figure shows the primary components of the trailer as
well as general operations. The key element is the
operator’s station at the rear of the trailer (shown in
fig. 9-30). The individual selected for this station must
be able to understand the machine operations and
manuals. From here, the operator controls all the
elements required to form the panels. The operator
must remain at the controls at all times. The forming
of the panels is a complex operation that becomes
easier with a thorough understanding of the manuals.
From the placement of the trailer on site, to the
completion of the curved panel, attention to detail is
paramount.
As you operate the panel, you will be adjusting the
various machine-operating components. Make
adjustments for thickness, radius, and the curving
machine according to the manuals. Do not permit
short cuts in adjustments. Any deviations in
adjustments, or disregard for the instructions found in
the operating manuals, will leave you with a pile of
useless material and an inconsistent building.
MACHINERY PLACEMENT
To avoid setup problems, preplanning of the site
layout is important. Uneven or sloped ground is not a
concern as long as the bed of the trailer aligns with the
general lay of the existing surface conditions. Using
figure 9-31 as a guide, consider the following items
when placing the machinery:
Maneuvering room for the towing of the trailer,
or leave it attached to vehicle (as shown at A);
Length of unit is 27 feet 8 inches long by 7 feet
4 inches wide (B);
Allow enough room for run-out stands to hold
straight panels. Stands have a net length of 9
feet 6 inches each (C);
Find point X: From center of curve, measure
distance equal to radius in line with front of
curved frame. From point X, scribe an arc equal
to radius. This arc will define path of curved
panel. Add 10 feet for run-out stands and legs
(D);
Storage area required to store coil stock and
access for equipment to load onto machine (E);
Direction curved panels must be carried after
being formed (F);
Level area required to lay panels on ground for
seaming. Building will not be consistent if pan-
els are not straight when seaming (G); and
Space required for crane operations (H).
Figure 9-30.-Rear of K-span trailer.
9-18
