Retractable Aircraft Warning Lights

Figure 1

The Retractable Aircraft Warning Light (R-ACWL) System by John Zink Company provides the long awaited aircraft warning light-access solution. John Zink's revolutionary R-ACWL System allows operators to safely access warning lights at grade while the flare remains in operation.

Traditionally, accessing aircraft warning lights for inspection and maintenance has been impossible while a flare is in operation. Although ladders and platforms are often available to access the lights for maintenance, personnel are not safe accessing the lights while the flare is in service.

Now, with the John Zink^® R-ACWL System, users can lower lights to grade for maintenance and return the lights when maintenance is complete. All raising and lowering of the lights is done by personnel at grade, with or without the flare in operation.

What does a R-ACWL System look like?

Figure 2

For a look at John Zink's R-ACWL System, refer to the diagram in figure 2. Then review the labeled components that comprise the system.

1. Tension spring to anchor winch line
2. Mounting frame, attached to the tip
3. Sheaves for redirecting winch line
4. Aircraft warning lights
5. Light carriage
6. Messenger lines (stainless steel)
7. Winch line (stainless steel)
8. Tension spring
9. Stainless steel braided wiring
10. Winch
11. Tension spring to anchor winch line

How does a R-ACWL System work?

R-ACWL System operation is simple. Assuming the lights are at grade, the following steps would raise the lights.

1. Attach lights (4) to light carriage (5).
2. Attach braided wiring (9) to pilot.
3. Turn winch (10) to raise pilot.
4. Light carriage (5) rides messenger cables (6).
5. Watch wiring (9) to ensure the line travels freely. Verify lines are free of kinks and bends.
6. When lights are in operation position, attach winch line to spring.
7. Turn on power to the system.

To lower the lights, perform the above procedure in reverse.

Where can R-ACWL System be used?

John Zink engineers designed the R-ACWL System with flexibility in mind.

The system will accommodate stack heights up to 600 ft (182 m). Our R-ACWL System can be used on a new John Zink brand flare system or with any other flare system currently in service.

How many lights should be retractable?

All lights should be retractable on the flare system. A benefit of the John Zink Company's R-ACWL System is that multiple levels of lights can be retracted on a single retractable system.

For example, a flare has two levels of lights with each level containing three lights. This system would require three R-ACWL Systems, as three is the number of lights per level. The lights on the lower level would use the same retractable systems as the upper level of lights.

Who can install the R-ACWL System?

John Zink Company strongly recommends employing Liberty Towers to install the R-ACWL System. Liberty Tower's experience in field installation as well as retractable systems will ensure that the installation goes as quickly, smoothly and safely as possible.

At a minimum, Liberty Towers must dispatch a consultant to every installation of a R-ACWL System. No warranty will be honored unless a Liberty Towers consultant oversees the R-ACWL System installation. Although actual installation times vary according to the job site and circumstances, typical installation times range from 5 to 15 days.

Will the stack need to be analyzed structurally?

One of the greatest benefits of our R-ACWL System is that additional structural loading on the stack and foundation is minimal. This is primarily because the lights and wiring are supported on the messenger cables. Although the messenger cables are attached to the stack, the loading on the stack has minimal impact to the structural integrity of the system.

Are there special maintenance requirements?

The R-ACWL System design is engineered to minimize system maintenance requirements and ensure reliability. The materials of the components have been selected to withstand the hostile environments experienced by flares. Since the R-ACWL System is a mechanical system, it should be operated at least once every six months to ensure all components are functioning properly.

What type of lights can be used?

The John Zink R-ACWL System is designed for use with any type of lighting. Our systems have been installed with lights from various suppliers. In general, all types of lights can be used such as double obstruction, strobes or any other required lighting.

Contact a John Zink representative for more R-ACWL System information.

John Zink Company, LLC
11920 East Apache
Tulsa, OK 74116
United States of America
+1-918-234-1800

email: info@johnzink.com