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RegO’s Internal Redesign

RegO has updated the design of its internal, or bottom outlet, valve after changes to the ADR regulations. The company is based in the USA, where its manufacturing sites are located, and distributes to its European dealers via Germany.

Freddy Deyk, operations manager at RegO, said: “Changes in legislation mean keeping up with the rules and there is nobody more adept and quick to react than RegO. RegO is the largest and best known manufacturer of lpg products in the world and, to maintain that position, our range of control valves and regulators are subject to constant review.

“Feedback from our customers results in changes being adopted even if it is to satisfy regional or national requirements. Most recent of these updates is our popular A3217AR internal – or bottom outlet – valve, commonly used on bobtails and road tankers.”

Internal valves are usually opened by an air cylinder, which operates a cam that lifts the centre stem of the valve. A bleed passage from the tank side allows lp gas to pass below the main valve seat and, when the pressure on both sides has equalised, the valve seat springs open with the force of the excess flow valve spring.

Freddy said: “The old design relied on a closing spring pushing the valve closed when the air operating cylinder was exhausted. The cylinder retracted and the cam returned, but there was no external evidence, or guarantee, that the valve had actually closed.

“The new design pushes the valve open and pulls it closed. If the actuator does not return to the closed position, the valve has not closed.

“As part of this development, other changes include wider channels for improved flow, and plating for better rust protection. The valve still opens when the pressures across the seat have equalised, but the improved bleed channels ensure it now opens more quickly on start up.

“One of the most revolutionary parts of the design change is the rotary actuator. It does not impart side load to the operating shaft, so seal wear is minimised.

“Cylinders have always been used for actuation and, even though they are reliable, they require field setting and adjustment and do not usually include a thermal latch. The new actuator is factory set, compact, and incorporates a thermal latch. Perhaps most important is that they also have a clear red indicator to show when the valve is closed.”

The RegO range of internal valves covers flow rates and sizes in flanged and screwed designs up to 3”, and 4” flanged versions.

RegO will be exhibiting at the 2011 AEGPL Congress on booth numbers 1 and 2 in the IC Brantianu Hall.

Contact UK Rego distributor Remanufacturing Services Ltd on 01792 224000 www.rmsgaseng.com

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