Cold Workshop & Digital Readouts

[DuncParticipant @dunc]

Have a mini mill similar to a Sieg X3 but it has a digital readout for speed (like many mini-lathes – the red,7 segment displays and another lcd display for x-y axis readouts. 

 

Wondering about the lcd’s resistance – or lack – to cold. Does it need to remain at/above freezing? Have checked the user manual & with the retailer but no info.

 

This machine (plus my mini-lathe and a few other machine tools) will be in an unheated garage. I tried to remove the lcd digital display but it is well-buried in the innards of the machine.

While building an insulated cover is no big deal I would like to know what amount of heat must be added – enough to prevent moisture condensing or a major effort to prevent the lcd freezing (crystals in solution of ?). 

[DuncParticipant @dunc]

Love it, hate it, or…

[LADmachiningParticipant @ladmachining]

Like a lot LCD displays, their response will slow at low temperatures.  You may also notice that the display contrast will alter as the temperature changes, making it more difficult to read.  The actual temperature at which damage is likely to occur is well below what it will experience in an unheated garage.

 

I have an external temperature transmitter that has a built in LCD display.  it has been outside for the last 2 years, down to about -9 deg C, with no ill effects so far.

 

It is important that you avoid condensation on the electronics during use, but apart from that, I wouldn’t worry.

 

Regards,

 

Anthony

[Author]

Posts