Francis FX230 User Instruction & Installation Manual - page 11
Failure of Lamp to ignite
In the event of the lamp failing to light the following steps should be taken:
1) Check that the supply is connected to the input of the PSU and check all connections as per
the wiring diagram. On operation if the lamp does not light, switch off supply and check all
fuses;
2) Check the searchlight head. On your command get an operator to switch on the light for
approximately 2 seconds. During this time listen for any noise (cracking or hissing) coming
from within the barrel. If this arcing is heard switch off the supply. Remove the front and rear
bezels to expose the two supply leads from the ignitor to the lamp. Using a dry cloth wipe
these leads to remove any dust, moisture or condensation that may have formed around the
inside of the barrel. Replace the front and rear bezels, ensuring the swing bolts are securely
fastened, and perform the check again, listening for the cracking. If the lamp still fails to ignite,
switch off at the supply and replace the lamp in accordance with the safety procedures within
the manual and the manufacturers information.
Any further tests to be carried out with regards to lamp failure must be conducted by a
competent electrical engineer and should not be carried out in an explosive atmosphere.
3) Before a xenon lamp will ignite, the electrically insulated gas between the electrodes must be
ionised. This is done by the ignitor which produces a high frequency voltage (up to 25,000 volts
or higher). Switching the lamp on activates the ignitor. A cracking or hissing noise should be
heard. The ignitor is housed within the rear of the searchlight barrel. If found to be faulty a new
ignitor must be fitted.
Failure of Remote Focus Facility
The remote focus mechanism is controlled by a small electric motor situated on the rear bulkhead
assembly within the searchlight barrel. If the focus of the light fails the following procedure should
be adopted:
1) Remove the rear bezel from the searchlight barrel and examine focus mechanism. If parts
have become loose, tighten fasteners. The mechanism operates on a cam action and this
should be checked for correct positioning;
2) If the mechanism is okay, check the supply to the motor. This can be done by simply placing a
multimeter across the motor terminals;
3) If supply is present, this indicates that the motor has failed. Replace the focus motor ensuring
that the assembly is correct;
4) If no supply is present there is a fault on the control panel (check all terminations are secure)
or with the supply. This should be examined and rectified accordingly.
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