Equilibar has recently purchased a CO2 laser engraving machine to help us move to more professional and more permanent product labeling. We are currently trying to finish the software implementation to move the process from prototype to production.
One challenge in the labeling process is how to separate permanent data from temporary data. Many of our customers change diaphragms during the lifetime of our regulator, and the pressure rating can change with the diaphragm change. Industry norms, such as the European Pressure Directive, require us to mark the MAWP and MAWT (Maximum Allowable Working Pressure & Temperature) on the body in a permanent way.
Our proposed solution is to laser mark only permanent data on the body of the regulator. This would include the MAWP and MAWT for the body and bolts (critical to safety analyses). We propose to install a removable tag on the top bolt of the unit that would include the installed o-rings and diaphragm, along with a pressure rating appropriate for the installed diaphragm. We are also planning to permanently mark the body and cap with Serial Number and heat number.
We welcome feedback from our customers as to whether this system makes sense to you. We are working hard to meet all the requirements of both our customers and international standards.
GS Series regulator showing permanent data (side), diaphragm data (top tab), and serial number and Heat number (top cap)
GS Series showing permanent label attached using adhesive. Body serial number and Heat number are engraved on bottom surface
Equilibar engineer, Tony Tang, working to start up our new engraving laser machine.
