TIG welding regulator question

[mark-NJ]

Here's a photo of the typical single-feed CGA-580 regulator that I (and I suppose a lot of you, too) own. What I'd like to know is what this plugged port on the back is. Is it an alternate high-pressure port, or low pressure port? Yes, I could stick a gauge in it and know for sure, but it's easier to ask here than rig up an actual test.

Anyone know?

 

[Firebrick43]

You can put the gauge on either side depending on which way you want your tank and regulator set up

Gauge is showing tank pressure. These are not adjustable for pressure (preset to 50 psi) and just control flow only.

 

[mark-NJ]

So it's an alternate high pressure port for the HP gauge?

 

[Firebrick43]

So it's an alternate high pressure port for the HP gauge?

Yes

 

[Firebrick43]

I am guessing you want a purge hose or something?

If so you need to get a dual circuit one.

 

[mark-NJ]

Correct. But before I buy one, I figured if the port was a low-pressure port all I need is a few fittings and I can mod the regulator I have. After all, you don't really need 2 flow controllers & ball floats. Determining total flow is a pretty simple matter.

But it's a moot point. If that port is high pressure, then I'll just buy a dual-regulator.

 

[mark-NJ]

Come to think of it, all I really need is this flow valve......I can "Y" off the low pressure port I already have.

Any idea what this is called (by itself) or where I can buy one? I searched a bit but didn't fit such...

 

[Firebrick43]

flow valve. I have never seen the whole fitting for sale. Maybe buy a whole regulator with a broken flow tube cover on ebay.

You can buy the valve itself from places that sell regulator rebuild kits but they expect you to have the tee housing for it.

https://regulatortorchrepair.com/product/0662-0050-flowmeter-valve-assemble/