How Does a Propane Regulator Work?

A propane regulator is a fitting on a propane tank that controls the flow of gas from the tank to the burner on a propane heater. It is essential that the regulator work correctly because propane generally must be stored under at least 13 atmospheres of pressure to remain a liquid. A propane regulator is designed to provide maximum safety and efficiency.

Materials

The material used to construct a propane regulator must be highly resistant to sparking, which generally means the regulator cannot contain any iron. Propane regulators are most often made from brass. Some are made from aluminum. Brass is usually more expensive than aluminum, depending on current market conditions.

Construction

A propane regulator generally consists of two specific components. The component shaped like a flattened oval contains the controlling diaphragm. A knob on top of this oval contains the pressure spring.

Function

The pressure emitted by a propane regulator is generally less than 1 pound per square inch for a typical propane heater with one burner. Heaters with more than one burner may require slightly higher pressure. A pressure spring lies on top of a rubber diaphragm to control the pressure of the escaping gas. The spring exerts back pressure against the diaphragm, retarding the flow of gas from the tank.

Operation

The maximum pressure allowed by the pressure regulator for a propane tank is determined by the strength of the spring. A stronger spring exerts greater pressure on the diaphragm, resulting in a lower exit pressure. The position of the spring is generally fixed into position on propane tanks intended for home use. Other types of propane regulators may allow the user to adjust the spring pressure, thus modifying the pressure of the exiting propane.