ran into my first helium shortage incident

[Patrick Coyle]

Today, I ran into my first helium shortage incident here in Livermore, CA. Alliance Welding Supplies advised they were out of their allocation, but expected would be able to fill my 80 scf tank this week. I left it with them. Glad I hadn't set up a commitment to fly.

I asked about priorities, if educational and research applications like mapping would be higher than party balloons. One guy, not sure if company policy or his own views, or if  they are applying the criteria in rationing supply said; first, life - as in medical uses, or medical R&D; then perhaps welding - making things, both higher than "filling balloons." He had to answer phone before could discuss further. Another guy said they used to have reserve of 100 helium cylinders, now they have zero.

So, plan ahead, so don't get surprised.

[Adam Griffith]

Our suppliers in the southeast have gotten some helium recently and expect the situation to get better.  Stay tuned though.

Adam

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Adam Griffith
Director of Science and Coastal Environments
publiclaboratory.org
828.321.2326