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Need help?Do you have a question about the IMI NORGREN R18 Series and is the answer not in the manual?
Details on fluid type, pressure/temperature ranges, flow rates, and port specifications.
Information on the materials used for the regulator body, bonnet, plug, valve, and elastomers.
Lists service kits and exhaust mufflers for R18 regulators.
Covers air pressure shutoff, pipe thread sealant use, and filter installation.
Details connecting the pilot regulator to the R18, including feedback line specifics.
Step-by-step guide for setting and adjusting regulator pressure.
Instructions for taking apart, cleaning, inspecting, and reassembling regulator components.
Important warnings about intended use, pressure/temperature limits, relief devices, and gauge accuracy.
The Norgren R18 Pilot Operated Regulator is a sophisticated device designed for precise control of compressed air systems. Its primary function is to maintain a stable and consistent outlet pressure, even with fluctuating inlet pressures or varying downstream demand. This is achieved through a pilot operation mechanism, where a smaller, more sensitive pilot regulator controls the main R18 regulator. This design allows for greater accuracy and responsiveness in pressure regulation compared to direct-acting regulators.
The R18 regulator is versatile in its application, offering different configurations to suit specific system requirements. It can be configured as a relieving or non-relieving type. A relieving regulator automatically vents excess downstream pressure if it rises above the set point, providing an additional layer of safety and pressure stability. Conversely, a non-relieving regulator traps any over-pressure in the downstream line, which might be desirable in certain applications where venting is not permissible or where a slight over-pressure is acceptable under no-flow conditions. The regulator also offers options for gauge ports, allowing for easy integration of pressure gauges to monitor system performance.
Installation of the R18 is straightforward, but attention to detail is crucial for optimal performance. It should be installed upstream of lubricators and cycling valves, and can be mounted at any angle, offering flexibility in system layout. For best results, the R18 pilot operated regulator should be positioned as close as possible to the device it is servicing, minimizing pressure drop and improving response time. The pilot regulator, which is typically a smaller, more accessible unit, can be installed at any convenient location. When making pipe connections, it is essential to use pipe thread sealant on male threads only, taking care to prevent sealant from entering the interior of the regulators, as this could impede their function. Airflow direction, indicated by an arrow on the body, must be observed for correct installation.
A key feature of the R18 system is its adaptability to different pilot regulator types. It can be used with conventional pilot regulators, such as the R40, or with feedback pilot regulators, like the R41 or 11-104 series. Feedback pilot regulators offer enhanced precision by sensing the actual outlet pressure at the application point downstream of the R18. This feedback loop allows the pilot regulator to make more accurate adjustments, resulting in superior pressure regulation, especially for applications requiring very tight pressure control. When using a feedback pilot regulator, the feedback line should be kept as short and unrestricted as possible to ensure rapid and accurate pressure sensing. It is also critical to connect the feedback line before applying air pressure, as failure to do so can lead to a rapid increase in R18 outlet pressure.
Adjusting the R18 regulator involves manipulating the pilot regulator's adjustment knob. Before applying inlet pressure, the pilot regulator adjustment should be turned counterclockwise to remove all force on the regulating spring. Once inlet pressure is applied, turning the adjustment clockwise increases the pressure setting, while turning it counterclockwise decreases it. To achieve the desired pressure setting accurately, it is recommended to always approach the target pressure from a lower setting. If reducing pressure from a higher setting, first reduce it to a point below the desired pressure, then gradually increase it back up. This method helps to minimize hysteresis and ensures a stable set point.
Maintenance of the R18 regulator is designed to be user-friendly, allowing for disassembly and cleaning without necessarily removing the unit from the air line. Regular cleaning of internal components with warm water and soap, followed by rinsing and drying with clean, dry compressed air, helps to prevent the buildup of contaminants that could affect performance. During cleaning, it is important to inspect all parts for damage and replace any worn or broken components using the designated service kit. Lubrication of O-rings and surfaces in contact with O-rings with a light coat of high-quality O-ring grease is essential for smooth operation and to prevent premature wear. Additionally, a small amount of anti-seize compound should be applied to the threads of the bottom plug to facilitate future disassembly. When reassembling the unit, specific torque values for the bonnet screws and hand-tightening for the bottom plug are crucial to ensure proper sealing and functionality. The manual also highlights the importance of using identical diaphragms when replacing them, as early and current versions may not be interchangeable, and the bonnet design may vary to accommodate different diaphragm types.
Safety is a paramount consideration in the design and operation of the R18 regulator. It is intended for use in industrial compressed air systems only, within specified pressure and temperature ranges. If the outlet pressure could potentially exceed the safe limits of downstream equipment, a pressure relief device must be installed downstream of the regulator. The relief device's pressure setting and flow capacity must meet the system's requirements. Furthermore, the accuracy of pressure gauges can be affected by shipment and service life, so calibration before initial installation and at regular intervals is recommended, especially where inaccurate indications could pose a hazard. For applications involving fluids other than air, non-industrial uses, or life-support systems, consultation with Norgren is advised to ensure proper and safe application.
General| Medium | Compressed air |
|---|---|
| Body Material | Aluminum |
| Series | R18 |
| Manufacturer | IMI NORGREN |
| Seal Material | NBR |
| Type | Regulator |
| Mounting | Panel Mount |
| Ambient Temperature | 0°F to 150°F (-18°C to 66°C) |
| Operating Temperature | 0°F to 150°F (-18°C to 66°C) |
