Single plug regulators are best for site work; they have no gauges, but when you are working on site, they aren't a necessity. Gauges often sustain damage when transported or left to the elements.
Single stage two gauge regulators are the most common multi purpose regulators. The gauges display both bottle contents and gas pressure to give the control that most operators and applications need. Regulators have Nevoc, side or bottom entry points according to the gas cylinder they are fitted to.
The most precise regulator is the multi stage two-gauge, which allows for tight measurement and control of bottle contents and gas pressure. These regulators are perfect for very detailed work, particularly intricate welding jobs, or metals that may require more delicate handling. They also allow low flow rates and provide extra safety because you can control exactly how much gas is being used.
Safety Standards
Gas welding regulators are all date stamped, which offers great assistance to engineers during the CP7 inspection process. The regulators that come under the microscope for CP7 regulations are gas cutting and welding related: Oxygen, propane & acetylene.
CP7 rules control the safe use of oxy-fuel gas equipment, and particularly in Industrial settings, it's crucial that the regulator is inspected on an annual basis.
Argon shielding gas saving devices
Argon flowmeters are used predominately in the TIG Welding process to control the flow of gas from the regulator. Measured in litres per minute they allow the operator to set the optimium amount of shielding gas required for welding & in doing so prevent wastage.
Pure argon is an expensive gas, so it maybe an idea to purchase an Elga Optimator. The Optimator operates as a more sophisticated flowmeter & controls the flow of argon from the second the arc is struck. Typically, such a gas saving device would see a return on investment within six months and they are available in lockable versions offering controlled management of your gas bill and operators.
Gas welding regulator safety
Whilst choosing the right gas regulator is important ensuring it safe use is imperative. Your regulator must be in date and CP7 & CP47 annual checks stipulate that regulators, along with flashback arrestors, must be checked annually and changed every five years. Gas welding hoses and welding torches are also inspected annually for damage and operability.