TE135 Regulator upgrade query from newbie

[stephenmacklin]

I've enjoyed using my TE135 occasionally for the last year or so.

I bought it new from Machine Mart. It has the standard numbered regulator with a pushfit fitting a white nylon hose.

Not using it a great deal, I've taken to replacing the cylinder whenever I start a reasonably big job, but have no real idea how much gas I have left in a cylinder at any time.

Seen different regulators, with one and with two gauges, also seen flow meters. Ideally I'd like something that would screw into the standard disposable cylinders, and continue to use the push fit hose but have to admit to being pretty phased by the options available.

Can anyone suggest a supplier and a budget regulator that might help me prevent wasting gas?

Thanks

Stephen

 

[mike 109444]

Not sure that there is a disposable reg WITH gauge. If you are using disposable CO2 then you could weigh the cylinder (new full) as CO2 is held in the cylinder as a liquid (that is how the pub type cylinders are filled, by weight. If it's Ar+CO2 then that is a gas only and so will show next to no weight difference between full and empty!
A flow meter won't show how much gas is left in cylinder only that there is enough to show a flow or when empty no flow!!
If you do use CO2 then think of getting a pub cylinder. It will mean getting a proper reg/flow meter as well but will be Soooo much cheaper in the long run.
Just been in to day to exchange one of my CO2 pub cylinders at the cellar supplies place. £22.00 Gone up a couple of quid! That is for a 3ft tall cylinder and lasts for ages.
Think the all in price for a cylinder and gas would be aprox £45 Which is only about the cost of 3 disposable. Think long term

 

[stephenmacklin]

Thanks Mike

I'll probably end up going down that route. Noticed the gas market has become a little more hobbiest friendly. Cheers, Stephen

 

[mike 109444]

There is a section on the forum just for "shielding gas" and in it is a list generated by member adding to it and it contains names and address of companies doing the gases. You might find there is one just around the corner!