Unsure about what an air pressure regulators is? Read our latest blog where MGA Controls discuss the design and function of an air pressure regulator that make it the perfect tool for air control, reducing costs and maximising safety.
What is an air pressure regulator?
Air pressure regulators are generally used for reducing pressure levels, which ultimately lowers costs and provides an element of safety. Additionally, pneumatic equipment often has optimum air pilot pressure that needs to be carefully monitored in order to achieve reliable performance. At MGA, we have a wide range of air pressure regulators, ranging from general purpose units covering everyday industrial applications, to more specialised precision regulators.
The design of an air pressure regulator
There are three main categories for pressure regulators, including:
- General purpose regulators
- Pilot operated regulators
- Regulators specific to application.
Air pressure regulators are designed to provide maximum flow capacity and maintain the outlet pressure at a set level. They function through a control spring acting on a diaphragm to regulate the air pressure. The outlet pressure can be increased or decreased by rotating the knob clockwise or anti-clockwise accordingly.
Function of an air pressure regulator
Air pressure regulators are used to provide a constant outlet of pressure, separately from the inlet pressure or flow. They are most commonly used to reduce the pressure level required for downstream equipment, stabilising the force applied to cylinders or minimising pressure variation.
The two types of general purpose regulators are relieving and non-relieving:
- The Function of a relieving pressure regulator operates when changing from high to low pressure. Even in a dead-end situation the regulator will still exhaust the excess downstream pressure, making a loud hissing noise as it does.
- A non-relieving pressure regulator differs. When being adjusted from a high pressure to a low pressure, the non-relieving element means that the downstream pressure does not escape. Any trapped air must be released using a different mechanism, such as using a downstream valve.
Contact MGA about air pressure regulators
Air pressure regulators are important for minimising risks and can also reduce costs. To find out more about the design of an air pressure regulator please contact one of our technical experts by calling 01704 898980 or email us at sales@mgacontrols.co.uk