I've got two IP gauges. One tends to read about 10 psi higher than the other.
Can I assume the lower-reading gauge is more likely "correct'?
Can I assume the lower-reading gauge is more likely "correct'?
Do IP gauges always fail by reading high?
- Thread starter tursiops
- Start date
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Probably not.
They read high because the coil of copper tube inside loses its elasticity, which is why some folks like the Navy annually check them against a known source, and check the source against a standard. Electronic gauges have no such tube, and only read wrong when dropped, probably never to read correctly again.
Digital gauges aren’t that expensive if you’re checking lots of IPs. Part with some treasure.
They read high because the coil of copper tube inside loses its elasticity, which is why some folks like the Navy annually check them against a known source, and check the source against a standard. Electronic gauges have no such tube, and only read wrong when dropped, probably never to read correctly again.
Digital gauges aren’t that expensive if you’re checking lots of IPs. Part with some treasure.
broncobowsher
Contributor
Assuming one gauge is correct over another, at that point you are just guessing.
Gauges fail in all sorts of ways. You can get a replacement gauge for under $10. Standard pipe thread connects the gauge to a BC nipple.
Gauges fail in all sorts of ways. You can get a replacement gauge for under $10. Standard pipe thread connects the gauge to a BC nipple.
If you have one gauge you know what pressure you have, if you have two you don’t know.
OP
Rose Robinson
Contributor
Hello tursiops,
I wouldn't think so. Most ''common'' pressure gauges have either pressure tubes or pressure springs, and when at rest, the gauge is at ''O''
If either the spring or the tube failed while at pressure, the needle could come to rest anywhere along the scale.
I have many gauges at both of my operations, and all of them professionally calibrated at regular intervals, and replaced as needed.
If sport divers were required by law/legislation/code to have all gauges, IP/SPG/magnahelic etc. calibrated at regular intervals, I'm sure you'd be very surprised at what you would find.
Same thing goes for computers. If you had ten wrist computers lined up on your arm, and not one of them read exactly the same, which one is right??
This is my primary reason, for trading in and replacing every third year or so. What's a bucket full of old SPG's/computers worth, absolutely nothing, IMHO.
Very Best to You,
Rose.
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