Equilibar® Precision Back-Pressure Regulator Equilibar® Precision Back-Pressure Regulator

Features and Benefits

Ultra Low Pressure 

The Equilibar® has by far the lowest pressure control range and sensitivity on the market. Set-point control to 0.03 psi and below, with sensitivities to 0.01 psi. Note: ultra high precision typically applies to gas applications or very low flowrate liquid applications due to the inherent fitting losses in all liquid controls.

Ultra Low Flow Rates 

Typical spring and plunger designs have a difficult time seating properly at extremely low flowrates. For example, an imperfect seal between plunger and seat could result in "negative overpressure" at extremely low flow rates (especially in gas control). The Equilibar® can be configured with special low flow trim ("-LF") to perform in the range of 1 ml/min gas flow.

Easy Process Automation 

The Equilibar® Pressure Regulator makes computerized automation of fluid process pressure a breeze.  The 1:1 relationship between the process pressure and that of the reference air signal pressure is easily established by any industrial electro-pneumatic transducer (E/P or I/P)( browse online). There is never any need for calibration to keep the two pressures together (as with a pilot-operated regulator); the pressure balance is maintained naturally by the flexible diaphragm.

Shear Sensitive Fluid Compatibility 

The Equilibar® can tackle tough shear sensitive fluids and dispersions where traditional fluid controls fail.  The flexible diaphragm throttles fluid pressure in a less abrupt manner than traditional valve seats.  The self adjusting nature of the membrane valve seat allows the valve to easily ingest and pass particulate matter.  (see shear sensitive application information)

Suitable for Pharmaceutical, Food, and Bio-Engineering Industries

The  Equilibar® Pressure Regulator has an inherently sanitary design that is suitable for food, pharmaceutical, and bio-engineering industries.   The main valve body is disassembled using a sanitary clamp for quick and easy inspection and cleaning. Valve seats are inherently crevice-free and can be readily flushed with Clean-In-Place solution, steam, or water.  Sanitary end fittings available.

1:1 Pressure Equilibrium

The pressure relationship between the reference and process ports in not simply proportional, as with existing pilot-actuated control devices.  The Equilibar® Pressure Regulator attempts to maintain this relationship in 1:1 equilibrium naturally - with no calibration needed or possible.  (Various configurations are available that add a slight opening or closing bias to this equilibrium)

Ultra-Fast Action

Because the only moving part in the Equilibar® Pressure Regulator is an flexible diaphragm, there is no friction, and virtually no inertia to slow reaction times.  Consequently, the action of this device is extremely fast, nimble, and responsive.

Pulsation Dampening

By using this device in the flow-through configuration, it helps to dissipate pressure pulsations by directing much of the excess pressure wave into the exhaust port.  This is particularly effective when the device is used on the outlet of a diaphragm pump, as illustrated in the Pump Pressure Control application. 

Drip-Tight Performance

Conventional relief valves require significant seat loading forces to eliminate dripping. Even devices with compliant seats can drip as they approach their cracking pressure.  The Equilibar® Pressure Regulator has the unique ability to remain drip-free to within a fraction of a psi of set-point. 

Eliminates Overpressure

Traditional relief valves open up gradually only as overpressure compresses the spring to its most retracted position. .  The Equilibar® Pressure Regulator eliminates this design complication by providing full open flow at less than 1 psi overpressure.

The Equilibar® regulator is protected by granted and pending U.S. and foreign patents.
Copyright Equilibar, LLC 2007.