Oxygen pressure reducer: characteristics, design and operating principle, models

An oxygen pressure regulator reduces and regulates the oxygen pressure supplied from a cylinder, creating and automatically maintaining constant gas pressure. Used in gas welding and metal cutting, they are painted blue and attached to cylinder valves.

The operating principle of an oxygen reducer

As the gas passes through the filter, it enters the high-pressure chamber. Turning the adjusting screw clockwise, the force of the pressure spring acts on the pressure plate, plunger, and diaphragm of the pressure-reducing valve. The pressure-reducing valve then moves, allowing gas to pass through the gap between the valve and the seat into the working chamber. To monitor the pressure in the oxygen regulator cylinder, a high-pressure (inlet) gauge is used, while a low-pressure (outlet) gauge is monitored in the working chamber. Gas enters through a nipple connected to the regulator. The hoses leading to the cutting torch are connected to the nipple.

Specifications vary by cylinder model. For example, the BKO-50 mini has:

• maximum throughput capacity of 50 m3/h;
• maximum gas pressure at the inlet is 20 MPa;
• 1.2 MPa is the maximum working gas pressure at the inlet of the reducer.

There are also models:

• BKO-50 MG;
• SKO-10-2;
• RKZ-500-2;
• acetylene BAO-5-4;
• propane BPO-5-4;
• for hydrogen BVO-80-4 and others.

The weight of gearboxes is from 0.85 to 10.0 kg.

The oxygen pressure regulator's characteristics are taken into account, and the UHL climate control type is specified according to GOST 15150. Temperature tolerances range from -250°C (-322°F) to -500°C (-1222°F). All oxygen pressure regulators have similar characteristics, but differ in gas outlet and inlet volumes and flow rates. Pressure regulator markings include the manufacturer's trademark, brand, year, and month of manufacture. Since oxygen is not particularly hazardous, all pressure regulator components that come into contact with oxygen must be degreased, and the springs must be coated with a protective coating that readily tolerates purified oxygen.

Repairing an oxygen regulator is not a difficult process, but troubleshooting it properly is essential. If the problem is with the inlet fitting, check for a filter. When replacing the filter, install it with the "nose" facing the gases. The gasket should be free of defects and made of a material that comes into contact with oxygen. Afterward, check with compressed air or nitrogen.

Repairing the oxygen pressure regulator involves replacing the gasket and securing the pressure gauge to the regulator base. If the regulator is leaking, the pressure-reducing unit must be replaced. This is done with a special wrench, and with clean hands. The necessary parts, such as the pressure-reducing valve, may be dented or otherwise damaged.