Please note that Venco have issued a product recall on their Direct Drive and possibly their No. 7 pottery wheels.
A fault has been identified in the above wheels, whereby an electric shock can be sustained through the foot pedal.
This can occur if the wiring INSIDE the pedal becomes detached from the potentiometer, or corroded as a result of moisture ingress AND then touches on the metal rod at the top of the pedal. The most common cause of disruption to the internal wiring is through damage, usually sustained through pedals being dropped/misused. This can cause detachment of wires, break the plastic casing and seal, allowing moisture ingress and corrosion.
Wires can also twist and potentially break if the nut at the back of the pedal becomes loose.
Please ensure that the Mains Power is switched off, and cord unplugged from wall / power board, WAIT FOR RED STANDBY light to off this can take up to 15 seconds BEFORE inspecting the pedal.
- Inspect the outer casing, ensuring there are no cracks, and that there are no signs of moisture inside the pedal.
- Inspect the wires and ensure they are not detached from the potentiometer (small grey or blue plastic device), broken or twisted in any way.
- Ensure nut at back of pedal is tightly fastened.
Customers are responsible for the care of their pedals and Venco recommend that wheels are regularly tagged and tested if required for the individual’s purposes and that RCD's are present in all buildings.
We have been advised to notify all customers who have purchased either of these two models during the last 15-20 years to have their wheel inspected by an electrician. We have been advised to communicate that customers do not continue to use these machines until they have been inspected.
Venco are in the process of devising a solution, and ask that you touch base with the distributor or outlet your wheel was purchased from.
If you have purchased either of these models from Northcote Pottery Supplies please check our website for further details or contact our general manager Amy manager@northcotepotterysupplies.com.au or by phoning (03) 9387 3911 and we can advise you of the next steps.