DSR: Total Conversion from JBJ bubble counter to Swagelok Tube Fitting

[Matt F.]

I decided to upgrade both my DSR (Dual Stage Regulators) due to the fact that one of my custom chrome plated JBJ bubble counters failed. The check valve was letting mineral oil into the Swagelok check valve just below it. I added the Swagelok check valve just in case this happened, so no damaged resulted from this failure. The same might not be said if you are running a JBJ bubble counter without another check valve just beneath.

Parts used:
Tube 4mm/6mm (ID/OD)
Swagelok SS-6MO-1-2 (male connector)
Swagelok SS-6M5-4M (insert for tubing)
Swagelok SS-2-HCG (hex coupling)
ADA bubble counter (in-line)

Victor SGT 500:

Here are some pictures of the unit before conversion:

Let the conversion begin:

 

[Matt F.]

Now that the coupling has been installed, it's time for the tubing adapter:

For how to install the tube adapter properly, please see this thread:
http://www.barrreport.com/showthread.php/8226-How-to-use-Swagelok-tube-fittings

The Swagelok tube adapter requires you to mark the nut that locks down the tube 1 1/4 turns from hand tight. I used a perm marker to mark the nut.

Here is the finished product:

 

[Matt F.]

VTS253A-1993:

Now for the other regulator:

Now, I make sure to keep everything clean when removing and installing. Wipe off old non-hardening thread sealer and install a new bead to prevent gas leaks. Pressure test to make sure there are no leaks, and make sure bubble rate hasn't been affected. Usually if you set you Ideal Valve and don't bump it during conversion, the bubble rate will be inaffected.

 

[Matt F.]

Some finished shots of this one...

As you can see, in this picture I have marked the hold down nut with perm. marker and am ready to do my 1 1/4 turn (from hand tight) fastening.

As always if you have any questions, please feel free to PM me.

 

[fiftyfiveg]

Thank you for sharing. Is this conversion works with Ideal NV? and do you have brass parts number for them?

 

[Gerryd]

Fiftyfiveg, All of these parts are using an ideal valve. I am pretty sure that is an ideal valve w/vernier handle right there in his last pic...

Check out my regulator build thread for all details as to part # and others. also his thread on assembly should not be missed.

Matt,

Nice job. Looks great and something that my cats can't knock off...they will just have to chew through the tubing..can we encase with brass LOL

 

[Matt F.]

As Gerryd mentioned, I am using a stainless Ideal Needle Valve:

V54-1-12

The check valve which I use is part number:

SS-2c2-1/3 (you can get the same check valve with female threads). Most of these check valves are made to order, so expect a lead time.

Gerryd's regulator will not be as tall. The 1/8" female coupler I used adds extra height.
I'll post the build in Gerryd's thread once all the swagelok parts come in. His post body will be brass.

Brass part numbers for the tube adapter and fitting are:

B-6MO-1-2 (adapter)
B-6M5-4M (tube fitting)

These are specifically for 4mm/6mm (ID/OD) tubing. Might I warn you that CO2 tubing comes in all shapes and sizes, so when in doubt, ask before you order.

 

[Gerryd]

Matt,

Gerryd's regulator will not be as tall. The 1/8" female coupler I used adds extra height.

I thought that it had an extra component in there....thanks for confirming I am not crazy...

 

[Left C]

Great job Matt!!

Those chrome plated JBJ bubble counters sure do look nice though.