I have a CO2 tank with dual gauge regulator. I have had problems with it in that the needle gauge vibrates when the valve is opened. It didn’t do that when I first used the system. Had the regulator repaired but the problem recurred. I even borrowed a friend’s regulator and noticed that at first, it too worked. Then when I used my airbrush (Iwata HP-CS) with the pressure about 15-20, the pressure started to rise when I didn’t have the trigger depressed and the needle would rapidly rise off the scale. I’d then hear the vibrating and rapid needle oscillations again. I’ve stopped using it as I’m afraid I’m going to break my friend’s regulator. Any suggestions? Is there something I’m missing with the hookups or setup? Any advice would be appreciatetd.
Sounds to be an internal issue with the regulator. Contamination or a seal that has failed and is causing problems. Replace the regulator or have it rebuilt. Don’t mess around with it, it can be potenially dangerous. Take it to a welding supply shop that sell such regulators.
Thanks for the advice, thought it was something easy to fix but you’re right. I’m taking it to the CO2 people.
Glad to hear that your taking the valve and regulator in for inspection. CO2 tanks operate at very high pressures. A typical small CO2 tank is operating at anywhere from 860 to 1,000 psi, depending on the temperature in the room. Make sure that your valve has a safety release. At work, I’ve got photos of CO2 tanks that exploded and I would not have wnated to be near them when they popped off.
Found out I was using a regulator set up for “flow” and not one for PSI. The PSI regulators are like the ones used in aquariums and home brewing so I’m going to get the right ones. I think that should solve the problem.