adjusting the regulator pressure

Question
how is the pressure at the intermediate pressure stage of a regulator adjusted on a piston regulator? I know it can be done on a diaphram regulator im just not sure how its done on a piston regulator. thanx mike. i appreciate any help you can offer.

Answer
Hi Kyle

First, let me apologize for the delay in getting back to you.  I've been out of state for the past couple of weeks and forgot to post my absence on the AllExperts site.

The intermediate pressure in the first stage can be adjusted in a couple of ways, depending on the design of the regulator.  All regulators are designed to permit precise adjustment of this pressure.  Some are adjusted using a spring compression screw while others are adjusted using a series of shims placed under the pressure regulating spring.  Generally speaking, the spring compression screw is used for diaphragm regulators while shims are used in the piston regulators.  There are variances depending on the regulator manufacturer.  The correct pressure setting depends on the specifications provided by the regulator manufacturer but generally fall in the range of 125-145 psi.

Kyle, I hope this answers your question and, once again, I apologize for the delay in this response.

Sincerely,
Mike Giles
Mike's Dive Center
mikescuba.com