Choosing the correct gas regulator is dependent on your required gas flow rate and the type of gas you are regulating. Here are the key deciding factors for when you are choosing your regulator.
Determine Your Gas Flow Rate
Firstly you need to determine what flow rate you need for calibrating your gas detection instruments. Determine from your manufacturer the optimum flow rate for the sensor to be calibrated (0.5ltr/min or 1.0ltr/min). If the instrument has an internal pump or you are calibrating through a calibration docking station you may require an On Demand Flow Regulator.
Determine Sensor Type and Calibration Gas Required
The sensor type and hence the calibration gas required will be the deciding factor on which regulator material you require. (Brass, Nickel plated brass or stainless steel). For corrosive gases such as Chlorine & Ammonia you must use regulators manufactured from stainless steel, due to the corrosive nature to the gases. Stainless steel gas regulators will maintain the purity and integrity of the gas as the stainless steel regulators is impervious and will not be contaminated through absorption of the gases. It is highly recommended that you choose a stainless steel regulator for all corrosive gases such as HCN, HCL, NO, NO2 and PH3.
Don’t use plated brass for corrosive gases as over time the gas will corrode the regulator and may react with the gas, creating incorrect readings and potentially damaging the gas mixture.
For non-corrosive gases such as Carbon Dioxide, Carbon Monoxide or Methane use a brass regulator or a nickel-plated brass regulator, as there are no issues with corrosion or contamination through the materials used.
