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How to Choose Pressure Regulators

by | Nov 24, 2022 | Tech Talks

Pressure Regulators

Pressure regulators play an important role in fluid systems for a variety of applications by reducing inlet pressure to a lower outlet pressure and keeping outlet pressure stable when inlet pressure fluctuates. Various factors need to be considered when selecting a pressure regulator, the most important of which include: flow, pressure, temperature, media and sensing mechanism.

Flow

The size of a pressure regulator is determined by the system flow. Selecting a properly sized pressure regulator facilitates its functional performance, and usually a larger pressure regulator allows for more reliable pressure control at higher flows. The following questions should be considered when selecting a pressure regulator: What is the maximum flow required? What is the flow variation range?

 

Pressure Regulators

Since the primary function of a pressure regulator is to reduce inlet pressure to a lower outlet pressure, it is critical to select a pressure regulator with proper maximum inlet pressure and outlet pressure control range. When the inlet pressure fluctuates significantly, and yet there is a higher requirement for accuracy and stability of outlet pressure, a dual-stage pressure regulator should be selected to reduce the Supply Pressure Effect (SPE), such as FITOK FCR-1D Series Dual-stage Diaphragm Regulators, with only 0.01% SPE (SPE is 1% when the inlet pressure is below 500 psig).