Oxygen analyzer

[D_B]

My instructor has the El Cheapo and (IIRC) he modded it so that the sensor stays inside the box to better protect it

 

[GrumpyOldGuy]

Depending on the shops fill method and how long the tanks set before use the mix can change as much as 2-3%..

Jim, could you elaborate on this statement?

I just don't understand the process of how the mix could change significantly over time or dependent on fill method.

 

[Splash-X]

Jim,

Have any pictures of the finished unit?

 

[D_B]

If they blend the nitrox mix in your tank (as opposed to filling your tank with a mix from a storage tank) the percentage can change slightly cause of futher mixing/blending inside the tank after filling

 

[HenrikBP]

Very doable.

Thanks for the info Jim. I'll start saving my pennies.

Henrik

 

[Jim Lapenta]

Jim, could you elaborate on this statement?

I just don't understand the process of how the mix could change significantly over time or dependent on fill method.

Analyze a tank filled with the PPB method immediately after filling then check it a couple hours later after the mix has time to fully blend and stabilize. Depending on things like temp and fill rate, the percentage can change by as much as 3% in my experience. Also when doing PPB there are charts and formulas for mixing. So many PSI air, so many PSI O2= desired mix. So I;'d think the accuracy of the mixing gauges can effect this as well though not as often.

 

[Jim Lapenta]

Jim,

Have any pictures of the finished unit?

I'll try to get some up tomorrow nite after I get in from diving.

 

[muddiver]

They didn't have an analyzer or didn't allow you to double check their fills? There had to be an analyzer and I suspect it was put away. Had this been me, I would have requested the analyzer and if they said it is their policy not to I would have requested that I watch them test it to verify the results. If not, I wouldn't sign off on their log and I wouldn't pay for the fill.

I have also been handed a tank of EAN32 in Hawaii by a shop when loading out on their boat that I nver saw tested as well. It's not uncommon in the loosy-goosy recreational diving world. You have been lucky to dive in locations that appear to pay attention to details, or they are regulated by some local authority.

I myself can't justify $300 for a double check, thats just me but I do see valid points from others.

I take it you purchased your scuba regulator from Walmart, on sale and it has no decernable markings to verify that it was made by a lagitimate manufacturer as well, right?