The latest articles on DEV Community by nottool (@nottool). https://dev.to/nottool https://media2.dev.to/dynamic/image/width=90,height=90,fit=cover,gravity=auto,format=auto/https:%2F%2Fdev-to-uploads.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com%2Fuploads%2Fuser%2Fprofile_image%2F4184010%2F72e52ff6-37f1-4c10-8eb4-04134afb49a2.png https://dev.to/nottool en nottool Wed, 14 Oct 2026 07:39:05 +0000 https://dev.to/nottool/the-limits-i-keep-to-with-a-dual-flow-argon-regulator-jc1 https://dev.to/nottool/the-limits-i-keep-to-with-a-dual-flow-argon-regulator-jc1 <p>A dual flow regulator is simple to use, which makes it easy to get casual with. I keep a short set of rules for mine, and a checklist I run through when the flow doesn't look right. This note covers both, along with how I look after it between jobs.</p> <h2> Numbers I stay inside </h2> <p>The regulator is single-stage, with a gauge measuring range of 0–25 MPa and a rated outlet pressure of 0.2 MPa. Each flow tube is marked 0 to 60 SCFH. I treat the top of that scale as a ceiling, not a target. The working temperature is given as 0–50 °C, and I don't use it outside that band.</p> <p>These figures are the whole of what I rely on. If a job seems to need more than the tubes show, I take that as a sign to rethink the job rather than push the regulator.</p> <h2> When the flow looks wrong </h2> <ul> <li>Is the cylinder valve actually open? A closed valve shows nothing on the inlet gauge.</li> <li>Have I read the inlet gauge before opening either knob?</li> <li>Is the ball moving in the tube I think I'm adjusting? Each knob only controls its own tube.</li> <li>Are both hoses pushed fully onto their hose tails?</li> <li>Is the ball sitting on the SCFH mark I set, or has it drifted since?</li> <li>Did I start with both knobs closed before opening the cylinder slowly?</li> </ul> <p>I go through them in order, because jumping ahead is how I end up adjusting the wrong side.</p> <h2> The oil rule </h2> <p>The dial says USE NO OIL, and I take that literally. Before fitting, I check the cylinder valve and the regulator inlet for any trace of oil or grease. My hands get wiped before I touch the inlet nut. I don't use any lubricant on the threads, and I won't put the regulator down on a greasy bench.</p> <h2> Care and storage </h2> <p>Between jobs the regulator goes back with its parts kept together: the two flow tubes and the two hose-tail fittings. Losing a hose tail would leave one side unusable, so they never get separated from the body.</p> <p>I close the cylinder valve and both knobs before taking it off. It is stored dry and clean, indoors. Before the next use I give the gauge face and both tubes a quick look, since readable marks are the only way I can set each side properly.</p> <p>The gauge range and outlet pressure are listed on <a href="https://nottool.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer">nottool.co.uk</a> for anyone who wants to check them.</p> hardware manufacturing tools