The Neon Bender's BBS!

The Archive no longer allows posting but search of hundreds of previous posts are available
If you have any questions please contact us.

[Please Read]

[ View Thread ] [ Return to Search ] [ Read Prev Msg ] [ Read Next Msg ]

Re: There's a better product that's DIY repairable

Posted By: John Anderson
Date: Wednesday, 30 April 2014, at 5:40 p.m.

In Response To: Re: There's a better product that's DIY repairable (SVP Neon Equipment)


That's not been my experience. I've made the IR gauges for Transco for many years. I built my first IR gauge in the 1990's, and I'm still using that same gauge to this day.

I am now in the 6th generation of the unit. I've used Omega, Raytek, and my own custom-made sensor heads using Melexis thermopiles. I've never had problems with the bombarder affecting the accuracy. If it did, the reading would change as you cycle the bomber on/off. It does not. The reading is rock steady at all pressures and current levels. Even around a spark coil. And in 15+ years, I've never lost a sensor to a bombarder. Instead, the failures have been the little things: the digital display or the sensor cable. Remedies to both of those issues have evolved over time, and it's now very rare I get a return.

Some people like IR gauges, some like thermocouples. (I really like the way a thermocouple gauge can be self-powered). Some probably still like temp crayons or phone book paper. They all work. Each has their own quirks you learn to deal with. I'll admit I'm biased towards IR gauges - but only because they've worked very well for me in my own shop for a long time.

> BUT there is a need to use a special lens
> and circuitry because of the bombarder EMF,
> which affects the reading and therefore the
> accuracy. If you don't believe me, contact
> some of the better (read, not Omega)
> manufacturers of these instruments and
> present them with *honest* bombarding
> criteria and see what they have to say. Be
> sure to include that when some bombarders
> are heavily overloaded they can produce peak
> voltages in excess of 40kV, and even 50kV.


Messages In This Thread

[ View Thread ] [ Return to Search ] [ Read Prev Msg ] [ Read Next Msg ]

Neon Bender's BBS! is maintained by Kenny with WebBBS 5.12.

This page Copyright © 1996-2005 Krypton Neon