand for a Gunite project, and cover it at the jobsite. If the sand is
too dry, static electricity can build up in the material hose and dusting will occur at the nozzle.
Protect the sand from the sun and rain to prevent drying or over saturation with moisture. Sand
that is too wet is the primary complaint of most contractors because it will slow down output and in
some cases make it impossible to gun due to plugs at the gun or in the material hose.

In humid conditions excessive moisture can accumulate in the compressed air line. If there is a
long supply line to the gun from the compressor, the air will cool and moisture can condense in the

7
hose and gun. This moisture source will give the same problems as sand that is too wet as the
added moisture mixes with the mix.

To eliminate this problem, install a moisture trap in the compressor line. Material should be mixed
as needed with not more than a half-hour’s supply mixed ahead. Mixed material that is more than
an hour old may become partially set and develop lumps, which will cause plugging.

On every project there will be an accumulation of rebound material. It is largely the coarser sand
particles that act to “penn” the fine particles and cement onto the Gunite surface, however, there is
enough cement in the rebound material that it will set if left undisturbed. Always remove rebound
promptly and never leave it sit overnight.

A common misconception is that the gunning process is controlled by air pressure. This is not the
case; it is the volume of air that carries the material. The pressure overcomes the resistance of
the material in the conveying line.

Larger material hose diameters, longer distances and increased production all require a greater
volume (CFM) of air for conveying.

The average operating air pressure at the gun is 30-40 PSI. Fine lightweight materials will convey
well at 20 PSI. For material hose that runs longer than 100 ft., add an additional 5-PSI for every
additional 50 ft. of hose.

For some applications it is necessary to reduce the air pressure for better gun operation, to
increase the life of the wear parts and reduce the potential of dusting at the gun.

REFRACTORY AND INSULATING MATERIAL

The feed mechanism of the gun is extremely versatile and will handle any dry or predampened
granular material. It can feed coarse, fine, heavy or lightweight refractory of any manufacturer.

Operation is the same as for sand and cement, although different refractory mixes behave
differently in the gun. We recommend that advice be obtained from the refractory manufacturer
regarding the correct method of application.

8
SETUP OF EQUIPMENT
AIR SUPPLY

It is important to set up the gun in proper relation to the compressed air supply and the work area.
See Figure 1 for this relationship and the proper hookup.

In most applications the gun is used with a portable air compressor. Make sure that the
compressor is of sufficient capacity in relation to the model of the gun and the size of the hose and
nozzle. It is always advisable to locate the compressor 40 or more feet from the gun since dusty
conditions can be harmful to the compressor.

The N-Gun with air motor power and a 1-1/4 inch material hose will require 250 to 365 cfm of air,
1-1/2 to 1-5/8 inch material hose will require 365 to 600 cfm, and a 2 inch material hose will
require 600 to 750 cfm. The air line to the gun from the air supply should be at least 1-1/2 inch.
For maximum gunning rate, or when the gun is positioned some distance from the source, a 2
inch air line should be used. Higher output and larger hose diameters require a greater volume of
air for material conveyance.

Operating pressures required will range from below 20 psi to 100 psi, depending on the distance
from the nozzle to the gun, the number of bends in the hose, the vertical lift, and the particular
characteristics of the material being gunned. For average work the air pressure at the gun is 30 to
40 psi. For longer runs of hose, expect to require an increase of approximately 5 psi for every 50
feet of hose over 100 feet.

Figure 1

9
When the gun is connected to plant air, or the main air supply line at the construction site, a
regulator and moisture trap is very important. Fluctuations of flow and pressure will make the gun
especially difficult to operate.

Make sure that an adequate volume of air is available whenever plant air is used. If possible,
check the compressor rating and determine what other demands will be made to the air system
while the gun is being operated.

MATERIAL HOSE

It is always beneficial to have the gun close to the work even though the gun has conveyed
material more then 500 feet horizontally on some projects and over 100 feet vertically on others.
Generally, most gunning work is done using 50 to 250 feet of material hose. Longer runs of
material hose will result in reduced production and higher operating costs due to compressor
operation and material hose wear.

Material hoses should always be run in as straight a line as possible for best material flow and
reduced wear. Exercise caution when coupling hoses so as to minimize restrictions at the point of
connection and always use a premium hose specifically manufactured for gunning applications.

WATER SUPPLY LINE

Figure 1 shows a pneumatically operated water pump providing water to the nozzle. This is only
necessary if there is insufficient water pressure where the gun is to be used. The water pump will
draw water from a drum or other source and deliver it to the nozzle at the proper pressure.

Water requirements range up to 10 gpm when using the N-Gun with a 2 inch material hose. Water
pressure should be at minimum 15 psi greater than the air pressure being used. The water line is
generally 1/2 inch, but 3/4 inch can be used for long runs. When a pump is used, the suction line
should not be more than 1 to 2 feet above the water source.

AIR HOSE TO THE GUN

Make certain that all valves between the air source and the N-Gun are open and that there are no
kinks and/or blockages in the supply lines.

10
OPERATION OF EQUIPMENT
DAILY OPERATION AND SAFETY
1. Before starting the N-Gun thoroughly review the instruction manual.

2. Confirm O.S.H.A. approved safety equipment is available for both operator and
nozzleman.

3. Walk around the Gun and inspect for damaged or missing parts. Visually inspect the
air lines and material conveying hose for damage.

PREPARING TO START

Prior to starting the N-Gun confirm that all safety equipment required for the job is being worn.
Both the operator and nozzleman must have at minimum safety goggles or a face shield, a hard
hat, and a respirator.

The N-Gun is powered with compressed air, which can develop high pressures.
Failure to wear safety goggles or a face shield can result in eye damage from
particles propelled by compressed air. Serious bodily injury or loss of sight can
result.

The inhalation of dust created by shooting a dry mixture can be hazardous to the
respiratory system. Damage to the respiratory system can result with potential
serious injury or death. Make sure all pressure connections are tight and hose is
not worn to the point of failure. The nozzleman and operator must wear safety
glasses, hard hat, and a respirator at all times while operating the equipment.

11
START-UP
Refer to Figure 2. After making certain that all air valves on the gun are closed, fill the gun with
material to within a few inches of the top.

Upon signal from the nozzleman that he is ready, hold the Upper Cone Valve Lever (A) closed
with one hand and at the same time open the Main Air Supply Valve (B). This will pressurize the
gun and seat the Upper Cone Valve. At the same time, it will start air flowing through the hose to
the nozzle.

Feeding of material is started by gradually opening the Air Motor Valve (C) until the Air Motor
starts turning the Feedwheel. This valve controls the speed of the Feedwheel from zero to
maximum rpm and should be adjusted to the rate desired by the nozzleman.

REFILLING
Within a short time the material in the gun will be down below the Lower Cone Valve. This can be
determined by pumping the Lower Cone Valve Lever (D) up and down. When it closes tight
against the Cone Valve Gasket, hold it closed and quickly open the Exhaust Valve (E). This
releases all air pressure from the upper chamber and the Upper Cone Valve will drop open from
its own weight. The gun will continue to feed since the lower chamber is still under pressure.

When the Upper Cone Valve drops open, immediately close the Exhaust Valve (E). Proceed to
refill the upper chamber with material.

Once the upper chamber is filled, close the Upper Cone Valve manually using the Upper Cone
valve Lever. While holding it closed with one hand, slowly open the Upper Chamber Valve (F).
This allows air to enter the upper chamber, and, as soon as the pressure in the upper chamber is
equal to that of the lower chamber, the Lower Cone Valve will drop open and allow the material to
drop into the lower chamber. Close the Upper Chamber Valve (F) as soon as the Lower Cone
Valve drops open. Then, repeat the entire cycle.

Sometimes there is a tendency for the material to hang-up in the upper chamber. Rather than
hammer on the gun, try opening and closing the Exhaust Valve very quickly once or twice to make
it drop. Or, pump the Lower Cone Valve Lever (D) quickly and the material will drop.

A common mistake when operating the gun is to let the material level in the lower chamber to get
too low by not refilling fast enough. This will cause erratic feeding as the weight of the material
over the Feedwheel becomes less and less and the teeth of the Feedwheel do not fill completely.
Then, when the entire load of material the from the upper chamber falls down onto the Feedwheel,
the feed rate immediately increases to a higher rate. This is especially troublesome with fine,
almost dry refractories which can “flood” right out of the gun and occasionally cause plugging of
the hose.

12
Another problem occurs when there is insufficient air for the gun. Upon opening the Upper
Chamber Valve (F) quickly, air will rush into the upper chamber and momentarily slow down the
Air Motor and the feed. This can be overcome by skill in opening the valve and by having a
compressor of the proper size for the gun.

SHUTTING DOWN
Upon signal from the nozzleman to shut down, the flow of material must first be stopped by
closing the Air Motor Valve (C). After waiting ten seconds, or until the hose has cleared, close the
Main Air Valve (B) while at the same time opening the Exhaust Valve (E).

In an emergency, the machine can be

shut down instantly by closing the Main
Air Valve (B). However, this will leave A
the material hose full of material which
must be cleaned out by coupling the
hose to the Blow Off Connection (G) and D
allowing air to flow through the hose until
it is clean. E F

If the gun operator is in the process of

refilling when the nozzleman signals to
G
shut down, the Air Motor Valve (C) C
should be closed first and the refilling
completed. Then air can be introduced
to the upper chamber as described
above with the Upper Chamber Valve (F)
and shut down can proceed.

Air Inlet
B
Material Outlet
Figure 2

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NOZZLE OPERATION
The nozzle body assembly contains a water ring that has small holes used to inject water into the
material stream prior to exiting the nozzle. The quantity of water injected is controlled by the
nozzleman. The amount of water used is adjusted with a control valve at the nozzle for correct
wetting of the material.

The amount of water required will vary depending on the type of material and the installation.
Despite the simplicity of the nozzle operation, only time and experience will produce and expert
nozzleman. The nozzleman’s skill will result in the correct buildup and wetting of the applied
material.

Properly wetted material does not slump or run and it should not be dusty or dry. When gunning
sand and cement or refractories, a glossy surface appearance or sheen indicates the optimum
water content.

The gunning nozzle is held approximately 3-4 feet from the surface being built-up; however, some
jobs require it to be held closer, which is not a problem for a skilled nozzleman. Other applications
that require a thin or “flash” coat will require that the nozzle be held 5-8 feet from the surface.

The nozzle should be kept in continuous motion so that the application of the material is over a
fairly large surface area. The circular motion of the nozzle is sustained until the desired thickness
of material has been applied. If the nozzle is held in one position too long, the resulting work will
be lumpy and poor in appearance and quality.

Care and maintenance of the nozzle body consists of simply keeping it clean and not allowing the
water ring to become contaminated with material. Occasionally remove the water ring to clear any
foreign material.

The water ring and nozzle rubber liner takes the majority of wear in the nozzle assembly. If these
items are replaced when worn, the life of the assembly will be extended.

CLEARING MATERIAL PLUGS

Excessive moisture in the compressed air, too little CFM for the hose size, very wet sand, stones
or other foreign matter in the material conveying hose can cause line plugs.

The hose will generally plug at a bend, at a hose coupling which might be restricting the material,
or at the gun flanged outlet.

To clear a plugged material hose, first stop the air motor and partially close the main air supply
valve. This will maintain pressure in the hose up to the point of the plug. To locate the plug
simply step on the hose until a point is found where the hose is soft. This is the location of the
blockage.

14
Striking the hose before and after the plug with a mallet or hammer will crush or dislodge the plug
and allow it to be blown through the nozzle.

The nozzleman must use extreme caution when the plug is struck, making sure
he is holding the nozzle tightly and is firmly braced. The material hose can whip
violently when the plug is released.

Occasionally a plug will form in the nozzle assembly tip. If this occurs, the gun and air supply
must be shut off completely. Then remove the nozzle body and tip and thoroughly clean it.

If a plug lodges in the gun outlet spout, the material hose will be soft for its entire length. The gun
must be shut off completely and the material hose removed and the plug cleared from the outlet
spout.

If plugging occurs frequently, correct the cause. Within normal operating parameters plugs should
not occur. However, if it is a problem, check the compressor and line size, the mix for lumps, and
review the layout of the material hose.

The American Concrete Institute has published specification ACI 506R-90, ACI 506. 1R-84, ACI
506.2-90 and ACI 506.3R-83 covering proper gunning procedures. In general, the following
guidelines are necessary considerations for performing quality work:

1. The nozzleman must avoid placing mixture over any accumulation of rebound or nozzle
dust. Usually it is necessary to shut off the flow of material from time to time to clean
ahead of the work with straight air, air-water blast from the nozzle, or an independent air
line.
2. Generally it is advisable to start the bottom of a vertical or steeply sloping surface and work
upward in horizontal bands 5-6 feet wide. Final or flash coats, which are usually .12 to .25
inches thick and applied for finish purposes only, are ordinarily applied starting at the top
and working downward over large areas to the bottom. Always keep the surface clean and
damp ahead of flash coating by washing with an air-water blast.
3. The body or structural coating should not be “worked “or troweled. If a trowel, float, brush,
or other hand finish is required, it should be worked on the flash coat to preserve the high
quality of the body or structural coat.
4. The body coating may be scraped or screeded with a trowel or sharp cutting rod, but not
until it has taken a partial set. This is usually 1/2 to 1 hour after application. If the material
drags when it is screeded, it is still too wet for screeding and the strength of the structural
coat will be decreased.

15
 5. Always make sure that the surface on which the coating is being placed is clean and free of
all disintegrated material. Sandblast concrete, brick, or masonry surfaces before starting to
gun on a lining.
6. Never gun onto surfaces covered with frost or when the temperature is below freezing
unless adequate heating and protection are provided.
7. Never apply mixture to bone dry concrete, brick, masonry, or previously placed dry
coatings. Always thoroughly wet down such surfaces.
8. Do not apply in puddles of water on horizontal or sloping surfaces. Blow water clear.

MAINTENANCE
CLEANING

The gun is ruggedly built for years of reliable hard service, but it must receive proper maintenance
and cleaning. It is most important that all mixed material be cleaned out at the end of each day’s
operation. If not, the material will harden in the gun overnight. Once it sets, it is extremely difficult
to remove without power chippers.

The daily cleaning should include blowing out all of the material left inside the gun as well as the
material lodged in the pockets of the Feedwheel and under the Feedwheel itself. Also, caked
material must be scraped from both the Upper and Lower Cone Valves and from the teeth of the
Feedwheel.

It is normal practice to do most of the cleaning of the gun with a small blowout air hose which can
be connected to a tee in the air line to the gun, or by the use of a hose coupled to the Blowout
Valve (G) after first removing the Blowout Connection.

The Outlet Valve Body must be removed completely by removing the two nuts that hold it in place.
This allows access to the Feedwheel and makes it possible to blow it off or scrape it with a long
screwdriver or chisel. The Feedwheel can be rotated as needed to expose all of the teeth by
using the Air Motor Valve (C).

Never put your hand in this opening while the Feedwheel is being operated. The
Feedwheel is capable of amputating fingers or the hand. Serious injury or death
could result.

Proper cleaning of the gun will take 15 to 30 minutes at the end of the day and must be taken into
consideration when planning work. Improper cleaning will very quickly result in problems with gun
operation. A well cleaned gun will operate for long periods of time without the need for
mechanical overhaul.

16
Compressed air is a necessity for cleaning the gun. Always plan the work so that the compressor
will remain at the job site for the cleaning period after operations have ceased for the day.

If, during the day’s operation, the machine is going to be shut down for a considerable time, it is
advisable to empty the gun before shutting down. Before starting up again, remove the Funnel
Flange (Item 950) and clean out any caked material in the Outlet Valve. To remove the Funnel
Flange, simply loosen the Locking Bars (Item 972).

Whenever shutting down, even for a short period of time, clean out the material hose by coupling
it to the Blowout Connection (G).

If used daily, the gun should be opened up completely and the Base and Tank thoroughly cleaned
every two weeks. To open the gun, disconnect the piping at the unions and remove the bolts
around the flange of the Base. Tip the Tank back on its hinged connection or remove it
completely.

The Cone Valves (Item 928) should be removed and scraped and buffed or rubbed with fine
emery cloth.

The Feedwheel should be lifted out and cleaned of all caked material. Also clean under the
Feedwheel and be sure to check for material possibly seeping through the Feedwheel Shaft
Packing Gland (Item 921). If this packing is not maintained, air pressure will force fine material
down into the Feedwheel Shaft bearing area and the Worm and Worm Gear. Change the packing
frequently using a good grade of soft graphite packing.

When cleaning the Cone Valves, also check the Cone Valve Gaskets and replace if worn.

LUBRICATION
While the gun is in use, the Air Motor Lubricator should be filled daily. Use 10 wt. motor oil as
needed.

Grease should be introduced at all grease fittings on a daily basis. The fitting supplying grease to
the bearing area of the Feedwheel Shaft is most important. Failure to grease this bearing area
can lead to seizing of the Feedwheel Shaft within the Base.

The Air Motor (Item 939) requires little attention beyond occasional lubrication and maintenance of
the oil level in the geared end of the motor. It should be removed from time to time and be
thoroughly cleaned.

Whenever the Worm Gear Case (Item 902) has been removed to inspect the gears, it should be
repacked with medium grease, preferably grease with moly.

17
SERVICING

The packing in the Lower Cone Valve Shaft Packing Gland (Item 932) should be replaced when
needed. Continual tightening of the Packing Gland without replacing the packing can damage the
steel boss in the Tank.

The Air Motor Screen (Item 942) should be kept clean. Never run the gun without having this
screen in place as it prevents particles from of material from reaching the Air Motor.

The Base Gasket (Item 952) should be replaced after several disassemblies of the gun to insure a
proper seal. The Outlet Valve Body Gasket should also be examined periodically for possible
replacement.

The Liner (Item 101) in the Compressible Tube Exhaust Valve will wear out at a rate dependent
on the abrasiveness of the material being gunned. For maximum life, rotate the Liner about 180°
before it wears through at each point.

At times the Rubber Ball (Item 103) must be replaced. Cement it into the Valve Check (Item 102)
to prevent it from popping out.

Care of the nozzle consists of simply keeping it clean and checking the water ring frequently to
see that the holes are not plugged. Periodically remove the water ring and flush the water jacket
of the nozzle body with water remove any accumulated material.

Almost all of the wear in the nozzle occurs at the water ring and the nozzle liner. If these
components are replaced as soon as they are worn thin, life of the nozzle body and tip will be
extended.

SAFETY CONTROL SYSTEM

The N-Gun is equipped with an air-operated safety control system designed to prevent personnel
from injuring fingers or hands in the Feedwheel of the gun while cleaning out the gun. These
personnel must understand the functioning of this system and make certain that it remains well
maintained and fully operational.

Following is a description of the system, an explanation of how to clean the gun with this system,
and a schematic of the air control circuit which identifies the parts.

When the gun is being operated, the Outlet Valve Body (item 911), also called the Face Plate, is
bolted to the gun base and completely covers the Feedwheel, thus eliminating any danger. The
safety control system allows normal operation of the Feedwheel through its Air Control Valve (Item
963).

When the gun is shut down, removal of the Outlet Valve Body exposes the Feedwheel for
cleaning. When the Outlet Valve Body is removed, the safety control system blocks the operation

18
of the Feedwheel and Air Control Valve, and the Feedwheel will not turn except when using the
following safety procedure.

CLEANING THE GUN WITH THE SAFETY SYSTEM

Since only three teeth of the Feedwheel can be cleaned at one position, it is necessary to rotate
the Feedwheel around to many positions to expose all of the teeth. After cleaning in one position,
the operator presses both of the small push buttons under the base to allow the Air Control Valve
to move the Feedwheel to a new position. This works only when the push buttons are pushed
simultaneously. Since the push buttons are located under the base and are apart far enough that
they must be pushed with the left and right hands at the same time, it is impossible to insert the
fingers into the danger area.

DO NOT attempt to subvert the system by having one person push the buttons while
another attempts to clean. The rotating Feedwheel is capable of amputating fingers
or the hand. Serious injury or death could result.

DO NOT remove any of the safety control components.

TO ORDER
COMPLETE ASSEMBLY: Part no. 20700

1. PILOT OPERATED 2-WAY VALVE:

Part no. 70120

3. NEEDLE VALVE:
Part no. 70051

10. PUSH BUTTON VALVES:

Part no. 70056

Figure 3

19
PRODUCT SAFETY INFORMATION
If improperly maintained the potential of explosive failure of the tank away from the base exists
with the N-model gun. This type of failure can cause serious injury or death.

Investigation of failures has revealed that the apparent reason for the failure is insufficient
thread engagement of the eight bolts which attach the tank to the gun base. Of greatest
danger is insufficient engagement of the four bolts in the front of the gun. See photo.

Four factors can contribute individually or collectively to this

condition:
Inspect the (8) bolts at the
tank base flange. The (4) at
1. Installation of shorter bolts than specified or the wrong the front of the gun are the
grade of bolt. most critical.

2. Use of multiple washers under the bolt head.

3. Contamination of the blind tapped holes above the left

and right trunnions.

4. Degradation of the female threads in the base casting.

Routine maintenance must consider:

1a. The N-1 gun requires 3/4-10 x 2-1/2” long grade 8

bolts.

1b. The N-2 and N-3 guns require 3/4-10 x 2-3/4” long
grade 8 bolts.

*IF SHORTER BOLTS ARE SUBSTITUTED THE MACHINE MAY BE UNSAFE AND CAN
FAIL. IF OTHER THAN GRADE 8 BOLTS ARE USED THE MACHINE DOES NOT SATISFY
THE PRESSURE VESSEL CODE REQUIREMENT.

2. The attachment design is based on the use of (1) flat washer under the head of each
bolt. WITH MORE THAN ONE WASHER UNDER THE HEAD OF ANY OF THESE
BOLTS, THE MACHINE MAY BE UNSAFE AND CAN FAIL.

3. The two outer tapped holes are not drilled through and sand and cement particles can
accumulate in these holes. DO NOT compensate with shorter bolts or more washers.
THESE HOLES MUST BE KEPT CLEAN AND THE PROPER BOLT LENGTH USED
FOR FULL THREAD ENGAGEMENT.

4. Repeated disassembly of the tank from the base and reassembly can lead to worn or
broken internal female threads in the cast iron of the gun base. IF THE THREADS
BECOME WORN OR BROKEN, THE BASE CASTING MUST BE REPLACED.

20
 ALLENTOWN N-MODEL
BOLT TORQUE PROCEDURE
FOR TOP & BOTTOM FLANGES

TOP FLANGE
TORQUE REQUIRED Step 1. Align flanges together
(100 FT LB) and clamp.

Step 2. Lubricate threads of

Sequence bolt or stud and face
Order of nut.
1-2
3-4 Step 3. Install bolts and nuts
5-6 finger tight.
7-8
9-10 Step 4. Tighten bolts/nuts in
sequence order to 20%
of required torque
specification.
BOTTOM FLANGE
TORQUE REQUIRED Step 5. Tighten bolts/nuts in
(170 FT LB) sequence order to
100% of required
torque specification.
Sequence
Order Step 6. Check for proper
1-2 torque one more time
3-4 on all bolts or nuts.
5-6
7-8

21
N-GUN PART NUMBERS

980R

980L

Figure 4

22
N-GUN PART NUMBERS

23
N-GUN PART NUMBERS

24
N-GUN PART NUMBERS

ITEM DESCRIPTION N-1 N-2 N-3

901 FOOT 20401 20401 20401
902 WORM GEAR CASE 20402 20402 20402
903 BASE 20103 20403 20403
904 WORM SHAFT & KEY 20104 20404 20404
905 THRUST BUTTON 20405 20405 20405
906 ADJUSTING SCREW 20406 20406 20406
907 FEEDWHEEL SHAFT, KEY, & NUT 20107 20407 20407
908 WORM GEAR 20408 20408 20408
909 WORM 20409 20409 20409
910 WORM THRUST BEARING 20410 20410 20410
911 OUTLET VALVE BODY 20411 20411 20411
912 RUBBER OUTLET VALVE, 1-1/4” 20416 20416 ---
912 RUBBER OUTLET VALVE, 1-3/8” 20417 20417 ---
912 RUBBER OUTLET VALVE, 1-1/2” 20418 20418 20418
912 RUBBER OUTLET VALVE, 1-5/8” --- 20422 20422
912 RUBBER OUTLET VALVE, 2” --- 20423 20423
915U UPPER CONE VALVE SPACER 20414 20414 20414
915L LOWER CONE VALVE SPACER 20434 20434 20434
919 FEEDWHEEL 20119 20419 20419
920 AGITATOR 20120 20420 20420
921 FEEDWHEEL SHAFT PACKING GLAND 20421 20421 20421
927 OUTLET VALVE RING 20127 20427 20427
928 CONE VALVE 20428 20428 20428
930 CONE VALVE ARM 20430 20430 20430
931L LOWER CONE VALVE SHAFT & KEY 20129 20429 20429
931U UPPER CONE VALVE SHAFT & KEY 20431 20431 20431
932 LOWER CONE VALVE SHAFT PACKING GLAND 20432 20432 20432
933S CONE VALVE LEVER – SHORT 20433 20433 20433
933L CONE VALVE LEVER – LONG 20435 20435 20435
936 UPPER CONE VALVE SECTION 20436 20436 20436
937 UPPER CHAMBER GASKET 20437 20437 20437
938 BLOWOUT CONNECTION – STD. 20443 20443 20443
938 BLOWOUT CONNECTION – 2” --- 20444 20444
939 AIR MOTOR – STANDARD 20445 20445 20445
939 AIR MOTOR – SLOW SPEED 20446 20446 20446
942 AIR MOTOR SCREEN 20442 20442 20442
949 STEEL WHEEL 20449 20449 20449

25
N-GUN PART NUMBERS CON’T

ITEM DESCRIPTION N-1 N-2 N-3

950 FUNNEL FLANGE, 1-1/4” 20447 20447 ---
950 FUNNEL FLANGE, 1-3/8” 20448 20448 ---
950 FUNNEL FLANGE, 1-1/2” 20448 20448 ---
950 FUNNEL FLANGE, 1-5/8” --- 20454 20454
950 FUNNEL FLANGE, 2” --- 20455 20455
951 CONE VALVE GASKET 20451 20451 20451
952 BASE GASKET 20152 20452 20452
953 AUXILIARY AIR CONNECTION HOSE 20453 20453 20453
956 AIR PRESSURE GAGE 20456 20456 20456
958 AIR MOTOR LUBRICATOR 20457 20457 20457
959 MAIN SUPPLY CHECK VALVE 20459 20459 20459
963 AIR MOTOR VALVE 20463 20463 20463
964 UPPER CHAMBER VALVE 20424 20464 20464
965 MAIN SUPPLY VALVE 20465 20465 20465
966 EXHAUST VALVE – OLD STYLE 20469 20469 20469
966 EXHAUST VALVE – COMPRESSION TUBE 20701 20701 20701
967 BLOWOFF VALVE 20467 20467 20467
968 CHECK VALVE 20425 20468 20468
971 OUTLET VALVE WASHER 20471 20471 20471
972L L.H. LOCKING BAR 20513 20515 20515
972R R.H. LOCKING BAR 20512 20514 20514
975 FLEXIBLE COUPLING 20703 20703 20703
976 OUTLET VALVE BODY GASKET 20476 20476 20476
977 PACKING, CONE VALVE SHAFT 20583 20583 20583
978 PACKING, FEEDWHEEL SHAFT 20584 20584 20584
979 GASKET, TANK HANDHOLE 20155 20155 20328
980L LEFT TRUNION 20462 20462 20462
980R RIGHT TRUNION 20460 20460 20460

26
 COMPRESSIBLE TUBE VALVE

The exhaust valve manufactured by Allentown Equipment allows rapid opening and closing by
means of an easily operated lever. The lever actuates a rubber ball that compresses a rubber
liner which completely blocks air flow.

Since the valve is self-cleaning, full flow can always be maintained even under the most dirty and
dusty conditions. This valve was specially designed for use with abrasive carrying streams.

107
ITEM DESCRIPTION PART NO.
104 101 LINER 20484
108 102 CHECK 20485
101
103 BALL 20486
105 104 PIN 20487
105 BOLT, LEVER 20488
106 BOLT, HOUSING 20489
107 HOUSING 20490
109 108 LEVER w/BUSHING 20491
110 109 BUSHING 20492
102
110 MAIN BODY 20493
103

106

Figure 5

27
 AIR MOTOR SAFETY CONTROL ASSEMBLY

3
3
6B

6C
6B

HOSE LENGTH = 11.5” Figure 6

ITEM QTY DESCRIPTION PART NO.

1 2 MOUNTING ANGLE 70055
2 2 PUSH BUTTON 70119
3 1 2 WAY VALVE 70120
4 1 NEEDLE VALVE 70051
5 2 VALVE, PUSH BUTTON 70056
6 1 HOSE AND FITTING KIT * 20633
6A 2 FITTING, 4-CTX-S (90°)
6B 2 FITTING, 4-FTX-S (STRAIGHT)
6C 1 FITTING, 4-4-4 RTX-S (TEE)
6D 2 FITTING, 4-4-FTX-S (STRAIGHT)
6E 2 FITTING, 4-R6X-S (TEE)
6F 4 FITTING, 4-U6X-S (45°)

* See Figures 6 and 7 for hose lengths

28
 AIR MOTOR SAFETY CONTROL ASSEMBLY

6A HOSE LTH. = 16.5”

HOSE LTH. = 14.75”

DRILL & TAP FOR

1/4-20 BOLT
HOSE LTH. = 22”

6D

HOSE LTH. = 11.5”

6E

Figure 7

6F

Figure 8
5
DRILL & TAP FOR
1/4-20 BOLT

29