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Explosion Proof Fluorescent Lighting: Applications, Types and Need

Explosion-proof lighting fixtures are lights that are used in industrial environments in which flammable gases are present. The biggest difference, though, between explosion-proof lights and standard electric lights is that explosion-proof lamps are designed to eliminate the risk of an electrical spark from the fixture to ignite a gas in the area.

Explosion Proof Lamp
Explosion Proof Flood Light

There are many different types available including LED explosion-proof work lamps and overhead fluorescent lamps, and they are widely used in hazardous working environments like in the mining and oil and gas industry. Each light is designed with a range of innovations that eliminate the risk of a fire or explosion. Specially-designed parts include:

  • Light heat management elements
  • Flame-tight seals
  • Flame-tight joint

Each of these elements ensures that A) gases cannot come in contact with the electric current and B) the lamp never reaches a specific heat that would create a dangerous environment.

Explosion Proof Fluorescent Light
Explosion Proof Fluorescent Light

When Are Explosion-Proof Lamps Needed?

In general, explosion-proof lighting is required in hazardous environments that have or could have gases present in the air.  Originally, these lights were fire-powered kerosene lamps that were used by miners in the late 1800s. Yet, as electricity became portable, flame-powered lamps were replaced with electric lamps.

These types of lights are used in many different instances:

  • Offshore oil rig lighting
  • Underground mining environments
  • Gas drilling sites
  • Hazardous manufacturing facilities

And when they are needed is often dictated by governmental regulatory groups. For example, in the U.S., the OHSA have mandates in place for when explosion-proof lights are needed. In the U.S., explosion-proof lights must be used in “any area that the atmosphere is determined to contain a concentration of flammable vapors that are at or above 10 percent of the lower explosive limit,“ according to the OHSA.

Typically, explosion-proof equipment must be tested as to the type of environment that it is suitable for use in. For example, the OHSA has several classes and types of devices that have been approved for use in environments with gas and vapors, dusts, and fibers. Be sure that the type of light is deemed safe for the type of flammable material that is present.

Shop for explosion-proof lighting – both LED and fluorescent models – on Deelat.com. We offer incredible selection, unbeatable prices, and fast shipping. Start shopping now and see why Deelat.com is becoming the Web’s favorite industrial supply shop.

 

 

Lift Tables: Tips for Buying the Right Table

A lift table is a hydraulically-powered lifting device that using a scissors mechanism to raise or lower heavy machinery or products over short distances. Lift tables – which are sometimes called scissor lifts – are commonly used for pallet maneuvering, vehicle loading and positioning heavy equipment.

Lift Table
Lift Table

Lift tables are also credited with helping limit bending over to work on equipment. For example, in woodworking or metalworking, the constant need to bend over to work on furniture or equipment that hasn’t been lifted is hard on the back, and over time, can result in musculoskeletal disorders. Plus, another advantage: Lift tables are the perfect choice when overhead cranes, hoists or forklifts can’t be utilized for safety or space reasons.

Are you considering buying a lift table? There are many considerations to make when buying a hydraulic lift table. Choosing an improper type can result in damage to the lift, or will limit its functionality.

How Do Lift Tables Work?

Lift tables have two pairs of scissor struts, which can be opened or closed to lift a heavy load. The lifting action comes from hydraulic cylinders mounted under the struts. These cylinders provide a great deal of force, enabling quick, efficient lifting.

There are many different ways the cylinders can be engaged. There are electronic, pneumatic, and manual options. The manual lift tables are the most cost-effective and they are utilized most frequently for mid-range capacities of up to 700 Kg loads. Typically, heavy-duty vehicle lift tables are electronically or pneumatically powered. Manual lift tables are generally activated using a foot pump or hand crank.

Lift Tables: Considerations

When purchasing a hydraulic lift table, you should consider the load capacity, height in operation, and the unit’s mobility, as well as other features.

  • Lift Capacity: Lift tables are designed to hoist loads of a specific weight. Lift tables range in capacity from 300 kg up to 3000 kg or more. It’s important to match the unit’s lift capacity to that of the object you will be lifting. Overloading the table may damage the struts and overwork the hydraulic cylinders.
  • Unit Mobility: Lift tables are either designed for fixed or flexible installation. Fixed installation lift tables are generally high capacity units that are designed for installation in auto garages and on production lines. Mobile units have wheels or are lightweight enough to move by hand.
  • Height: You should consider both the lift height, which is the maximum height the load can be lifted when engaged, as well as the folded height. It’s best to choose a maximum lift height that is greater than the most common height you will be lifting loads to; this will help extend the life of the unit. Additionally, the folded height should be considered when there are space restrictions.
  • Duty Cycle: The units “duty cycle” is the frequency that it is designed to lift a load. For example, many units are not designed to lift loads dozens of time per hour. Maxing out the duty cycle can lead to faster wear and tear, and limit the unit’s functionality. If you need a unit that will be used to lift frequently, i.e. many times per hour, you should consider a unit with a rapid duty cycle.
  • Load Positioning: Many lift tables have tilt or rational functionalities, which make it easier to position a load. Be sure to choose a lift table with title or rotational capability, if the load will need to be moved around frequently.

Shop for best-priced lift tables on Deelat.com. We deliver premium lift tables right to your door, and we offer a selection of high-quality, private-label industrial tools. Start shopping today and save!

POS Systems and Digital Cash Registers: Considerations and Set-Up

Is your business considering upgrading to a digital POS system? That’s great news! Digital cash registers can streamline customer transactions, make record keeping easier, and simplify inventory management. Yet, for those new to the technology, choosing a POS system can leave you with a number of questions.

Fortunately, many POS systems are easily programmable, plug-and-play options. In other words, you can program your own digital cash register without specialized IT knowledge. Plus, many have user interfaces that are customizable to the business and that make processing and tracking customer data easier.

Digital Cash Register
Digital Cash Register

Choosing a POS System: Initial Considerations

Before you purchase a POS system, you should carefully consider what you want to accomplish. For instance, business administration tasks might be more important to you; you’ll need a digital register that captures data and that makes this data easily accessible. Or you might simply need a cash register than can make processing a large volume of transactions faster. Here’s what you need to consider:

  • Ease of Use: First things first, you’ll want to consideration how easy the system is A) install and B) operate. POS systems labeled “plug-and-play” are typically the easiest to install; you can plug them in and get started. Typically, these systems have detailed directions available that will show you how to program the system, which can be done in a matter of hours. Then, consider own easy the machine will be to operate. Ask yourself: Is the interface easy to navigate? Does it have the ability to perform the transactions that my business makes?
  • Available Integrations: Be sure you know what you’re getting when you purchase a POS system. Some just include a monitor and CPU, while others include a monitor, CPU, cash drawer and receipt printer. There are a number of integrations that businesses require:
    • Credit Card Readers
    • Receipt Printers
    • Barcode Scanners
    • Cash Drawers
    • And a Digital Readout Display for Customers

Be sure the system you purchase can support the integrations you need.

 

  • Data Access: One advantage of a digital POS system is their ability to capture data, which can streamline record keeping and make inventory management easier. Learn how the POS system captures and stores data. Often, POS systems can print daily reports easily via the receipt printer. Yet, you might need the option to download the data, which might be possible via a LAN connection or USB drive. If data management is a priority, be sure the POS system supports these functions.
  • Software: There are a number of different types of POS systems. Some have embedded software that’s included with the system. Others require a one-time purchase of software. And finally, some require users to pay a recurring fee to use the technology. Know what your POS requires before buying.

    Digital Cash Register with Customer Display
    Digital Cash Register with Customer Display

POS System Installation: Getting Started

Installation is unique for every digital cash register system, but in general, it can be a fairly simple process. If you purchase a plug-and-play system, for example, your only requirement will likely be the need to plug the monitor into a power source, run a start-up wizard program, and then configure the interface.

Fortunately, the majority of user-installable systems come with detailed user manuals which outline the set-up and installation requirements. It’s different for every system.

Deelat.com has the best prices on digital cash registers. Purchase our POS system today and save!

Snow Chains: Things to Consider When Buying Tire Chains

During the winter months, tire chains are a practical tool for navigating snow-covered, icy roads. In fact, in climates prone to ice and snow storms, tire chains are a necessity. Many states in the U.S. have requirements for using tire chains following snow storms, and owning a pair of chains will help you be prepared whenever they’re needed.

Tire Chains on Vehicle
Tire Chains on Vehicle

Plus, tire chains are used on job sites in winter months. Heavy machinery, like skid loaders, require additional traction, especially when hauling material on icy roads.

Benefits of Tire Chains for Snowy Roads for Passenger Vehicles

Tire chains provide a range of benefits for drivers, the most important of which is greatly improved traction in snow and ice. Passenger cars just aren’t designed for deep snow. That’s why drivers are more prone to getting stuck. But snow tire chains can solve this problem. Even if you drive a 4-Wheel-Drive vehicle, tire chains can provide benefits in winter weather. Here’s what tire chains can help you achieve:

  • Traction in Deep Snow: Deep snow – a few inches to a few feet – is hazardous and extremely difficult to navigate. Vehicles aren’t designed to generate traction in these conditions, resulting in tires spinning, getting stuck and slippage on the ice and snow. Tire chains wrap around the tire, adding a thick, rugged surface that generates much better traction.
  • Breaking Down Ice: Tire chains are particularly useful when the road is coated in ice with a thick layer of snow on top. The rough chains help to break ice, which in turn, creates better traction. When there’s black ice on the road, drivers are much more prone to losing control of the vehicle. Chains grip and crack the icy road, delivering greatly improved traction.
  • Installation Flexibility: Chains aren’t used throughout the winter months. Instead, they are used during storms that deliver lots of snow and ice. In turn, they’re much more cost effective than a set of studded snow tires, and they can be removed quickly when they’re not in use.

    Tire Chains
    Tire Chains

How to Buy Proper Tire Chains

All tire changes are designed for specific tire types. You can’t just buy a pair or a set of 4 and attach them to your vehicle. Improperly sized tire chains can cause extensive damage to the wheel, brake system and wheel wells. Here’s how to buy the proper tire chains:

  • Consult Your Owner’s Manual: The majority of vehicles can accommodate properly sized tire chains. But some vehicles do not have the clearance, and on these cars, tire chains can cause severe damage. The owner’s manual will tell you if your vehicle can be fitted with chains.
  • Choose the Right Size: Tire chains are designed to be fitted for specific tire sizes. All tires are
    sized according to width and diameter, as well as some having a height ratio. The size of your vehicle’s tires is printed on the tire, as well as in the owner’s manual. An example size would be: 205/55 R 16. With 205 being the width, 55 the height ratio and 16 being the diameter. Choose chains that can be properly fitted to the size of tire on your vehicle.
  • Buy the Correct Number: You should use chains on the drive wheels of your vehicle. So for instance, front-wheel-drive vehicles would need a pair of chains for both front tires, while rear-wheel-drive vehicles would need a pair for both rear wheels. All-Wheel-Drive and 4-Wheel-Drive vehicles require pairs on both wheels to drive properly. Additionally, tire chains do wear out, so have a few extra pairs on hand.
  • Learn to Install Properly: Be sure you know how to properly install the chains. You don’t want to learn how in the middle of a blizzard. Often, chains should be fitted to the tire before driving in snow, and tighten after a short 15- to 20-foot drive. Once fitted, be sure to accelerate and decelerate slowly for best results, and adhere to the tire chains speed range. Going too fast with tire chains that aren’t designed for high-speed driving can be dangerous.

Remember, snow tire chains are used for extreme winter weather like deep snow and thick ice. They aren’t designed to be installed all winter long, and in some states, it may actually be illegal to drive with chains when they aren’t needed, because they can damage roads. In addition, be sure that you carry your tire chains in the trunk, so you’re prepared.

Buy low-cost snow tire chains on Deelat.com. We carry of a range of tire chains designed to fit a number of tire sizes. Plus, we guarantee some of the best prices online and fast, easily-trackable shipping.

Projector Screen Buyers Guide: Considerations When Buying A Projection Screen

Owning a home theater projector or a multimedia projector can transform the way you view movies or present images and slides in the boardroom. Yet, one component that’s often forgotten: The projector screen.

Outdoor Portable Projector Screen
Outdoor Portable Projector Screen

Many people choose to use a white wall or sheet for a projection screen. Sometimes, this method works; a white wall can be used as a surface for projecting images. Yet, dedicated fixed or retracting projection screens provide something more, because they are designed to display image and video.

If you’re considering purchasing a projector screen, you probably have a range of questions. Fortunately, choosing a projection screen comes down to a few factors: Size and shape, material and the style are what you’ll need to think about.

Fixed or Retractable?

Fixed screens are either framed or mounted to the wall, and they stay in a fixed position. The screen doesn’t fold or retract. The other option is a retractable screen. These are often mounted to the ceiling or wall, and the screen can then be pulled down or when in use. After use, it rolls back into the housing. There are manual and motorized retractable screens available.

Electric Fiber Glass Projector Screen
Electric Fiber Glass Projector Screen

So which is right for you? Fixed projection screens are more affordable, and they tend to look like picture frames. In addition, these types of screens are generally mounted to the wall, or they have legs to support the frame and can stand in the front of the classroom or in a home theater. The biggest advantage: The cost and their portability. Plus, they are super easy to put together. But they are more difficult to store, as they aren’t designed to fold down.

Retractable projector screens, on the other hand, are sleeker and they’re the ideal option for classrooms. The screen must be stowed so that a whiteboard behind can be seen. On the downfalls, these screens are more expensive and they require more intensive installation.

What Size Screen Do I Need?

Typically, the most popular screens measure about 100-120 inches diagonally. The size you choose depends on a variety of factors. First, the space you have available. Secondly, you’ll want to consider the projector that you are using. Images become dimmer the larger they are. So depending on the light output of the projector, image quality may decrease as it gets larger if the projector doesn’t have a high lumen output. In these cases, a smaller screen would be better, as there wouldn’t be nearly as much empty space around the image.

What Shape Should the Projector Be?

Another size factor is the shape of the screen. There are, typically, three common types, although there are a range of options. These shapes are related to the image’s aspect ratio. Options include:

  • 16:9 – This provides a more widescreen image, and it’s typically used for home movie projection. Choose this shape if you’ll be using a projector with native 16:9 resolution.
  • 4:3 – The 4:3 aspect ratio is squarer in shape. It is four units horizontal compared to three units vertically. This is typically used for TV and multimedia projection. This is standard computer aspect ratio, and it’s ideal for SVGA, XGA, and WXGA resolutions.
  • 1:1 – The 1:1 aspect ratio is a perfect square. This is used primarily for classroom and boardroom multimedia projections. It is used primarily for overhead projectors.

Choose a screen shape that matches the native aspect ratio of your projector. Often, projectors are adaptable, but matching aspect ratios of the screen and projector will provide the best results.

What Type of Fabric Should I Choose?

Projector screens are made from a variety of materials, and there are a range of color options as well. Typically, white is best, particularly for low-lit spaces. Black and silver screens are typically used in more moderately lit rooms, but they aren’t always necessary. You should also look at fabric:

  • PVC — In general, PVC screen tend to reflect more light than fiber glass screens. The disadvantage is that light is diffused less evenly, and thus, as you move further back from the screen, the image brightness can drop off faster.
  • Fiber Glass – Fiber glass screens tend to distribute light more evenly. So although the light isn’t reflected as intensely, the image tends to stay brighter from greater distances.

Buy projector screens from Deelat.com. We have the best prices in the industry, a huge selection of screens in a variety of shapes, sizes and types, and our prices are unbeatable. If you need a portable or retractable projector screen, Deelat.com is your source.