Maintenance Guidelines for Electric Wheelchairs Made from Different Materials

Electric wheelchairs are not inexpensive and the most important factor that enhances their life is to ensure they are well-maintained. However, not all wheelchairs are maintained the same way. The frame material, steel, aluminum, carbon fiber, or magnesium, determines what cleaning agents to use, how to inspect for damage, and what corrosion prevention steps are necessary. At Ningbo Baichen Medical Devices Co., Ltd., we manufacture power wheelchairs in all four materials. Below are material specific maintenance guidelines.

Steel Power Wheelchair: Prevent Rust Above All Else

Steel is the most inexpensive and strongest material of frame, but its biggest enemy is rust. The maintenance of steel wheelchairs is aimed at preserving the coating and removing the scratches as soon as possible. Rinse the frame once a week in mild soap and water and dry well, do not allow water to stagnate in crevices. Check on scratches or chips of the powder coating, paint any bare metal with rust inhibiting paint. Be careful of weld joints, and the bottom of the footrest hangers, where the moisture collects. In the coastal or high humidity regions, apply a thin coat of automotive wax on the frame every 3-6 months. To diagnose rust in the tubing, each year, tap the areas of the tubing which may be suspect with a screwdriver, a dull thud is a sign of internal corrosion.

Aluminum Power Wheelchair: Clean Gently, Avoid Abrasives

Aluminum has a natural ability to resist corrosion hence it requires less maintenance as compared to steel. But, aluminum is weaker and more vulnerable to scratches and dents. Only soft cloths and non abrasive cleaners are to be used. Anodized or powder coated finish can be removed by harsh brushes or scouring pads, and will result in cosmetic damage (but not rust). Check weld joints, around weld joints look at cracks, aluminum may form fatigue cracks after many years of heavy use, particularly around the axle brackets and backrest pivots. Contrary to steel, rust is not apparent in aluminum, dark lines are characteristic of the cracks. In case you discover a crack, discontinue using the chair and call a professional. Apply silicone spray to folding mechanisms and pivot points, every 2-3 months.

Carbon Fiber Power Wheelchair: Inspect for Delamination and Impact Damage

However, carbon fiber is very strong in its weight, but it does not give any warning, it collapses and destroys when it is in a damaged state. Maintenance concerns primarily inspection. Wash with mild soap and a soft sponge, never use abrasive pads or solvents like acetone, which can attack the resin. Inspect the frame visually before each use for signs of impact: cracks, white stress marks, or areas where the surface feels soft or spongy. The frame can be tapped with a coin, a solid sound means integrity and a dull thud means delamination (internal separation of layers). Do not try to do any repairs on carbon fiber by yourself, any crack or delamination should be assessed by professionals. Storing the chair under prolonged exposure to UV (sunlight) should be avoided since UV deteriorates the resin in the course of years.

Magnesium Power Wheelchair: Balance Corrosion Protection with Lightweight Care

Magnesium offers a unique balance of lightweight and stiffness, but it is the most corrosion sensitive material. When the protective coating is damaged, magnesium may readily corrode. Wipe with pH neutral soap (do not use acidic or alkaline detergents) and dry immediately. Always leave the chair dry. Check the coating once a week on the presence of scratches or chips and fill the spots as soon as possible with manufacturer approved paint. Note particularly where dissimilar metals come into contact (such as, steel bolts in magnesium frames), where galvanic corrosion may be found. Spray a corrosion inhibitor specially made to use on magnesium after every 6 months. In contrast to aluminum or steel, magnesium fires pose the risk in the case of exposure of metal dust or shavings to high heat, does not grind or cut the frame.

Summary

Proper maintenance extends the life of any electric wheelchair, but the specific steps depend on the frame material. Steel requires rust prevention, aluminum must be softly cleansed and crack inspected, carbon fiber must be carefully monitored in terms of impact, and magnesium must be violently corrosively safeguarded. We produce all four types at Ningbo Baichen Medical Devices Co., Ltd., which has a 20,000 m2 factory. Call us to find out more specific maintenance instructions to your particular wheelchair model.