The critical role pressure regulators play in overall system health and functionality cannot be overstated: damage to operators and equipment can result in a regulator ill-equipped to handle the temperature, pressure, and flow-rate rigors of industry.
Considering the vast array of pressure regulators and configuration styles, buying an industrial pressure regulator can pose a daunting task. However, Edmonton Valve & Fitting can help you reduce confusion around some of the more common types of regulators and their associated terminology. Here, we offer a brief overview of the different pressure regulator series available for a quick reference before diving into the more substantial product catalogues.
The first decision while shopping for an industrial pressure regulator should be whether a pressure-reducing or back-pressure regulator is required. Although the designs are similar, the implementations are quite different.
A pressure-reducing regulator will be used upstream of sensitive equipment, while a back-pressure regulator will be used downstream. A pressure-reducing regulator will, perhaps unsurprisingly, reduce variable inlet pressure to a set level. A back-pressure regulator will keep inlet pressure below a set level.
Even their mechanism of controlling pressure is in contrast: the pressure-reducing regulator will switch from an open to closed position and vice versa for the back-pressure regulator. The three central mechanisms of the pressure regulator are also worth considering, as different designs will be better suited for certain system requirements.
Control mechanism: It converts a high inlet pressure to a lower outlet pressure in one of two configurations: balanced or unbalanced poppet. The balanced poppet features a reduced area for the inlet pressure to act upon due to an orifice through the center of the poppet. The unbalanced poppet does not feature this orifice, and the majority of the shutoff force is therefore provided by the inlet pressure.
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General Pressure Regulator Questions:
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Poppet-Related Question:
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Among the multitudes of numbers and ratings to keep track of while shopping, an initially lesser known one is the relationship between outlet pressure and inlet pressure. Supply pressure effect, or SPE, is inherent to pressure-reducing regulators.
SPE is listed as a percentage or ratio on pressure-reducing regulators, indicating the amount by which the outlet pressure should change provided a change to inlet pressure. SPE cannot be entirely negated, but it can be further mitigated through a two-stage pressure regulator design. Each stage of the regulator features its own SPE value that compounds multiplicatively. SPE is further driven down by these ratio or percentage values as they are less than one, resulting in an overall reduction in outlet pressure dependency.
When the inlet pressure drops, the resultant force acting upon the poppet area is no longer able to counterbalance the load force. Although the outlet pressure increases, it is also not enough to counterbalance the load force. Therefore, the seemingly bizarre result of a decrease in inlet pressure causes an increase in outlet pressure.
At Edmonton Valve & Fitting, we have the right combination of regulators to fit practically any situation, and our Field Advisors can help you find a configuration that will maintain pressure and minimize droop over a wide range of pressures and flows. Here’s a brief overview of some of the series and notable subseries we offer:
The RHPS series regulators are an excellent starting point for general gas pressure regulator needs. These regulators feature a soft or hard seal for pressure demands up to 1,015 PSIG and 10,150 PSIG, respectively. The series can be roughly split into two lines: RS for pressure-reducing regulators, and BS for back-pressure regulators.
This series also features a line of tank blanketing regulators. These regulators introduce an inert gas to storage tanks to prevent atmospheric reaction or contamination of the process fluid. Furthermore, this inert gas reduces the prevalence of a combustive fuel source, dilutes hazardous vapors, and ensures structural integrity during siphoning and filling cycles. Gas blanketing can be combined with a vapor recovery system to provide constant pressure in storage tanks regardless of fluid level.
The RS subseries is available with various configurations of loading, sensing, and control mechanisms for a multitude of temperature and pressure environments. Sizes range from ¼ to 2 inches, with a choice of flanged or threaded connections.
The RSH subseries offers a high-pressure variant; similarly, the LRS/LPRS series is suitable for low-pressure and high-accuracy. The RS line is rated for pressures up to 101,50 PSIG and temperatures ranging from -45°C to 80°C. Some additional features are included among the RS and its subseries:
The BS subseries is similar in capability to the RS series. Sizes range from ¼ to 1½ inches with flanged or threaded connectors. Once more as the RS series, high-pressure and low-pressure, high-accuracy subseries are available. Some additional series and subseries features follow:
The K series offers some notable advantages over the RHPS series. The convoluted diaphragm allows for greater sensitivity due to the increase in travel space. A 25 µm inlet filter helps protect the regulator against particulates and can be removed for liquid pressure systems. Venting options exist as either a self-vent or a contained vent for use with hazardous material. Variants are rated for max inlet pressure and control ranges up to 10,000 PSIG, and both pressure-reducing and back-pressure models are available. A look at some further attributes of the K series pressure regulators:
A noteworthy subseries is the KCM. The KCM series is a two-stage gas delivery system to ensure uninterrupted flow for critical tasks. KCM pressure regulators monitor supply gas and automatically switch to the alternate source when pressure falls below changeover levels. KCM regulator changeover pressures include 100, 200, and 500 PSIG variations. The selector regulator will reduce the supply pressure to the specified changeover pressure, while the line regulator is adjustable to the necessary system pressure. Even when both supply tanks fall below the changeover pressure, the selector regulator will allow an equal flow rate from both supplies.
A final unique family of the K series is the KEV series. The KEV series features a removable heating element that is able to vaporize liquids or preheat gasses to prevent condensation. Sensing options include a diaphragm for pressure up to 500 PSIG or a piston for values ranging from 1,000 to 3,600 PSIG. KEV regulators also carry ATEX, IECEx, and CSA certifications for critical and hazardous environments.
The HF series is a manual, high-flow regulator which features a load spring and welded diaphragm for precise outlet pressure control via a simple turn of the handle. The innovative sensing mechanism design also leads to low droop and supply pressure effect. A tied, self-centered poppet ensures positive shutoff while minimizing outlet creep to the atmosphere. The HF series is capable of handling flow rates from 160 to 300 std L/min and outlet pressures from vacuum to 150 PSIG. For the outlet pressure, preset regulators are available with values ranging from 10 to 80 PSIG for cylinder and dome-loaded models.
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Whether it’s time for your next purchase or you’re looking to evaluate your pressurized system to maintain your workflow, let an Edmonton Valve & Fitting Field Advisor help guide your decision-making process. Our vast catalogue of finely-calibrated and rugged pressure regulators are able to meet your process demands while ensuring the wellbeing of your operators and product.
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