Bubble Counters - type ? + Regulator question

[Pockets]

I am wondering about the difference between the "bubble counters" that are mounted on the needle valves compared to the other bubble counters that are run inline and are mounted on some fixed object by screws.

I like the convienance of the bubble counters that mount right on top of the needle valves but I cannot find them for sale anywhere? Also they seem to only be available on the All-in-one units sold by JBJ / Milwawkii . And I don't want to purchase either brand.

Can someone tell me what is the most precise bubble counter setup?

And are there any advantages/disadvantages in either bubble counter type?


* Also off topic - Should I buy a Regulator that has a fixed-working pressure or get one that has the ability to adjust the working pressure?

Example:

Fixed Working Pressure Regulator > CO2 Regulator by AquaMedic - AquaCave

Adjustable Working Pressure Regulator > Double Gauge - CO2 Primary - Premium Series


Thanks for any advice everyone

[VaughnH]

Any bubble counter is as good as any other, as far as accuracy is concerned. All it is is a container of liquid where you can see bubbles of CO2. The difference between a good one and a bad one is how easy it is to keep it from leaking and how easy to add more liquid when you need to. I don't see any reason to care where it is mounted as long as it is convenient to look at and not an eyesore. I also don't recall seeing any that mount on a needle valve other than the ones that come with the Milwaukee all in one unit or similar all in one units. Rex Griggs sells a neat one he makes from clear PVC piping, but it isn't specifically made to mount on a needle valve.

[sherry]

I just hooked up one of rex's last night.. and it is great.. it actually can mount on the outside of the tank or on something near by as it attaches to the needle valve via tube.. (I now have the fabco needle valve which also doesn't attach directly to the regulator)..

[Pockets]

* Also off topic - Should I buy a Regulator that has a fixed-working pressure or get one that has the ability to adjust the working pressure?

Example:

Fixed Working Pressure Regulator > CO2 Regulator by AquaMedic - AquaCave

Adjustable Working Pressure Regulator > Double Gauge - CO2 Primary - Premium Series


Thanks for any advice everyone

What about the regulator question anybody have advice or comments ?

[VaughnH]

I would never use a fixed working pressure regulator. It is hard enough to fine tune the bubble rate without taking away one of the adjustments that can be used.

[Pockets]

I also don't recall seeing any that mount on a needle valve other than the ones that come with the Milwaukee all in one unit or similar all in one units.

found it separate for sale here > AquariumPlants.com Largest online sales / service site for the live aquarium plants community.

[sherry]

Tom recently recommended the victor regulator (ebay light duty) and Rex Griggs needle valves and solenoids.

I am not handy and decided it was worth the premium to buy one of Rex's units. So far I am very happy with it! He does nice work.

[Pockets]

I think I will be purchasing this regulator
J & R Welding Supplies Victor VTS250 Series / Two Stage Medium Duty Regulator
$288.00 0781-3573 VTS253B-320 2 - 40 CO2 5/8-18 ( F ) RH 3000 PSIG

I think this regulator is the one I am going to buy ... just need now to do some shopping to get the best price.


* by the way , does anyone know the difference between single/two-stage functionality ?

[Pockets]

Read this Pockets

How to Choose a Compressed Gas Regulator from Scott Specialty Gases

[VaughnH]

The job we want our CO2 regulators to do is pretty simple compared to what many regulator applications call for. About all we care about is that the regulator not leak, that it maintain the pressure we set it at, even as the CO2 tank runs out of liquid CO2, and that we be able to set its pressure easily. Those requirements can be met with a single stage regulator, even though a two stage regulator will do it better, especially the part about maintaining its set pressure as the tank pressure drops. So, if you feel you can afford the cost a two stage regulator is obviously better, but you can be very happy with a single stage regulator too.