A critical part of any gas welding operation is the gas regulator, which is used to control the flow of gas needed for welding and cutting. The key function of the regulator is to take incoming pressurized gas and reduce the flow to the appropriate delivery pressure for safe and effective operation. All regulators have specific inlet connections based on the gas they regulate. Known as CGA fittings, they’re a system of standardized connections on gas cylinders developed by the Compressed Gas Association. Use the chart to determine which CGA connection is correct for your application.
The following table shows the most common welding gases and their corresponding CGA connection.
| Gas Type | CGA Connection |
|---|---|
| Acetylene | 510 to 300 |
| Oxygen | 540 |
| Carbon Dioxide |
320 |
| Inert Gas (Argon, Helium, Nitrogen, etc.) | 580 |
3 Types of Regulators
Before using a welding gas regulator, it’s imperative for you to know the CGA connection required, the gas being used, and the desired gas delivery pressure needed for the job. Additionally, you may want to consider if there’s a need for a specific outlet connection for the regulator as well. Here’s some information on three common regulators to help you in determining which is correct for your application.
- Single Stage: These regulators reduce incoming cylinder pressure to the desired delivery pressure range in a single step, or “stage.” During the welding process, single-stage regulators are designed to create a condition called decay rise, which will cause outlet pressure to increase as cylinder pressure decreases. If constant pressure is required, frequent adjustments to the regulator will be required for efficient operation.
- Two-Stage: Essentially, a two-stage regulator performs the same as a single-stage regulator in that it reduces a higher incoming pressure to a lower delivery pressure. The difference is that, as the name implies, two-stage regulators do it in two steps. The first stage reduces the incoming pressure to a lower pressure leading into the second stage, and the second stage then reduces pressure even more to the desired final delivery pressure. Since they’re two regulators in a single housing, two-stage regulators are more accurate and consistent than single-stage regulators.
- Flowmeter Regulator: A combination of a regulator and flowmeter, the regulator side reduces the incoming pressure to a lower, pre-set delivery pressure into the flowmeter. The flowmeter can then be adjusted to a specific volume of gas, measured in SCFH (Standard Cubic Feet per Hour), on the delivery side of the unit. Flowmeter regulators are most commonly used in MIG or TIG welding processes.
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In addition to welding regulators, if you need welding nozzles, welding tips, or any other welding equipment, we’ve got you covered.
Product Compliance and Suitability
The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand and follow all manufacturer instructions.