A neon sign is made of glass tubes that have been filled with neon gas, which is a noble gas. It is a display lighting which is bent molded in the shapes of alphabets or other decorative designs. It requires a high-voltage electric current for the lamp to emit light. The basin gas, which is used in neon signs is neon gas; however, several other gases are also used to produce different colors of light. The gases can be mixed, or the glass tubes can be coated with phosphor to produce a different spectrum of colors. Neon signs can be used for advertising of casino, restaurant, hotels, etc. Refer this website for more information on neon signs.
The manufacturing process of neon signs and lights
- Preparing the tube: The glass tube is placed in a coating machine. Liquid phosphor is released on the tube from upwards which then drains to the bottom. The tubes are then left to dry the coating. Tubes that are used to form red or blue color are left clear.
- Bending the tube: The full size of the design is placed on asbestos, which is a heat resistant sheet. The tube is then heated and softened with the help of burner. With the help of asbestos sheet, the tube is bent by hand.
- Bombarding the tube: This process is done to remove the impurities of the electrons, phosphors, and the glass. The tube is first evacuated of the air, and then dry air is allowed back in the tube.
- Filling the tube: After the glass tube has been cooled down, the neon gas is inserted in the tube at low pressure. The gas should be free from impurities for the sign to work properly. The port is then sealed.
- Aging the tube: the Aging process is carried out where the gas is allowed to stabilize for proper functioning.
Quality control of neon signs
- Neon signs should be able to meet the requirements of the underwriter’s laboratories.
- To obtain the listing, the neon signs are required to undergo several tests conducted by independent agencies.
- The neon signs should also meet the specifications of the National Electrode Code.
- The outdoor signs should also comply with the requirements of building codes in construction and electrical wiring.
