The most useful sleeve measurement is one that another person can reproduce. A length written beside a photograph may identify a likely part, but a replacement quote also needs the diameter, wall, end condition, and mounting details. Start by recording the equipment model and any existing sleeve part number. Keep those references with the measurements so the shop can review the component in its assembly context.
Follow the equipment manufacturer's shutdown and removal procedure before handling a sleeve. Isolate the relevant electrical and process hazards, allow the assembly to cool, and protect yourself from damaged glass. This guide explains what information to record for a quote; it does not replace the equipment's service instructions.
Establish what you are measuring
Identify whether the part is open at both ends, domed at one end, closed at both ends, or fitted with a flange or other feature. Photograph the full sleeve and each end. Include a ruler in an overview photograph for scale, but record critical dimensions using suitable measuring equipment. An angled photograph is useful for identification and is not a reliable substitute for a measurement.
Note the condition of the reference. Deposits, chips, wear, and broken sections can make a used part different from the intended new part. Mark uncertain measurements clearly. If the sleeve is broken, keep the fragments identified, but do not treat a loosely assembled set of pieces as an exact overall-length reference.
Record outside diameter and wall
Measure the outside diameter across the tube, with the measuring faces square to the tube axis. Avoid forcing the instrument against the quartz. Record the units and, where practical, compare readings at more than one position and orientation. If the readings differ, provide the observations rather than choosing the smallest number and calling it the specification.
Wall thickness and inside diameter describe the available internal space. For an ideal concentric round tube, inside diameter equals outside diameter minus twice the wall thickness. For example, 22.5 mm OD with a 1.25 mm wall gives a calculated 20 mm ID. This calculation describes nominal geometry; it does not establish the actual minimum clearance along a finished sleeve. Identify a critical lamp clearance separately.
Distinguish overall length from usable length
For a domed sleeve, overall length normally runs from the open end to the furthest external point of the closed end. Internal usable length is different because the wall and closed-end geometry occupy space. If the lamp, connector, or support needs a specific insertion depth, include that requirement with the overall dimension.
A catalog may define length from different reference surfaces. Do not assume a dimension labeled base-to-base, arc length, or nominal length is the finished sleeve's overall length. Preserve the manufacturer's terminology when sharing the reference, and explain where your own measurement begins and ends. A simple dimensioned sketch is especially helpful here.
Capture the mounting features
Show the surfaces that locate and seal the sleeve. A flange diameter, ground face, step, groove, or shoulder can control the fit even when the main tube dimensions look correct. Measure these features from a clear reference and include the mating part or assembly drawing when available. Identify any dimension that comes from a used seal rather than from the quartz itself.
Record the end finish as well as its shape. An open end may be cut, ground, or fire-polished. A closed end may require a particular profile or internal clearance. Describe what you can observe and leave room for technical review where the original manufacturing detail is unknown.
Send a complete inquiry
Combine the part number, equipment model, measurements, photographs, and quantity into one request. Add the required delivery date and shipping destination. For repeat production, include the controlled drawing revision and identify the acceptance tolerances; a measured sample value is not automatically an allowable production tolerance.
Glass Automated Products can start from a drawing, sample, or part number and identify the remaining questions. We fabricate in Huntington Beach, California, have worked with quartz since 1998, and quote quantities starting at 1 piece. Most specifications are quoted within one business day. Shipping is available to all 50 states and internationally, with timing confirmed for the actual part.