How Does a Gas Pressure Regulator Work? | Guide

A gas pressure regulator is a critical component in various systems, maintaining safe and consistent gas flow. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) establishes standards for gas equipment safety, influencing regulator design. A diaphragm, a flexible component within the regulator, responds to pressure changes to control gas flow. Understanding how a gas pressure regulator works involves analyzing the interplay between these components to maintain a stable outlet pressure, ensuring downstream equipment operates efficiently and safely, whether it is utilized in a residential natural gas furnace or in industrial applications overseen by organizations like the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).

Understanding Gas Pressure Regulators: The Unsung Heroes of Control and Safety

Gas pressure regulators are ubiquitous, yet often overlooked, components in a vast array of industrial, commercial, and even residential applications. Their primary function is deceptively simple: to take a fluctuating or high-pressure gas source and deliver a consistent, lower pressure output.

However, this seemingly straightforward task is critical for ensuring both the safety and efficiency of countless processes and systems.

The Importance of Controlled Gas Pressure

Without gas pressure regulators, the potential for catastrophic failure, equipment damage, and inefficient operation increases dramatically. Imagine a natural gas pipeline operating without pressure regulation – the uncontrolled surges could rupture pipes, leading to explosions and widespread disruption.

Similarly, consider the delicate balance required in medical gas delivery systems. Precise and stable pressure is paramount for patient safety.

Why Regulators are Essential

Gas pressure regulators are essential for a multitude of reasons, including:

• Safety: Maintaining safe operating pressures prevents explosions, leaks, and equipment damage.
• Efficiency: Ensuring a consistent gas supply optimizes the performance of downstream equipment, reducing energy consumption and waste.
• Process Control: Stable pressure is crucial for consistent and repeatable results in many industrial processes.
• Equipment Protection: Regulators protect sensitive equipment from over-pressure situations that could cause costly damage or failure.

Applications Across Industries

The applications of gas pressure regulators are remarkably diverse. From the large-scale infrastructure of natural gas distribution networks to the precise requirements of laboratory equipment, these devices play a vital role.

You'll find them in:

• Welding and cutting equipment, where precise gas flows are essential for quality welds.
• Propane (LPG) systems, ensuring safe and efficient operation of heaters and appliances.
• Medical facilities, delivering life-saving oxygen and other medical gases.
• Compressed air systems, powering pneumatic tools and equipment.

This broad spectrum of applications underscores the fundamental importance of gas pressure regulators across numerous sectors, highlighting their role as critical enablers of both safety and operational efficiency.

Fundamentals of Gas Pressure Regulation: Core Principles

Gas pressure regulators, despite their diverse designs and applications, operate on a shared set of fundamental principles. Understanding these concepts is crucial for anyone involved in the selection, operation, or maintenance of these devices. These principles govern how regulators maintain a stable outlet pressure, regardless of fluctuations in the inlet pressure or downstream demand.

Defining Key Terms in Gas Pressure Regulation

To fully grasp the intricacies of gas pressure regulation, it's essential to define several key terms:

• Pressure: The force exerted by a gas per unit area. It's typically measured in pounds per square inch (psi), bar, or kilopascals (kPa). Pressure is the driving force behind gas flow, and its accurate control is paramount for many processes.

• Flow Rate: The volume of gas that passes through a point in a given time. Flow rate is directly related to the system's demands; higher demand necessitates a higher flow rate. Regulators must be capable of delivering the required flow rate while maintaining the desired pressure.

• Equilibrium: The state of balance where the forces within the regulator are equal, resulting in a stable outlet pressure. The regulator constantly strives to maintain this equilibrium.

• Feedback Loop: The self-correcting mechanism that allows the regulator to automatically adjust to changes in inlet pressure or downstream demand. This feedback loop is the cornerstone of stable pressure regulation.

• Force Balance: The primary mechanism for pressure control in most regulators. It involves balancing the force exerted by a spring against the force exerted by the gas pressure on a diaphragm.

• Mechanical Advantage: This is achieved through the design and leverage within the regulator. It amplifies the sensitivity of the controlling components, allowing for precise adjustments with minimal effort.

The Interplay of Principles in Achieving Precise Control

The effectiveness of a gas pressure regulator stems from the harmonious interaction of these fundamental principles. The diaphragm acts as a sensor, responding to changes in outlet pressure. This pressure acts against a spring, creating a force balance. This balance dictates the position of a valve, which controls the gas flow.

If the outlet pressure drops, the spring force exceeds the diaphragm force, causing the valve to open further and increase the gas flow. Conversely, if the outlet pressure rises, the diaphragm force exceeds the spring force, causing the valve to close and reduce the gas flow.

This constant adjustment, facilitated by the feedback loop, ensures that the outlet pressure remains stable despite fluctuations in the inlet pressure or changes in downstream demand.

The mechanical advantage of the regulator's design enhances the sensitivity of this process, allowing for precise control over the outlet pressure. The regulator continually strives to maintain equilibrium, ensuring the stability and accuracy required for various applications. By understanding these core principles, operators can effectively manage and troubleshoot gas pressure regulation systems, optimizing performance and ensuring safety.

Key Components of a Gas Pressure Regulator: A Closer Look

Gas pressure regulators, despite their diverse designs and applications, operate on a shared set of fundamental principles. Understanding these concepts is crucial for anyone involved in the selection, operation, or maintenance of these devices. These principles govern how regulators maintain stable outlet pressure. But it is the careful interplay of their internal components that makes it all possible.

Let's explore the function of each part.

Diaphragm: The Pressure-Sensing Heart

The diaphragm is often considered the heart of the regulator. Its primary function is to sense changes in outlet pressure and to proportionally actuate the valve. It's a flexible membrane that responds to even slight variations.

When the outlet pressure drops, the diaphragm moves to open the valve, allowing more gas to flow. Conversely, when outlet pressure rises, it moves to close the valve.

Diaphragms are typically made from elastomers (like rubber or synthetic polymers) or metals (such as stainless steel). The material choice depends heavily on the application. Elastomers provide excellent flexibility and sealing capabilities for lower-pressure applications. Metals offer durability and resistance to harsh chemicals and high pressures.

Spring: Providing the Counterforce

The spring provides the opposing force to the diaphragm, creating a balance that sets the desired outlet pressure. The spring's force is adjustable, allowing the user to dial in the desired pressure setting.

By compressing the spring, you increase the force it exerts on the diaphragm, requiring a higher outlet pressure to achieve equilibrium. This is how the adjusting screw or knob translates into a specific pressure setting.

Valve (Poppet, Needle, Ball): Controlling the Flow

The valve is the component that directly controls the gas flow rate. Different types of valves offer varying degrees of precision and flow capacity.

• Poppet Valves: Offer a relatively large flow area. They are suitable for applications where a rapid response and high flow rates are needed. However, they may not offer the same level of fine control as other valve types.

• Needle Valves: Provide very precise flow control due to their tapered needle and small orifice. These are ideal for applications requiring fine adjustments. They are usually limited to lower flow rates.

• Ball Valves: Sometimes used in pressure regulators, particularly in on/off control scenarios, rather than precise pressure regulation.

  You also like

  What is Bose Target Customer? ICP Demographics

The valve's mechanism – how it opens and closes in response to the diaphragm's movement – is crucial for maintaining the desired outlet pressure.

Valve Seat: Ensuring a Tight Seal

The valve seat is the surface against which the valve closes to stop the flow of gas. A proper seal is critical for accurate pressure control and preventing leaks.

The valve seat must be made of a material that is durable, resistant to wear, and compatible with the gas being regulated. Common materials include hardened metals and elastomers. Any imperfections in the valve seat can lead to pressure creep. It is a slow increase in outlet pressure even when the regulator is supposed to be closed.

Adjusting Screw/Knob: Setting the Pressure

The adjusting screw or knob allows the user to set the desired outlet pressure. By turning the screw or knob, you change the compression of the spring. This alters the force it exerts on the diaphragm.

Calibration is essential to ensure the accuracy of the pressure setting. This involves using a pressure gauge to verify the outlet pressure matches the setting indicated on the regulator.

Nozzle: Shaping the Flow

In some regulator designs, a nozzle is used to control the flow of gas. The nozzle's size and shape can influence the flow rate and pressure characteristics of the regulator.

Nozzles are particularly useful in applications where a specific flow pattern is required. They can help to ensure stable and consistent performance.

Vent: Allowing Diaphragm Movement

The vent is a small opening in the regulator body that allows air to enter or exit the chamber behind the diaphragm. This vent facilitates diaphragm movement and prevents pressure buildup that could interfere with proper operation.

The vent also serves as a safety feature. It allows gas to escape in the event of a diaphragm rupture. In certain applications, the vent is connected to a vent line to safely direct any leaking gas away from the immediate area.

Housing/Body: Protecting the Internals

The housing or body of the gas pressure regulator provides a protective enclosure for all the internal components. It shields them from environmental factors such as dust, moisture, and physical damage.

The housing material must be compatible with the gas being regulated to prevent corrosion or other degradation. Common materials include brass, stainless steel, and aluminum. The choice depends on the specific application and the properties of the gas.

Types of Gas Pressure Regulators: Exploring Different Designs

Gas pressure regulators, despite their diverse designs and applications, operate on a shared set of fundamental principles. Understanding these concepts is crucial for anyone involved in the selection, operation, or maintenance of these devices. These principles govern how regulators maintain consistent downstream pressure, but the specific method varies significantly across different regulator types. Let's explore these variations and their unique characteristics.

Single-Stage Regulators: Simplicity in Pressure Reduction

Single-stage regulators represent the simplest design in gas pressure regulation. These regulators achieve pressure reduction in a single step, directly from the inlet pressure to the desired outlet pressure.

Working Principle

The core of a single-stage regulator lies in its direct action. The high-pressure gas enters the regulator, and the diaphragm, balanced against a spring, modulates the valve opening. As the outlet pressure increases, it exerts force against the diaphragm, partially closing the valve and reducing the flow.

This direct relationship provides immediate pressure reduction but can also lead to fluctuations in outlet pressure as the inlet pressure changes.

Common Applications

Single-stage regulators are commonly employed in applications where precise and extremely stable outlet pressure is not critical. These include:

• Basic welding and cutting setups.
• Simple gas appliances like portable stoves.
• Low-demand gas supply lines.

Advantages and Limitations

The primary advantage of single-stage regulators is their cost-effectiveness. Their simple design translates to lower manufacturing costs and easier maintenance.

However, their main limitation is outlet pressure instability. Variations in inlet pressure or downstream flow demand can cause significant fluctuations in the outlet pressure, making them unsuitable for applications requiring high precision.

Two-Stage Regulators: Enhanced Stability and Precision

Two-stage regulators address the limitations of single-stage models by implementing a two-step pressure reduction process. This design significantly enhances outlet pressure stability and precision.

Design and Operation

In a two-stage regulator, the gas pressure is reduced in two distinct stages. The first stage reduces the inlet pressure to an intermediate level.

The second stage then further reduces the intermediate pressure to the desired outlet pressure. This staged approach minimizes the impact of inlet pressure variations on the final outlet pressure.

The two-stage mechanism isolates the outlet pressure from fluctuations in the inlet supply, providing superior pressure control.

Applications Requiring Constant Outlet Pressure

Two-stage regulators are essential in scenarios where a consistent and stable outlet pressure is paramount. Some common applications include:

• Analytical instrumentation where stable gas flow is crucial.
• Laboratory settings requiring precise gas pressure control.
• High-precision welding and cutting applications.

Pilot-Operated Regulators: Handling High-Capacity Systems

Pilot-operated regulators are designed for high-capacity systems where large volumes of gas need to be regulated efficiently. These regulators utilize a pilot regulator to control a larger main valve.

Mechanism

The pilot regulator senses the outlet pressure and adjusts the pressure in a control chamber. This chamber then acts on a much larger diaphragm or piston connected to the main valve.

This mechanism allows the small pilot regulator to control the large main valve, providing precise pressure control even with high flow rates.

Applications

Pilot-operated regulators are widely used in:

• Natural gas distribution systems.
• Large-scale industrial processes.
• Applications requiring high flow rates and precise pressure control.

Back Pressure Regulators: Maintaining Upstream Pressure

Back pressure regulators differ from standard pressure reducing regulators in that their primary function is to maintain a specific upstream pressure.

Specific Function

Instead of reducing inlet pressure to a lower outlet pressure, back pressure regulators relieve excess pressure to maintain a desired pressure upstream of the regulator. They open to relieve pressure when the upstream pressure exceeds the setpoint.

Applications

Back pressure regulators are crucial in applications such as:

• Chemical processing where maintaining a specific reactor pressure is vital.
• Wastewater treatment systems to control liquid levels and pressures.
• Protecting equipment from overpressure in various industrial processes.

Instrumentation and Measurement: Monitoring Gas Pressure

Gas pressure regulators, despite their diverse designs and applications, operate on a shared set of fundamental principles. Understanding these concepts is crucial for anyone involved in the selection, operation, or maintenance of these devices. These principles govern how regulators maintain consistent and safe pressure levels in various systems. To ensure proper functionality and safety, employing accurate and reliable instrumentation is paramount.

Monitoring gas pressure and flow is an integral part of maintaining optimal performance and safety in systems utilizing gas pressure regulators. The use of appropriate instruments allows for real-time feedback, enabling timely adjustments and preventing potential hazards. Accurate instrumentation is critical for ensuring regulators function within specified parameters.

Pressure Gauges: The Foundation of Pressure Monitoring

Pressure gauges are the most fundamental instruments for monitoring gas pressure in regulator systems. They provide visual or digital readouts of the pressure at specific points, typically at the inlet and outlet of the regulator. This allows operators to quickly assess whether the regulator is functioning as intended and if the system pressure is within safe and efficient operating ranges.

Types of Pressure Gauges

Various types of pressure gauges are available, each with its own advantages and limitations. The selection of a pressure gauge should be based on the specific requirements of the application, including the pressure range, accuracy requirements, and environmental conditions.

• Bourdon Tube Gauges: These are widely used due to their simplicity, reliability, and relatively low cost. They operate on the principle of a curved tube that straightens out proportionally to the pressure applied. While robust, their accuracy can be affected by temperature and mechanical vibrations.

• Digital Pressure Gauges: Digital gauges offer higher accuracy and resolution compared to Bourdon tube gauges. They use electronic sensors to measure pressure and display the readings digitally, reducing parallax errors. Digital gauges often come with additional features such as data logging and alarm capabilities.

Accuracy Levels and Considerations

The accuracy of a pressure gauge is crucial for reliable pressure monitoring. Accuracy is typically expressed as a percentage of the full-scale range of the gauge. It is important to select a gauge with an appropriate accuracy level for the application.

For critical applications, such as medical gas delivery or precise laboratory experiments, high-accuracy digital gauges are preferred. For less demanding applications, Bourdon tube gauges may suffice. Regular calibration of pressure gauges is essential to maintain accuracy over time.

Flow Meters: Measuring Gas Flow Rate

While pressure gauges provide information about the pressure at specific points in the system, flow meters measure the rate at which gas is flowing through the system. This information is essential for optimizing system performance, detecting leaks, and ensuring that gas consumption is within expected levels.

Selecting the Right Flow Meter

The selection of a flow meter depends on several factors, including the type of gas, flow rate range, accuracy requirements, and the operating environment.

• Variable Area Flow Meters (Rotameters): These are simple and cost-effective flow meters that use a float inside a tapered tube. The height of the float indicates the flow rate. Rotameters are suitable for applications where high accuracy is not required.

• Turbine Flow Meters: Turbine flow meters use a rotor that spins proportionally to the gas flow rate. They offer good accuracy and are suitable for a wide range of flow rates. However, they can be sensitive to changes in gas density and viscosity.

• Mass Flow Meters: Mass flow meters measure the mass flow rate of gas directly, independent of temperature and pressure variations. These meters are the most accurate and reliable but are also the most expensive. Thermal mass flow meters are commonly used for precise gas flow control in laboratory and industrial applications.

• Ultrasonic Flow Meters: These flow meters use sound waves to measure the velocity of the gas, and they offer a non-intrusive measurement method. They can be used with various gases and are suitable for high-pressure applications.

Importance of Flow Rate Monitoring

Monitoring flow rate alongside pressure is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of system performance. Changes in flow rate can indicate issues such as leaks, blockages, or changes in demand. By monitoring both pressure and flow rate, operators can quickly identify and address potential problems, ensuring efficient and safe operation of gas pressure regulator systems.

Safety Considerations: Ensuring Safe Operation

Gas pressure regulators, despite their diverse designs and applications, operate on a shared set of fundamental principles. Understanding these concepts is crucial for anyone involved in the selection, operation, or maintenance of these devices. These principles govern how regulators maintain stable downstream pressure, protect against overpressure situations, and ensure the safe delivery of gases in a wide variety of applications. Safe operation necessitates a thorough understanding of potential hazards and adherence to established safety protocols.

Over-Pressure Protection: Preventing Catastrophic Failure

One of the most critical safety features in any gas pressure system is over-pressure protection. Excessive pressure can lead to regulator failure, rupture of downstream components, and potentially, dangerous gas leaks or explosions.

Relief Valves: A Critical Safety Device

Relief valves are designed to automatically vent excess pressure from the system before it reaches a dangerous level. These valves are calibrated to open at a specific pressure threshold, releasing gas until the pressure drops back to a safe range.

It's crucial to select relief valves with appropriate pressure ratings and flow capacities for the specific application. Regular inspection and testing of relief valves are essential to ensure they are functioning correctly. Relief valves should be installed downstream of the regulator to protect the entire system.

Burst Discs: An Alternative Safety Mechanism

Burst discs are another means of overpressure protection. These are thin, frangible discs designed to rupture at a predetermined pressure. Unlike relief valves, burst discs offer a one-time protection mechanism; once ruptured, they must be replaced.

Burst discs are often used in applications where immediate and complete venting of pressure is required, or where the gas is corrosive or hazardous, making relief valves impractical.

The Importance of Adequate Ventilation

Proper ventilation is crucial, especially when working with flammable or toxic gases. Gas leaks, even small ones, can lead to dangerous concentrations of gas in enclosed spaces, posing fire, explosion, or health hazards.

Ventilation Protocols in Enclosed Spaces

Enclosed spaces require particular attention. Forced ventilation systems can help maintain a safe atmosphere. Regularly monitor gas levels using appropriate gas detectors. Never work in an enclosed space where gas concentrations exceed safe limits.

It is critical to ensure adequate ventilation to prevent the accumulation of leaked gas. Proper airflow can help disperse gas leaks and reduce the risk of dangerous situations.

Leak Testing: Detecting and Addressing Potential Hazards

Regular leak testing is an indispensable component of any gas safety program. Even seemingly minor leaks can lead to significant gas loss and create hazardous conditions over time.

Methods and Tools for Leak Detection

Several methods can be employed for leak testing, including:

• Soap Solution: Applying a soap solution to joints and connections will reveal leaks through the formation of bubbles. This is a simple and cost-effective method for identifying larger leaks.

• Electronic Leak Detectors: These devices use sensors to detect the presence of specific gases. Electronic leak detectors offer higher sensitivity and can detect even small leaks that might be missed by visual inspection.

• Pressure Drop Testing: Isolate the system and monitor the pressure over a period of time. A drop in pressure indicates a leak.

Proper Installation: Adhering to Best Practices

Proper installation is paramount for safe and reliable regulator operation. Always adhere to the manufacturer's instructions and relevant industry standards. Incorrect installation can lead to regulator malfunction, leaks, and even catastrophic failure.

Avoiding Common Installation Errors

Common installation errors include:

• Incorrect Orientation: Installing the regulator in the wrong orientation can affect its performance and longevity.

• Over-Tightening Connections: Overtightening can damage threads and create leaks.

• Using Incompatible Sealants: Using the wrong type of sealant can lead to corrosion and leaks.

Material Compatibility: Ensuring System Integrity

Ensuring material compatibility between the regulator and the gas being regulated is essential to prevent corrosion and degradation. Some gases can react with certain materials, leading to leaks, regulator failure, and potentially dangerous situations.

Selecting Suitable Materials

Carefully consider the gas properties and select regulator materials that are resistant to corrosion and degradation. Consult with the regulator manufacturer or a qualified expert for guidance on material selection.

Stainless steel, brass, and certain polymers are commonly used in gas pressure regulators, but their suitability depends on the specific gas being regulated.

Regular Inspection & Maintenance: Maintaining a Safe System

Regular inspection and maintenance are critical for ensuring the continued safe and reliable operation of gas pressure regulators. Scheduled checks can identify potential problems before they lead to more serious issues.

Key Maintenance Tasks

Regular maintenance tasks should include:

• Visual Inspection: Checking for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage.

• Leak Testing: Regularly testing for leaks, especially at joints and connections.

• Cleaning: Removing dirt and debris from the regulator body and vent.

• Component Replacement: Replacing worn or damaged components, such as diaphragms, springs, and seals.

Applications of Gas Pressure Regulators: Real-World Examples

Gas pressure regulators, despite their diverse designs and applications, operate on a shared set of fundamental principles. Understanding these concepts is crucial for anyone involved in the selection, operation, or maintenance of these devices. These principles govern how regulators maintain stable downstream pressure despite fluctuations in supply or demand.

The applications of gas pressure regulators are as varied as the gases they control. From heavy industrial processes to delicate medical procedures, these devices are indispensable for ensuring safety, efficiency, and precision. Let's delve into some specific examples to illustrate their ubiquitous role.

Gas Welding & Cutting: Precision and Safety in Metal Fabrication

In gas welding and cutting, precise control over the flow of oxygen and fuel gases (acetylene, propane, etc.) is paramount. Too much pressure can lead to dangerous leaks and explosions, while insufficient pressure can result in poor weld quality or ineffective cutting.

Gas pressure regulators ensure a consistent and safe supply of gas to the torch, enabling welders to achieve clean, precise cuts and strong, reliable welds. The use of dual-stage regulators is particularly important in this application to maintain a stable flame even as the gas cylinder empties.

Natural Gas Pipelines: Maintaining a Stable Flow

Natural gas pipelines are massive, complex networks that transport natural gas over vast distances. Maintaining a consistent pressure throughout these pipelines is essential for efficient distribution and to prevent damage to the system.

Gas pressure regulators are strategically placed along the pipeline to reduce pressure from high-pressure transmission lines to lower-pressure distribution networks. This staged pressure reduction is critical for delivering natural gas safely to homes and businesses.

Propane (LPG) Systems: Regulating Fuel for Heating and Cooking

Propane, or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), is a common fuel source for heating, cooking, and other applications in residential and commercial settings. Propane tanks typically store gas at high pressure, which needs to be reduced before it can be safely used by appliances.

Gas pressure regulators are used to lower the tank pressure to a safe and usable level, ensuring that appliances like stoves, furnaces, and water heaters operate correctly and efficiently. These regulators also prevent over-pressurization, which could damage the appliance or create a hazardous situation.

Medical Gases: Delivering Life-Saving Treatments

In the medical field, the precise delivery of gases such as oxygen, nitrous oxide, and medical air is critical for patient care. Too much or too little of a particular gas can have serious consequences.

Gas pressure regulators are used to carefully control the flow and pressure of these medical gases, ensuring that patients receive the correct dosage. These regulators are often integrated into specialized equipment such as ventilators and anesthesia machines, where accuracy is of utmost importance.

Compressed Air Systems: Powering Pneumatic Tools and Equipment

Compressed air is a versatile power source used in a wide range of industries, from manufacturing to construction. Compressed air systems rely on gas pressure regulators to provide a consistent and controlled air pressure to pneumatic tools and equipment.

These regulators ensure that tools operate at their optimal pressure, maximizing their performance and lifespan. They also protect the system from over-pressurization, which could damage equipment or pose a safety hazard.

Laboratory Equipment: Ensuring Accuracy in Scientific Research

Many laboratory instruments and experiments require a stable and precise gas supply. Gas pressure regulators are used to provide a constant gas pressure to equipment such as gas chromatographs, mass spectrometers, and incubators.

These regulators are crucial for maintaining the accuracy and reliability of scientific data. They prevent fluctuations in gas pressure that could affect the results of experiments.

HVAC Systems: Optimal Pressure for Home Comfort

In heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, gas pressure regulators play a crucial role in maintaining the optimal pressure for gas-fired furnaces and heaters. Consistent gas pressure ensures efficient combustion and safe operation.

These regulators are designed to automatically adjust the gas flow to meet the demands of the heating system, providing consistent and reliable heating performance. They also protect the system from over-pressurization, preventing potential safety hazards.

So, there you have it! Hopefully, this guide has helped demystify the inner workings and explain how does a gas pressure regulator work. While it might seem complex at first, understanding the basics can help you appreciate the safety and efficiency these devices bring to so many applications. If you're ever unsure about anything involving gas systems, always consult with a qualified professional!