Gas Pressure Regulators
Gas Pressure Regulators are safety devices used to control the pressure of a gas line from a higher pressure, down to a desired lower pressure to feed downstream equipment and processes. In many cases, the operation of your gas regulator can directly influence the efficiency of a gas system and the life span of downstream equipment and appliances. There are many different types of regulators and the selection of a proper gas regulator is based off specific application information including line size, flowrate, equipment requirements, inlet pressure, desired outlet pressure, location, and safety requirements.
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Gas Pressure Regulator Basics
For most applications, the direct-operated gas pressure regulator is the best fit. Direct operated regulators are comprised of three key parts that control pressure: a spring, a flexible diaphragm and a valve seat that can control the amount of gas flowing through the regulator. The spring in the regulator acts as a counterweight and puts pressure on the diaphragm in the regulator. This is connected by a lever to the valve seat. So as gas enters the regulator and fills the space under the diaphragm, the counter weight of the spring will tell the regulator whether to open (allow more gas) or close (allow less gas). The result is a reduced pressure on the outlet of the regulator based on the tension of the spring that is installed.
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Click image to download Regulator Troubleshooting Basics Guide
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What Can Go Wrong With Regulators?
Regulators can corrode, internally and externally, and fail - for this and other reasons - over time. This process can be expedited when regulators are underground, in a 'vault' as many school architects typically design.
In 2019, MBS Engineering saw a dramatic rise of regulators installed in 'vaults' or underground compartments, which were corroding - on school grounds.
The regulators were installed underground for cosmetic or aesthetic purposes, but ultimately were subject to corrosive elements, and unable to dry out or be cleaned or easily inspected. The solution for this problem often involves re-piping with PVC, and/or moving the regulator the the side of a building, where it may 'break the lines' (a design term) of the building, but ultimately prove safer.
The best intervention for this situation is to request a gas leak survey. MBS can come on-site and determine what risk these 'vaults' pose to people on your property, and fix any leaks.
In 2019, MBS Engineering saw a dramatic rise of regulators installed in 'vaults' or underground compartments, which were corroding - on school grounds.
The regulators were installed underground for cosmetic or aesthetic purposes, but ultimately were subject to corrosive elements, and unable to dry out or be cleaned or easily inspected. The solution for this problem often involves re-piping with PVC, and/or moving the regulator the the side of a building, where it may 'break the lines' (a design term) of the building, but ultimately prove safer.
The best intervention for this situation is to request a gas leak survey. MBS can come on-site and determine what risk these 'vaults' pose to people on your property, and fix any leaks.
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