First Aid for Your Regulator

Specifying regulators that will work well in your system is a key to efficient pressure control, and it is tricky to do well each and every time. Even trickier is effectively troubleshooting a problem after the regulator is installed. Here is a look at a few common regulator problems, the root cause for each, and how to get the system back running like it should. Sure there can be other variables that contribute to these system issues, however, if troubleshooting regulator problems consider these first aid options that can solve the problem most of the time.

My regulator looks like it is frozen!

If a regulator is covered in frost that condition is consistent with what you would see when a drop in gas pressure allows gas to expand to create a cooling effect. This temperature swing can negatively impact the pressure reducing performance of the regulator.

First Aid

Eliminate the effects of the Joule Thomson effect by controlling the pressure and temperature in stages, (not all at once) through one regulator as seen below. Learn more about the Joule Thomson effect .

My gas cylinder pressure tends to rise or fall over the time it is in service

When gas in a cylinder empties, the supply pressure will be reduced, however, at the same time the outlet pressure will increase. This can make it difficult to supply constant gas pressure to a system. This fluid dynamic is common when a single stage regulator is used and a high differential pressure from inlet to outlet exists.

Supply Pressure Effect, or Dependency, is stated as a ratio describing the change in outlet pressure for every 100 psi change in inlet pressure.

First Aid

Consider reducing the pressure with a two-stage regulator, reducing that pressure over two stages will reduce the Supply Pressure Effect (SPE). Learn more about Supply Pressure Effect .

I've set my regulator, but my system pressure rises when I need it to be consistent

Many times this condition is caused by creep. Creep is an increase in outlet pressure and occurs when pressure escapes, even though the poppet is closed. The high flow and small orifice that is created during pressure regulation combine to turn a very small particle into a seat damaging, high-speed projectile.

First Aid

Consider repairing or replacing this regulator. The damaged seat is not sealing. Replacement with a soft seated regulator may help, however, ensure there is adequate filtration upstream to protect the delicate internal components of the regulator. For more information please read What is Creep .