FIELD: control; regulation.
SUBSTANCE: method of controlling a regulator with a pilot device includes periodically measuring an outlet pressure at an outlet of the regulator with a feedback pressure sensor. Method also includes comparing each measured outlet pressure with a set-point control pressure. Additionally, the method includes opening an exhaust valve of the pilot device when a detected outlet pressure is determined to be greater than the set-point control pressure such that a loading gas in the pilot device, which is applied to a top surface of a diaphragm of the regulator, exhausts out through the exhaust valve to reduce loading on the diaphragm. Method further includes determining a loading pressure in the outlet port of the pilot valve with the loading pressure sensor after opening the exhaust valve and comparing the loading pressure to a predetermined minimum threshold pressure. When the loading pressure is determined to be equal to or less than the predetermined minimum threshold value, the method includes closing the exhaust valve.
EFFECT: protection of regulator diaphragm, longer service life of the regulator.
22 cl, 7 dwg
