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Re: ref: the physics of a neon sign

>John, I feel the NEC the CEC, Miller's Neon Techniques, The American
>Electricians Handbook, The neon Installation Manual, etc all have a lot to do
>with the reliability of neon signs.  These sources arn't perfect by any
>means, but their the best we have at this point in time. Most of the old
>signs that were built where the HV cable ran on porcelain cable supports were
>inside of a metal raceway ( the sign itself ).  As the years passed, and less
>hardware was to be seen we've replaced those raceways with metalic conduit.

I certainly agree with you on all of this.  My point was only that the NEC
is primarily in force for reasons of safety (this is true, is it not?) -
and that the physics of a high-voltage discharge display can be accomodated
quite safely with few, simple, components.  I think a physics-based
distinction can be made between GTO in conduit and bare wire on ceramic
cleats.

I think the NEC has a ways to go on neon installations, especially in the
areas that cover the run from the transformer box to the first tube.  That
is where I've seen the most dangerous situations.  It is often the case of
poorly trained installers, but sometimes there is just no elegant way to
make this connection using conventional PK's or Glass Cups.  I would also
love to see more simple, ceramic/glass products from the supply industry
that deal with the trans-to-first tube connection, as well as tube-to-tube.
I know the Hage and G cups have attempted such, but I think there's much
improvement to be made.  Nowhere is this void more obvious than on exterior
border tubing installations.  What I think would be _GREAT_ is a
double-ended ceramic connector for border tubes that could be mounted in
any position:
                        ______
 ________________________ XXX ______________________
   border tube          ______      border tube


The XXX is an internal spring.  The unit would have integral mounting holes
for securing right to the bldg., holding the neon 2 inches or so from the
surface.  In effect, a side-mounted,  double-ended, glass housing with
mounting lugs.  Does this make sense?  Changing a tube would only mean
untwisting any tube-support wires and popping a new tube in place, much
like changing a flourescent 8' tube.

For that trans-to-first tube, how 'bout this:  a connector similar to
above, but only a single inlet for an electrode.  The other end would be
threaded (like the clay bushings we use) to mate directly to liquid-tight
conduit (or directly into the transformer box).  Like so:

             _____
threads-> ///_XX ____________________
             _____       neon tube
             ^
        ceramic connector        XX = spring

Idealy, there would be a screw or solder connection comming out of the
threaded end, that passed thru solid ceramic to the spring on the other
side (a permanant, hermetic, water tight seal).

I would also like to see simple glass or ceramic "boots," (end caps &
short-stops) that are put on with a dab of silicone.  Can anyone possibly
say this would not be superior to the the grey plastic junk in every way?
I am so tired to seeing melted (or outright burned) vinyl boots, even in
the most hospitable conditions.  Also, just try touching one that's been in
service for several years.  Better make sure you're not on a conductive
ladder, because you'll find out that the ozone and heat have destroyed much
of their dielectric properties... and this is when _dry_.

These are just ideas to spark discussion, based on what I see during my
work.  I have no doubt that if you install/service neon, you see similar
delimmas.  I certainly welcome comments, criticisms, corrections, etc.

>We decuss
>the codes, but don't we also turn around and ponder * mid-point Wiring*, and
>how it adds safty and longevity to the creations we design.  To add one final
>note G-cups are the only listed product ( by U/L ) for wet location use {not
>that I buy into everything that orginization atones}.  John I think the
>lessons of the past are being used,unfortunately their just getting covered
>over sometimes by commercialism. I hope I'm not getting , to much out of hand
>on this form,  and if that seems to be the case I'll unscribe .     George@
>Vermont Sign       ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

You are kidding, right?  Your participation on the list is valued by all of
us.  NOTHING can be debated too much here... it's by that process that new
insights come.  Very healthy for all!
       -John
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