Am I The Worlds Most Unlucky ***co2 Equipment*** User Ever?

[Primous]

2 aqua medic solenoids failed on me. The first after 6 months, the second after a week. Today I got a solenoid (german lunapet model) adjusted my cylinder and regulator, programed the timed plug and did the test. On the first go round the solenoid shut off the co2. The bubble count was a little slow so I adjusted the needle valve/bubble count. However this time when I shut off the solenoid it was still allowing gas to pass through

I'm using the smilies because words cant express my frustration. HELP!

 

[DevotedToDiscus]

2 aqua medic solenoids failed on me. The first after 6 months, the second after a week. Today I got a solenoid (german lunapet model) adjusted my cylinder and regulator, programed the timed plug and did the test. On the first go round the solenoid shut off the co2. The bubble count was a little slow so I adjusted the needle valve/bubble count. However this time when I shut off the solenoid it was still allowing gas to pass through

I'm using the smilies because words cant express my frustration. HELP!

What output pressure is your regulator set at?

 

[Primous]

The regulator is set at 1bbs

 

[DevotedToDiscus]

The regulator is set at 1bbs

That's the bubble counter, your output regulator is the second gauge on the cylinder and should be between 10-15 psi. If it is set to high it will be stressing the solenoid valve. Some regulators are preset and can't be adjusted, but most have a screw/nut on the side to adjust it. I am guessing it is set way to high and busting your valves. Over time the valve spring will wear and it needs periodic re-adjustment. Have a look and give me a shout if you need any more ideas

 

[Primous]

While I know how to set it up and how it should work the truth is, I'm not too knowledgeable on the equipment side of things. I'm not even sure how much co2 I have left so here's a pic. It has a needle valve to adjust the bbps beyond that I'm kinda lost.

 

[DevotedToDiscus]

While I know how to set it up and how it should work the truth is, I'm not too knowledgeable on the equipment side of things. I'm not even sure how much co2 I have left so here's a pic. It has a needle valve to adjust the bbps beyond that I'm kinda lost.

That's correct. Your output pressure is 1.2 Bar(18psi), is a little high, but not enough to damage your solenoid valve. Your tank pressure is 50 bar(750 psi) which is about 3/4 full. So I don't see anything there that should be causing your valve to fail.......maybe you are unlucky. I've never had one break on me before. So I am a bit lost with suggestion now....sorry

.......However. on the left there is a knurled cap, under that there should be a screw which allows you to adjust the output pressure. Might be worth dropping it a little, to 0.9 bar.

 

[Primous]

Might be worth dropping it a little, to 0.9 bar.

Great advice Solenoid is back to working as designed. Thanks again.

 

[DevotedToDiscus]

Might be worth dropping it a little, to 0.9 bar.

Great advice Solenoid is back to working as designed. Thanks again.

Good stuff