Spunding Valve Experience?

[storunner13]

Has anyone tried this Bleeder Valve from Midwest or Northern Brewer? How does it differ from the Adjustable Pressure Valve?

Also, If you've used either of these, how well is the relief valve calibrated? I know Poindexter/WortMonger use a DIY spunding valve, and their reliefs are calibrated nicely, but the first one I listed is $23, and I'm not sure it will be of the same quality.

 

[DeeDub76]

I'm not sure what you mean by "relief valve calibrated". The analog pressure indicator itself could possibly be calibrated, but most of those cheaper indicators like those in the links do not allow for adjustments, but used more for "reference only" applications.

 

[samc]

I made one that looks exactly like NB's version. I had most of the parts lying around so it was pretty cheap to do. Mine has no calibration other than what the pressure gauge reads and I really only use it for checking the pressure of a keg. I started to do the closed pressure carb thing and then got lazy about it and gave up.

I did get a kick out of reading this from Midwest!

Note: Sometimes the pressure adjust can come from the manufacture very tightly screwed on the unit. Take a towel and pliers to clamp on to the end closest to the ball lock fitting, then turn the end camp until it turns easily.

Are they seriously too lazy to check how tight each one is before shipping to customer?

 

[ClaudiusB]

Has anyone tried this Bleeder Valve from Midwest or Northern Brewer? How does it differ from the Adjustable Pressure Valve?

The bleeder valve is just a needle valve to release excess pressure and not very useful as a spunding device, unless you like to monitor and release the excess pressure yourself.
The adjustable pressure relief valve will do it for you automatically as soon the adjusted set-point is exceeded.

Also, If you've used either of these, how well is the relief valve calibrated?

The spec sheet will give you the info, for $8.00 +/- 3 PSI (guessing)

I use one to protect my CO2 distribution system in case my regulator fails, comes with manual release too.

Cheers,
ClaudiusB