What is a back pressure regulator?

The Role of Back Pressure Regulators:
How the Type 710BP Enhances Pressure Control

When it comes to back pressure regulators, particularly the Type 710BP, there is often confusion about their proper application. This confusion typically stems from the fact that the 710BP looks very similar to the standard Type 700 Air Regulator and has “regulator” in its name. However, it’s important to clarify that the 710BP does not function like a typical pressure-reducing air regulator. It might be better to view a back pressure regulator as a relief valve.   It can also be used as a flow controller.

The Type 710Back Pressure Regulator acts as a high-flow, high-precision pneumatic relief valve with an adjustable pressure setpoint. Unlike standard relief valves, the Type 710BP offers improved pressure control while safeguarding against over-pressurization, making it ideal for applications like supplying pressure to instruments and other control devices.

Key Differences Between a 710BP and a Standard Regulator

A traditional air regulator is designed to reduce incoming pressure to a desired lower pressure level, maintaining consistent output. It often has a built-in relief valve to bleed off excess pressure. In contrast, the 710BP is a back pressure regulator, designed specifically to maintain a set upstream pressure by venting excess pressure to the atmosphere or to a capture device when necessary. This venting capability distinguishes the 710BP from a typical regulator’s relief valve, as it can handle much larger volumes of exhaust.   Note that as flow through the back pressure regulator increases, so does the upstream pressure.  This is shown in the flow curves below. 

Benefits of Using a Back Pressure Regulator

1. Higher Exhaust Capacity: One of the key advantages of using a back pressure regulator like the Type 710BP is its ability to exhaust large volumes of air. This capacity is far greater than the typical relief valve built into a standard air regulator, which is crucial in situations where high-flow venting is necessary.

2. Added Safety: Incorporating a back pressure regulator can serve as an additional safeguard in a pneumatic system. It acts as a secondary layer of protection, ensuring that downstream pressure doesn’t exceed safe limits, even if the primary regulator fails. This is especially important in applications where overpressure can lead to equipment damage or system failure.

3. Pressure Control in High-Flow Systems: In systems where high flow rates are expected, such as those with fluctuating demand or potential leaks, a back pressure regulator can effectively manage pressure surges. By relieving pressure at the source, it prevents the downstream components from experiencing stress due to sudden pressure spikes.

Pairing a 710BP with a Standard Regulator

When using both a standard air regulator and a 710BP in the same system, it’s essential to set the relief valve pressure correctly to avoid feedback and chatter between the two components. A general rule of thumb is to set the relief valve 5 to 10 psi higher than the regulator’s set pressure. This ensures that the system functions smoothly, preventing the relief valve from opening prematurely and causing unnecessary wear or erratic system behavior.

Common Applications of the 710BP

The Type 710BP is particularly useful in industries where maintaining precise pressure control is vital, such as:

• Pharmaceutical Manufacturing: Ensuring stable pressure during processes that involve delicate materials or precise dosing.
• Chemical Processing: Controlling pressure in reactors, tanks, or pipelines where overpressure could lead to hazardous conditions.
• Industrial Automation: Managing air pressure in automated systems where pressure fluctuations could disrupt operations.

By using the Type 710BP, you gain enhanced control over system pressure, increase safety measures, and maintain the efficiency of your pneumatic systems. Understanding the differences between a back pressure regulator and a standard air regulator helps ensure that your system is optimized for performance and longevity.