Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a gas pressure regulator?
A: American Meter pressure regulators are used (a) upstream of a gas meter to reduce inlet pressure to the meter and eliminate fluctuations which can affect meter accuracy and (b) downstream from the meter to provide reduced pressure for gas operated equipment.
Q: What information is required to size a regulator?
A: Factors which determine the selection of a regulator are:
- inlet pressure to the regulator
- outlet pressure which the regulator must maintain
- the required capacity of the regulator in btu/hr or cfh
- type of gas, eg, natural gas or propane
Q: What features are available on regulators?
A: Regulators frequently include options for the protection against upset conditions. The most common of these include:
- OPSO-overpressure shutoff: the ability to shut down the gas supply if outlet pressure exceeds a predetermined value
- UPSO-underpressure shutoff: the ability to shut down the gas supply if outlet pressure falls below a predetermined value
- Partial or full capacity internal relief: the ability to maintain downstream pressure under upset conditions by venting excess gas to the atmosphere
Q: What information is required to size a meter?
A: Factors which determine the selection of a meter are:
- inlet pressure to the meter
- the total load or capacity in btu/hr or cfh
- type of gas, eg, natural gas or propane
Q: How does pressure and temperature affect gas measurement?
A: Natural gas and propane are both compressible and their volume is subject to change with a change in pressure or temperature. This can have a significant effect on the measurement of gas due to the influence of Charles’ Law and Boyle’s Law. To learn more, click the following: Pressure & Temperature Correcting.