In the gas industry, there are two basic types of regulators used for both pressure reducing and back pressure (relief) control. The two types are:

• Self Operated Regulators
(Sometimes referred to as spring loaded regulators)

• Pilot Operated Regulators (Loading and Unloading style pilot regulators)

This paper will discuss the basic principle of Self Operated and Pilot Operated Regulators including components of the system, principles of operation, advantages and disadvantages, and some maintenance and inspection procedures.

SELF OPERATED REGULATORS

A Self Operated Regulator consists of a spring opening valve that is directly opposed by a diaphragm assembly