To understand the basic purpose of a vacuum regulator versus a vacuum breaker, see definition of a vacuum regulator page.
Stage 1: Small Set-Point Regulator
The first stage consists of a small sensitive vacuum regulator which generates a precise set-point pressure that is equal to the desired process vacuum. This small regulator is energized by the vacuum supply provided to the outlet port of the larger regulator.
This small regulator also allows a very small amount of air to be drawn into it to allow for reductions in vacuum set-point.
Stage 2: Volume Boosting Regulator
The larger regulator uses Equilibar’s unique direct sealing diaphragm technology to closely match the process (inlet) pressure to the pressure provided on its dome (by the small regulator). This second stages serves as an ultra sensitive volume booster. It also provides chemical isolation between potentially aggressive process vapors and the smaller set-point regulator.
This volume boosting stage is actually a dome-loaded back pressure regulator. The special diaphragm blocks the entrance to the process orifices, preventing the vacuum pump from drawing down the process below the set-point pressure (on the dome). Once the process pressure increases above the set-point pressure, gas lifts up the special diaphragm and flows to the regulator outlet.
Using an Electronic Set-Point Regulator
For computer automation, it is easy to use an electronic vacuum regulator in place of the manual set-point regulator.
Electronic vacuum regulators have two servo valves that quickly open and close to control vacuum measured by a small internal pressure transmitter. They work just like electronic pressure regulators, except that ambient air is used on the inlet valve, and a vacuum supply is connected to the outlet valve.
The combination of these two stages provides a very stable vacuum pressure even as gas flow rates and vacuum supply pressures vary. Starting at $600, the Equilibar vacuum regulator is a good option for many complex vacuum applications where conventional, lower-cost solutions have not worked.
It should be noted that this vacuum regulator is a non-relieving non-bleeding type, and is not capable of rapidly increasing the pressure on the inlet port. The regulator is intended for processes where at least a very small gas flow is present at all times. If your process is gas-tight, with periods of near zero flow, your application engineer can discuss with you easy methods of providing a small gas bleed at the inlet of the regulator.
Equilibar Vacuum Regulators use a two-stage design, with a set-point regulator on top, and a larger volume boosting stage below.
A small vacuum regulator works to generate a set-point signal for a larger vacuum regulator (used as a volume booster).
A small electronic vacuum regulator works to supply the set-point signal for the larger vacuum regulator.