From ovens to welding and diving equipment, gas pressure regulators are vital for distributing gas from a high pressure cylinder to a level that is safe and workable for a wide variety of applications. Most gas regulators consist of a loading mechanism, sensing element and a control element. These three components work in conjunction with each other to achieve pressure reduction.
The loading mechanism is usually a spring. It is responsible for determining the regulator’s delivery pressure. Turning the hand knob on the gas pressure gauge will compress the spring. In response, the spring will displace the sensing element, triggering it to set the delivery pressure. The sensing element is typically a diaphragm constructed of elastomers or metal. Once displaced, the diaphragm then pushes the control element valve; prompting the valve to increase in size and thereby providing the pressure and flow required.
Types of Regulators
There are four different types of gas pressure regulator:
Line Gas Pressure Regulators:
Point-of-use regulators serving low-pressure pipelines that can be used in conjunction with high pressure cylinder regulators maintaining a pressure level between 250 to 400 pounds per square inch (PSI).
General Purpose Gas Pressure Regulators:
Known for their longevity and economical pricing and typically used for applications in non-corrosive plants, pilot plants and maintenance shops.
High Purity Gas Pressure Regulators:
Designed for easy cleanup. Provide resistance and diffusion. Also minimize or eliminate inboard diffusion through the use of metal diaphragms and high-purity seats and seals.
Special Service Gas Pressure Regulators:
Used for specialized applications such as ultra high-pressure, acetylene and corrosion service.
Regulator Safety
Supervision from an experienced pressure regulator manufacturers or proper training should take place before an individual operates a pressure regulator. For more information on gas pressure regulators, contact a gas equipment supplier.