An improvded gas regulator

Abstract

Pilot regulator (12) for a gas regulation apparatus (1) and, in particular, of the type suitable for installation in a gas transport and / or distribution network, comprising: - a gas inlet (31), a gas outlet (32) and a further gas inlet (33), - a pilot valve (34) which regulates the passage of gas from the inlet (31) towards the outlet (32), said pilot valve (34) comprising a mobile unit (38), and characterized by the fact that the following act on said mobile group (38): - the pressure of the gas that enters through said further gas inlet (33), - a force F1 provided by first thrust means (70) - a force F2 provided by an actuator (72).

Description

[0001] AN IMPROVED GAS REGULATOR

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention concerns a regulator to be used in an apparatus for regulating gas pressure, and in particular of the type suitable to be used and installed in systems and / or networks for the transport and / or distribution of gas, such as natural gas and / or also gases produced in a decentralized way, such as biomethane and / or hydrogen. STATE OF THE ART

[0004] As is known, pressure regulation stations are provided in gas transport and / or distribution networks to reduce the gas pressure from the supply value to the value requested by the user, and also keeping it stable at the pre-set value, even in the event of variations in upstream pressure or in case of variations in flow rate requested by the user.

[0005] In particular, the aforementioned lowering of pressure is obtained by means of pressure regulators which are configured to maintain the outlet pressure equal to a preset calibration value, regardless of the gas flow rate delivered.

[0006] A pressure regulator of the known type includes a gas passage duct, having an upstream end communicating with the high pressure branch of the transport and / or distribution network, and the opposite downstream end communicating with the low pressure branch, which is directed towards the user.

[0007] In the gas passage duct there is a shutter which causes a restriction in the passage section of the duct itself, so as to cause a reduction in gas pressure between upstream and downstream of the shutter itself. In particular, the pressure reduction occurs by lamination of the gas in correspondence with the passage section on which the shutter acts.

[0008] Conveniently, the shutter is mobile so that the passage section, and therefore the pressure drop of the gas, can be modified according to the flow rate of the gas itself.

[0009] The movement of the shutter is controlled by a feedback system which - in the presence of an increase, compared to the calibration value, of the pressure of the gas supplied downstream (i.e. of the gas downstream of the regulator) - reduces the opening level of the shutter itself; the opposite occurs in the case of a pressure reduction.

[0010] Depending on the type of control provided, direct-acting pressure regulation devices and pilot-operated pressure regulation apparatuses / devices are provided. In particular, in direct-acting regulation devices there is a single regulator whose opening level of the shutter - and in particular the opening level of the section for the passage of gas - is generated by the comparison between the pressure detected downstream (connected to the control head) which pushes on the mobile wall (membrane) of the motorization chamber, and the thrust generated by the calibration spring. In pilot-operated regulation apparatuses, however, there is a main regulator and a further regulator, called pilot regulator; in particular, in these apparatuses, the opening level of the shutter of the main regulator - and in particular of its section for the passage of gas - is controlled / commanded by the pilot regulator which, depending on the compression value of its calibration spring and the actual pressure detected downstream of the apparatus, provides the main regulator with a control pressure (motorization) adequate to bring the apparatus into balance.

[0011] Direct-action regulation devices are simpler to construct (in particular they have fewer components and fewer connections), however the level of regulation precision / accuracy is lower than piloted action regulation apparatuses. On the other hand, direct acting regulators have a much higher response speed to downstream load changes. For this reason, their applications are different: direct-acting regulation devices are mainly used for medium and low pressure networks (such as civil and industrial distribution networks), with relatively low flow rates and more frequent load variations; piloted action regulation apparatuses are instead mostly used for medium and high pressure networks, where greater flow rates are required and where variations in the required flow rate are lower and less frequent (such as transport networks).

[0012] Currently, in piloted action pressure regulation apparatuses / devices, the market increasingly requires technical solutions that allow the pressure in gas distribution and transport networks to be remotely varied in order to reduce gas losses and thus balance the pressures and flows through the mesh system of distribution and transport networks.

[0013] In more detail, there is an increasing need to remotely vary the set-point / calibration pressure value of a gas regulator, also for applications with reduced availability of electricity. Advantageously, in fact, by remotely regulating the pressure during hours of low consumption it is possible to reduce gas losses.

[0014] Furthermore, remote regulation is a need that is currently particularly felt as it allows optimizing the management of the gas network, in particular by appropriately managing the pressures and flow rates delivered by the final reduction groups (also called "GRF") which reduce the gas pressure towards the end users.

[0015] Some known solutions involve modifying the set-point / calibration pressure by acting from the outside on the main calibration spring of the pilot regulator, thus varying the precompression load of the spring itself. More in detail, by rotating the adjustment screw which is accessible from the outside of the pilot regulator and which is internally associated with one of the two bases between which the calibration spring is placed, the translation of said base is caused and thus the precompression load of the spring itself is varied. In these known solutions, therefore, it is necessary to apply a force from the outside that is able to oppose all the thrust provided by the calibration spring. These known solutions are not satisfactory since, in addition to being particularly complicated from a construction and production point of view, they cause greater and more rapid wear of the adjustment screw and require more powerful and energy-intensive actuators for moving the screw.

[0016] Other known solutions involve increasing the set-point / calibration pressure by adding a further spring to the main calibration spring; however, in this case, the minimum value of the calibration set-point still remains that defined by the compression of the main calibration spring.

[0017] US2022 / 0229452A1 discloses an actuator for a pilot valve, wherein the actuator comprising a piston that slides in a chamber compressing or decompressing a load spring acting on a head associated with the pilot valve diaphragm, causing it to move between a closing position and at least one opening position or vice versa. The sliding of the piston, and therefore the load of the spring, depends on the pressure exerted by a fluid which, entering an actuation chamber, acts on the piston head. The pressure of the fluid in the actuation chamber, and therefore the thrust on the piston head, is varied by controlling the flow of fluid entering the actuation chamber by means of an inlet solenoid and also by controlling the flow of fluid exiting the actuation chamber by means of an output solenoid.

[0018] US2021 / 0396386A1 shows a flow regulator comprising a moving member which can be operated by an actuator and which acts on a movable body by positioning it so as to change the section of a gas passage.

[0019] US2014 / 0358303A1 shows a method and an apparatus for stabilizing pressure in an intelligent regulating apparatus comprising a regulator, a pilot device, a feedback pressure sensor and optionally a remote computerized device.

[0020] OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0021] The object of the invention is to propose a pilot gas regulator, in particular a pilot regulator of the type to be installed in an apparatus for regulating gas pressure in a gas transport and / or distribution network, which allows to overcome, entirely or in part, the drawbacks of the known solutions.

[0022] Another object of the invention is to propose a pilot regulator that allows remote regulation of the set-point pressure of the regulator itself, even in applications with reduced availability of electrical current.

[0023] Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator which is particularly advantageous in terms of consumption.

[0024] Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator which is particularly durable, more robust and less subject to wear. Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator which, in the event of its breakage or failure, returns to its manual calibration condition which, preferably, corresponds to the maximum value that can be set.

[0025] Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator that has small dimensions, thus facilitating its installation.

[0026] Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator that is easy and quick to maintain, as well as inexpensive.

[0027] Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator which can be obtained in a simple, rapid and low-cost manner.

[0028] Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator that is in line with the regulations in force in the sector.

[0029] Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator which has smaller dimensions, and is therefore more compact, compared to known solutions.

[0030] Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator that allows precise regulation of the pressure of the gas passing through it.

[0031] Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator that is highly safe and reliable.

[0032] Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator that is an improvement and / or alternative with respect to traditional ones.

[0033] Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator that presents an alternative characterization, both in constructive and functional terms, compared to traditional ones.

[0034] Another object of the invention is to propose a method for varying the calibration pressure of a pilot regulator.

[0035] Another object of the invention is to propose a kit for varying the calibration pressure of a pilot regulator which can be used or mounted on a regulator already installed and / or available on the market.

[0036] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0037] All the objects mentioned here, considered both individually and in any combination thereof, and others which will result from the following description are achieved, according to the invention, with a regulator as defined in claim 1 and with a method according to claim 18.

[0038] DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0039] The present invention is further clarified below in some of its preferred practical embodiments reported for purely illustrative and non-limiting purposes with reference to the attached drawings, wherein: figure 1 shows a regulation apparatus comprising a pilot regulator according to the invention in a first embodiment, figure 2 shows a perspective view of the pilot regulator of the apparatus in fig. 1 , figure 3A shows a schematic view of the regulator in fig. 1 according to its longitudinal section in an operating condition of opening of the pilot valve and in which the actuator is applying, through the transmission means, a force F2 on the mobile unit, figure 3B shows it in the same view as in fig. 3A in a different operating condition of opening of the pilot valve and in which the actuator does not apply any force F2

[0040] - or applies a minimum force F2 - on the mobile unit, figure 3C shows it in the same view as in fig. 3A in a closed condition of the pilot valve, figure 4 shows only the transmission means of the regulator illustrated in fig. 3A, figure 5 shows the assembly of the actuator and the transmission means of the regulator illustrated in fig. 3A, figure 6 shows an enlarged detail of the regulator in fig. 3A in said first operating condition in which the thrust component of the transmission means is located at the first limit switch, figure 7 shows the same enlarged detail of the regulator in fig. 3A in a condition in which the thrust component of the transmission means, the component which is moved by the actuator, is located at the second limit switch, figure 8 shows in the same view as fig. 3A a variant of the first embodiment of the regulator according to the invention, figure 9 shows a regulation apparatus comprising a pilot regulator according to the invention in a second embodiment, figure 10 shows a perspective view of the pilot regulator of the apparatus in fig. 9, figure 11A shows a schematic view of the regulator in fig. 9 according to its longitudinal section in a first operating condition of opening of the pilot valve and in which the actuator is applying, through the transmission means, a force F2 on the mobile unit, figure 11 B shows it in the same view as in fig. 11A in a different operating condition of opening of the pilot valve and in which the actuator does not apply any force F2

[0041] - or applies a minimum force F2 - on the mobile unit, figure 11C shows it in the same view as in fig. 3A in a closed condition of the pilot valve, figure 12 shows only the mobile unit of the regulator illustrated in fig. 3A and 9A, e figure 13 shows only the pilot valve of the regulator illustrated in fig. 3A and 9A. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION AND OF SOME OF ITS PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0042] The present invention concerns a pilot regulator 12 for a gas regulation apparatus 1 and, in particular, of the type suitable to be installed in a gas transport and / or distribution network.

[0043] In particular, the apparatus 1 can be a traditional regulating apparatus of the piloted action type which is suitable for causing a reduction in the pressure of the gas passing through it, and in particular for causing the reduction of the gas pressure from a higher value, expected upstream and at the inlet of apparatus 1 , to a lower pressure value, expected downstream and at the outlet of apparatus 1 .

[0044] Suitably, the pressure value downstream and at the outlet of the apparatus 1 is set and corresponds to a calibration pressure value P Twhich is defined by the pilot regulator 12.

[0045] In particular, the apparatus 1 is fluidly connected upstream with an inlet duct 2 and downstream with an outlet duct 3, both external to said apparatus 1 .

[0046] The apparatus 1 comprises a main regulator 10, which can preferably be of the traditional type, and the pilot regulator 12 according to the invention.

[0047] Preferably, the fluid connections between the main regulator 10 and the pilot regulator 12 are of the traditional type and, therefore, will not be further described in detail.

[0048] In particular, the main regulator 10 includes:

[0049] - an inlet area 13 fluidly connectable with said inlet duct 2,

[0050] - an outlet area 14 fluidly connectable with said outlet duct 3,

[0051] - a shutter 15 which acts between said inlet zone 13 and said outlet area 14 and which is movable between a closed position, in which it interrupts the gas passage from said inlet zone 13 towards said outlet area 14, and at least one opening position in which it defines a reduction in the gas passage section from the inlet zone 13 to said outlet area 14, thus causing a corresponding reduction in gas pressure from said inlet zone 13 to said outlet area 14,

[0052] - means (not shown) which are configured to push said shutter 15 towards said closed position,

[0053] - a motorization chamber 22 wherein a mobile element 25 is housed, preferably a mobile wall, which divides the chamber itself into a first sub-chamber 23 and a second subchamber 24.

[0054] Preferably, said first sub-chamber 23 can be fluidly connected with the outlet area 14 and / or with said outlet duct 3 to said apparatus 1. The pilot regulator 12 includes a gas inlet 31 , a gas outlet 32 and a further gas inlet 33.

[0055] The inlet 31 is fluidly connected - directly or via a further regulator 30 - with the main regulator 10.

[0056] The outlet 32 is fluidly connected with said second sub-chamber 24 of the motorization chamber 22 of the main regulator 10. Conveniently, therefore, the second subchamber 24 of the motorization chamber 22 of the main regulator 10 is at a pressure corresponding to the outlet pressure of the pilot regulator 12.

[0057] The further inlet 33 is fluidly connected with the outlet area 14 and / or with the outlet duct 3. In particular, the further inlet 33 defines, in the pilot regulator 12, a control inlet for the gas at pressure Pout , i.e. of gas at a pressure corresponding to that of the outlet area 14 and / or of the outlet duct 3, i.e. the pressure of the gas downstream of the apparatus 1 .

[0058] Preferably, in a possible embodiment, the further inlet 33 of the pilot regulator 12 can be fluidly connected / connectable directly with the outlet duct 3 via a dedicated branch.

[0059] In a possible embodiment not shown here, the pilot regulator 12 can also include a further output which is in fluid connection with a further regulator 30.

[0060] The pilot regulator 12 includes at least one pilot valve, indicated overall with the reference number 34 which regulates the passage of gas from the inlet 31 towards the outlet 32 of said pilot regulator 12. In particular, the pilot valve 34 comprises a mobile unit 38.

[0061] Conveniently, the pilot regulator 12 includes a containment body / casing 11 inside which said pilot valve 34 is housed. Conveniently, the gas inlet 31 , the gas outlet 32 and said further gas inlet 33 are located on the containment body 11.

[0062] The body / casing 11 can be made in a single piece or preferably in several pieces suitably fixed together and includes inside it a plurality of chambers, cavities and passages, as described in greater detail below.

[0063] Preferably, the mobile unit 38 acts in correspondence with a lumen 36 for the passage of gas from the inlet 31 towards the outlet 32 of the pilot regulator itself, and more in detail towards an outlet chamber 39 which is fluidly connected to the outlet 32.

[0064] The pilot regulator 12 is configured so that on the mobile unit 38 they act:

[0065] - the pressure of the gas that enters the pilot regulator 12 through said further inlet 33,

[0066] - a force F1 provided by first thrust means 70,

[0067] - a force F2 provided by an actuator 72.

[0068] Conveniently, the pressure of the gas that enters inside the pilot regulator 12 through said further inlet 33 corresponds to the thrust that is exerted on the mobile unit 38 by the gas that enters inside the pilot regulator 12 through said further inlet 33. In particular, on the mobile unit 38 it acts the thrust of the gas at pressure Pout - that is, of gas at a pressure corresponding to that of the outlet area 14 and / or of the outlet duct 3, i.e. the pressure of the gas downstream of the apparatus 1 - which enters inside the pilot regulator 12 through said further inlet 33, which is configured for and / or is intended to be in fluid connection with the outlet area 14 and / or with the outlet duct 3.

[0069] Conveniently, the force F2 provided by the actuator 72 acts directly on the mobile unit 38 independently and separately with respect to the thrust action of the gas pressure entering the pilot regulator 12 through said further inlet 33.

[0070] Preferably, the pilot regulator 12 is configured so that the direction of the force F2 provided by the actuator 72 is opposite to the direction of the force F1 provided by the first thrust means 70.

[0071] Preferably, the pilot regulator 12 is configured so that the closing and the opening level of said pilot valve 34 is controlled based on the difference between a calibration pressure PT and the pressure of the gas entering through the further inlet 33 and which corresponds to the gas pressure in correspondence with said outlet area 14 and / or the outlet duct 3 of said apparatus.

[0072] Preferably, the gas entering through the further inlet 33 acts on the mobile unit 38 of the pilot valve 34 of the pilot regulator 12.

[0073] Preferably, in a possible embodiment, the pressure of the gas entering through the further inlet 33 can act in the closing direction of the pilot valve 34 and, in particular, act directly (by direct contact) or indirectly (by means of intermediate means of transmission, not shown) on the mobile unit of the pilot valve 34 so as to bring said mobile unit towards a closed condition in which the gas entering the pilot regulator through the inlet 31 does not pass into the outlet chamber 39 which is fluidly connected with the outlet 32.

[0074] Preferably , the first thrust means 70 act in the opening direction of the pilot valve 34 and, in particular, act directly (by direct contact) or indirectly (by means of suitable intermediate transmission members, not shown) on the mobile unit 38 of the relief valve, piloting 34 so as to bring said mobile unit towards an open condition in which the gas entering the pilot regulator through the inlet 31 passes into the outlet chamber 39 fluidly connected to the outlet 32.

[0075] Preferably, the actuator 72 acts in the closing direction of the pilot valve 34 and, in particular, it acts directly (by direct contact) or indirectly (by means of transmission means 73) on the mobile unit 38 of the pilot valve 34 so as to bring said mobile unit towards a closed condition in which the gas entering the pilot regulator through the inlet 31 does not pass into the outlet chamber 39 fluidly connected to the outlet 32. In particular, as mentioned, the actuator 72 acts on the mobile unit 38 according to a direction which is opposite to the direction with which the first thrust means 70 act on the said mobile unit 38. More in detail, the first thrust means 70 and the actuator 72 provide the mobile unit 38 with respective forces F1 and F2 along the same line, but in opposite directions.

[0076] Conveniently, the closing and the opening level of the pilot valve 34 is controlled based on the difference between a calibration pressure PT and the pressure of the gas acting on the mobile unit 38 from said further inlet 33 and which, as mentioned, corresponds to the pressure of the gas Pout exiting the apparatus 1 (i.e. to the pressure in correspondence with the outlet area 14 and / or the outlet duct 3).

[0077] Conveniently, in the pilot regulator 12 the calibration pressure PT is defined by the combined action of the forces F1 and F2, in opposite directions, provided respectively by the first thrust means 70 and by the actuator 72. In particular, when the actuator 72 is not active, the calibration pressure PT is defined by the force F1 provided only by the first thrust means 70, while when the actuator 72 is active, the calibration pressure PT is defined by the difference between the force F1 provided by the first thrust means 70 and the force F2 provided by the actuator 72.

[0078] Conveniently, therefore, the first thrust means 70 are configured to help define or set the calibration pressure PT of the pilot regulator 12.

[0079] Preferably, the first thrust means 70 are configured so as to define / set the maximum value of the calibration pressure PT, while the action of the actuator 72 is configured to decrease the value defined / set through the first thrust means 70.

[0080] Preferably, the pilot regulator 12 includes a control member 84 which, at least in part, is accessible from the outside of the body 11 of the pilot regulator 12 and which is configured to regulate the force F1 exerted by said first thrust means 70 on the mobile unit 38. Conveniently, the control member 84 is distinct and separate from the actuator 72.

[0081] Preferably, in a possible embodiment illustrated in the figures, the thrust means 70 comprise an elastic member 37 and, more preferably, a spring. Preferably, the elastic member 37 is interposed and compressed between a first base 82 which is in contact (more preferably directly) with the mobile unit 38, and a second base 83 associated with a control member 84 which is accessible from the outside of the body 11 of the pilot regulator 12. More preferably, the control member 84 includes a screw 84' which engages on the second base 83 so that the screwing / unscrewing rotation of the screw causes a corresponding translation of the second base 83 as it approaches / distances from (or vice versa) the first base 82, thus causing a corresponding variation in the compression of the elastic member 37 and therefore in the force F1 that the latter applies on the mobile unit 38 through the first base 82.

[0082] Conveniently, in another possible embodiment not illustrated in the figures, the first thrust means 70 comprise a pressurized chamber.

[0083] Preferably, in one possible embodiment, the actuator 72 is mounted directly on the body 11 of the pilot regulator. More preferably, the actuator 72 can be associated with one end of the body 11 using traditional mechanical connection systems, for example by screwing.

[0084] Preferably, in another possible embodiment, the actuator 72 is not mounted on the body of the pilot regulator and is connected to the mobile unit 38 through mechanical transmission means 73.

[0085] Preferably, the actuator 72 is controlled / commanded, more preferably it can be controlled / commanded remotely.

[0086] Conveniently, the actuator 72 includes an output member 74 which can apply a corresponding force F2 on the mobile unit 38 through direct contact with the latter or through indirect contact through transmission means 73 arranged between the output member 74 and the mobile unit 38.

[0087] Preferably, in a possible embodiment, the output member 74 of the actuator 72 can be mechanically connected with the mobile unit 38 through mechanical transmission means 73, even of the flexible type (see Fig. 8).

[0088] Conveniently, in a possible embodiment, the output member 74 of the actuator 72 can always be / remain in contact / placed on the mobile unit 38, to thus continuously vary / modulate the position of the mobile unit.

[0089] Conveniently, in a possible embodiment, the actuator 72 can output a linear motion wherein, therefore, the output member 74 of the actuator 72 is translating.

[0090] Conveniently, in a possible embodiment, the actuator 72 can output a rotary motion wherein, therefore, the output member 74 of the actuator 72 is rotating. Conveniently, in this case, transmission means 73 are positioned between the rotating output member 74 of the actuator 72 and the mobile unit 38, which are configured to convert the rotary motion of the output member of the actuator 72 into a rigid translational motion of the mobile unit.

[0091] Preferably, in a possible embodiment, the transmission means 73 configured to convert the rotary motion into translational motion comprise a screw-nut system 78.

[0092] Conveniently, said transmission means 73 can include further thrust means 75 which, preferably, move / act on the mobile unit 38 in the opposite direction with respect to the first thrust means 70. Preferably, said further thrust means 75 comprise at least one sliding component 76 or in any case a component movable in translation.

[0093] Conveniently, said transmission means 73 can include an elastic element 77, for example a spring, to promptly transfer the force of the actuator 72 to the mobile unit 38.

[0094] Preferably, in a possible embodiment (see fig. 3A - 3C), the transmission means 73 comprise a screw-nut system 78, a sliding component 76 along a channel 79 and an elastic element 77 which is housed in said channel and which is placed between the sliding component 76 and the mobile unit 38, and wherein:

[0095] - the screw-nut system 78 converts the rotary motion of the output member 74 of the actuator 72 into a translation of the sliding component 76 along said channel 79,

[0096] - the translation of the sliding component 76 along the channel 79 is transmitted to the mobile unit 38 by means of said elastic element 77.

[0097] Preferably, the pilot regulator 12 comprises at least one limit switch 80 or 81 of the mechanical type for said transmission means 73 operated by the actuator 72 and acting on the mobile unit 38. More preferably, the pilot regulator 12 can comprise a first limit switch 80 of the mechanical type (see fig. 6) configured to define the minimum translation position of said further thrust means 75 operated by the actuator 72, thus defining a condition in which the force F2 applied on the mobile unit 38 is null or minimal. More preferably, the pilot regulator 12 can include a second limit switch 81 of the mechanical type (see fig. 7) configured to define the maximum translation position for said further thrust means 75 operated by the actuator 72, thus defining a condition in which the force F2 applied on the mobile unit 38 is maximum.

[0098] Preferably, said further thrust means 75 operated by the actuator 72 comprise at least one component - for example defined by said sliding component 76 - which is mobile between two limit switches 80 and 81 , more preferably of the mechanical type, which respectively stop the stroke of said at least one component at two end positions corresponding respectively to a first condition (see fig. 3B and 6) wherein the actuator 72 does not apply any force F2 on the mobile unit 38 (or applies a minimum force F2) , and a different condition wherein the actuator 72 applies a maximum force F2 on the mobile unit 38 (see Fig. 7).

[0099] Conveniently, the two limit switches 80 and 81 can include two respective zones shaped so as to receive a corresponding counter-shaped portion of the further thrust means 75. Preferably, in a possible embodiment, said two zones are defined by respective radial narrowings of the channel 79 in which the sliding component 76 moves, which can also be provided with an enlarged head (thus defining said counter-shaped section) intended to abut with said radial narrowings. Preferably, the elastic element 77 comes into contact with said enlarged head of the sliding component.

[0100] Conveniently, in a possible embodiment, the actuator 72 can always be / remain active.

[0101] Conveniently, in a possible embodiment, the actuator 72 is normally in a deactivated state and can be activated on command, preferably on the basis of corresponding control signals, more preferably external and / or sent remotely.

[0102] Conveniently, in a possible embodiment, the actuator 72 can be electric. Preferably, the actuator 72 may comprise an electric motor.

[0103] Conveniently, in a possible embodiment, the electric actuator 72 does not always remain active but is activated on command (in particular on the basis of control signals, preferably sent from outside / remotely) and is configured to cause a rotation of its output member 74 which, through transmission means 73, is converted into a translational motion which thus applies a corresponding force F2 on the mobile unit 38 only on the occasion of the temporary activation of the actuator 72, to thus correspondingly vary the calibration pressure PT , while in the other remaining time intervals wherein the actuator 72 is not active the calibration pressure PT is defined only by the contribution of the first thrust means 70.

[0104] Advantageously, the electric actuator 72 is particularly suitable for carrying out a change in the calibration pressure PT which is required occasionally, for example a couple of times a day.

[0105] Advantageously, the electric actuator 72 - as it does not always remain active and does not constantly require electrical energy - can be particularly suitable, for example, in contexts wherein there is little availability of electrical energy.

[0106] Advantageously, the actuator 72 can allow variations in the calibration pressure PT, for example, of approximately 0.5 - 6000 mbar.

[0107] Conveniently, in some possible embodiments, to avoid that, following an interruption of the electrical energy with which the actuator 72 is usually powered, the latter remains blocked in a condition in which a force F2 remains applied on the mobile unit 38, an alternative or additional energy source can be provided (for example a buffer electric battery) for the back-up power supply of the electric actuator 72 so as to bring it back to a condition in which no force F2 is applied on the mobile unit 38.

[0108] Conveniently, in another possible embodiment, the actuator 72 can be electromagnetic or electromechanical. Preferably, the actuator 72 may comprise an electromagnet. Conveniently, in a possible embodiment, the electromagnetic actuator 72 is always powered (and is therefore substantially always active) and is configured to cause a translation of its output member 74 which preferably always remains in contact with the mobile unit 38, thus continuously modulating the corresponding force F2 applied on the mobile unit itself, and thus correspondingly modulating the calibration pressure PT.

[0109] Preferably, the actuator 72 can be configured to apply a force F2 on the mobile unit which depends on an electrical signal supplied to the actuator 72 itself, more preferably it depends on the electric current with which the actuator 72 is powered.

[0110] Conveniently, in this case, through the electrical signal thus supplied to the actuator 72, the force F2 applied by the actuator 72 on the mobile unit 38 can vary between a maximum value (F2-max) and a minimum value (F2- min), and correspondingly also the calibration pressure PT- which, as mentioned, is defined by the combined action of the forces F1 and F2 - varies between a maximum limit (PT -max) and a minimum value (PT -min).

[0111] Conveniently, in the case of an electromagnetic actuator 72, in the absence of an electrical signal supplied to the actuator 72 itself, the actuator 72 returns to a condition in which it does not apply any force F2 on the mobile unit 38.

[0112] Conveniently, in a possible embodiment, the mobile unit 38 can include a dividing member 60 which is housed inside a first cavity 61 so as to divide the latter into a first zone 62 which is in fluid communication with the further inlet 33 and in a second zone 63 which, conveniently, can be in communication with the external environment through a dedicated hole 64, preferably provided with a nozzle.

[0113] Conveniently, the gas that enters the pilot regulator 12 through said further inlet 33 acts on the face of the dividing member 60 which faces the first zone 62, i.e. it is the gas at pressure Pout (i.e. at the pressure at the outlet area 14 and / or the outlet duct 3).

[0114] Conveniently, in a possible embodiment, the mobile unit 38 can include a shutter member 65 acting at the gas passage lumen 36 from the inlet 31 towards an outlet chamber 39 which is always in fluid communication with the outlet 32 and, if provided, also with the further outlet. In particular, the movement of the shutter member 65 blocks the passage of the gas from the inlet towards the outlet and also defines / delimits the section of the passage lumen 36 for the gas passing from the inlet 31 into the outlet chamber 39, thus defining the gas pressure drop from the inlet 31 to the outlet 32 or to said further outlet.

[0115] Conveniently, the shutter member 65 of the mobile unit 38 of the pilot regulator 12 is mobile between: - a position of complete closure, wherein the gas from the inlet 31 does not pass through the lumen 36, and therefore does not reach the outlet chamber 39 connected to the outlet 32 and - if provided - to the further outlet, and

[0116] - a plurality of (at least two) opening positions, in which the gas can pass from the inlet 31 through the lumen 36 towards the outlet chamber 39, reducing its pressure depending on the width of the lumen defined by the shutter member 65 .

[0117] Conveniently, the mobile unit 38 can include a support structure 66 for the shutter member 65 and, preferably, a shock absorber element 67 can be provided between said support structure 66 and the shutter member 65.

[0118] Conveniently, in a possible embodiment, the mobile unit 38 includes two further dividing members, 68' and 68" respectively, which delimit the outlet chamber 39 which is always in fluid communication with the outlet 32. In particular, a first further dividing member 68' can separate the outlet chamber 39 from the second zone 63, while a second further dividing member 68" can separate the outlet chamber from a further cavity 69 wherein - preferably - the elastic organ 37 can be housed.

[0119] Conveniently, said further cavity 69 can be in communication with the external environment through a further dedicated hole 59 for the entry of air from the external environment into said further cavity.

[0120] Conveniently, the first cavity, the output chamber and said further cavity are defined inside the body / casing 11 of the pilot regulator. Preferably, but not necessarily, the first cavity, the outlet chamber and said further cavity are vertically superimposed.

[0121] Conveniently, the dividing member 60 and / or the further dividing members 68', 68" comprise(s) one or more elements of suitable shape (and therefore is / are installed and act(s) in a seat of corresponding shape provided in the regulator), and can be made of rigid or elastic material, and in particular can be wholly or partly of the membrane type, possibly with at least one elastically deformable zone.

[0122] Conveniently, the first thrust means 70 of the pilot regulator 12 act on the mobile unit 38 of said regulator in contrast with the pressure of the gas coming from the further inlet 33.

[0123] Conveniently, the actuator 72 acts on said mobile unit 38 in the opposite direction with respect to the first thrust means 70 of the pilot regulator 12, but in the same direction with respect to the pressure of the gas coming from the further inlet 33.

[0124] More in detail, the pressure of the gas coming from the further inlet 33 - and corresponding to the pressure Pout- compensates the calibration pressure PT defined by the action resulting from the forces F1 and F2, opposing each other, respectively supplied by the first thrust means 70 (which tends to bring the mobile unit 38 to the open condition) and by the actuator 72 (which tends to bring the mobile group 28 to the closed condition).

[0125] Conveniently, the pilot regulator 12 is configured so that - preferably from outside the pilot regulator - the force F1 of the first thrust means 70 can be varied. In particular, for example, by acting from the outside it is possible to vary the working position of said elastic member 37, and therefore the force that the latter exerts on the mobile unit 38.

[0126] Conveniently, the pilot regulator 12 according to the invention can comprise:

[0127] - a first calibration phase wherein:

[0128] > the actuator 72 is not operated and only the first thrust means 70 are acted upon, or

[0129] > the actuator 72 is operated and at the same time the first thrust means 70 are acted upon,

[0130] - a second calibration phase in which only the actuator 72 is operated.

[0131] Conveniently, in a first possible embodiment, in the pilot regulator 12 according to the invention it is possible to carry out a first calibration phase wherein by acting on the first thrust means 70, for example on the elastic member 37, the maximum value PT- max of the calibration pressure can be defined which thus defines the set-point value (i.e. to be reached / maintained) for the pressure Pout ofthe gas exiting the apparatus 1. Conveniently, it is possible to carry out a second calibration phase wherein, by acting through the actuator 72, which preferably can be controlled remotely, it is possible to modify and, in particular, decrease the maximum value PT - max (which - preferably - has been previously set by acting on the first thrust means 70) and thus decrease the set-point value (i.e. to be reached / maintained) for the pressure Poutof the gas exiting apparatus 1.

[0132] Conveniently, in another / second possible embodiment, the pilot regulator 12 according to the invention can operate in the opposite way and, in particular, it is possible to carry out a first calibration phase wherein the actuator 72 is operated and exerts the maximum value of F2, while at the same time acting on the first thrust means 70, for example on the elastic member 37, to define the minimum value PT - min of the calibration pressure which thus defines the set-point value (i.e. to be reached / maintained) for the pressure Pout of the gas exiting the apparatus 1. Conveniently, it is then possible to carry out a second calibration phase wherein, by acting via the actuator 72, which preferably can be controlled remotely, it is possible to modify and, in particular, increase the value PT - min (which - preferably - has been previously set by acting on the first thrust means 70) and thus increase the set-point value (i.e. to be reached / maintained) for the pressure Pout of the gas coming out of the apparatus 1 . Conveniently, the first calibration phase can be carried out before or at the installation of the pilot regulator 12 in the apparatus 1. Conveniently, this first calibration phase can be carried out manually / mechanically, for example by acting on the control member 84 which it is accessible from the outside of the pilot regulator 12.

[0133] Conveniently, the second calibration phase can be carried out remotely.

[0134] Advantageously, by remotely controlling the variation of the force F2, which is provided by the actuator 72 and which contrasts with the force F1 supplied by the first thrust means 70, the calibration pressure PT is varied, and thus the value of the gas pressure is modified downstream / outgoing from the apparatus 1.

[0135] Conveniently, the second calibration phase can be carried out after installing the pilot regulator 12 in the apparatus 1.

[0136] Conveniently, the second calibration phase can be carried out during the normal operation / use of the apparatus 1 including the pilot regulator 12.

[0137] In essence, there is a first calibration carried out by acting on the first thrust means 70 and a second calibration which is carried out by means of the actuator 72.

[0138] The present invention also concerns a method for varying, preferably remotely, the calibration pressure of a pilot regulator, said method involving the use of a pilot regulator as described and illustrated above. Said method is characterized by the fact that it includes a first calibration mode or phase which is carried out by acting (only or also) on the first thrust means 70 and a second calibration mode or phase which is carried out solely by means of the actuator 72.

[0139] Advantageously, in a possible embodiment, the calibration pressure PT which is defined by acting on the first thrust means 70 during the first calibration phase can be dynamically varied during a second calibration phase through the intervention of the actuator 72, so as to thus counterbalance different values of the gas pressure downstream / outgoing from apparatus 1. Conveniently, therefore, the calibration pressure PT - and therefore the gas pressure downstream / outgoing from apparatus 1 - can vary between:

[0140] - a maximum set-point value (corresponding to PT - max) which is defined only by the contribution of the force F1 exerted by the first thrust means 70 on the mobile unit 38,

[0141] - a minimum set-point value (corresponding to PT- min) which is defined by the difference between the force F1 , exerted by the first thrust means 70 on the mobile unit 38, and the maximum force F2 exerted on the mobile unit 38 by the actuator 72.

[0142] Conveniently, the movement of the mobile unit 38 is controlled / commanded by the combined action, and acting on said mobile unit in opposite directions, of the pressure of the gas coming from the further inlet 33 and the action of the calibration pressure PT , where the action of the calibration pressure is given by the difference between the force F1 provided by the first thrust means 70 and the force F2 provided by the actuator 72.

[0143] Conveniently, when the thrust on the mobile unit 38, which is given by the pressure of the gas coming from the further inlet 33, exceeds the calibration pressure PT, said mobile unit 38 is in a closed condition and, therefore, there is no passage of the gas from the inlet 31 towards the outlet cavity 39 connected to the outlet 32 and - if provided - to the further outlet.

[0144] Preferably, in the body 11 of the pilot regulator 12, the actuator 72 and the first thrust means 70 are positioned in corresponding opposite positions with respect to the mobile unit 38, more preferably they are positioned at the opposite ends of the body 11 of the pilot regulator 12.

[0145] Conveniently, in a possible embodiment, the actuator 72 can be mounted at the upper cover of the pilot regulator 12.

[0146] Advantageously, as mentioned, the apparatus 1 can include a further regulator 30 to make the pilot regulator 12 work with a constant pressure difference between the pressure value at the inlet 31 and that at the further inlet 33 of said pilot regulator. Preferably, said further regulator 30 also acts as a further reducer of the pressure entering the pilot regulator 12 and this in addition to the pressure reduction carried out by the main regulator. Conveniently, said further regulator 30 is configured to stabilize the operation of the pilot regulator 12 and make it operate in constant conditions, in particular at constant pressure ranges Ap, with respect to the pressure of the gas exiting the pilot regulator 12.

[0147] The further regulator 30 includes an inlet 50 which, suitably, is configured to receive gas at a pressure which, preferably, corresponds to the pressure of the gas provided upstream and at the inlet of the apparatus 1 . Conveniently, for this purpose, the inlet 50 of the further regulator 30 can be fluidly connected with the inlet area 13 of the main regulator 10 or with the inlet duct 2. The further regulator 30 can comprise a second inlet 35 which is fluidly connected with the outlet duct 3 or with the outlet area 14.

[0148] The further regulator 30 comprises an output 51 which is connected to the input 31 of the pilot regulator 12.

[0149] Conveniently, this further regulator 30 can be of the traditional type. Preferably, this further regulator 30 includes a valve which is configured to define / set the pressure at the outlet 51 of said further regulator 30 (and therefore at the inlet 31 of the pilot regulator 12) on the basis:

[0150] - of a predefined pressure, which for example can be defined by the thrust of elastic means provided in said further regulator 30, - of the pressurized gas coming from the outlet area 14 and / or from the outlet duct 3, i.e. the pressure of the gas downstream of the apparatus 1.

[0151] Conveniently, in a possible embodiment not shown here, said further regulator 30 is not provided and, therefore, the inlet 31 of the pilot regulator 12 receives gas at a pressure which, preferably, corresponds to the pressure of the gas provided upstream and at the inlet to the apparatus 1. Conveniently, in this case, the inlet 31 of the pilot regulator 12 can be fluidly connected with the inlet area 13 of the main regulator 10 or with the inlet duct 2.

[0152] The present invention also concerns an apparatus 1 wherein the pilot regulator 12 is used as described and illustrated above.

[0153] The present invention also concerns a kit for varying the calibration pressure of a pilot regulator, and wherein said kit comprises at least one actuator 72 which is mounted in place of the cover on a pilot regulator of the traditional type and / or already available on the market, possibly also on a pilot regulator already installed in the field. In particular, said actuator 72 is mounted on the pilot regulator so as to apply on the mobile unit 38 of the pilot regulator itself a force F2 which is preferably directed in the opposite direction with respect to the force F1 which is applied on said mobile unit 38 by first thrust means 70 with which the regulator is already equipped.

[0154] From what has been said it is clear that the solution according to the invention is advantageous as it allows the pre-established objectives to be achieved and in particular:

[0155] - it is particularly robust and durable,

[0156] - allows the consumption of electrical energy to be optimized as it does not require acting directly on the calibration spring in order to vary its elastic thrust, but rather provides the mobile unit, on which the force F1 supplied by the first thrust means is applied (which, for example, can be defined by a calibration spring), an additional force F2 which is directed in the opposite direction compared to the force F1 ; in other words, in the solution according to the present invention, the actuator acts in such a way as to modify the calibration pressure by decreasing or increasing the contribution provided by the first thrust means;

[0157] - allows you to remotely vary the calibration pressure of the pilot regulator,

[0158] - allows the downstream calibration pressure of the pilot regulator to be varied between a maximum limit, which can be advantageously set by acting on the first thrust means, and a minimum value, which can be advantageously set by acting on the actuator,

[0159] - allows you to define the limit calibration pressure by acting on the first thrust means and, conveniently, this can also be done manually by acting on the first thrust means which, for example, can be defined by a calibration spring, - allows for greater safety as, using the actuator, it is possible to vary the calibration pressure by a predefined and controllable fixed value,

[0160] - the maximum and minimum variation limits of the calibration pressure are defined mechanically and, therefore, additional safety regulators are not necessary,

[0161] - is particularly safe since, in the event of failure of the actuator, the return to a condition wherein the calibration pressure (maximum or minimum) is the one defined by the first thrust means which, for example, can be defined by a calibration spring which can be set manually from outside the pilot regulator,

[0162] - allows to improve the accuracy class (also called “AC - Accuracy class”) and the lock-up class (also called “SG - Lock-Up pressure class”);

[0163] - by acting on the transmission means, and in particular by changing the elastic element 77, it is possible - with the same actuator (and in particular with the same displacement provided by the actuator) - to change the force F2 applied on the mobile unit, thus varying the range of reachable pressure,

[0164] - it can also be applied on pilot regulators already on the market and / or already installed for a wide range of calibration pressures,

[0165] - allows to have a pilot regulator of reduced dimensions, thus facilitating installation,

[0166] - allows to have a pilot regulator that can be easily disassembled,

[0167] - allows to carry out an initial calibration of the set point by correspondingly varying the force supplied by the thrust means (and in particular the pre-compression value of the elastic means) by acting on the control member and is accessible from the outside,

[0168] - by acting on the actuator, it is possible to adjust the set point - even remotely - just by providing a force equal to the difference between the set point defined by the thrust means and the desired one, thus allowing the energy consumption of the actuator to be reduced,

[0169] - in the event of an absence of energy, the pilot regulator moves to the calibration value given by the thrust means, thus returning to behave like a pilot without an actuator,

[0170] - the regulated pressure value output from the regulator provides direct pneumatic feedback to the pilot.

Claims

C L A I M S1. Pilot regulator (12) for a gas regulation apparatus (1) and, in particular, of the type suitable for installation in a gas transport and / or distribution network, comprising:- a gas inlet (31), a gas outlet (32) and a further gas inlet (33),- a pilot valve (34) which regulates the passage of gas from the inlet (31) towards the outlet (32), said pilot valve (34) comprising a mobile unit (38), and characterized by the fact that on said mobile group (38) they act:- the pressure of the gas that enters through said further gas inlet (33),- a force F1 provided by first thrust means (70),- a force F2 provided by an actuator (72).

2. Regulator according to claim 1 , characterized in that it is configured so that the direction of the force F2 applied by the actuator (72) on the mobile unit (38) is opposite to the direction of the force F1 applied by the first thrust means (70) on the mobile unit (38).

3. Regulator according to one or more of the previous claims, characterized in that it is configured so that:- the pressure of the gas entering through the further inlet (33) pushes in the closing direction of the pilot valve (34),- the first thrust means (70) act in the opening direction of the pilot valve (34),- the actuator (72) acts in the closing direction of the pilot valve (34).

4. Regulator according to one or more of the previous claims, characterized in that the pressure of the gas entering through said further gas inlet (33) substantially corresponds to a pressure Pout corresponding to the pressure of the gas downstream of said apparatus (1).

5. Regulator according to one or more of the previous claims, characterized in that:- the closing and opening level of the pilot valve (34) is controlled based on the difference between a calibration pressure PT and the pressure of the gas acting on the mobile unit (38) and entering from said further inlet (33) ,- said calibration pressure PT is defined by the combined action of the forces F1 and F2, in opposite directions, provided respectively by the first thrust means (70) and by the actuator (72).

6. Regulator according to the previous claim, characterized in that it is configured so that the calibration pressure PT varies between:- a maximum set-point value PT -max which is defined only by the contribution of the force F1 exerted by the first thrust means (70) on the mobile group (38),- a minimum set-point value corresponding to PT -min which is defined by the difference between the force F1 , exerted by the first thrust means (70) on the mobile group (38), and the maximum force F2 exerted on the mobile group (38) by the actuator (72).

7. Regulator according to one or more of the previous claims, characterized in that it comprises a containment body (11 ) inside which said pilot valve (34) is housed and on which the gas inlet (31), the gas outlet (32) and said further gas inlet (33) are located, and also characterized by the fact that said actuator (72) is mounted directly on the body (11) of the pilot regulator.

8. Regulator according to one or more of the previous claims, characterized in that the actuator (72) includes an output member (74) which comes into direct contact / is placed on the mobile unit (78).

9. Regulator according to one or more of the previous claims, characterized in that the actuator (72) includes an output member (74) which is mechanically connected to the mobile unit (78) by means of mechanical transmission means (73).

10. Regulator according to one or more of the previous claims, characterized in that said mechanical transmission means (73) comprise a screw-nut system (78).

11. Regulator according to one or more of claims 9 or 10, characterized in that said mechanical transmission means (73) comprise an elastic element (77) to promptly transfer the force of the actuator (72) to the mobile unit (38).

12. Regulator according to one or more of the previous claims, characterized in that the actuator (72) includes an output member (74) and is configured to provide a rotating or translating motion of said output member (74) as an output.

13. Regulator according to one or more of the previous claims, characterized in that said mechanical transmission means (73) are configured to convert the motion of the output member (74) of the actuator (72) into a rigid translational motion of the mobile unit (38).

14. Regulator according to one or more of the previous claims, characterized in that the output member (74) of the actuator (72) always remains in direct or indirect contact / directly or indirectly placed on the mobile unit (38), to thus vary / modulate the position of the mobile unit (38).

15. Regulator according to one or more of the previous claims, characterized in that it includes at least one limit switch (80, 81 ) of the mechanical type for said transmission means (73) operated by the actuator (72) and acting on the mobile unit (38).

16. Regulator according to one or more of the previous claims, characterized in that said actuator (72) is of the electric type, preferably comprising an electric motor.

17. Regulator according to one or more of the previous claims, characterized in that said actuator (72) is of the electromagnetic or electromechanical type, preferably comprising an electromagnet.

18. Regulator according to one or more of the previous claims, characterized in that said actuator (72) is always active.

19. Regulator according to one or more of the previous claims, characterized in that said actuator (72) is normally in a deactivated state and is activated on command on the basis of corresponding electrical control signals, more preferably of external and / or remotely sent electrical control signals.

20. Regulator according to one or more of the previous claims, characterized in that said first thrust means (70) comprise an elastic member (37), preferably a spring.

21. Regulator according to one or more of the previous claims, characterized in that it comprises a control member (84) which, at least in part, is accessible from the outside and which is configured to regulate the force F1 exerted by said first thrust means (70) on the mobile unit (38).

22. Method for varying the calibration pressure of a pilot regulator (12) according to one or more of the previous claims, characterized in that it comprises a first calibration mode or phase which is carried out by acting on the first thrust means (70) and a second mode or calibration phase which is carried out by means of the actuator (72).

23. Method for varying the calibration pressure of a pilot regulator (12) according to one or more of the previous claims, characterized in that it comprises:- a first calibration phase wherein the actuator (72) is not operated and only the first thrust means (70) are acted upon or the actuator (72) is operated and at the same time the first thrust means (70) are acted upon,- a second calibration phase wherein only the actuator (72) is operated.

24. Kit for varying the calibration pressure of a pilot regulator, wherein said pilot regulator includes:- a gas inlet (31 ), a gas outlet (32) and a further gas inlet (33),- a pilot valve (34) which regulates the passage of gas from the inlet (31 ) towards the outlet (32), said pilot valve (34) comprising a mobile unit (38), and wherein:- the pressure of the gas that enters through said further gas inlet (33) acts on said mobile unit (38) ,- said kit includes at least one actuator (72) which is mounted on said pilot regulator so as to apply on the mobile unit (38) of the pilot regulator itself a force F2 which is directedin the opposite direction with respect to the force F1 which is applied on said mobile unit 38 by first thrust means (70) with which the regulator is already equipped.

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