Electronic temperature compensation is generally considered superior to mechanical temperature compensation for propane dispensers due to several key advantages:
- Accuracy and Precision: Electronic temperature compensators use sensors such as resistors or thermistors to measure the temperature of the propane accurately. This allows for precise adjustments to the volume measurement, ensuring that the dispensed propane volume is correctly adjusted to a base temperature (typically 15°C/60°F) . Mechanical systems, which rely on hydraulic mechanisms, may not offer the same level of precision and can be more prone to errors due to mechanical wear and tear.
- Flexibility and Functionality: Electronic systems can be programmed to display both gross and net volumes, providing more detailed information to users. They can also calculate correction factors based on pre-programmed expansion curves of the product, allowing for more accurate compensation across a range of temperatures. Mechanical systems often require dual registers or additional components to display both gross and net volumes, which can complicate the setup and increase maintenance requirements.
- Integration with Modern Systems: Electronic temperature compensators are better suited for integration with modern fuel management systems. They can communicate with these systems using pulse-output signals, which are essential for accurate transaction monitoring and data recording. Some electronic systems have protocols that connected devices and computers can use to store delivery information, send preset volumes to the register and print a receipt. Also, the electronic register can potentially control preset valves, belly valves and turn on/off pump motors. Mechanical systems typically require more complex wiring and relay logic to achieve similar integration, making them less efficient and more difficult to manage.
- Reliability and Maintenance: Electronic systems tend to be more reliable over time as they have fewer moving parts that can wear out or require regular maintenance. Mechanical temperature compensators, on the other hand, involve more physical components that can degrade, leading to potential inaccuracies and increased maintenance costs.
Overall, the enhanced accuracy, flexibility, ease of integration, and reduced maintenance needs make electronic temperature compensation a better choice for propane dispensers compared to mechanical systems.