The two most common gases used in neon signs are neon and argon. While neon is very bright, argon light is weak due to its low resistance. Neon gas gives off a red glow. This gas is normally contained in tubing that is clear in color, and when illuminated, projects the brightest red color. Almost everything else is filled with argon gas.
When you see yellow, blue, green, white or any of several other shades, these tubes are filled with argon gas. Neon tubing comes in various diameters depending upon the application. The tube diameter of size is calculated in millimeters and typically runs from 8-11 mm for use on indoor signs.
You will see 12-13 mm for the larger indoor neon. Smaller neon tube diameters are easier to bend into written works but are not as distinguishable from a distance. Large tube diameters are more visible from a distance and are more effective in illumnating store front letters, but the trouble with bending them into letters is present and the larger diameter neon tubing is less brilliant.
The Different Gases and Characteristics
The two most common gases used in neon signs are neon and argon. While neon is very bright, argon light is weak due to its low resistance.
Neon gas gives off a red glow. This gas is normally contained in tubing that is clear in color, and when illuminated, projects the brightest red color.
Almost everything else is filled with argon gas. When you see yellow, blue, green, white or any of several other shades, these tubes are filled with argon gas.
Neon tubing comes in various diameters depending upon the application. The tube diameter of size is calculated in millimeters and typically runs from 8-11 mm for use on indoor signs. You will see 12-13 mm for the larger indoor neon.
Smaller neon tube diameters are easier to bend into written works but are not as distinguishable from a distance. Large tube diameters are more visible from a distance and are more effective in illumnating store front letters, but the trouble with bending them into letters is present and the larger diameter neon tubing is less brilliant.