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Writer's pictureESC Engineering Services Co, Inc.

Streamlining Natural Gas Regulator Testing in the Meter Shop: The Evolution of Testing Platforms


mechanical hydraulic unit with two pressure gauges

Introduction

Over the past decade, the landscape of natural gas regulator testing has undergone a significant transformation, thanks to advancements in engineering design, fabrication, and automation. At the forefront of this evolution is the Regulator Testing Machine (RTM), a versatile platform tailored to meet the diverse needs of gas utilities. With a focus on safety, reliability, and accuracy, the RTM has become an indispensable tool for in-testing regulators in the meter shop environment.


Manual and Automated RTM Platforms

The RTM platform offers both manual and automated options, providing flexibility to accommodate varying testing requirements. The basic RTM, equipped with the Smart Track APP, empowers operators with all the necessary information to conduct and record tests efficiently. For enhanced convenience and precision, the automated RTM features a user-friendly 19-inch touchscreen interface, simplifying the testing process and ensuring consistent results.


Compliance with Industry Standards

Adhering to industry standards is paramount in ensuring the safety and efficacy of gas regulators. The RTM is designed to meet the rigorous requirements outlined in ANSI B109.4, with upcoming compliance with ANSI B109.5 for pressure regulators with delivery pressures exceeding 2 psig. This commitment to standards compliance underscores the dedication to providing reliable and compliant testing solutions for gas utilities.


Comprehensive Testing Capabilities

The RTM boasts a comprehensive suite of features to facilitate thorough regulator testing in the meter shop environment. From internal relief valve (IRV) and over-pressure shut-off (OPSO) testing to monitoring regulator performance, the RTM covers all essential aspects of regulator evaluation. With support for NPT and flange connections up to 3 inches in diameter, along with inlet supply pressures up to 150 psig and outlet delivery pressures up to 50 psig, the RTM offers versatility and adaptability to diverse testing scenarios.


Enhanced Efficiency with Smart Track APP

Central to the RTM experience is the Smart Track APP, a powerful tool that streamlines testing operations and ensures consistency in results. Featuring a user-friendly interface with pull-down menus for test criteria selection, the Smart Track APP simplifies test setup and execution. Furthermore, it enables operators to record and report test results seamlessly, facilitating compliance documentation and regulatory reporting requirements.


Conclusion

The evolution of natural gas regulator testing in the meter shop environment has been propelled by innovations such as the Regulator Testing Machine (RTM). By combining customized engineering design with advanced automation and compliance with industry standards, the RTM offers gas utilities a reliable, efficient, and compliant solution for regulator testing. With its comprehensive testing capabilities and intuitive Smart Track APP, the RTM sets a new standard for precision and reliability in natural gas regulator testing, ensuring the safety and integrity of gas distribution systems for years to come.



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