
( Brand: Ashcroft ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 45-1279SS-04L-1600KP/ )
The **Ashcroft 45-1279SS-04L-1600KPa** is a high-performance, stainless steel pressure gauge engineered for precision, durability, and versatility in demanding industrial, commercial, and laboratory applications. Part of Ashcroft s renowned **Duragauge** series, this model combines robust construction with exceptional accuracy, making it an ideal choice for monitoring low to moderate pressure ranges in systems where reliability and corrosion resistance are critical. With a **4 -inch (114mm) dial face**, this gauge provides a clear, unobstructed view of pressure readings, ensuring easy interpretation even in noisy or poorly lit environments. The **0-1600 kPa (0-220 psi) range** makes it well-suited for applications such as HVAC systems, pneumatic controls, compressed air networks, hydraulic testing, and laboratory instrumentation where consistent performance is essential.
Crafted from **316 stainless steel**, the gauge body and movement are designed to withstand harsh conditions, including exposure to moisture, chemicals, and temperature fluctuations, while resisting corrosion and wear over extended periods. The **SS-04L designation** indicates a **4-bolt flange connection**, featuring a **1-inch (25mm) NPT male thread**, which allows for secure and leak-proof installation in a variety of piping systems. The **bourdon tube mechanism**, a hallmark of Ashcroft s engineering, ensures precise and repeatable readings with minimal hysteresis, delivering dependable performance even under fluctuating pressure conditions. The gauge s **hermetically sealed movement** protects internal components from contamination, further enhancing its longevity and accuracy in demanding environments.
The **Duragauge series** is renowned for its **high visibility and readability**, achieved through a **white enamel dial with bold, black numbering and indexing**, ensuring quick and accurate pressure assessment at a glance. The gauge s **backlit or illuminated dial option** (available as an accessory) can be particularly advantageous in low-light settings, such as control rooms or outdoor installations. Additionally, the **0-1600 kPa scale** is clearly marked in both **kilopascals (kPa) and pounds per square inch (psi)**, catering to users working in metric or imperial measurement systems. The **sealed case** not only protects the gauge from physical damage but also maintains calibration integrity, reducing the need for frequent recalibration.
Beyond its technical specifications, the **Ashcroft 45-1279SS-04L-1600KPa** exemplifies Ashcroft s commitment to **quality craftsmanship and engineering excellence**. The brand s reputation for **precision instrumentation** is backed by rigorous testing and compliance with industry standards, including **ISO 228, ISO 5178, and ANSI B40.100**, ensuring that this gauge meets or exceeds the requirements for critical pressure monitoring applications. Whether integrated into a **compressed air system, hydraulic press, or laboratory setup**, this gauge delivers **reliable, consistent performance** with minimal maintenance, making it a cost-effective solution for professionals who demand both accuracy and durability in their instrumentation.
### **Pros and Cons of buying a Ashcroft 45-1279SS-04L-1600kPa (0-220 psi) Pressure Gauge**
#### **Overview**
The **Ashcroft 45-1279SS-04L-1600kPa** is a stainless steel (SS) pressure gauge designed for industrial applications, offering durability and accuracy in measuring pressures up to **1600 kPa (220 psi)**. It is part of Ashcroft s **Duragauge** series, known for reliability in harsh environments. Below is a detailed breakdown of its advantages and limitations.
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### **Pros**
1. **High-Quality Materials**
- Constructed from **stainless steel (SS)**, making it resistant to corrosion, rust, and chemical exposure. This is ideal for applications in food processing, pharmaceuticals, marine environments, and chemical industries where material integrity is critical.
2. **Durability and Rugged Design**
- The gauge is built to withstand harsh conditions, including temperature fluctuations, vibration, and moisture. The **Duragauge** series is designed for long-term reliability in industrial settings.
- The **45-series** is known for its robust construction, often used in oil and gas, water treatment, and HVAC systems.
3. **Accuracy and Precision**
- Ashcroft gauges are calibrated for high precision, ensuring consistent readings within specified tolerances (typically ** 2% of full scale** for standard models). This is crucial for processes requiring exact pressure control.
- The **0-1600 kPa (0-220 psi) range** is suitable for moderate to high-pressure applications, such as pneumatic systems, compressed air, and hydraulic testing.
4. **Easy Installation and Maintenance**
- Standard **NPT (National Pipe Thread)** or **BSP (British Standard Pipe)** connections (depending on model variant) allow for straightforward integration into existing systems.
- The gauge is designed for **direct mounting** on pipes or panels, reducing installation complexity.
- Replacement of the **bourdon tube** (the sensing element) is relatively straightforward, extending the gauge s lifespan.
5. **Wide Range of Applications**
- Suitable for **industrial, commercial, and municipal** uses, including:- **HVAC systems** (air conditioning, refrigeration).
- **Pneumatic and hydraulic systems** (compressed air, fluid power).
- **Water and wastewater treatment**.
- **Food and beverage processing** (due to stainless steel construction).
- **Automotive and marine applications** (where corrosion resistance is essential).
6. **Brand Reputation**
- Ashcroft is a well-established manufacturer with a long history of producing high-quality pressure gauges. Their products are trusted in industries where reliability is non-negotiable.
- The **Duragauge** line is particularly favored for its durability and performance in demanding environments.
7. **Standardized Calibration**
- Many Ashcroft gauges come **pre-calibrated** and can be certified for compliance with standards such as **ISO, ANSI, or OIML**, which is important for regulatory compliance in certain industries.
8. **Affordable for Its Class**
- While not the cheapest option on the market, it offers **better value than premium brands** like Heise or Keller for most industrial applications. The cost is justified by its longevity and performance.
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### **Cons**
1. **Limited Pressure Range**
- The **0-1600 kPa (0-220 psi) range** may be **too low** for high-pressure industrial applications (e.g., heavy machinery, high-pressure hydraulic systems, or steam boilers). For these, gauges with ranges up to **10,000 kPa (1450 psi)** would be more appropriate.
- If the application requires **lower pressure ranges** (e.g., vacuum or very low pressures), this gauge is not suitable.
2. **Potential for Wear Over Time**
- While durable, **bourdon tube gauges** (like this one) can degrade over time due to:- **Vibration** (leading to tube fatigue).
- **Fluid contamination** (particles or corrosive substances damaging the mechanism).
- **Improper installation** (e.g., over-tightening connections, which can distort the gauge).
- Regular **recalibration and maintenance** are necessary to ensure accuracy.
3. **Not Ideal for Extreme Temperatures**
- Most Ashcroft gauges are rated for **operating temperatures between -20 C to 80 C (-4 F to 176 F)**. For **high-temperature applications** (e.g., steam systems, furnaces), specialized gauges with temperature-resistant materials (e.g., Inconel) are required.
4. **Single-Scale Design**
- This gauge measures **only pressure** and does not include additional functions such as:- **Differential pressure** (for systems requiring pressure difference measurement).
- **Temperature compensation** (some applications need gauges that adjust for temperature variations).
- **Digital readout** (if a more precise or data-logging system is needed, a digital gauge would be better).
5. **Potential for Glass Face Damage**
- The **glass dial** can crack or shatter if subjected to:- **Impact** (e.g., dropped gauge).
- **Extreme pressure spikes** (if the gauge is overloaded beyond its range).
- While rare, this can lead to **inaccurate readings or safety hazards** if the gauge fails catastrophically.
6. **Limited Customization**
- Unlike some high-end gauges, this model offers **limited customization** in terms of:- **Face size** (standard 4-inch diameter).
- **Connection types** (typically NPT or BSP; specialized threads may require adapters).
- **Special coatings or markings** (unless purchased as part of a custom order).
7. **Recalibration Costs**
- Over time, gauges require **periodic recalibration** (typically every **1-2 years**, depending on usage). This adds to maintenance costs, especially in high-usage environments.
8. **Not Waterproof in All Cases**
- While the **stainless steel construction** resists corrosion, the **glass face and internal mechanisms** are not fully waterproof. For **fully submersible applications**, a **waterproof or explosion-proof** gauge would be necessary.
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### **Conclusion**
The **Ashcroft 45-1279SS-04L-1600kPa (0-220 psi) Duragauge** is a **reliable, durable, and accurate** pressure gauge well-suited for **moderate-pressure industrial applications** where **corrosion resistance and longevity** are priorities. It excels in environments such as **HVAC, pneumatic systems, food processing, and general industrial use**, where a **stainless steel, medium-range gauge** is appropriate.
However, it is **not ideal** for:- **High-pressure applications** (requires a higher-range gauge).
- **Extreme temperature environments** (needs specialized high-temperature gauges).
- **Applications requiring differential pressure or digital readouts** (specialized gauges are needed).
- **Low-pressure or vacuum systems** (a different gauge range is necessary).
For most **standard industrial, commercial, or municipal uses**, this gauge provides **excellent value** due to its **durability, accuracy, and Ashcroft s reputation for quality**. If the application falls within its **pressure and temperature limits**, it is a **strong recommendation**.
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### **Recommendation**
**Buy the Ashcroft 45-1279SS-04L-1600kPa if:**You need a **durable, stainless steel gauge** for **moderate-pressure (0-220 psi) applications**.
Your environment involves **corrosive substances, moisture, or vibration** (e.g., HVAC, food processing, marine systems).
You require a **reliable, long-lasting gauge** with **minimal maintenance** for standard industrial use.
Budget allows for a **premium but cost-effective** solution (better than basic gauges, but not as expensive as ultra-high-end models).
**Consider alternatives if:**You need **higher pressure ranges** (e.g., 1000 psi) Look for **Ashcroft 45-series with higher max ratings** or brands like **Heise or Keller**.
Your application involves **extreme temperatures** (above 80 C or below -20 C) Choose a **temperature-resistant gauge** (e.g., Inconel-tube models).
You require **differential pressure or digital readouts** Opt for a **differential gauge or electronic pressure transmitter**.
The gauge will be exposed to **extreme impacts or shocks** Consider a **reinforced or explosion-proof model**.
**Final Verdict:**For **most standard industrial, commercial, or municipal pressure measurement needs within its specified range**, the **Ashcroft 45-1279SS-04L-1600kPa is an excellent choice** balancing **cost, durability, and accuracy** effectively. Always ensure proper installation, calibration, and maintenance to maximize its lifespan.
Most items are available in galvanized, carbon steel, stainless and aluminum as well. Model: 45-1279SS-04L-1600KP/#. Must ship to a commercial address with forklift and/or dock. MPN: 45-1279SS-04L-1600KP/#.
Our structural steel product line includes beams, road plates, flat sheets, expanded grating material, pipe, square round tubing, bars and metal roofing. Your Best Work Starts Here. Condition: New. Lot# DU227 11.7.C.
ITEM TITLE: Ashcroft 4-1/2L Duragauge 0-1600kPa 0-220 PSI, 45-1279SS-04L-1600KP/# Brand. Surplus Division.