Maxitrol manufactures gas pressure regulators designed for a variety of applications, including residential, commercial, and industrial uses. These regulators are intended for use with natural gas, manufactured gas, mixed gases, liquefied petroleum gases, and LP gas-air mixtures. Proper installation and operation, in accordance with Maxitrol’s safety instructions and applicable codes, are crucial for safe and reliable performance. This article details specifications, installation considerations, and safety guidelines based on available documentation.
Regulator Certifications and Gas Compatibility
Maxitrol gas pressure regulators meet specific certification standards. The 325-3, 325-5 series, and 325-7A, 325-9 series are certified to ANSI Z21.18/CSA 6.3 for gas appliance pressure regulators. The 210D, 210E, and 210G models also meet this standard. The RV series regulators are similarly certified. These certifications indicate compliance with established safety and performance requirements.
The regulators are designed to be compatible with a range of gas types, including natural gas, manufactured gas, mixed gases, liquefied petroleum gases, and LP gas-air mixtures. This broad compatibility makes them suitable for diverse applications.
Inlet Pressure Ratings and Emergency Exposure Limits
Maxitrol regulators are available with different rated inlet pressure options. CSA-certified 325-3 and 325-5 models support inlet pressures of 2 psi (13.8 kPa) and 5 psi (34.5 kPa). Maxitrol tested models, including 325-3, 325-5, 325-7A, 325-9, can handle a maximum inlet pressure of 10 psi (69 kPa). When equipped with vent limiters 12A09, 12A39, or 12A49, the 325 series regulators can handle 5 psi (34.5 kPa) for natural gas and 2 psi (13.8 kPa) for LP gas.
The 210D, 210E, 210G, and 210J models have a maximum inlet pressure of 10 psi (69 kPa), while the emergency exposure limit for all these models is 25 psi (172 kPa). The 325 series regulators have an emergency exposure limit of 65 psi (450 kPa) on the inlet side. These limits represent the maximum pressure the regulator can safely withstand in an emergency situation.
Model-Specific Specifications and Capacities
Several Maxitrol regulator series cater to different application requirements. The 325-L series is designed for 2 psi piping systems and features a high leverage linkage assembly for positive dead-end lockup. The 325-3L, 325-5L, 325-7AL, 325-9L, and 325-11L models are constructed with aluminum housings.
The RV series, including models RV12, RV20, RV47, RV48, and CV47, are designed for appliance applications. These models utilize a rubber seat poppet design. Pipe sizes for the RV47 model range from 1/8” to 3/4” with NPT or ISO7-1 threads. Housing materials for RV12, RV20, RV47, RV48, and CV47 are aluminum.
Capacity is a critical specification, varying by model. The 325-3 has a capacity of 150,000 Btu/h, while the 325-5 is rated at 325,000 Btu/h. The 325-7A, 325-9, and 325-11 models have capacities of 1,250,000 Btu/h, 2,250,000 Btu/h, and 4,500,000 Btu/h, respectively. The maximum individual load for each model is also specified: 325-3 (100,000 Btu/h), 325-5 (325,000 Btu/h), 325-7A (1,250,000 Btu/h), 325-9 (2,250,000 Btu/h), and 325-11 (4,500,000 Btu/h).
The 210D has a minimum regulation of 25 CFH, while the 210E and 210G models regulate at 50 CFH, and the 210J at 100 CFH. Capacities are expressed in CFH (m3/h) at 0.64 sp gr gas.
Installation Guidelines and Safety Precautions
Installation of Maxitrol gas pressure regulators must be performed by a trained technician, adhering to manufacturer instructions and local codes. The documentation emphasizes the importance of minimizing fire and explosion hazards during installation. Line pressure regulators do not shut off gas flow and should not be used if leakage is detected.
Service and installation should be performed by a trained/experienced service technician. All products used with combustible gas must be installed and used strictly in accordance with the instructions of the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and with all applicable government codes and regulations. Maxitrol’s instructions do not supersede OEM’s installation or operating instructions.
The pipe size should conform to the regulator’s size. The capacity of a regulator is not absolute and varies with the application depending on the prevailing differential pressure. When calculating pressure drop at various flow rates, the formula P2 = P1 x (Q2/Q1) can be used, where P2 is the pressure drop at the desired flow rate (Q2), and P1 is a known pressure drop at a known flow rate (Q1).
Mounting Considerations and Remote Sensing
Mounting requirements vary by model. Most models, excluding those with the “D” suffix, are suitable for multi-positional mounting, although slight outlet pressure variations may occur in positions other than upright. “D” suffix models and those with ball check vent limiting devices must be mounted upright.
The 210D, 210E, and 210G models can be ordered with remote sensing, omitting the internal sensing tube and providing external sensing taps. These models offer convenient tap locations for downstream sensing, cross connections, and differential control, with four locations available for tapping and plugging to measure pressure.
Ambient Temperature Range
The 210 series regulators are designed to operate within an ambient temperature range of -40° to 200°F (-40° to 93°C).
Conclusion
Maxitrol gas pressure regulators offer a range of solutions for controlling gas pressure in various applications. Understanding the specific certifications, inlet pressure ratings, capacities, and installation guidelines for each model is essential for safe and effective operation. Proper installation by a trained technician, adherence to local codes, and compliance with Maxitrol’s safety instructions are paramount. The provided documentation highlights the importance of these factors in ensuring the reliable and safe use of these regulators.