Question on regulator

[brianclaw]

If I were to get a dual gauge regulator with solenoid valve, do I have to use the solenoid valve? I've been looking around and it seems like most of them come with a solenoid valve attached, I'm getting a bit annoyed at searching... I plan on running my CO2 supply 24/7. I've also been looking around the forum and don't seem to be able to get a straight forward answer.
Is there a manual dual gauge valve? I'm looking for something that's reliable and as small as possible. Any brands and models that I should look out for(and where?)? This is my first time going pressurised. My set-ups have always been no CO2, or DIY CO2 so far. Am I even using the proper terms for this particular piece of equipment?

[vinz]

Brian,

Yes you have to use it... because you'll need to plug it in 24/7 to keep the CO2 running. Else remove it and reattach the needle valve in it's place.

IMO, it's not worth paying the price if you are not going to use the solenoid. I'm sure there are regulators out there that do not include a solenoid. Wait a bit and see if the other members can point you to specific LFS. If not, you can try hunting around the Kelantan Lane hardware shops for them. You will need the proper specs though if you go hardware shops.

[|squee|]

There is a regulator without a solenoid sold... under the Bioplast brand. Sold at Systems Control and Engineering (Bioplast) if I'm not wrong. The price will probably make you think twice. =/

[tawauboy]

yes. system and control engineering does sell them individually.
you may want to check with petmart as well.

[taz_boy]

yes there are dual gauge regulator that doesn't have solenoid, make a trip to N.A......i saw it last time round i visited there....JBL brand.. $60...

[brianclaw]

Thanks, Vincent, Terence and Thomas.

Terence, any idea what it's going to cost? A rough estimate will do...

[tawauboy]

should be in the region of $150+.
do check with system and control engineering.

[evolim83]

Sorrie!
Off topic abit!
Would it be the same if a manual regulator is fixed with a needle valve?
Or does the dual gauges regulator step-down the pressure so that its easier to work with?

[gregorsamsa]

yes there are dual gauge regulator that doesn't have solenoid, make a trip to N.A......i saw it last time round i visited there....JBL brand.. $60...

Yup,


I went NA over the weekend and did ask Mr Chan about the Dual gauge regulator. I does not have a solenoid so it is cheaper. Performance wise, you have to ask him yourself.

Btw, i think i saw you on bus 851 and you were going to NA i presume

[taz_boy]

ha.....not me la...damn long time nv go N.A liao...last time round was b4 sem start...

the dual guage should work fine...1/2 the price of a dual/solenoid regulator...works the same way beside the fact it's 24/7 on only..

i no $$, if not also invest in 1...

[brianclaw]

Thanks guys, for keeping answers simple.

[benny]

And if budget allows, the Dennerle one is also a dual gauge regulator. Should be above S$300 these days but I can't be sure. Call to check. Their newer version cost even more!



Bioplast, as mentioned, is a good alternative.



Cheers,

[tawauboy]

Sorrie!
Off topic abit!
Would it be the same if a manual regulator is fixed with a needle valve?
Or does the dual gauges regulator step-down the pressure so that its easier to work with?

there is no such thing as a manual regulator. it's just a term that most lfs use. the so called manual regulator is nothing more than a throttle valve and does not regulate the output pressure. placing a needle valve after a throttle valve may damage the needle valve due to over pressure.

a proper regulator (usually with 2 gauges) reduces and regulates the output pressure to a safer level, usually around 30psi.

[brianclaw]

Thanks Benny. This is why I like coming here. Straight forward, no nonsense answers. Unlike another forum where half the answers are, "Eh bro, why like that? New project arh?".