How Does a Pilot-Operated Pressure Regulator Work?

SINGAPORE - March 10, 2024 - PRLog -- In the world of industrial applications and processes, maintaining precise and stable pressure is crucial. This is where pilot-operated pressure regulators come into play, offering accurate control and consistent performance. At its core, a pilot-operated pressure regulator regulates the pressure of a fluid system. By understanding how a pilot-operated pressure regulator works, you can ensure optimal performance, efficiency, and safety within your system. So, join us as we delve deeper into the inner workings of these essential pressure regulators.

How do pilot-operated regulators work?
Pilot-operated pressure-reducing regulators are designed to maintain a constant pressure in a system, regardless of fluctuations in the upstream or downstream pressures. They work by using a combination of pilot pressure and main valve to control the flow and maintain the desired pressure.

The pilot portion of the regulator consists of a small diaphragm, which is connected to a sensing line. This sensing line connects to the downstream pressure and provides feedback to the pilot valve. As the downstream pressure changes, the diaphragm moves, causing the pilot valve to open or close.

When the downstream pressure exceeds the setpoint, the diaphragm moves, forcing the pilot valve to open. This allows the pressure to escape, reducing the downstream pressure. Conversely, when the downstream pressure drops below the setpoint, the diaphragm moves in the opposite direction, closing the pilot valve and allowing more pressure to build up.

The main valve, connected to the pilot valve, controls fluid flow through the regulator. As the pilot valve opens or closes, it modulates the main valve, allowing more or less fluid to pass through. This modulation process helps maintain a constant pressure in the system, even in the presence of fluctuations.

Overall, pilot-operated pressure regulators provide accurate and reliable control by combining pilot pressure and main valve modulation.

Pilot-operated regulators vs Direct-operated regulators
While pilot-operated and direct-operated pressure regulators serve the same purpose of maintaining pressure control, there are some key differences between the two.

Direct-operated pressure regulators, or self-operated regulators, do not require external energy sources to function. They rely solely on the pressure difference across the regulator to control the flow. In contrast, pilot-operated pressure regulators use an external pilot pressure to control the flow. An air compressor, a gas supply, or the system itself can supply this pilot pressure.

For more information: https://www.vigourcorp.com/how-pilot-operated-pressure-re...