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Gas Cylinder Pressure Regulators: High Precision for All Applications

A cylinder pressure regulator is an essential device when using compressed gas. Pressure regulators reduce pressure and control gas flow for safe use. Whatever gas you use, whether oxygen, nitrogen, propane, Carbone dioxide (CO2) or specialty gases, the choice of cylinder pressure regulator is crucial for safety, efficiency and compliance.

Pressure Regulators Technology Overview

Rotarex uses 4 main technologies to achieve stable and reliable pressure reducing performance.

Diaphragm Pressure Regulator:

  • Most widely used technology (cylinder control, in-line control, expansion module...)
  • Compact design
  • High precision


Bellows Pressure Regulator:

  • High outlet pressure accuracy
  • Less sensitive to outlet pressure rise
  • Mainly used for applications such as chromatography


Piston Pressure Regulator:

  • Constant outlet pressure
  • Used for regulators with outlet pressure close to inlet pressure/s
  • Used as the 1st stage of a dual-stage regulator
  • Used for calibration regulators and analytical instruments

Balanced-Valve Pressure Regulator:

  • Ensures excellent outlet pressure stability
  • Minimizes the effect of inlet pressure fluctuations on outlet pressure
  • Extends valve life and reduces operating costs by reducing stress on the seat
  • Diaphragm technology only

Pressure Regulators

Specialty Gas Pressure regulators

  • High pressure regulator
    Single stage
    Diaphragm tech. + Cartridge
  • High pressure regulator
    Single stage
    Diaphragm technology
  • High pressure regulator
    Single stage
    Piston technology
  • High pressure regulator
    Single stage
    Diaphragm technology + BV
  • Low pressure regulator
    Single stage
    25 bar Inlet pressure
  • Very high flow pressure regulator
    Single stage
    Diaphragm technology
  • High pressure regulator
    Dual stage
    Diaphragm tech. + Cartridge
  • High pressure regulator
    Dual stage
    Piston/Bellow technology
  • High pressure regulator
    Dual stage
    Piston/Diaphragm technology
  • Low pressure regulator
    Single stage
    Diaphragm technology + BV
  • High flow low pressure regulator
    Single stage
    Diaphragm technology + BV
  • High pressure regulator
    Single stage
    Diaphragm tech. + Cartridge
  • Low pressure regulator
    Single stage
    Bellow technology
  • Low pressure regulator
    Single stage
    Diaphragm technology
  • Low pressure regulator
    Single stage
    Diaphragm technology
  • Low pressure regulator
    Single stage
    Diaphragm technology + BV

Specialty Gas Point of use

  • Point of use
    Bellow technology
  • Point of use
    Modular
    Bellow technology
  • Point of use
    Integrated
    Diaphragm technology
  • Point of use
    Integrated
    Bellow technology

Flow regulators

  • Constant flow regulator
    10 positions flow selector
    Piston technology

Ultra high purity pressure regulators

  • HP & UHP regulator
    Cv 0.09, 0.15
    Free diaphragm
  • Single stage diaphragm
    Cv 0.09, 0.15
    Inlet 21/240 bar
  • Sub-atmospheric
    Cv 0.09
    Inlet 21 bar
  • Single stage tied-diaphragm
    Cv 0.09, 0.15
    Inlet 21/240 bar
  • High pressure diaphragm
    Cv 0.15
    Inlet 240/310 bar
  • High pressure piston
    Cv 0.09, 0.15
    Inlet 310 bar
  • Dual stage regulator
    Cv 0.09
    Inlet 240/310 bar
  • Single stage diaphragm
    Cv 0.15, 0.25, 0.5, 0.9, 1.1
    Inlet 21/117/207/240 bar
  • Sub-atmospheric regulator
    Cv 0.5
    Inlet 21 bar
  • Single stage tied-diaphragm
    Cv 0.15, 0.25, 0.5, 0.9, 1.1
    Inlet 21/117/207/240 bar

How Does a Gas Cylinder Pressure Regulator Work?

What to Consider When Specifying a Regulator?

Regulator Body Materials

Most Rotarex regulators are available in 316L stainless steel or chrome-plated brass, while some models are available in raw brass or aluminum. Regulator materials are specified in accordance with the chemical and physical properties of the gas.


  • 316L stainless steel: The recommended option for corrosive gases and high or ultra-high purity applications, due to its superior strength, non-reactivity, exceptional durability and excellent surface finish. It is compatible with virtually all gas types. Rotarex uses type 316L stainless steel, an autentic nickel-chromium stainless steel containing molybdenum. It guarantees:
    • Outstanding corrosion resistance - particularly against sulphuric, hydrochloric, acetic, formic and tartaric acids, acid sulphates and alkaline chlorine;
    • Resistance to stinging by chloride ion solutions; and
    • Outstanding resistance even at high temperatures

  • Chrome-plated or raw brass: The most commonly used material for industrial and oxygen applications due to its excellent cost-effectiveness, high strength and low coefficient of friction compared with stainless steel.

What to Consider When Specifying a Regulator?

Inlet / outlet pressure:

Several models are designed to accommodate different inlet and outlet pressure ranges. Standard options cover inlet pressures from 1.5 to 300 bar and outlet pressures from 0.1 to 200 bar. These options are clearly indicated on each product page, but we can also meet special requirements on request. Always verify both inlet and outlet pressure ratings, and when flexibility is required, choose an adjustable regulator that lets you fine-tune the outlet to your desired set point.

The Role of Pressure Relief Valves

A relief valve is an essential component of a pressure regulator. This safety device helps prevent overpressure by releasing excess pressure from the system once it exceeds a predefined maximum pressure. Each Rotarex regulator includes a relief valve, depending on its intended application.

Cylinder valve connections

Specific cylinder valve connectors are required for each type of gas. Default fittings are NPT 1/4" male and 16 x 1.336 male, representing the most common types. Other standards and dimensions are available on request to match your desired setup.

How to choose the right pressure regulator for your application

All applications have precise requirements depending on the end use. That's why Rotarex offers a wide range to meet all your needs. Understanding the differences between types is essential for choosing the right regulator based on pressure range, gas type, usage environment, and precision requirements.

Single-Stage vs Dual-Stage Regulators

A single-stage pressure regulator reduces pressure from inlet pressure to outletonce. They are ideal for applications where inlet pressure remains fairly stable or where precision is less critical. The variation of pressure is due to the decreasing inlet pressure, which naturally drops as the cylinder empties. In most applications, the pressure will still be reduced at the end of the gas line, thanks to point-of-use regulators.
A dual-stage regulator consists of two single-stage regulatorsin a single body, the pressure is indeed reduced twice. This dual configuration provides better pressure and flow stability than single-stage regulators. This improved stability results from the lower pressure variation at the inlet of the second stage of pressure regulation. These are preferred in laboratory, analytical, or high-precision industrial environments

High-pressure vs low pressure regulators

  • High Pressure regulators are designed to handle inlet pressures typically up to 200-300 bar (3000-4500 psi), such as those found in standard industrial gas cylinders. In many systems, they also serve as an intermediate stage between the high-pressure cylinder and a downstream low-pressure regulator, delivering an intermediate pressure that ensures safer operation and more precise control.
  • Low-pressure regulators are intended for situations where the inlet pressure is already reduced (below 50 bar) or where a very low outlet pressure is desired, often in the millibar range. These regulators are not designed to withstand extreme inlet pressures, but they excel at fine-tuning outlet pressure and guaranteeing precise flow, especially at very low flow rates.

General purpose vs Lecture bottle

  • Regulators used for broader applications need to be robust, durable and made of high-quality materials. They are typically used with standard gas cylinders for general-purpose applications in laboratories, industry, medical etc.
  • Lecture bottles are small compact cylinders used in laboratories or for calibration purposes, designed to store high-purity or specialty gases in small quantities. These cylinders require compact pressure regulators to deliver the most precise and stable gas flow possible.

Cylinder pressure regulators vs panel-mounted

  • Cylinder-mounted regulators are the most common setup. This is the configuration offers flexibility to the user regarding where the gas is to be used. In this configuration, the cylinder pressure regulator is connected to the cylinder valve via a cylinder connector
  • Panel-mounted regulators are attached to a control panel or gas distribution board, and are often connected to cylinders via high-pressure flexible hoses or pigtails. Rotarex provides a full range ofsupplyandchangeover boards.

Need Help? Our Gas Supply Experts Can Help You Select the Right Equipment

Choosing the right gas pressure regulator or supply system can be complex, especially with so many variables like gas type, pressure range, flow rate, and application-specific requirements. That's why our team of gas supply specialists is here to support you every step of the way.
Whether you're working in a laboratory, industrial plant, or medical setting, we can help you:
  • Select the right regulator for your cylinder or system
  • Ensure material compatibility and compliance
  • Optimize safety and performance for your application
Frequently Asked Questions About Gas Regulators
What is a gas pressure regulator?

A cylinder pressure regulator is an essential device when using gases. A pressure reducer is a device connected to a valve for the purpose of reducing the pressure contained in the cylinder to a lower suitable pressure for use. It controls pressure by safely lowering cylinder pressure to a usable outlet level. Whatever gas you use, whether oxygen, nitrogen, propane, CO2 or specialty gases, the choice of cylinder pressure regulator is crucial for safety, efficiency and compliance.

WWhat does a pressure regulator do?
The purpose of a regulator is to reduce high pressure from the cylinder and to maintain outlet pressure at the desired level, ensuring it is suitable for use with your application.
Which gases can a regulator be used with?

There are specific regulators for each type of gas. Discover our ranges:

  • Specialty gas pressure regulators
  • Ultra-High-Purity pressure regulators
  • Medical pressure regulators
  • LPG Pressure regulators
Which gas regulator should I choose?

The right gas regulator depends on several key factors related to your specific application. Here are the main criteria to consider (type of gas, inlet pressure, desired outlet pressure, flow rate, applications). It is not always easy to choose the right regulator. Our team of experts is here to help and guide you in your choice. Please do not hesitate to contact us!

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