Back Pressure Regulators

  • Metal-free wetted parts
  • Very accurate with multiphase flow
  • Clog-resistant
  • User-selected back pressure

Description

Zaiput Flow Technologies’ back pressure regulators are specifically designed for the needs of the flow chemist. Our devices feature a unique combination of high accuracy and precision, broad pressure range and outstanding chemical compatibility in a compact format.

The back pressure regulator compares the pressure of the fluid to be controlled (main stream) to a reference pressure. Flow of the main stream is allowed only if its pressure meets the reference pressure.

In addition, our pressure regulators have the unique feature that the set point is selected by the user. The user selects the back pressure set point by pressurizing air inside a dedicated chamber of the device. The set point is equal to the pressure of the air inside the device.

Back Pressure Regulator how it works

 

Features

  • Metal-free wetted parts
  • Maximum pressure: 2 MPa (290 psi)
  • Very accurate and precise (1%)
    Error < 1% across flow rates of 0-1000ml/min
  • Adjustable set point
    Users can simply set any pressure for the BPRs by adjusting the pressure of the compressed air chamber
  • Excellent for gas-liquid streams
    Zaiput’s BPRs are designed to function with a stream containing gas, liquid, or multiphase.
  • Robust to clogging
    Our devices eliminate extremely small orifices, which can cause clogging and over-pressurizing.

Other Advantages

  • Potential use as a relief valve
    Zaiput’s BPRs can prevent a flow process from over-pressurization. They can function as a relief valve
  • Excellent compatibility
    Machined in materials with excellent chemical resistance (e.g. ETFE and PFA), Zaiput’s BPRs works with a wide range of organic solvents, as well as acidic and basic solutions.
  • Easy to install and implement into any process pipeline
    Zaiput’s BPRs can be installed and implemented easily into any process pipeline.

Product Line

Zaiput Back Pressure Regulators

  • Two available product sizes which together cover a range of flow rates from 0.05 ml/min – 1000 ml/min with minimal error
  • A rugged yet simple design allows for repeatable results with minimal need for maintenance.
  • The ability to disconnect the BPRs from the compressed gas source allows for plug and play ability, perfect for labs and pilot plants that are constantly evolving.
  • Consistent design allows you to scale between the devices without worrying about inconsistent results.

How It Works

Pressurize your fluid flow with the Zaiput BPR

Zaiput’s BPRs have a chamber that the user fills with compressed air. The pressure of the inputted air represents the back pressure set point of the device. An elastic sheet intercepts the process fluid flow path and allows a comparison of the pressure of the process fluid to the reference pressure. In other words, the process fluid can flow through the device only when its pressure is equal to the reference pressure.

Zaiput’s BPRs are carefully designed with chemically compatible materials as well as a reliable dynamic response of an elastic sheet. With a sealed valve, the BPRs can be used in two modes:

 

BPR

Mode 1: Set it and forget it

In this mode, the user compresses gas into the chamber of the device at any certain pressure P. Then, the user manually closes the valve; P inside the chamber is now at the set point. The user can disconnect the BPR from the pressure source (e.g., gas tank). If another set point is required, this procedure can be repeated by setting the pressure of the top chamber to the new value. The advantage is that a gas tank is not required for operation.

 

Fixed BPR

Mode 2: Continuous set point

Some processes require the fluid pressure to dynamically change over the course of operation. The Zaiput BPR is able to provide such a continuous pressure setting. To achieve this setting, the user connects the Zaiput BPR to the gas/pressure source. Note that the valve is left open. By changing the pressure of the gas source (e.g., the regulator of the gas tank), the set point or P is dynamically changed.

Dynamic BPR

Note that the Zaiput BPR sets a minimum level of pressure for the main fluid flow. If multiple BPRs are placed in series, the pressure of the fluid flow will be equal to the highest pressure set point (i.e., not the sum of the multiple set points). As a result, the device can also be used as a relief valve. Each BPR comes with a connection tube (the external pressurized gas source is not included).

Additional Notes

  • Device sets an “at least pressure”: This device sets a minimum level of pressure for the main stream, therefore, if more devices are placed in series, the main stream pressure will be equal to the higher set point of all the devices (and not the sum of their set points).
  • Robustness to clogging: While this device is not designed for slurries, users observe an increased robustness to clogging when particles/solids are present with respect to conventional devices.
  • Error: These devices are very accurate and precise, providing small errors. For reference, a standard spring device has a typical error of 10%. The devices can be run outside the suggested ranges, but the error will increase.
  • Use with hot liquids: If the device is used in the “Set it and Forget it Mode”, it will heat up when used with hot liquids. As a result, the pressure set point may change because the reference gas will heat up.
  • Use as a pressure relief valve: the device can be used to release pressure from a vessel, keeping it at a desired pressure setpoint.
  • Can be used upstream or downstream of our membrane-based phase separators

Specifications

Part Number BPR-10
Total Flow Rate 0.05-20 ml/min (for high accuracy)
Max Set Point Pressure 2 MPa (290 psi)
Dimensions 52 x 52 x 44 mm
Max Inlet Pressure 5 MPa
Max Operating Temp 90 ℃
Process Fluid Ports 1/4″ UNF – 28 flat bottom
Wetted parts Perfluorinated polymers (ETFA, PFA)
Error < 1%
Part Number BPR-1000
Total Flow Rate 20-1000 ml/min (for high accuracy)
Max Set Point Pressure 2 MPa (290 psi)
Dimensions 97 x 97 x 64 mm
Max Inlet Pressure 5 MPa
Max Operating Temp 90 ℃
Process Fluid Ports 1/4″ OD tubing with Swagelok PFA fittings and our compression nut
Wetted parts Perfluorinated polymers (ETFA, PFA)
Error < 1%

*Scroll left to see more of the table

Ordering Information

FAQ

FAQs about the Zaiput back pressure regulator (BPR)

Can Zaiput back pressure regulators (BPRs) handle multiphasic fluids?

Zaiput BPRs work well with multiphasic fluids such as liquid/liquid and gas/liquid. They are also capable of handling small amounts of solid particles with diameters smaller than 150-200 μl.

How precise are the Zaiput BPRs?

The set point of the Zaiput BPRs are adjustable by compressed air/gas. The Zaiput BPR have been designed to maintain a stable pressure with negligible variation (± 5%).

How do I connect a Zaiput BPR into my process?

The inlet and outlet of the Zaiput BPR-10 and BPR-1000 are listed in the specifications tab.

How often do I have to reset the Zaiput BPR?

Zaiput BPRs are designed to be leak-proof. They have been characterized to be able to maintain a stable pressure for at least 10 days.

What are the differences between a back pressure regulator and a pressure regulator?

A back pressure regulator is used to regulate inlet pressure, so an upstream fluid will be pressurized to the set point. On the other hand, a pressure regulator regulates outlet pressure, so a downstream fluid will be pressurized to the set point.

What makes the Zaiput BPRs unique?

Unlike many other products on the market, Zaiput BPRs do not come with a factory-preset pressure. Instead, users are allowed to precisely set the Zaiput BPR to any pressure within a recommended operating range (1 – 290 psi). Zaiput BPRs are also easy-to-use and chemically compatible.

Are the Zaiput BPRs acid-resistant?

All of the wetted parts inside the Zaiput BPR are made of highly chemical-compatible materials. The metal shell will not be in contact with the fluid. They can handle most organic solvents as well as acidic solutions. Contact our technical support team for questions about chemical compatibility.

What are the minimum and maximum flow rates that can be operated by the Zaiput BPR?

The recommended operating flow rate is between 0 and 1000 mL/min, depending on the unit.

Can the Zaiput BPR be heated for some solid handling applications?

The internal parts of Zaiput BPRs are made of polymers. Therefore, the recommended operating temperature is below 130 ˚C. For any application at higher temperatures, consult our service team for a customized solution.