Uniphos Envirotronic Inc. leads the way in the manufacturing and supply of gas detection equipment including two types of gas detector tubes: Uniphos and KwikDraw. These gas detector tubes provide a simple measurement of chemicals in gas samples and are available in nearly 300 types of gas detector tubes for hundreds of different chemicals and concentration ranges. Uniphos is uniquely positioned as the only gas detector tube manufacturer to offer the detector tube program with one system based on a piston pump (Uniphos) and another on a bellows style pump (branded KwikDraw). For years, there has been this ongoing controversy over which system is better, bellows with 7 mm tubes or piston pump with 5 mm tubes. Arguments have been made for both systems, but frankly, in many cases it comes down to personal preference.
Uniphos gas detector tubes
The original Uniphos brand of detector tubes are 5 mm in diameter and are used with the precision ASP-40 piston hand pump, delivering 100 cc for a full stroke or 50 cc for a half stroke volume. The typical sample time per stroke is two minutes based on the specific tube actual tube may vary between one to three minutes). The narrow tube and fine granular size of the reagent carrier used in the 5 mm tubes produce distinct stain characteristics and sharply defined endpoints to help interpret the indication on the tube. The piston style pump and tube configuration often have the standard range of measurement based on a single pump stroke. The piston pump uses o-rings and check valves which should be lubricated periodically depending on the frequency of use and the workplace environment (lubrication more often in dusty, dry environments). Properly maintained products will provide accurate results and years of service. A good rule of thumb is to treat the equipment as if you owned it and your life depended on it; someday it just might!
KwikDraw gas detector tubes
Uniphos acquired KwikDraw in 2014 and recognizing the value of these tubes, kept the product line intact. We have not missed a beat and continue to manufacture these tubes to the same exacting quality specifications at our high-tech factory in Vapi, India. The KwikDraw tube system is based on a bellows style pump that delivers an accurate 100 cc per pump stroke every time. These tubes are slightly wider than the Uniphos tubes at 7 mm and are preferred by some customers over the slender Uniphos tubes. It simply is a matter of personal preference in some cases. The KwikDraw, bellows style pump and tube combination operate at a much quicker sampling rate with a typical pump stroke cycle in the range of 10 to 30 seconds, and most measurements based on higher sample volume per measurement. The KwikDraw has a plunger shaft that should be lubricated periodically to ensure proper performance. Like the Uniphos pump, the KwikDraw version will provide years of reliable performance with minimal maintenance.
Commonalities of both types of tubes
Uniphos and our customers are thrilled with the performance of both types of tubes. The tubes are pre-calibrated and take only a few minutes to complete a measurement. The concentration is read directly from the length-of-color stain. The readings are extremely accurate and hence, result in enhanced safety in the workplace. In addition, the low cost per sample reduces operational costs. The range of gases and vapors detected by the two systems is very similar. The KwikDraw system has a slight edge in the number of gases and vapors detected as well as being able to measure some of the “exotic” gases/vapor such as bromobenzene, bromomethane, cyclooctane, ethylene, chemical warfare agents and specialized sets of tubes for mining, petrochemical, pulp and paper, and other industries. The two systems offer an excellent selection of tubes with both programs covering the top requested detector tubes across the various industrial segments.
Our commitment to Safety and our Mission
Safety is a core value at Uniphos, and our goal is to ensure that our detection and monitoring equipment provides reliable and immediate indications of toxic and flammable gas concentrations. Our mission is to strive for excellence, exceeding the expectations of our customers through product development, utilizing the latest technology and continuous quality improvement of our products and services.
Uniphos Envirotronic Inc. manufactures nearly 300 types of gas detector tubes. We are happy to help you find the right tubes in the detector tube system that best suits your needs.
Call us at 1.844.247.0450 (toll free). Our team is on stand by to help you make your workplace a safer place.