Improper fastening of tubing was to blame in both incidents. Because the water pressure fluctuates overnight, tubing used for cooling must be securely fastened onto the equipment and on the plumbing fixture. Wire can be doubled for extra precaution. Wire should be wrapped tightly with a pair of pliers. Vacuum tubing clamps can be used for securing heavy walled rubber tubing.
Pressure regulators can reduce the water pressure.
A controller that shuts down the power to the apparatus in case of water failure is available from Keith Stabe in the Microelectronics Shop. Any leaking connections should be corrected before starting the experiment. At any sign of flooding or water leakage, call the Department Mail and Information desk at ext. 5-4219 or, after hours, call Facilities Trouble Desk, at ext. 5-8406 Bill Peck, Chemical Safety Officer 4204 Young Hall, Ext.