BLUF: Use proper desiccant to prevent corrosion when packing up the internal rescue hoist for storage.
Photo by Capt. Travis Mueller
This article initially appeared in PS 764 (Jul 16).
Mechanics, as an ole’ saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. That was true when Benjamin Franklin said it then and it’s true now, especially when it comes to the proper storage of the internal rescue hoist (IRH), NSN 1680-01-552-3442!
Proper IRH storage is all about preventing and controlling corrosion. That means keeping the IRH as moisture-free as possible.
Properly store internal Rescue Hoist to prevent corrosion
Unfortunately, IRHs are being neglected and stored in conditions that allow corrosion to spread rapidly. And with spare parts harder to get, preventing corrosion is more important than ever.
Moisture can create problems for even properly stored IRHs. So what’s a Soldier to do?
- Control the storage environment. Keep IRHs dry and protected. Always store them in their containers and make sure the containers are properly fastened to keep moisture out. Store containers indoors when possible and always protect them from rain. The shipping and storage containers NSN is 8145-01-076-7476, PN CW5545-1505.
- Use desiccants that are designed to absorb moisture and keep things dry. When storing an IRH, put large packs of desiccant inside the container to protect it from moisture that leads to corrosion.
The amount of space in the container that needs protection requires 46 units of absorption. There are a few ways you can accomplish this. For instance, you could use three 16-unit or six 8-unit (48 units total) desiccant pouches for each container. Use any combination that will get you a total of 46 or more desiccant units or whatever is called for in your unit’s SOP.
Here are some suggested desiccants: 16-unit desiccant pouches (packed with 150/drum), NSN 6850-00-264-6572 and eight-unit desiccant pouches (packed 300/drum), NSN 6850-00-264-6571.
Applying an ounce of prevention is the best way to avoid costly repairs. To keep your IRHs on the job for years to come, spend a few minutes storing them and their containers properly.