Integrated Valve and 1st stage for Argon

[rdunlap]

I was wondering if anyone uses/has used a unit like this for an argon bottle.

http://www.zeagle.com/index.php?src=gendocs&link=RaZor&category=Regulators

They seem ok to be used on an Argon bottle without the hassle of buying a valve and 1st stage seperately. I would never use on as a Pony/Stage 1st stage, but an Argon bottle just has to be able to supply gas to my drysuit, so I don't really care if it might be hard to breathe off of. Can't breathe Argon the last time I checked anyway. The unit also seems smaller and less likely to become entagled.

I can see the potential failure points (metal knob, not environmentally sealed (as far as I can tell) but most of the Argon regs that I have seen are really, really old outdated ones or the cheapest ones around. Used and battered would be a good description.

Cost wise, these are cheaper than buying a cheap first stage and valve by a few bucks, not a huge savings, but enough to make a difference. I have a line on an Argon bottle (used), but no valve on it, which is why I am asking this question.

Thanks for any imput.

 

[JeffG]

I was wondering if anyone uses/has used a unit like this for an argon bottle.

I haven't used one, but TDL has something similar. (Look under Dry Suit Inflation)

So its not an un-heard of concept.

 

[DA Aquamaster]

When you are using a first stage of any type with only an inflator hose, it is important to use a suitable overpressure relief valve in one of the LP ports. This is particularly important in a cold water situation where the first stage could possibly freeze flow. Without a second stage attached, the OPV is needed to prevent the inflator hose from rupturing in the case of a freeze flow or leaking HP seat.

As long as you add an OPV, an integrated valve first stage should work fine. My only other concern would be whether you can easily turn the small valve knob on and off ok with gloves on in cold water.

Personally, for a dry suit inflation reg, I prefer something like an old Conshelf 12 or 14. The spring pad on them can be adjusted out quite far so that you can reduce the intermediate pressure to around 50 psi. This is adequate for dry suit inflation and reduces the problems that could result from a stuck inflator valve, etc. Parts are still readily available and they can be found on E-bay for very little money.

A Scubapro Mk 3 also makes a good argon reg. The IP is not adjustable (unless you substitute a lighter main spring) but they are very simple and reliable and parts service are again still readily available and they are inexpensive on e-bay - especially the older ones with round caps and only 2 LP ports.

 

[mnj1233]

I haven't used one, but TDL has something similar. (Look under Dry Suit Inflation)

So its not an un-heard of concept.

The TDL argon regulator is always on when the inflator hose is connected. There is no shut-off.