Pressure drop in meters and regulators: how to use it as a diagnostic tool

Every meter and regulator creates some normal resistance to flow. When the pressure drop becomes greater than expected, it may indicate a restriction or overload.

Measuring before and after

By measuring the upstream and downstream pressure of the equipment, we can see how much pressure is being lost in the specific device.

Meter

An excessive drop may mean that it is operating very close to its maximum flow rate or that there is a mechanical problem.

Regulator

If the inlet pressure is stable but the outlet pressure drops excessively under load, the capacity of the regulator is examined.

Use in diagnostics

Simultaneous measurements at sequential points help to pinpoint exactly where the restriction is located.