UltraFlex-3 / 4 Spare Parts FAQs
Straight answers to the questions people ask most when choosing and fitting spare parts for a flexible spring-balanced fume extraction arm.
Why does my arm sag or fail to hold its position?
Extraction arms are usually balanced by springs or similar counterbalance parts and held in place by friction in the joints. A sagging arm often points to a weakened or broken spring, a loosened joint or worn friction parts.
Check the joint tension first, but only if the manual for your arm allows it. Whether springs should be replaced singly or together depends on how your arm is built, so follow the parts list and instructions for your own model. Support the arm before any work, because springs can hold stored force. If you are unsure, use a competent engineer.
What are the inner tubes and why do they need replacing?
The inner tubes are the rigid sections of the arm that carry the airflow and the joints. They can bend, dent or corrode from knocks, heat and age. The tube material differs between arm designs, so check the data plate and manual for your own machine rather than assuming.
A bent tube stops the arm moving smoothly and can leak. Choose the tube listed in the parts list for your arm and for the correct position, whether that is the hood side or the wall or unit side.
How do I choose between a hood-side part and a wall or unit-side part?
Many spares come in two versions, one for the hood end and one for the wall or unit end, because the loads and fittings differ. Springs, hoses and tubes at the two ends are not usually interchangeable.
Check which end the part belongs to, using the drawing, and make sure it is listed for your arm.
How do I know when to replace the hose pieces?
Replace a hose piece if you see tears, burn marks, collapsed sections, or loose ends. Flexible hoses are often made in pieces for the hood, middle and wall ends, so you only need to replace the damaged one.
Make sure that the replacement has the correct diameter and fittings. A damaged hose cuts suction and lets fume escape.