Creed
Contributor
I have a 2250 PSI steel tank I picked up recently. Is there any issue with using it to test a rebuilt regulator? The tests are supposed to be run at 3000psi, but will 750 psi make a difference?
Regulator testing question
- Thread starter Creed
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On a balanced regulator it won't make any significant difference.
On an unbalanced diaphragm reg, the IP increases at low tank pressures so again it won't make any difference as it is the low tank pressure that is critcal in setting the maximum IP.
With an unbalanced piston reg however, the IP is at it's maximum at full tank pressure. So if an unbalanced second stage on an unbalanced first stage is tuned for minimum cracking effort with a tank pressure of 2250 psi, it will potentially freeflow if placed on a full 3000 psi tank.
The IP may also potentially be over the allowable range (normally 145 psi.) if the reg is checked at 2250 psi. Unbalanced regs like the Scubapro Mk 3, MK 200 and Mk 2 can have an IP that varies as much as 20-25 psi between 300 and 3000 psi supply pressures.
On an unbalanced diaphragm reg, the IP increases at low tank pressures so again it won't make any difference as it is the low tank pressure that is critcal in setting the maximum IP.
With an unbalanced piston reg however, the IP is at it's maximum at full tank pressure. So if an unbalanced second stage on an unbalanced first stage is tuned for minimum cracking effort with a tank pressure of 2250 psi, it will potentially freeflow if placed on a full 3000 psi tank.
The IP may also potentially be over the allowable range (normally 145 psi.) if the reg is checked at 2250 psi. Unbalanced regs like the Scubapro Mk 3, MK 200 and Mk 2 can have an IP that varies as much as 20-25 psi between 300 and 3000 psi supply pressures.
R
redacted
Guest
DA has the right answer as usual. But for those of us who do our best work on the kitchen table, use what DA said as you work with the 2250 tank. If the 2nd is adjustable, you can take care of any problems that show up on a 3000 psi tank with the adjusting knob. If not, then just be ready to take out your save-a-dive tool kit and give the orifice another 15 to 30 degree turn. Or, if pressed for time, just go with your backup rig for that dive and make the adjustment during the SI.
Creed:
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