Regulator Flow Curve Checklist

Many variables come into play when selecting the best regulator for your system requirements. To deliver the right quantity of fluid the system needs, the absolute best tool any manufacturer will offer is the regulator flow curve data. This checklist intends to help you utilize the flow data to your advantage as you make the right regulator choice.

  • Identify the range of flows expected. Given that range, the curve will indicate what pressures the regulator can be expected to maintain.
  • A regulator operates best along the relatively flat part of its flow curve. Make sure the control range selected can accommodate the droop to meet the pressure requirement at the desired flow rate.
  • Avoid operating a regulator at the far ends of the curve where undesirable conditions like lockup and choked flow occur.
  • Does it reflect the required pressure, set pressure, and inlet pressure range?
  • Will supply-pressure effect be an issue when the system is shut down or restarted?
  • Do you need to calculate any specific gravity or temperature adjustments if your system media is a gas?
  • Finally, make sure all measurement units agree. Pressure readings are provided most commonly in psig or bar. Flow rate units of measure depend on the system media, so be sure to note whether the regulator is rated for liquid or gas service. Liquid flow is typically expressed as gallons per minute (U.S. gal/min) or liters per minute (L/min), while gas flow is conveyed as standard cubic feet per minute (std ft3/min) or standard liters per minute (std L/min). If a flow curve is not available or if you need additional help in selecting a regulator, contact us for guidance on properly sizing a regulator for an application.

Try our Regulator Flow Curve Generator today.

Questions on flow curves and selecting the correct regulator for your application? Email or call 866.901.0151.