Air Pressure Regulator Valve

What's the Air Pressure Regulator Valve?

Air regulator valves

Air pressure regulator valve is a device used to control and maintain a consistent air pressure level within a pneumatic system. It ensures that downstream equipment receives air at the desired pressure, regardless of fluctuations in supply pressure.

Key Features

  1. Precise Pressure Control: Ensures a stable air supply to pneumatic components
  2. Adjustability: Allows users to set the desired output pressure.
  3. Compact and Durable: Designed for long-term reliability in industrial environments
  4. Lower Cost: Be with ultimately lowers costs and provides an element of safety.

Additionally, pneumatic equipment often has optimum air pilot pressure that needs to be carefully monitored in order to achieve reliable performance. At Dg-Pnetic we have a wide range of air pressure regulators, ranging from general purpose units covering everyday industrial applications, to more specialised precision regulators.

The Construction and Working Principle of a Typical Air Pressure Regulator Valve

Air Pressure Regulator Valve Working Principle

Increasing The Outlet Pressure Process

Increasing The Outlet Pressure Process

First Step:
Begin by turning the Rotatable Knob ① clockwise. This motion causes the Screw Rod ③ to rotate, which in turn compresses the Spring ④. As a result, the Diaphragm Bracket ⑥ is pushed downward.

Second Step:
As the Diaphragm Bracket ⑥ moves downward, it exerts force on the Poppet Valve Rod ⑨, causing the Poppet Valve (Pressure Reducing Element) to open. Consequently, this allows pressure to build up in the downstream system.

Third Step:
With the valve now open, compressed air flows into the Sensing Element cavity through the Sensing Venthole ⑧. As the downstream pressure increases, the force exerted on the diaphragm pushes it upward.

Fourth Step:
This process continues, cycling between the Second and Third Steps, until the system reaches equilibrium. At this balance point, the outlet pressure stabilizes, ensuring consistent performance.

Decreasing The Outlet Pressure Process

Decreasing The Outlet Pressure Process

First Step:
Begin by turning the Rotatable Knob ① counterclockwise. Typically, this action reduces the outlet pressure. As the knob rotates, it simultaneously causes the Screw Rod ③ to turn in the same direction.

Second Step:
As a result of the Screw Rod ③ rotating, it gradually lifts the Screw Pad ② upward. This movement, in turn, releases the tension on the Carbon Steel Spring ④, allowing it to expand.

Third Step:
Consequently, as the Poppet Valve moves upward, it effectively shuts off the air passage. When adjusting the downstream pressure to zero, the remaining air is redirected through the Sensing Venthole ⑧ into the chamber beneath the diaphragm. Finally, the air is exhausted through the Relief Orifice ⑦, completing the pressure release process.

Our Air Pressure Regulator Valve Product Line

ACR Flow Regulator with Pressure Gauge

Enhance your painting projects with the ACR Regulator — engineered for precise airflow control and optimal atomization.

By accurately regulating your air input, you can maintain the correct pressure during spraying, saving time and improving control and efficiency in your workflow.

Compatible with all air tools that require accurate pressure regulation.

  • Air Inlet: 1/4″

  • Working Pressure: 0–140 PSI (10 Bar)

  • Material Options: Aluminum, Brass, or Stainless Steel

SMC Model AR Air Pressure Regulator Valve

AR Series Air Regulators (AR1000–AR5000)
Reliable, general-purpose air regulators designed for consistent performance in a wide range of pneumatic applications.

  • Working Pressure: 0–140 PSI

  • Available with or without pressure gauge

  • Can be used as a compressor regulator or inline pressure regulator

  • Port Sizes: M5×0.8, 1/8″, 1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″, 1″

  • Thread Types: PT, G, NPT

  • Gauge Units: PSI, Bar, or MPa

AIRTAC Model AR/BR Air Pressure Regulator Valve

General-Purpose Air Pressure Regulator — AIRTAC Equivalent (AR/BR Series)
Compact and cost-effective regulators designed to match AIRTAC standards, ideal for a variety of pneumatic systems.

AIRTAC-compatible design (AR/BR series)

Compact size for space-saving installations

Available with or without manometer

Optional auto drain valves available

Port Sizes: M5×0.8, 1/8″, 1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″, 1″

Thread Types: PT, G, NPT

IR Accurate Air Regulator Valve

IR Series Precision Air Regulator — SMC Equivalent
Delivering precision pressure control, unmatched stability, and maximum efficiency to enhance system performance. Ideal for applications requiring accurate and consistent pressure regulation in a compact footprint.

  • SMC-equivalent design

  • Available with or without manometer

  • Regulating Pressure Range: 0.005 to 0.8 MPa (varies by model)

  • Port Sizes: 1/8″, 1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″

  • Compact and lightweight design

  • Bracket and pressure gauge can be mounted on front or back

  • Includes two air-operated model options

ITV Electric Precision Air Regulator

ITV Series Electronic Pressure Regulator — SMC Equivalent
Advanced intelligent control, exceptional accuracy, and reliable performance ensure optimal airflow management, improved efficiency, and superior system stability in your application.

  • Integrated digital display for real-time monitoring

  • Compact and lightweight

  • Low power consumption — less than 4W

  • Port Sizes: 1/8″, 1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″

  • Thread Types: PT, G, NPT

ITV2090-Electric-Vacuum-Air-Regulator

ITV Series Electronic Vacuum Regulator — SMC Equivalent
Delivering precise vacuum control, intelligent pressure regulation, and reliable performance to optimize system efficiency and stability across a wide range of industrial applications.

  • LED digital display with jump-word indicator

  • Compact and lightweight construction

  • IP65-rated protection for harsh environments

  • Two connection types available

  • Short lead time, competitive pricing, and long-lasting durability

QTYH-High-Pressure-Regulator

High Pressure Air Regulator — Engineered for Precision and Reliability
Designed for high-pressure applications, this regulator delivers precision, durability, and maximum performance to safely and efficiently control air systems under demanding conditions.

  • Max Input Pressure: 3.5 MPa

  • Ideal for air pressure regulation in high-demand systems

  • Modular design allows easy integration

  • High flow capacity for enhanced system efficiency

  • Port Sizes: 1/8″ to 2″

  • Thread Type: NPT available

  • Quick mounting pattern for fast and secure installation

  • Cost-effective solution for standard industrial applications

R Air Pressure Regulator Valve

R Series Air Pressure Regulator Valve — FESTO Standard
Reliable, precise, and efficient pressure control for optimal performance in industrial and automation applications. Designed with a die-cast valve body and built to maintain consistent operating pressure under varying line conditions.

  • FESTO-standard design

  • Models: R-MINI, R-MIDI, R-MAXI — all with integrated gauge

  • Max Input Pressure: 1.6 MPa

  • Port Sizes: 1/8″ to 1″

  • Thread Type: NPT available

SDR Air Pressure Regulator Valve

SDR Series Pneumatic Regulator — AIRTAC Equivalent
Compact and cost-effective, the SDR regulator delivers precise control, stable performance, and reliable pressure regulation for general-purpose pneumatic applications.

  • Compact structure for space-saving installation

  • Reliable and steady performance

  • Available with or without manometer

  • Port Sizes: 1/8″, 1/4″

  • Thread Types: PT, G, NPT

  • Single-unit installation for easy mounting

SR Compact Compressor Regulator

SR Series Air Compressor Regulator — AIRTAC Equivalent
Designed for compact compressors, the SR regulator delivers space-saving construction, precise pressure control, and reliable airflow performance — all at an economical price.

  • AIRTAC-equivalent performance

  • Reliable and steady operation

  • Compact structure, ideal for small compressors

  • Available with or without manometer

  • Port Sizes: 1/8″, 1/4″

  • Thread Types: PT, G, NPT

USR Stainless Steel Air Pressure Regulator Valve

Engineered for superior durability, corrosion resistance, and precise Pressure control to ensure reliable performance in Harsh and High-Demand Industrial Environments.” 304 or 316 stainless steel.
  • Reliable and steady operation

  • Stable structure, ideal for corrosion enviironment.

  • Available with or without manometer

  • Port Sizes:  1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″, 3/4″, 1″, 2″.

  • Thread Types: PT, G, NPT

  • Max working pressure: 5.0 Mpa

How Many Types Air Pressure Regulator Valve There Are ?

1. General Purpose Air Pressure Regulator Valve 

Designed for standard industrial applications.

Operate at pressures above atmospheric pressure.

Commonly used in pneumatic systems to regulate airflow and maintain stable pressure.

2. Precision Regulators

Provide highly accurate pressure control.

Used in applications requiring minimal pressure fluctuation, such as precision instrumentation and laboratory equipment.

Often used in reverse flow and brewery industries.

3. Pilot-Operated Regulators

Use air pressure instead of a mechanical spring for control.

Allow remote operation and provide greater force and better flow characteristics.

Ideal for systems with large variations in flow rates or fluctuating inlet pressures.

Typically available in single-stage or double-stage configurations.

4. High-Air Pressure Regulator Valves

Handle inlet pressures up to 200 bar and outlet pressures between 3-12 bar (depending on material construction).

Used in applications requiring high inlet pressure control, such as gas cylinders and industrial air systems.

5. Low-Air Pressure Regulator valves

Specially designed for applications that require precise control below 15-20 psi.

Commonly used in sensitive instrumentation or applications requiring very low air pressure.

6. Vacuum or Compound Regulators (Absolute Pressure Regulators)

Control pressures below atmospheric pressure.

Often used in vacuum systems and specialized industrial applications.

Each type of regulator is designed for different operational needs, ensuring stable and reliable pressure control in various applications.

How To Choose a Air Pressure Regulator Valve?

1. Determine the Application Requirements

Consider where and how the regulator will be used:

Industrial machinery (general-purpose regulators)

Precision instruments (precision regulators)

Gas cylinders or high-pressure systems (high-pressure regulators)

Vacuum systems (vacuum or compound regulators)

Remote-controlled pressure regulation (pilot-operated regulators)


2. Identify the Required Pressure Range

Inlet Pressure: What is the maximum supply pressure the regulator must handle? (e.g., up to 200 bar for high-pressure applications)

Outlet Pressure: What pressure range is needed for the downstream system? (e.g., 3-12 bar for high-pressure regulators or below 15-20 psi for low-pressure applications)


3. Choose the Type of Regulator

General Purpose Regulators – Standard industrial use.

Precision Regulators – For applications requiring stable and accurate pressure control.

Pilot-Operated Regulators – Best for applications with fluctuating flow rates or requiring remote operation.

High-Pressure Regulators – Suitable for gas cylinders or high-pressure systems.

Low-Pressure Regulators – Used in applications below 20 psi.

Vacuum Regulators – Control pressure below atmospheric pressure.


4. Consider Flow Capacity (Cv Rating)

Choose a regulator with a sufficient flow rate (Cv rating) to meet system demand.

A higher Cv value allows more airflow, reducing pressure drops in high-flow applications.


5. Operating fluid and environment

Whilst we focus on compressed air as the medium, there are many applications with other gases; it is important that particularly the seals are resistant to any non-inert medium. The environment will impact choice; for example, in a hostile environment, it is likely that pilot operation will be required, so adjustments can be made remotely.


6. Decide on a Single-Stage or Two-Stage Regulator

Single-Stage: Suitable for small pressure reductions and stable inlet pressures.

Two-Stage: Better for large variations in inlet pressure, offering more stable outlet pressure.


7. Check Additional Features

Relief or Non-Relief: Relief regulators vent excess pressure; non-relief types do not.

Adjustability: Some regulators allow fine-tuning for precise control.

Mounting Options: Inline, panel-mounted, or modular mounting options for easy integration.


8. Size & Weight 

In many high technology applications space is limited and weight is a factor. Some manufactures specialize in miniature components and should be consulted.


Final Thoughts

Choosing the right air pressure regulator valve ensures stable performance, extended equipment life, and optimal efficiency. Carefully evaluate your application, pressure range, flow capacity, and material before selecting the best regulator.