Pressure regulators
Pressure regulators come in many sizes and types. This category of pressure regulators (pressure reducing valves) are designed to be installed with air supply units, and are suitable for supplying machines or plants with conditioned compressed air. The advantage of a compressed air pressure regulator is that it ensures that the pressure of the compressor is reduced and remains at the set pressure (bar). The pressure gauge shows how high or low the working pressure is set. A pressure regulator is often used to keep the compressed air system under constant pressure and low (re) pressure without restricting the operation of the machine, but with a large gain in energy consumption. These pressure regulators (pressure reducing valves) can be switched as a battery and provide different air pressure (bar) in a machine or plant. Inline pressure regulators are also available from Festo and are more suitable for supplying one compressed air duct or application with a lower pressure. These can be found in the valves category.
Buying the right compressed air pressure regulator
A pressure regulator (pressure reducing valve) is used to limit the operating pressure of a system while compensating for small pressure fluctuations. Basically, the compressor and compressed air system always supplies compressed air at a higher pressure than required. There many types of pressure regulators, and there are two primary operating principles: the direct-operated diaphragm regulator and, for larger sizes (maxi), the pilot-operated piston control valve.
Direct-operated diaphragm regulator
In this pressure regulator, force is applied to a diaphragm by means of a main spring. This force can be adjusted by manually turning a knob on the pressure regulator. In the centre of the diaphragm is a sealing element, which seals the front of the piston of the pressure regulator due to the selected force applied by the main spring and the spring of the pressure regulator piston.
When the main spring is set, the regulator piston is pushed down and the lower sealing seat opens, while the front of the regulator piston continues to close the sealing element in the diaphragm. The flow from the supply to the exhaust port, for pressurising and venting the system, is thus open. In this position, small pressure fluctuations of compressed air and associated changes in flow rate at the lower seal seat are compensated by a slight movement of the control piston.
When the pressure on the working port is increased to a level higher than the selected working pressure, a force is exerted on the underside of the membrane that pushes the diaphragm upwards and clearly compresses the main spring. The spring pushes up the piston of the pressure regulator and completely seals the lower seal seat, but no longer reaches the seal seat in the diaphragm.
Air escapes through the sealing element in the diaphragm and through an outlet port on the pressure regulator housing. This process is called secondary venting. Secondary venting If the pressure on the consumer's working port increases through the value selected on the regulator, this "excess pressure" can also be vented through the pressure regulator.
Pilot-operated pressure regulator (pressure reducing valves)
The general function is the same as that of the direct-operated pressure reducer (pressure regulator). Here, however, the function of the diaphragm is taken over by a piston, i.e. the pilot piston. In the initial position, the pilot piston and regulator piston are in the upper end positions, so the lower seal seat is closed. Now when air flows from the supply port into the valve, it initially flows around the lower part of the control piston. The air flows into the regulator through a small connecting hole about 0.1 mm in diameter, and thus to the top of the control piston. The resulting force eventually opens the lower seal seat, allowing flow to the working port.
Components for pressure control
A pressure regulator exists in the MS, D and MS-Basic series. different materials, different design and in any connection (e.g. 3 8, 1/4, ...). Suitable for compressed air as a medium in low pressure, we do not offer a solution for water pipe, liquid, or pressure regulator hydraulics. The size of the pneumatic pressure regulator does not determine the higher pressure (bar), but the passage. Correctly sizing the various components is important for your application. This calculation is easy to make in our Engineering Tool: combinations of supply units. The valve you use best will be suggested according to your parameters and compressed air connectors.
Using a high pressure regulator with compressed air tools can cause a few potential issues:
1. Inadequate Pressure: If the regulator is not set to the appropriate pressure range for the specific compressed air tool being used, it can result in inadequate pressure reaching the tool. This can lead to reduced performance or inefficient operation of the tool, affecting its effectiveness in completing the intended task.
2. Over-Pressure: On the other hand, if the regulator is set too high, it can cause over-pressurization of the compressed air tool. This can potentially damage the tool or its components, leading to malfunctions, leaks, or even catastrophic failures. Over-pressurization can also pose a safety risk to the operator and those nearby.
3. Inconsistent Operation: If the regulator does not maintain a steady and consistent pressure output, it can result in inconsistent operation of the compressed air tool. Fluctuating pressure can affect the tool's performance, accuracy, and reliability, leading to unpredictable results or subpar outcomes.
4. Increased Wear and Tear: Operating compressed air tools at incorrect pressures due to improper regulator settings can increase wear and tear on the tool. This can lead to accelerated deterioration of internal components, decreased lifespan of the tool, and the need for more frequent repairs or replacements.
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