Information Bulletin: Gas line pressure regulator sizing requirements

Topic 

To maintain a constant downstream pressure it is important to correctly size gas pressure regulators. 

Important information 

When selecting a regulator, the following points are critical:

✔  total load requirements, 

✔  outlet pressure 

✔  gas system pressure

✔  minimum inlet pressure at the entry point of the regulator based on pipe sizing pressure drop tables found in the CSA B149.1 Natural Gas and Propane Installation Code. The selected table for sizing the piping system (pressure drop selected) will directly relate to the regulator required to meet the installation design. 

When selecting a line pressure regulator, ensure that it is certified for the minimum/maximum pressure range in which it is selected to operate as stated in section 5.2.1.1 of the CSA B149.1 Natural Gas and Propane Installation Code. 

To select the correct size of regulator, use the specifications in the manufacturer’s certified data sizing chart.  Not all 2lb system regulators can be sized to the minimum ½ pound inlet pressure. This information should be available through the gas equipment supplier or from the gas regulator manufacturer’s online reference tools and catalogues. 

 

 

Brad Wyatt
Provincial Safety Manager, Gas 

 

 

References:
Safety Standards Act
Gas Safety Regulation
Safety Standards General Regulation
CSA B149.1 - Natural gas and propane installation code