LIFE EXPECTANCY OF COMPRESSED GAS REGULATORS
Understanding the factors
Compressed gas regulators, when not performing optimally, can lead to many hazardous situations, including leakage of toxic, pyrophoric or asphyxiate gases into the atmosphere and/or the risk of explosion or fire. The use of regulators should be limited to persons properly trained and experienced with the use of such device, and who are aware of the inherent dangers associated with them. Applications for compressed gas regulators are so numerous, thus the life expectancy is varied and proportional to the gas service and the environment in which the device is used. Listed below are some important factors that affect regulator life expectancy:
Gas Service
Know the properties of the gas being regulated
Service Environment
Be aware of regulators that are exposed to the elements
Elastomers
Know what materials are used in the construction of the regulator