The Kid wants an analyzer..

Bruce M

I would like to ad that training is essential. The digital testers are great but you need to know what the numbers mean.I went to a class given by nci and they went through it very clearly. Check out the nci web site and find a class that you can attend. It will be the best money you ever spent for training.

larry

PeterGriffin

I'd like to be a little more professional

I've read a little bit about combustion analyzers in a magazine, and decided to research them a little more on the internet.

I want one. I think I need one. Especially with a printer, I think it could make me much more professional with the installations we're doing.

Could anyone steer me in the right direction to start? I'll admit I won't have a clue how to use it, but I know I can learn and I know it'll make me that much better. I don't want to cheap out, quality will pay for itself, or so I believe.

Is there anything else I should be looking into as far as making sure my installations are correct before leaving? My boss usually just gives it the scientific eyeball-laser check. Perhaps a fancy temperature gun like another topic was mentioning?


edit: Also, manometers too. Is a digital one worth it? I have a Robertshaw dial gauge right now, and the first time I used it, I was in a scissor lift and I dropped it...real smart eh? Am I able to get a digital manometer that can give me the differential or is it better just to check them individually?

Thanks so much!

realolman

bacharach

has a good web site that will explain a lot about combustion.

I have a testo which I like very much. It has a draft gauge (manometer) built in.

I think I set the flame richer using the instrument than I did by eyeball.

Glen

absolutley a necessity -

Here's what I'd recommend: Bacharach PCA 25 with printer, rugged, easy to use with great (no superb) service from Bacharach Canada. UEI differential manometer, the new mod/con's often need a differential gas setup, UEI laser thermometer - one that the emissivity can be programmed so that accurate temps can be taken from a variety of surfaces, and good smoke gun if you do oil along with the oil manifold pressure/vacuum test setup. All that said - there are other instruments that will serve just as well; especially for the analyzer - I would choose my purchase on the availability of local service and calibration.

Tony_23

I'm VERY happy

I have a TSI 6140 analyzer. Most bang for the buck, IMO.
Printer, 8 fuels, draft gauge built-in, quick response to changing conditions. And most importantly to me, field replaceable sensors that are precalibrated and reasonably priced.

A digital manometer is a must anymore, as well. Might as well get the offset model.

PeterGriffin

excellent!

I'm glad to hear superb service, but what kind of service would I be needing from them after I've their product?

and as far as the diff. manometer goes, the UEi EM200 says non-condensing...that means I can only use it on non-condensing models?

Glen

just had a quick look at the website -

I think the non condensing refers to the operating environment - eg, keep it dry, warm and happy. I use mine with all manor of condensing appliances. Every analyzer needs calibration for the report to be "official", some are field serviceable with plug in sensors but that leaves the third party certification in no mans land. I have clients that require an up to date certification letter, which in some jurisdictions is every 6 months & some 12. Maintenance for the Bacharach has been regular replacement of the particulate filter and batteries.

PeterGriffin

perfect! I think I'll be getting one! Any good online vendors here? The prices I've gotten from my wholesaler is about $700 more than on some sites I've seen, and they didn't even know what it was.


Thanks so much!

Timco

I LOVE my bacharach fyrite 125 pro. It has the printer and is very easy to use. Great unit for around a grand. Worth every penny...

Tim

PeterGriffin

great advice, but NCI apparently doesn't do training in Canada?

I'm up in Northern Alberta, is there any company that does it in my area(Fort McMurray, but I'll goto Edmonton/Calgary)?


Thanks again, Bacharach seems to have a good rep!

Glen

contact -

Rob Cox at Altatech in Edm. He is the Viessmann rep and would know of anyone that can help. There is also an electrical company on Gateway north of the White Mud that rents analyzers - if you want to give one a whirl before plunking down your cash. Also check in at NAIT - or attend the next hydronics council expo (foothills conference) in Edm next spring - all the brightest stars from the area plus a few imports are always there. It may not be formal training - but will get you going ...

D107

How long should calibration take?

HO here. Service company has a PCA-20 that they had to send to Bacharach for calibration--they claim it took 6 weeks to get it back. Is that usual? Tough if it's the only one the company has.

Thanks,

David