TM 10-4320-345-13
Section IV. OPERATION UNDER UNUSUAL CONDITIONS
2-17. OPERATION IS EXTREME COLD (BELOW 32°F (0°C)).
a.
When the air temperature is expected to be 32°F (0°C) or below, set up the water system using the
minimum number of components required to accomplish your mission.
b.
Observe the following precautions when operating the water system in extreme cold.
(1) Wear arctic mittens and rubber gloves when handling hardware. Bare hands can freeze to metal
components Change mittens if they get wet.
(2) Take advantage of existing shelter and windbreaks during system installation.
(3) Erect tents or shelters for protection. The collapsible tanks must be installed inside a tent or
other shelter when temperature falls below freezing. Fuel, coal or wood burning heaters or other
heating devices may be installed inside the erected tents to protect the equipment and prevent
freezing of water.
(4) Do not operate heater in fuel vapor areas or areas lacking adequate ventilation. Inhalation of
fumes will result in serious illness or death.
(5) Avoid unnecessary folding, unfolding or rolling of hoses and water tanks in freezing
temperatures. Cracks can develop in hose and tank fabric.
(6) Remove snow, sleet or ice from water tanks and water pumps. Be careful to prevent cracking of
tank fabric.
(7) Turn valve control handwheels slowly during cold weather. Internal seals may have become stiff
and brittle.
(8) Remove snow, sleet or ice from hose couplings before making connections.
(9) When not in use, store water hoses and tanks in a heated area to avoid freezing. If frozen,
disconnect hoses and move them to a heated area until they thaw.
(10)
Refer to the applicable TM for operating the 600 gpm pump in extreme cold.
(11)
Refer to the applicable TM for operating the 125 GPM pump in extreme cold.
(12)
Refer to the applicable TM for operating the hypochlorination in extreme cold.
(13)
Refer to the applicable TM for operating the 20K collapsible fabric tanks in extreme cold.
(14)
Monitor water system during operation for split, clogged or frozen hoses.
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