Argon Gas Regulators & Flow Meters

ARGON GAS REGULATORS AND FLOW METERS

A selection of Argon shielding gas regulators and flow meters for MIG and TIG welding as well as purging.  Pure Argon and Argon mix gas is available from a number of different suppliers across the UK.  Mostly* the cylinders will have a standard internal thread which the regulator inlet screws into.  An Argon regulator can be used for pure Argon, used for TIG welding or Aluminium MIG welding and it can also be used for mixed gases used for MIG / MAG welding too.

Firstly, the correct gas regulator for the gas being used is essential.  This is because a regulator is constructed specific to the gas it will be used for. Combustible gas regulators (such as Oxygen, Propane and Acetylene) tend to have left hand threads where as inert gases such as Argon, have right hand threads.  The internals of the regulator is also specifically designed for the gas passing through it.

Single or Two Stage Regulator?

A single stage regulator regulates working gas pressure in one step where as a two stage regulator regulates gas flow pressure in two stages.  They both perform the same function, to regulate the gas flow from the gas cylinder.

Where a two stage has its advantage, is when the gas cylinder begins to run low.  The delivery pressure of the two stage regulator remains constant throughout the usage of a gas bottle.  A single stage will decrease its delivery pressure near the end of the cylinder.  The two stage or multi stage regulator should be used when a precise pressure is required over the life of the gas bottle.  This is particularly the case with TIG welding where accuracy is more critical for weld quality.

Single or Two Gauge Regulator?

A single gauge gas regulator only shows the output gas pressure being delivered.  A two gauge benefits by having one gauge show the delivered gas flow rate or pressure, whilst the other shows the remaining contents in the Argon cylinder.

Bottom Entry or Side Entry?

Different Argon and Argon Mix welding gas suppliers manufacture different gas cylinders to store their compressed gas.  Some cylinders will have an upward facing outlet, whilst others will have a side facing outlet.  In practice, you can use a side entry or bottom entry on either type of cylinder.  However, if you want the gauges to be in the correct orientation, you would choose a bottom entry Argon regulator for an upward facing outlet and vice versa.  Likewise, if you have a bottom entry regulator and a side exit Argon cylinder, you can use a 90º adaptor to make the gauges into the correct orientation.

Why Use a Flow Meter?

Designed to be fitted to the outlet of an argon or CO2 regulator, a flow meter provides greater control of the flow of your shielding gas through the gas line.
A flow meter also has the added benefit of giving a visual indication of when gas is actually flowing.

• Ideal for use in MIG and TIG.