Natural Gas Regulator Sizing

As a stocking distributor of natural gas regulators it is our job to make sure you get the right regulator for your application. Properly sizing the regulator is necessary for safe and proper operation of the combustion equipment. There is no question that regulators are important components that is why i'm surprised when customers are taken aback when my response is a checklist of questions. 

In an attempt to make these interactions as smooth as possible for our customers and anyone who is in need of some help properly sizing a reg; I am happy to share the questions that we must have answered prior to a regulator sale. 

Here are the 6 areas of concern:

1. What type of gas? While most of my customers inquire about natural gas but, I can assist in the regulation of other fuel gases such as propane (LPG). 
2. What is the Line size? Regulators are usually available in sizes ½" through 4" NPT.  
3. What is the inlet pressure? Sadly, there is no “standard line pressure” or “street pressure”, as I have to inform many customers that give such an answer to this important question. If you do not have a pressure gauge, you can always call your gas distributor, or inquire about some of the excellent gauges (gages) we have available. The units of measure here are either PSIG or in of WC.
4. What is the required outlet pressure? The units are usually WC though might be PSIG. The required outlet pressure is determined by the equipment served. The outlet pressure supplied by the reg is usually adjustable within a spring range at the reg. The regulator stock spring range can be changed to fit your application, just ask and we can help select the correct spring from our stock.
5. What is required capacity? Just as with the outlet pressure, the capacity is determined by the equipment served and can usually be found on the equipment tag. What is the minimal and maximum expected capacity in units of CFH, MBH or BTUH for each piece of equipment? You can then add them together for the total capacity if one regulator is serving several pieces of equipment. 
6. Is the regulator to be indoors or outdoors?If the regulator is to be indoors, consider a line pressure regulator with a vent limiter and overpressure protection device (OPD). If it is to be outdoors we will provide a vent protector that will extend the life of your regulator.

Picking the correct regulator:

If you have the answers to all of the above questions, you have the information needed to select the correct regulator. Without having a background and knowledge of regulator capabilities, however, you may find yourself studying endless sizing charts and graphs.

1. Download the regulator series data sheets and scour those manufacturer sizing charts. 
2. Try the sizing programs offered by various manufacturers, though, they are not 100% foolproof. I personally still size my customer's regulators the old-fashioned way.
3. Let us do the work. Call TFC @ 412-881-8006 – or message us controls@tfcampbell.com – and we will be happy to assist you.