Hoo boy! Don't thank me on this one, because I was totally wrong on that device doing the job. We just had our manufacturing reps out yesterday to look at some things and I got a little education about lift platform spring pressure testing. That cheap automotive unit will give you a reading but not really the reading you want. To do it right you really need the fancy $1800 piece that allows you to account for deflection of the lift platform.
Honestly, before you look at buying anything like that you should just get the technical rep. out to look at everything seamer related. There are so many items that could be causing issues and they may have nothing to do with spring pressure. Seaming is a highly technical, mechanical operation and many of the tolerances are measured in the thousandths of an inch range. A skilled technician is your best bet. Sorry to give poor advice. That cheap spring gauge will be handy if you're rebuilding an engine though..or if you want to squeeze it and check your grip strength! Here's a photo of the proper instrument and potential source.
Again, my apologies for tossing up an airball on this (or hairball, as my cat would say!)
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Andy Tveekrem
Brewmaster
Market Garden Brewery
Cleveland OH
(216) 392-0466
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Original Message:
Sent: 12-21-2022 11:09
From: David Chichura
Subject: Spring Pressure Gauge Recommendations?
Thanks a bunch for the suggestion, Andy!
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Dave Chichura
Ex Novo Brewing
Corrales, NM
Original Message:
Sent: 12-16-2022 12:56
From: Andy Tveekrem
Subject: Spring Pressure Gauge Recommendations?
We just got this spring pressure tester from an automotive supplier. Stack some extra fittings on top to get the can height and you're all set. $80-100 depending on what brand you buy.
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Andy Tveekrem
Brewmaster
Market Garden Brewery
Cleveland OH
(216) 392-0466
Original Message:
Sent: 12-15-2022 11:59
From: David Chichura
Subject: Spring Pressure Gauge Recommendations?
I'd like to know what you small brewery folks are using in the way of a spring pressure gauge for your lift plate pressure testing. I'm hoping there's a reliable solution for less than the recent quote of $1800 I received.
Thanks for any help!
--dave
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Dave Chichura
Ex Novo Brewing
Corrales, NM
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