Hello Lightning Tamers,
This is episode number 59. In today’s podcast, I’ll be joined by Greg Wilson, the President of Alta Robbins, a leading provider of precision engineering solutions, known for their high-quality valves. With a wealth of knowledge in valve engineering and a deep understanding of the needs of the neon industry, Greg is here to share his insights and expertise with us.
Get ready for a deep dive into Alta Robbins valves, where we will learn Alta Robbins connection to Neon while understanding the intricacies one of the most important parts on your neon gas system. This include company history, choice of valve, troubleshooting and repair questions. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out in the world of neon and plasma, this episode promises to be enlightening and informative.
For our Patreon subscribers a transcript will be available for this episode! If your not yet a patreon member, you can sign up for 7-day trial with access to additional Taming Lightning content.
Welcome to Podcast Greg Wilson!
Alta Robbins Valves available for Worldwide Shipping with Neon/Plasma discounted rate on Taming Lighting Store!
Available in both Brass and Stainless Steel in both 1/4 NPT and 1/8 NPT ports! If you have questions send an email to store@taminglightning.net
US Only
International
SHOW NOTES
- Music credits to the following artists in order of appearance:
- Preview – Retro by ONE
- The opening theme -Taming Lightning by Trav B. Ryan
- Credits – Walking by Ras-Hop
[2:03] What is Alta Robbins and where did it begin?
[9:47] What interested you to work in this company or work for your father?
[13:42] Is there any sort of advantage[difference] between the 1/4npt and 1/8npt port sizes for the valves?
[15:39] Discuss the significance / difference between Brass and Stainless-Steel valve bodies.
[17:26] Considerations when using fittings on Alta Robbins
[20:39] On the website, one the defining features of Alta Robbins is the following statement “The Difference is in the Seat” Could you help me and the audience understand why that is so important to the design?
[26:21] How does Alta Robbins ensure the reliability and durability of its valves in both high-vacuum and high-pressure environments? What is the 4-to-1 safety factor?
[29:25] One of the qualities that I adamire is that Alta Robbins Valves are simple to service. When is it recommended to replace individual parts of a valve versus replacing the entire unit to maintain optimal performance?
[34:51] Troubleshooting or explaination for the feeling like having to make more turns on the valve before seeing the metering of gas.
[37:58] Greg elaborates on a built in safety feature that better explains why it takes more that one turn before opening the valve.
[41:41] There’s an arrow on the outside of the valve, and the question that you have been asked before was like, does it matter the direction of that valve in its use?
[45:40] Soft Goods Kit vs Bonnet Assembly, when do you replace parts and when to buy a new valve?
[49:50] What is Alta Robbins thoughts on partnering with Taming Lightning?
[52:13] A fun fact from Greg Wilson and his thoughts on and service to neon.
Thank you Greg Wilson for taking the time to talk on the podcast. I found it quite refreshing to hear Greg recount this history with Neon and share how he’s supported the industry. I appreciated Greg’s support with the podcast and partnership to make Alta Robbins valves and products more accessible while maintaining affordability which honestly can be challenging to get anywhere else.
If you have any additional questions, please leave a comment on the blog or email at percy@taminglightning.net, and I will answer them on the blog!
I’d like to thank Pittsburgh Glass Center for supporting me as a place of research and inspiration, the Plasma Art Alliance, Neon Makers Guild, and the Facebook group Neon and Plasma Art for Beginners, where I have access to the well of knowledge and connects me to some amazing and supportive people.
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Feel free to share, comment, and subscribe. and I’ll See you next time.
