Dual Stage Regulators

**Left C** · 12-21-2009, 08:01 AM

Originally Posted by marineboy

I see that some dual regulator are for corrosive and non corrosive gases can we use the ones for non corrosive gases. Thanks

Hi marineboy

Generally speaking, the answer is yes.

These are the general guidelines that I follow:
- if it has a CGA-320 fitting for CO2 ... it's ready to use
- if it has a CGA-580, CGA-540, CGA-346 fittings for air, oxygen, inert gas (helium, argon, nitrogen) ... you can either use an adapter (if available) or remove the stock gas fitting and install a CGA-320 nut and nipple
- if it has stainless steel diaphragms ... it's OK and you usually have to switch fittings to a CGA-320
- if it is new and never used ... it may work if you add the CGA-320 nut and nipple (This is a bit too general, you need to investigate to see if it will work.)
- many (but not all) of the high purity regulators with stainless steel diaphragms have CGA-350 fittings for hydrogen .... install a CGA-320 nut and nipple
- I do not use regulators for Acetylene, LP, Fluorine, etc.
- I like regulators with 0-30, 0-60, 0-100 psi working pressure gauges the best. I will use one with a 0 to 200 psi, but no higher.
- They have to be two stage regulators.

Left C

**Koen_v_V** · 12-21-2009, 10:03 PM

Hi Left C,

I live in the Netherlands and trying to give my tank (duth style of cours ;-) ) a stable CO2 flow, as my dupla regulator is crap. When I touch the needle valve, it's flow is instantly changed, the flow decreases over a week with 10% and the resolution of the needle valve is pretty poor. The slitest turn is a huge change in flow.

I took a good read on the victors, thought it over last evening and I will not try the CGA320 second hand goodies, as I'm not comfortable with it.

I took a good look at the Vulkan model and discovered that a needle valve is build in (but I not sure it's precision is enough) But hopefully it's flow is stable, and that's the main importance. If it's precision is in fact enough, the 'damage' will stay at 200 euros for a new reg.

So I've ordered the Vulkan F10/2 0-10 bar in Holland and we'll see. I'll post some details/pictures and first experiences when I have it inhouse.

Much respect for you helping us all out with our questions.

Cheers, Koen.

**thrak76** · 12-22-2009, 12:45 AM

Thank you Left C, Tom, and all others for your awesome information.

I am a new owner of a Linde/Union Carbide dual stage regulator. I'm not ready to set it up yet. I have to piece it together slowly. But with everything i've been reading here, and on TPT, i'm confident that i can assemble a great system. I also know that questions asked receive thoughtful and knowledgeable responses.

I'm so eager to get it up and running! I know my plants are eager too!

**Left C** · 12-22-2009, 06:29 AM

I like forward to seeing your Vulcan when you get it set up, Koen.

**Left C** · 12-22-2009, 06:38 AM

Hi thrak76

Thank you for the kind words. They are much appreciated.

I've never seen a Linde/Union Carbide dual stage regulator. I just looked around and fordtrannyman (Billie) had one for sale recently. Is that the one?

Left C

**Left C** · 12-22-2009, 06:50 AM

Originally Posted by Koen_v_V

... I took a good read on the victors, thought it over last evening and I will not try the CGA320 second hand goodies, as I'm not comfortable with it. ...

I wouldn't of suggested that you get an used one. I would of definitely suggested a new one.

Most of my regulators are new, but I sure didn't pay new prices. The few used ones that I have are in mint condition. I just had to wait for the new ones to come around. I actually pulled all of mine out last night just to take a look at them.

I understand your dilemma. Good luck with your Vulcan and I look forward to reading your posts about it.

**thrak76** · 12-23-2009, 01:48 AM

Originally Posted by Left C

Hi thrak76

Thank you for the kind words. They are much appreciated.

I've never seen a Linde/Union Carbide dual stage regulator. I just looked around and fordtrannyman (Billie) had one for sale recently. Is that the one?

Left C

Yes, that's the one i got. It's a beast.
As far as i can tell, it has the GCA-320 nipple on it. FTM had it in service for a little while, and he didn't say he swapped any parts out on it. So i just need to gather all the post-body pieces. Just for reference, i'll include the pic that Billie took of it, and one that i took that hints at the dual stage "hump". Don't know why it's so tiny...

CIMG4278.jpg

CO2regillustration.jpg
I'd love to hear any feedback and suggestions, though!