Improved gas regulator.

Abstract

Regulator (100) for a gas regulation apparatus and, in particular, of the type suitable to be installed in a gas transport and / or distribution network, comprising a containment body (110) with a gas inlet (310) and a gas outlet (320), said regulator (100) comprising within the containment body (110): - a first regulation stage (200) which is configured to reduce the pressure Pm of the gas entering the regulator (10) to a pressure P1, - a second regulation stage (210), which is fluidically in series and downstream of the first regulation stage (200), and which is configured to reduce the pressure P1 to a pressure P2 corresponding to the pressure Pu of the gas exiting the regulator.

Description

[0001] 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 decentralised manner, such as biomethane and / or hydrogen.

[0004] STATE OF THE ART

[0005] As is known, gas transport and / or distribution networks include pressure regulation stations to reduce the gas pressure from the supply value to the value required by the user, and also keep it stable at the preset value, even in the event of variations in the upstream pressure or in the event of variations in the flow rate required by the user.

[0006] In particular, the aforementioned pressure reduction 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.

[0007] A known type of pressure regulator comprises 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.

[0008] In the gas passage duct there is a shutter that determines a constriction in the passage section of the duct itself, thus causing a reduction in gas pressure between upstream and downstream of the shutter itself. In particular, the pressure reduction occurs by lamination of the gas at the passage section on which the shutter acts.

[0009] Conveniently, the shutter is movable so that the passage section, and therefore the gas pressure drop, can be modified as a function of the gas flow rate.

[0010] The movement of the shutter is controlled by a feedback system which - in the presence of an increase, with respect to the calibration value, of the pressure of the gas supplied downstream (i.e. of the gas downstream from the regulator) - reduces the degree of opening of the shutter itself; the opposite occurs in the case of a reduction in pressure.

[0011] Depending on the type of regulation provided, direct-acting pressure regulation devices and pilot-acting pressure regulation devices / apparatus are provided. In particular, in direct-acting regulation devices a single regulator is provided whose degree of opening of the shutter - and in particular the degree of opening 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-acting regulation devices, instead, a main regulator and an further regulator, called pilot regulator, are provided; in particular, in these devices, the degree of opening 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 device, supplies the main regulator with a command (motorization) pressure adequate to bring the apparatus into equilibrium.

[0012] Direct-acting 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 that of pilot-acting regulation devices. On the other hand, direct-acting regulation devices 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; pilot-controlled regulation devices are instead mostly used for medium and high-pressure networks, where higher flow rates are required and where the variations in the required flow rate are lower and less frequent (such as transport networks).

[0013] Traditional regulation devices are configured to have a single regulation stage or two (or more) regulation stages, placed in series and with the second downstream of the first, and wherein each regulation stage is provided with a respective shutter that is movable at a respective passage section so as to determine a corresponding restriction in the respective passage section, thus causing a corresponding reduction in gas pressure. In particular, the first regulation stage causes an initial reduction in gas pressure which is then further reduced by the second / subsequent regulation stage.

[0014] Currently, in domestic applications, in the event of a failure of the first regulation stage and / or the second regulation stage, in order to prevent gas from arriving downstream and at the exit from the regulation device at a pressure that is too high or in any case above a pre-established threshold value, the discharge of the overpressurised gas into the atmosphere (so-called "full venting") is provided or, still within the regulation device itself, a dedicated safety block is provided which, when activated, completely interrupts the gas outflow from the regulation device, thus interrupting the gas supply downstream. In ensuring that the pressure downstream of the regulation device does not exceed a certain value considered safe, the current market requirement is to avoid discharge into the atmosphere and to ensure continuity of gas supply (thus avoiding complete interruption of downstream gas supply) in the event of actual but also potentially erroneous failures that may occur in one or both stages of regulation of the regulation device.

[0015] An example of a known regulator is described and illustrated in US8151822. OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The object of the invention is to propose a gas regulator, in particular a regulator of the type to be installed in an apparatus for the regulation of gas pressure in a gas transport and / or distribution network, which allows to overcome the drawbacks of known solutions, in whole or in part.

[0017] Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator which, in the event of overpressure downstream of the same, does not completely interrupt the gas supply.

[0018] Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator that, in the event of overpressure downstream of the same, does not discharge gas into the atmosphere.

[0019] Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator that is particularly durable, robust and less subject to wear.

[0020] Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator which, in the event of its breakage or anomaly / failure of one or both regulation stages, ensures that the pressure of the gas exiting the regulator, and therefore the pressure of the gas supplied downstream, does not exceed a predefined safety threshold.

[0021] Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator that has a small size, thus facilitating its installation.

[0022] Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator that is easy and quick to maintain, as well as inexpensive.

[0023] Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator that can be obtained in a simple, rapid and low-cost way.

[0024] Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator that is in line with the regulations in force in the sector.

[0025] Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator that is smaller in size, and therefore more compact, than known solutions.

[0026] Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator that allows precise regulation of the pressure of the gas passing through it.

[0027] Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator that is highly safe and reliable. Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator that is an improvement and / or alternative to traditional ones.

[0028] Another object of the invention is to propose a regulator that presents an alternative characterisation, both in terms of construction and functionality, compared to traditional ones.

[0029] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0030] All the objects mentioned herein, considered either individually or 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 / or with a regulator as defined in claim 13.

[0031] DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0032] The present invention is further clarified below in some of its preferred practical embodiments reported for purely exemplary and non-limiting purposes with reference to the attached drawings, wherein:

[0033] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of the regulator according to the invention, Figure 2 shows the regulator of Fig. 1 in a side view,

[0034] Figure 3 shows the regulator of Fig. 1 according to a plan view,

[0035] Figure 4 shows the regulator according to the C-C section of Fig. 3,

[0036] Figure 5A shows a view of the regulator according to section A-A of Fig. 2 with the further regulation stage in its first condition wherein it is normally open,

[0037] Figure 5B shows a view of the regulator according to section A-A of Fig. 2 with the further regulation stage in a second condition corresponding to a condition wherein it is activated and causes a reduction in the pressure of the gas passing through said further regulation stage,

[0038] Figure 6A shows a view of the regulator according to section B-B of Fig. 2 with the further regulation stage in the same condition as in Fig. 5A,

[0039] Figure 6B shows a view of the regulator according to section B-B of Fig. 2 with the further regulation stage in the same condition as in Fig. 5B,

[0040] Figure 7 shows a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the regulator according to the invention,

[0041] Figure 8 shows the regulator of Fig. 7 in a plan view,

[0042] Figure 9A shows a sectional view of the first regulation stage of the regulator of

[0043] Fig. 7 in a normal operating condition of the regulator itself (i.e. in the absence of anomalies or faults in both regulation stages of the regulator), Figure 9B shows a sectional view of the second regulation stage of the regulator of Fig. 7 in a normal operating condition of the regulator itself (i.e. in the absence of anomalies or faults in both regulation stages of the regulator),

[0044] Figure 10A shows a sectional view of the first stage of regulation of the regulator of Fig. 7 in a condition of failure of the second stage of regulation of the regulator itself,

[0045] Figure 10B shows a sectional view of the second stage of regulation of the regulator of Fig. 7 in a condition of failure of the same second stage,

[0046] Figure 11A shows a sectional view of the first regulation stage of a variant of the regulator of Fig. 7 in a normal operating condition of the regulator itself (i.e. in the absence of anomalies or faults in both regulation stages of the regulator),

[0047] Figure 11 B shows a sectional view of the second regulation stage of a variant of the regulator of Fig. 7 in a normal operating condition of the regulator itself (i.e. in the absence of anomalies or faults in both regulation stages of the regulator), and

[0048] Figure 12 shows a sectional view of the second regulation stage of Fig. 11 B in a failure condition of the first regulation stage of the regulator itself .

[0049] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION AND OF SOME PREFERRED

[0050] EMBODIMENTS

[0051] REGULATOR 10 (Fig. 1 - 6)

[0052] As shown in figures 1 to 6A - 6B, the present invention concerns a regulator 10 for a gas regulation apparatus and, in particular, of the type suitable to be installed in a gas transport and / or distribution network.

[0053] Preferably, the regulator 10 is suitable to be used in domestic settings but could also be used in an industrial setting.

[0054] In particular, the regulation apparatus may be a traditional apparatus (direct- acting or pilot-acting) configured to cause a reduction in the pressure of the gas passing through it, and in particular it is suitable for causing the reduction of the gas pressure from a higher upstream value to a lower downstream pressure value.

[0055] The regulator 10 comprises a containment body (structure) 11 which can be made in a single piece or, preferably, in several pieces suitably fixed together and comprises inside it a plurality of zones, chambers, sub-chambers, cavities and passages, as described in greater detail below. The regulator 10 comprises a gas inlet 31 and a gas outlet 32. Preferably, the regulator 10 may also comprise at least one passage 33 for fluid connection to the environment. Conveniently, on the containment body 11 they are obtained the gas inlet 31 , the gas outlet 32 and, if provided, said at least one passage 33. Preferably, corresponding joints for connection with a section of upstream piping and a section of downstream piping are provided on the containment body 11 at the gas inlet 31 and the gas outlet 32, respectively.

[0056] Conveniently, inside the containment body 11 , the regulator 10 comprises:

[0057] - at least one regulation stage 20 and / or 21 configured to cause a reduction in the pressure of the gas which, passing through the regulator 10, passes from the inlet 31 to the outlet 32,

[0058] - a further regulation stage 40 which comprises a further mobile group 38 with a further shutter 39 for the obstruction of a further passage opening 41 , and wherein said further regulation stage 40 is configured for:

[0059] - operating normally open,

[0060] - causing, when activated, a reduction in gas pressure which, passing through regulator 10, passes from inlet 31 to outlet 32

[0061] - be controlled on the basis of the gas pressure Pu, which corresponds to the gas pressure exiting the regulator 10 or downstream of the regulator itself.

[0062] In particular, said further regulation stage 40 comprises a further mobile group 38 for moving a further shutter 39 for narrowing a further passage opening 41. Said further regulation stage 40 is configured so that gas at pressure Pu acts on the further mobile group 38, which corresponds to the pressure of the gas exiting the regulator 10 or downstream of the regulator itself, to thus move the further shutter 39 towards said further passage opening 41 and cause a reduction in the pressure of the gas which, passing through the regulator 10, passes from the inlet 31 to the outlet 32.

[0063] Conveniently, said at least one regulation stage of the regulator 10 may comprise a first regulation stage 20 and / or a second regulation stage 21. In particular, the regulator 10 may comprise exclusively a single regulation stage or may comprise two regulation stages, fluidically in series, and in particular a first regulation stage 20 and a second regulation stage 21 which is downstream of the first stage.

[0064] Said at least one regulation stage 20 and / or 21 and the further regulation stage 40 are defined and housed inside the containment body 11.

[0065] The first regulation stage 20 is configured to cause a reduction in the pressure Pm of the gas entering the regulator 10, The further regulation stage 40 is configured to cause a reduction in the pressure Pm of the gas entering the regulator 10.

[0066] First regulation stage 20

[0067] In particular, the first regulation stage 20 comprises:

[0068] - a first passage opening 17 between a first zone 13 and a second zone 14 which is downstream of said first zone 13,

[0069] - a first mobile shutter 15 for obstructing the first passage opening 17,

[0070] - a first control head 50 comprising a first mobile group 54 for the controlled movement of the mobile shutter 15.

[0071] Preferably, in the possible embodiment illustrated in the figures, the further regulation stage 40 is interposed and acts in the fluid path of the gas between the first zone 13 and said gas inlet 31.

[0072] Conveniently, therefore, the gas in the first zone 13 of the regulator 10 is at the pressure Pm which corresponds to the pressure of the gas entering the regulator 10, and therefore to the pressure of the gas upstream of the regulator itself.

[0073] Conveniently, the first mobile shutter 15 is movable with respect to the first passage opening 17 so as to vary (at the inlet or, preferably, at the oulet) the obstruction of the passage opening of the gas from the first zone 13 to said second zone 14, thus causing a corresponding reduction in pressure of the gas which passes from said first zone 13 to said second zone 14 through the passage opening itself. Therefore, the gas in the second zone 14 is at a pressure Pr which is lower / reduced with respect to the pressure Pm of the first zone 13.

[0074] Conveniently, the first control head 50 comprises a chamber wherein a first dividing element 51 is housed which is movable and which divides the chamber itself into a first sub-chamber 52 and a second sub-chamber 53.

[0075] The first dividing element 51 is mechanically connected - or in any case integral in movement - with the first mobile shutter 15, to thus control the movement of the latter with respect to the first passage opening 17. Preferably, the first dividing element 51 is mechanically connected to the first mobile shutter 15 by means of a first mobile group 54 which, more preferably, comprises a first shaft 55 which at one end is fixed centrally to the first dividing element 51 and at the other end supports or defines the first mobile shutter 15. Ideally, the first shaft 55 may comprise two sections, one of which has a greater radial development than the other.

[0076] Preferably, said first regulation stage 20 is of the balanced type and, in particular, is configured so as to use / draw the gas at pressure Pm - which can indicatively be between approximately 350 mbar and 8.6 bar - to balance the movement of the first mobile group 54 resulting from the thrust that the gas - and in particular the gas at pressure Pm present in the first zone 13 - exerts directly on the face / part of the first shutter 15 facing the first passage opening 17. More preferably, for this purpose, a first circuit 56 is obtained from the face of the first mobile shutter 15 acting inside the second zone 14 and facing the first passage opening 17, which fluidly connects the second zone 14 with a first balancing chamber 57. Ideally, in a possible embodiment, the first circuit 56 may comprise one or more ducts obtained inside the first shaft 55 of the first mobile group 54. Ideally, in a possible embodiment, the first balancing chamber 57 can be delimited by a first radial widening section 58 of the first shaft 55 of the first mobile group 54 and by a first wall 59, which is crossed by the first mobile group 54 so as to act as a support and guide for the movement of the mobile group. Conveniently, in this way, the thrust exerted on the first mobile shutter 15 of the first mobile group 54 by the gas at pressure Pm (i.e. the gas before it undergoes the pressure reduction by passing through the obstruction defined by the first shutter at the first passage opening) is substantially balanced by the thrust, directed in the opposite direction, which is exerted on the first radial widening 58 of the first mobile group 54 by the pressure of the gas which is present in the first balancing chamber 57 and which, having arrived in said balancing chamber through the first circuit 56, corresponds to the pressure of the gas present in the first zone 13. Preferably, the first wall 59 is fixed or in any case independent with respect to the movement of the first mobile group 54 and can be made of rigid material, possibly including a portion of elastic material (for example a membrane) to delimit the first balancing chamber 57.

[0077] Preferably, the first control head 50 is configured so that on the first moving group 54 they act:

[0078] - in a first direction of distancing of the first shutter 15 from the first opening 17, a first spring 61 and gas at pressure Pu corresponding to the downstream / outlet pressure of the regulator 10,

[0079] - in a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction, the gas at pressure Pr corresponding to the pressure that has been reduced by the action of the first shutter 15 on the first passage opening 17.

[0080] More preferably, to this end, in a possible embodiment, said first sub-chamber 52 can be fluidically connected to an outlet zone and / or to a conduit exiting said regulator 10. Preferably, the first sub-chamber 52 is defined between the first wall 59 and the first movable dividing element 51. Conveniently, therefore, in the first sub-chamber 52 of the first control head 50 of the first regulation stage 20 there is gas at a pressure corresponding to the downstream / outlet pressure Pu of the regulator 10.

[0081] Preferably, said second sub-chamber 53 can be fluidically connected to the second zone 14 by means of a corresponding fluid connection section 60. Conveniently, therefore, the second sub-chamber 53 of the first control head 50 of the first regulation stage 20 is at a gas pressure Pr corresponding to the pressure that has been reduced by the obstruction action of the first shutter 15 on the first passage opening 17.

[0082] Conveniently, a first spring 61 , which is preferably housed in the first subchamber 52, also acts on the first movable dividing element 51. Conveniently, the first spring 61 consists of a helical spring placed between the first wall 59 and the first movable dividing element 51 so as to operate by pushing on the latter.

[0083] In another possible embodiment not illustrated in the figures, the first control head 50 is configured so that on the first mobile group 54 they act:

[0084] - in a first direction of distancing of the first shutter 15 from the first passage opening 17, a first spring 61 , possibly, with air at atmospheric pressure coming from the passage 33 of fluid connection with the environment,

[0085] - in a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction, gas at pressure Pr corresponding to the pressure that has been reduced by the action of the first shutter 15 on the first passage opening 17.

[0086] Preferably, the first regulation stage 20 is of the “fail to open” type, i.e. it is configured so that, in the event of a failure / breakage of the first dividing element 51 of the first control head 50, it moves into an open condition (i.e. the first shutter 15 of the first regulation stage 20 moves away from the first passage opening 17). In particular, to this end, the first spring 61 acts on the first movable dividing element 51 so that its elongation causes, through the first mobile group 54 which is fixed or integral with said dividing element, the distancing of the first shutter 15 from the first passage opening 17.

[0087] In a possible embodiment of the regulator 10 (not illustrated in the figures), in the regulator 10 there are no other regulation stages downstream of the first regulation stage 20. In this case, therefore, the second zone 14 is fluidically connected directly to the gas outlet 32 and, therefore, the pressure Pu of the gas exiting the regulator corresponds to the pressure Pr which has been reduced by the first regulation stage 20 alone and which is inferior / lower than Pm. Second regulation stage 21

[0088] In another possible and preferred embodiment which is illustrated in the figures, in the regulator 10, downstream of the first regulation stage 20, a second regulation stage 21 can be provided which is configured to cause a further reduction in the gas pressure and, in particular, causes a reduction in the pressure Pr at the outlet of the first regulation stage 20.

[0089] Conveniently, the second regulation stage 21 can be of the traditional type.

[0090] In more detail, the second regulation stage 21 may comprise:

[0091] - a third zone 26 which is fluidly connected to said second zone 14 (or which may correspond with / comprise at least in part said second zone 14),

[0092] - a second passage opening 27 between the third zone 26 and a fourth zone 29 which is downstream of said third zone 26,

[0093] - a second mobile shutter 28 for obstructing the second passage opening 27,

[0094] - a second control head 25 comprising a second mobile group 30 for the controlled movement of the second mobile shutter 28.

[0095] Preferably, the second control head 25 is configured so that on the second mobile group 30 they act:

[0096] - a second spring 34 in a first direction of distancing of the second shutter 28 from the second opening 27,

[0097] - in a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction, the gas at pressure Pu corresponding to the downstream / outlet pressure of the regulator 10.

[0098] Conveniently, the second control head 25 comprises a second chamber wherein a second dividing element 22 is housed which is movable and which divides the second chamber itself into a third sub-chamber 23 and a fourth sub-chamber 24.

[0099] The second dividing element 22 is mechanically connected to the second mobile shutter 28 by means of a second mobile group 30, to thus control the movement of the latter with respect to the second passage opening 27. Preferably, the second dividing element 22 is mechanically connected to the second mobile shutter 28 by means of a second mobile group 30 comprising mechanical transmission means. Ideally, in one possible embodiment, the mechanical transmission means comprise a shaft which is fixed centrally to the second dividing element 22 and which acts on an articulated lever which supports or defines said second shutter 28.

[0100] Preferably, said third sub-chamber 23 can be fl uidical ly connected to an outlet zone and / or to a duct at the outlet of said regulator 1. Conveniently, therefore, in the third sub-chamber 23 of the regulator 10 there is gas at a pressure corresponding to the downstream / outlet pressure Pu of the regulator 10. Preferably, said fourth sub-chamber 24 can be fluidically connected to the passage 33 which is intended to be in direct fluidic connection with the environment external to the regulator itself. Conveniently, therefore, in the fourth sub-chamber 24 of the regulator 10 there is gas and / or air at a pressure corresponding to the atmospheric pressure of the environment.

[0101] Conveniently, a second spring 34, which is preferably housed in the fourth sub-chamber 24, also acts on the second dividing element 22. Conveniently, the second spring 34 consists of a helical spring placed between a spring-pressing cap and the second dividing element 22 so as to operate by pushing on the latter.

[0102] Preferably, the second regulation stage 21 is of the “fail to open” type, i.e. it is configured so that, in the event of a failure / breakage of the second dividing element 22 of the second control head 25, it moves into an open condition (i.e. the shutter of the second regulation stage 21 moves away from the second passage opening 27). In particular, to this end, the second spring 34 acts on the second dividing element 22 so that its elongation causes, through the second mobile group 30, the distancing of the second shutter 28 from the second passage opening 27.

[0103] Conveniently, therefore, the gas in the third zone 26 of the regulator 10 is at the pressure Pr which corresponds to the pressure of the gas in the second zone 14, i.e. to the pressure of the gas exiting the first regulation stage 20.

[0104] Conveniently, the second mobile shutter 28 is mobile with respect to said second passage opening 27 so as to define an obstruction at said second passage opening of the gas from the third zone 26 to said fourth zone 29, thus causing a corresponding reduction in gas pressure from said third zone 26 to said fourth zone 29. Therefore, the gas in the fourth zone 29 is at a pressure Prr which is lower / reduced with respect to the pressure Pr of the second zone 14 and of the third zone 26. In this case, therefore, the fourth zone 29 is fluidically connected with the gas outlet 32 and, therefore, the pressure of the gas exiting Pu from the regulator corresponds to the pressure Prr which is lower / less than Pr and is also lower / less than Pm.

[0105] Conveniently, the second regulation stage 21 is not of the balanced type and, in particular, is not configured to balance the movement of the second mobile group 30 resulting from the thrust that the gas exerts directly on the face / part of the second shutter 28 facing the second passage opening 27.

[0106] Further regulation stage 40

[0107] As mentioned, the regulator 10 comprises, inside the containment body 11 , the further regulation stage 40 which is normally open and which is activated on the basis of the gas pressure Pu, and in particular is activated when the gas pressure Pu acting on the mobile group 38 exceeds an activation pressure value Ps, preferably preset by calibration, to cause a reduction in the pressure of the gas passing through the regulator 10.

[0108] In particular, the further regulation stage 40 is activated when the gas pressure Pu exceeds an activation pressure value Ps which is preferably defined within the range between approximately 70 and approximately 138 - 140 mbar, more preferably within the range 70-100 mbar. Conveniently, the activation pressure value Ps is lower than a safety limit value, provided for by the corresponding industry regulations, of the admissible downstream pressure Pu.

[0109] The regulator 10 comprises a further mobile group 38 with a further shutter 39 for the obstruction of a further passage opening 41 which is placed between the inlet 31 and the outlet 32 and, in particular, is defined in a fluid path which, inside the containment body, connects the inlet 31 and the outlet 32. Preferably, the thrust means 70 and the pressurized gas Pu exiting the regulator 10 or downstream from the regulator 10 act on the further mobile group 38 in opposite directions.

[0110] The further regulation stage 40 is configured so that:

[0111] - the thrust means 70 act on the further mobile group 38 so as to move the further shutter 39 away from the further passage opening 41 , while

[0112] - the gas under pressure Pu acts on the further mobile group 38 so as to bring the further shutter 39 closer to the further passage opening 41 , thus causing a reduction in the pressure of the gas passing through said further passage opening 41 .

[0113] The further regulation stage 40 is normally open and, in particular, in conditions of correct operation of the regulator 10, i.e. in the absence of failure of the first regulation stage 20 and / or of the second regulation stage 21 of the same regulator, the action of the thrust means 70 acting on the further mobile group 38 overcomes / surpasses the action deriving from the gas at pressure Pu. Preferably, the force / action exerted by the thrust means 70 on the further mobile group 38 is set so as to be lower than an activation value Ps which, preferably, is lower than a safety limit value of the gas pressure allowed downstream of the regulator. For example, the activation pressure Ps can be a value within the range between approximately 70 and approximately 138 - 140 mbar, more preferably it is within the range 70-100 mbar. The value of the activation pressure Ps depends on the action exerted by the thrust means 70 and, in particular, can be defined entirely or at least in part (more preferably for the most part) by the action exerted by the thrust means 70.

[0114] Conveniently, said further regulation stage 40 is calibrated - in particular by varying / defining the force exerted by the thrust means 70 on the further mobile group 38 - so as to cause a drop / reduction in pressure of the gas, which passes through the further through opening 41 , such that the gas exiting from said further stage 40 has a pressure Px lower than a pre-established threshold value, in particular a safety limit value (for example imposed by regulations) of the pressure Pu allowed downstream.

[0115] When the thrust exerted on the mobile group 38 by the gas at pressure Pu exceeds the activation value Ps, and therefore exceeds the action of the thrust means 70 (possibly with the addition of the contribution of the atmospheric pressure), then the further regulation stage 40 begins to operate and, in particular, the mobile group 38 is moved so as to bring the further shutter 39 closer to the further passage opening 41 and cause a corresponding obstruction of said opening, thus regulating - and in particular reducing - the pressure of the gas which passes through the further passage opening 41.

[0116] Conveniently, the further shutter 39 is integral with the movement of the mobile group 38. In particular, the further shutter 39 can be made as a single body with the further mobile group 38 or be associated with the further mobile group 38 so as to be integral with the movement of said group.

[0117] Advantageously, during the normal operation of the regulator 10, the action of the thrust means 70 on the further mobile group 38 overcomes / surpasses the thrust exerted on the group itself by the gas at pressure Pu and, therefore, said further regulation stage 40 is in a first deactivated or completely open condition (see fig. 5A and 6A) wherein the further shutter 39 is spaced from the further passage opening 41 so as not to cause any reduction in gas pressure or in any case so as to cause a minimal reduction in gas pressure.

[0118] Advantageously, when the thrust exerted on the mobile group 38 by the gas at pressure Pu exceeds the activation value Ps and therefore exceeds the action of the thrust means 70 on the mobile group itself, said further regulation stage 40 is in a second condition (cf. activated condition of fig. 5B and 6B) wherein the further shutter

[0119] 39 is brought closer to the further passage opening 41 so as to cause an appropriate reduction in gas pressure.

[0120] Preferably, when said further regulation stage 40 is in said second working condition, the further mobile group 38 is controlled to move the further shutter 39 closer to the further passage opening 41 so as to cause a reduction in gas pressure through said further passage opening 41. Ideally, said further regulation stage 40 is configured so that, when it is in said second condition, it causes a reduction in pressure such as to bring the gas pressure, downstream of said further passage opening 41 , to a pressure value Px which is lower than a safety limit value (for example imposed by regulations) of the pressure Pu allowed downstream.

[0121] Preferably, the pressurized gas Pu acting on the further mobile group 38 is taken from a zone which is formed inside the containment body 11 of the regulator 10. Ideally, in a possible embodiment illustrated in the figures, the pressurized gas Pu acting on the further mobile group 38 can be taken from said fourth zone 29 of the second regulation stage 21.

[0122] Preferably, said further regulation stage 40 is positioned upstream of the first regulation stage 20. In particular, said further passage opening 41 is positioned upstream of said first passage opening 17.

[0123] Preferably, said further regulation stage 40 is configured to reduce the gas pressure Pm entering the regulator 10 through the inlet 31.

[0124] Preferably, atmospheric pressure and, in particular, environment pressure can also act on the further mobile group 38 in the same direction as the thrust means 70 and in the opposite direction to the gas pressure Pu.

[0125] Preferably, said further regulation stage 40 faces the first regulation stage 20.

[0126] Preferably, the further mobile group 38 acts at the further passage opening 41 which faces the passage opening 17 at which the mobile shutter 15 of the first regulation stage 20 acts. More preferably, said further passage opening 41 and said passage opening 17 are defined at the opposite ends of the same tubular section 85.

[0127] Preferably, the further regulation stage 40 comprises:

[0128] - said further passage opening 41 between an upstream zone 72 and a downstream zone 73 which, in fact, is downstream with respect to said upstream zone 72,

[0129] - a further mobile shutter 39 for obstructing the further passage opening 41 ,

[0130] - a further control head 71 comprising a mobile group 38 for the controlled movement of said further mobile shutter 39.

[0131] Conveniently, the mobile group 38 comprises, supports or is in any case integral in movement with said further mobile shutter 39.

[0132] More preferably, in a possible embodiment illustrated in the figures, the upstream zone 72 of the further regulation stage 40 is in direct fluid connection with said gas inlet 31 , while the downstream zone 73 of the further regulation stage 40 comprises or corresponds substantially (or at least in part) to the first zone 13 of the first regulation stage 20.

[0133] Conveniently, therefore, the gas in the upstream region 72 of the regulator 10 is at the pressure Pm which corresponds to the pressure of the gas entering the regulator 10, and therefore to the pressure of the gas upstream of the regulator itself. Conveniently, as mentioned, when the further regulation stage 40 is activated / in operation, the further mobile shutter 39 is movable with respect to the further passage opening 41 so as to define a reduction of the passage opening of the gas from the upstream zone 72 to the downstream zone 73, thus causing a corresponding reduction in gas pressure from said upstream zone 72 to said downstream zone 73.

[0134] Conveniently, the further control head 71 comprises a further chamber wherein a further dividing element 74 is housed which is movable and which divides the chamber itself into a further first sub-chamber 75 and a further second sub-chamber 76.

[0135] The further dividing element 74 is mechanically connected to the further mobile shutter 39, to thus control the movement of the latter with respect to the further passage opening 41. Preferably, the further dividing element 74 is mechanically connected to the further mobile shutter 39 by means of a further mobile group 38 which, more preferably, comprises a further shaft 78 and which at one end is fixed centrally to the further dividing element 74 and at the other end supports or defines the further mobile shutter 39. Ideally, the further shaft 78 may comprise two sections, one of which has a greater radial development than the other.

[0136] Preferably, said further regulation stage 40 is of the balanced type and, in particular, is configured so as to use / draw the gas in the downstream zone 73 to balance the movement of the further mobile group 38 resulting from the thrust that the gas - and in particular the gas present in the downstream zone 73 can be at a pressure Pm if the further regulation stage is deactivated (i.e. the further shutter 39 is spaced from the further passage opening 41 ) or can be at a pressure that is reduced with respect to Pm if the further regulation stage is activated (i.e. the further shutter 39 is brought closer to the further passage opening 41 ) - exerts directly on the face / part of the further shutter 39 facing towards the further passage opening 41 . More preferably, for this purpose, from the face of the further mobile shutter 39 acting inside the upstream zone 72 and facing towards the further passage opening 41 , a further circuit 79 branches off which fluidly connects the downstream zone 73 with a further balancing chamber 80. Ideally, in a possible embodiment, the further circuit 79 may comprise one or more ducts obtained inside the further shaft 78 of the further mobile group 38. Ideally, the further balancing chamber 80 may be delimited by a further radial widening section 81 of the further shaft 78 of the further mobile group 38 and by a further wall 82, which is crossed by the further mobile group 38 so as to act as a support and guide for the movement of the further mobile group. Conveniently, in this way, when the further regulation stage 40 is not activated, the thrust exerted on the further mobile shutter 39 of the further mobile group 38 by the pressure of the gas present in the upstream zone 72 is substantially balanced by the thrust, directed in the opposite direction, which is exerted on the further radial widening 81 of the further mobile group 38 by the pressure of the gas which is present in the further balancing chamber 80 and which, having arrived in said balancing chamber through the further circuit 79, corresponds to the pressure of the gas present in the downstream zone 73.

[0137] Conveniently, in this way, when the regulation stage 40 is activated, the thrust exerted on the further mobile shutter 39 of the further mobile group 38 by the intermediate pressure of the gas present in the downstream zone 73 is substantially balanced by the thrust, directed in the opposite direction, which is exerted on the further radial enlargement 81 of the further mobile group 38 by the pressure of the gas which is present in the further balancing chamber 80 and which, having arrived in said balancing chamber through the further circuit 79, corresponds to the pressure of the gas present in the downstream zone 73.

[0138] Preferably, the further wall 82 is substantially fixed or in any case independent from the movement of the further mobile group 38 and can be made of rigid material, possibly including a portion of elastic material (for example a membrane) to delimit the further balancing chamber 80.

[0139] Preferably, said further first sub-chamber 75 can be fluidically connected with a passage 33 which is intended to be in direct fluidic connection with the environment external to the regulator itself. Therefore, the gas / air in said further first sub-chamber 75 is at a pressure corresponding to atmospheric pressure and, in particular, to the environment pressure. Preferably, said further first sub-chamber 75 is defined between the further wall 82 and the further movable dividing element 74.

[0140] Preferably, said further second sub-chamber 76 can be fluidically connected to an outlet zone and / or to an outlet duct to said regulator 10. Conveniently, therefore, the further second sub-chamber 76 of the further control head 71 of the further regulation stage 40 is at a pressure corresponding to the downstream / outlet pressure Pu of the regulator 10.

[0141] Conveniently, the thrust means 70 act on the further movable dividing element 74, and in particular a further spring 70', which is housed in said further first subchamber 75. Conveniently, the further spring 70' is constituted by a helical spring interposed between the further wall 82 and the further movable dividing element 74 so as to operate by pushing on the latter. Preferably, as mentioned, the further regulation stage 40 is of the “normally open” type, i.e. it is configured so that - in normal operating conditions of the regulator and when the gas in the further second sub-chamber 76 is at a pressure lower than an activation value Ps, and in particular the thrust exerted by the gas at pressure Pu on the further mobile group 38 is lower than the opposing force exerted by the thrust means 70 - it moves into an open condition (i.e. the further shutter 39 of the further regulation stage 40 is moved away from the further passage opening 41 , thus allowing the gas to flow downstream). In particular, to this end, the further spring 70' acts on the further mobile dividing element 74 so that its elongation causes, through the further mobile group 38 which is fixed or integral with said further dividing element, the distancing of the further shutter 39 from the further passage opening 41 .

[0142] Preferably, inside the containment body 11 , a first fluid connection 90 is obtained to fluidly connect said first sub-chamber 52 of the first regulation stage 20 with a zone, defined inside the same containment body 11 , wherein the gas is at the pressure Pu corresponding to the gas outlet pressure of the regulator 10, and therefore corresponding to the gas pressure downstream of the regulator 10.

[0143] Preferably, inside the containment body 11 , a further fluid connection 91 is provided to fluidly connect said further second sub-chamber 76 of the further control head 71 of the further regulation stage 40 with a zone, which is defined inside the same containment body 11 , wherein the gas is at the pressure Pu corresponding to the gas outlet pressure of the regulator 10, and therefore corresponding to the gas pressure downstream of the regulator 10.

[0144] Preferably, the containment body 11 comprises two cavities within it, respectively a cavity 86 and a further cavity 87. Ideally, the two cavities 86 and 87 can be substantially the same in terms of shape and dimensions.

[0145] More preferably, in a possible embodiment, the two cavities 86 and 87 are separated from each other by a fixed dividing element 88 (for example a wall) comprising a tubular section 85, and wherein said first passage opening 17 of the first regulation stage 20 is defined at a first end of the tubular section 85 while said further passage opening 41 of the further regulation stage 40 is defined at the other end (which is opposite to the first) of the same tubular section 85.

[0146] More specifically, ideally, at least a part of the second zone 14 and the first control head 50 of the first regulation stage 20 are arranged / defined inside said cavity 86. More specifically, ideally, at least a part of the upstream zone 72 and also the further control head 71 of the further regulation stage 40 are arranged / defined within said further cavity 87.

[0147] Conveniently, the first dividing element 51 , the second dividing element 22, the further dividing element 74 may comprise one or more elements of an appropriate shape (and therefore is / are installed and act / acts in a correspondingly shaped seat provided in the regulator), and may be made of rigid and / or elastic material, and in particular may be entirely or partly of the membrane type, possibly with at least one elastically deformable zone.

[0148] Advantageously, said further regulation stage 40 may comprise at least one component, preferably a plurality of components, which is / are structurally the same as a corresponding component(s) of the first regulation stage 20. Ideally, said further regulation stage 40 may comprise at least one component, preferably a plurality of components, which is / are interchangeable with a corresponding component(s) of the first regulation stage 20. More preferably, the first wall 59 of the first regulation stage 20 and said further wall 82 of the further regulation stage 40 may be the same in shape and size. More preferably, the first shutter 15 may comprise a pad which is the same as that of the further shutter 39. More preferably, the first dividing element 51 of the first regulation stage 20 and said further dividing element 74 of the further regulation stage 40 may be the same, for example both the deformable parts (membrane) and the more rigid ones may be the same.

[0149] Advantageously, said further regulation stage 40 can comprise a housing cavity which is substantially specular and symmetrical, with respect to the fixed dividing element 88, to a further housing cavity of the first regulation stage 20.

[0150] Conveniently, in a traditional manner, inside the containment body 11 , at the contact zones and mechanical couplings between the various components, both mobile and fixed, suitable gaskets are mounted, for example of the O-ring type, to thus guarantee gas tightness between the various zones and sub-chambers and thus avoid gas leaks. Advantages

[0151] From what has been said it is clear that the solution according to the invention is advantageous as it allows the pre-established objects to be achieved and in particular:

[0152] - in the event of overpressure downstream (or risk of such overpressure) resulting from an anomaly or failure of the first and / or second regulation stage, it allows for a reduction in the pressure of the gas exiting the regulator to be obtained in any case, while avoiding completely interrupting the gas supply downstream of the regulator and also avoiding discharging the gas into the atmosphere,

[0153] - allows to obtain a pressure reduction, in the event of an anomaly or failure of the first or second regulation stage, without increasing the overall dimensions and / or without introducing substantial changes in the installation architecture,

[0154] - said further regulation stage can be implemented using numerous elements / components already industrialised, thus also facilitating certification and approval activities,

[0155] - it can replace a regulator provided with an integrated safety lock (even one already installed and on the field) or even be replaced without serious impacts, and in particular maintaining the same pressure setpoints and connections,

[0156] - it is possible to verify the functionality of the further regulation stage on the field by causing the failure of the second stage.

[0157] REGULATOR 100 (Fig. 7 - 12)

[0158] The present invention also concerns a regulator 100, as shown in figures 7 to 10A - 10B and 11A - 12, for a gas regulation apparatus and, in particular, of the type suitable to be installed in a gas transport and / or distribution network.

[0159] Preferably, the regulator 100 is suitable for domestic use but may also be used in an industrial setting. In particular, the regulation apparatus may be a traditional apparatus (direct-acting or pilot-acting) configured to cause a reduction in the pressure of the gas passing through it, and in particular is suitable to cause a reduction in the gas pressure from a higher upstream pressure value to a lower downstream pressure value.

[0160] The regulator 100 comprises a containment body (structure) 110 which can be made in a single piece or, preferably, in several pieces suitably fixed together and comprises within it a plurality of zones, chambers, sub-chambers, cavities and passages, as described in greater detail below.

[0161] The regulator 100 comprises a gas inlet 310 and a gas outlet 320. Preferably, the regulator 10 may also comprise at least one passage 330 for fluid connection to the environment. Conveniently, the gas inlet 310, the gas outlet 320 and, if provided, said passage 330 are obtained on the containment body 110. Preferably, corresponding joints are provided on the containment body 110 at the gas inlet 310 and the outlet 320 for the connection with a section of upstream piping and with a section of downstream piping respectively.

[0162] The regulator 100 comprises a gas inlet 310 and a gas outlet 320. Preferably, the regulator 100 may also comprise a passage 330. Conveniently, the gas inlet 310, the gas outlet 320 and, if provided, said passage 330 are obtained on the containment body 110. Preferably, corresponding joints are provided on the containment body 11 , at the gas inlet 310 and the gas outlet 320, for the connection respectively with a section of upstream piping and with a section of downstream piping.

[0163] Conveniently, within the containment body 110, the regulator 100 comprises:

[0164] - a first regulation stage 200 which is configured to reduce the pressure Pm of the gas entering the regulator 100 to a pressure P1 ,

[0165] - a second regulation stage 210, which is fluidically in series and downstream of the first regulation stage 200, and which is configured to reduce the pressure P1 to a pressure P2 corresponding to the pressure Pu of the gas exiting the regulator, and wherein:

[0166] - the first regulation stage 200 is of the balanced type,

[0167] - the first regulation stage 200 is configured so that the pressure P1 of the gas exiting the first regulation stage is less than approximately 138 - 140 mbar, preferably less than approximately 70 mbar.

[0168] Preferably, the second regulation stage 210 can also be of the balanced type.

[0169] The second regulation stage 210 is configured so that the pressure P2 at the outlet of the second regulation stage, and therefore corresponding to the pressure Pu at the outlet of the regulator 10, is less than approximately 40 mbar, preferably less than 30 mbar.

[0170] Conveniently, since the second regulation stage 210 is balanced, the action of the first regulation stage 200, or even its failure to act in the event of an anomaly or failure of said first stage, becomes substantially irrelevant; in essence, the pressure value with which the gas arrives at the inlet of the second regulation stage 210 (or in any case the pressure of the gas upstream of the second regulation stage 210) becomes substantially irrelevant for the second regulation stage 210 for the purposes of reaching a pressure value P2 lower than the limit value.

[0171] Advantageously, therefore, both in the case of normal operation of the regulator 100 (i.e. in the absence of anomalies or faults of either the first regulation stage 200 or the second regulation stage 210) and in the event of failure of the first regulation stage 200, the pressure Pu exiting the regulator 100 is substantially equal to or lower than the pressure P2 exiting the second regulation stage 210, thus resulting below the safety value.

[0172] Preferably, the first regulation stage 200 comprises: - a first mobile group 540 which is provided with or is integral in movement with a first shutter 150 to restrict a first passage opening 170 between a first zone 130 and a second zone 140,

[0173] - a first head 500 comprising a first mobile group 540 to control / command the movement of the first shutter 150 thus varying the constriction of the first passage opening 170 and causing a corresponding reduction in gas pressure which passes from the first zone 130 to the second zone 140, said first head 500 comprises a first chamber wherein a first dividing element 510 is movable which is integral in movement with the first mobile group 540; the gas at pressure P1 corresponding to the outlet pressure of the first regulation stage 200 acts on the first dividing element 510, and also - in the opposite direction - a first spring 610 acts by pushing so as to move the first shutter 150 away from the first passage opening 170,

[0174] - a first balancing chamber 570 which is fluidically connected to the first zone 130 to receive the gas at pressure Pm of said first zone so that said gas at pressure Pm present in said balancing chamber 570 acts on the first mobile group 540 in a direction opposite to the thrust that the gas at pressure Pm exerts on the face / part of the first shutter 150 facing said first zone.

[0175] Preferably, the second regulation stage 210 comprises:

[0176] - a second mobile group 541 which is provided with or is integral in movement with a second shutter 151 to restrict a second passage opening 171 between a third zone 131 and a fourth zone 141 ,

[0177] - a second head 501 comprising a mobile group 541 to control / command the movement of the second shutter 151 thus varying the constriction of the second passage opening 171 and causing a corresponding reduction in gas pressure which passes from the third zone 131 to the fourth zone 141 ; said second head 501 comprises a second chamber with a second dividing element 511 which is mobile and integral in movement with the second mobile group 541 ; the gas at pressure P2 corresponding to the output pressure of the second regulation stage 210 (and also corresponding to the pressure Pu exiting the regulator 10) acts on the second dividing element 511 , and also - in the opposite direction - a second spring 611 acts by pushing so as to move the second shutter 151 away from the second passage opening 171 ,

[0178] - a second balancing chamber 571 which is fluidically connected to the third zone 131 to receive the gas at pressure P1 of said third zone so that said gas at pressure P1 present inside said second balancing chamber 571 acts on the second mobile group 541 in a direction opposite to the thrust that the gas at pressure P1 exerts on the face / part of the second shutter 151 facing said third zone 131 .

[0179] Advantageously, in the solution according to the invention, even the first regulation stage 200 alone is able to reduce the pressure Pm of the gas entering the regulator to a pressure value P1 that is particularly low or in any case below a limit value, in particular below a safety value provided for by the corresponding regulations. Therefore, even in the event of failure or breakdown of the second regulation stage 210, the pressure Pu exiting the regulator 100 is substantially equal to or lower than the pressure P1 exiting the first regulation stage 200, thus resulting below the safety value. In essence, the first regulation stage 200 alone is already able to reduce the inlet pressure Pm to a value that is below the safety value.

[0180] Advantageously, therefore, in the event of failure of the first regulation stage 200, the second regulation stage 210 ensures that the pressure Pu exiting the regulator 100 is below the safety value, while in the event of failure of the second regulation stage 210, it is the first regulation stage 200 which alone ensures that the pressure Pu exiting the regulator 100 is below the safety value.

[0181] First regulation stage 200

[0182] In particular, the first regulation stage 200 includes:

[0183] - a first passage opening 170 between a first zone 130 and a second zone 140 which is downstream of said first zone 130,

[0184] - a first mobile shutter 150 for obstructing the first passage opening 170,

[0185] - a first control head 500 comprising a first mobile group 540 for the controlled movement of the mobile shutter 150.

[0186] Conveniently, the gas in the first zone 130 of the regulator 100 is at the pressure Pm which corresponds to the gas pressure at the inlet to the regulator 100, and therefore to the gas pressure upstream of the regulator itself.

[0187] Conveniently, the first mobile shutter 150 is movable with respect to the first passage opening 170 so as to vary the obstruction of the gas passage opening from the first zone 130 to said second zone 140, thereby causing a corresponding reduction in gas pressure from said first zone 130 to said second zone 140. Therefore, the gas in the second zone 140 is at a P1 which is lower / reduced with respect to the pressure Pm of the first zone 130.

[0188] Conveniently, the first control head 500 comprises a chamber wherein is housed a first dividing element 510 which is movable and which divides the chamber itself into a first sub-chamber 520 and a second sub-chamber 530. The first dividing element 510 is mechanically connected to the first mobile shutter 150, to thus control the movement of the latter with respect to the first passage opening 170. Preferably, the first dividing element 510 is mechanically connected to the first mobile shutter 150 by means of a first mobile group 540 which, more preferably, comprises a first shaft 550 which at one end is fixed centrally to the first dividing element 510 and at the other end supports or defines the first mobile shutter 150. Ideally, the first shaft 550 may comprise two sections, one of which has a greater radial development than the other, or in any case may comprise at least one radial narrowing 580.

[0189] As stated, the first regulation stage 200 is of the balanced type and, in particular, is configured so as to use / draw the gas at pressure Pm to balance the movement of the first mobile group 540 resulting from the thrust that the gas - and in particular the gas at pressure Pm present in the first zone 130 - exerts directly on the face / part of the first shutter 150 facing said first zone 130. More preferably, for this purpose, a first circuit is provided that fluidly connects the first zone 130 with the first balancing chamber 570. Ideally, the first balancing chamber 570 is defined between a first radial narrowing section 580 of the first shaft 550 of the first mobile group 540 and a tubular section of a first wall 590, tubular section that is crossed by the first mobile group 540 so as to act as a support and guide for the movement of the mobile group. Conveniently, in this way, the thrust exerted on the first mobile shutter 150 of the first mobile group 540 by the pressure Pm of the gas present in the first zone 130 is substantially balanced by the thrust, directed in the opposite direction, which is exerted on the mobile group 540 by the pressure of the gas which is present in the first balancing chamber 570 and which, having arrived in said balancing chamber through the first circuit, corresponds to the pressure of the gas present in the first zone 130. In essence, through the balancing chamber 570, the thrust exerted directly on the first mobile shutter 150, and therefore on the first mobile group 540, which derives from the gas at pressure Pm present in the first zone 130, is thus balanced - preferably it is nullified and is made irrelevant in the pressure reduction carried out by the first stage 200. Conveniently, the first wall 590 is fixed or in any case independent with respect to the movement of the first mobile group 540 and can be made of rigid material, possibly including a portion of elastic material (e.g. a membrane) to delimit the first balance chamber 570.

[0190] Preferably, said first sub-chamber 520 can be fluidically connected to the second zone 140 by means of a corresponding fluidic connection section. Conveniently, therefore, the first sub-chamber 520 of the first control head 500 of the first regulation stage 200 is at a pressure P1 corresponding to the outlet pressure (which has been reduced with respect to Pm) of the first regulation stage 200. Preferably, the first sub-chamber 520 is defined between the first wall 590 and the first movable dividing element 510.

[0191] Conveniently, a first spring 610 also acts on the first movable dividing element 510 which, preferably, is housed in the second sub-chamber 530. Conveniently, the first spring 610 is constituted by a helical spring interposed between a fixed cap 620 (or equivalent fixed element) and the first movable dividing element 510 so as to operate by pushing on the latter. Preferably, said second sub-chamber 530 can be fluidically connected to the passage 330 which is intended to be in direct fluidic connection with the environment external to the regulator itself. Conveniently, therefore, the gas and / or air in the second sub-chamber 530 of the first head 500 of the first regulation stage 200 is at a pressure corresponding to the atmospheric pressure of the environment.

[0192] Preferably, therefore, the gas at pressure P1 present in the first sub-chamber acts on the first movable dividing element 510 and, in the opposite direction, the first spring 610 acts by pushing, possibly with the addition of the contribution of the gas and / or air at atmospheric pressure.

[0193] Conveniently, the thrust of the first spring 610 is regulated or adjustable and thus defines the calibration of the first regulation stage 200. In particular, the thrust of the first spring 610 is regulated so as to cause an opening movement of the mobile group 540 and therefore a consequent movement of the first shutter 150 with respect to the first passage opening 170 such as to define a restriction that causes a drop in gas pressure until it reaches the pressure P1.

[0194] Preferably, the first regulation stage 200 is of the “fail to open” type, i.e. it is configured so that, in the event of a failure / breakage of the first movable dividing element 510 of the first control head 500, it moves into an open condition (i.e. the first shutter 150 of the first regulation stage 200 moves away from the first passage opening 170). In particular, to this end, the first spring 610 acts on the first movable dividing element 510 so that its elongation causes, through the first mobile group 540 which is fixed or integral with said dividing element, the movement of the first shutter 150 away from the first passage opening 170. Second regulation stage 210

[0195] In particular, the second regulation stage 210 comprises:

[0196] - a second passage opening 171 between a third zone 131 and a fourth zone 141 which is downstream of said third zone 131 , - a second mobile shutter 151 for obstructing the second passage opening 171 ,

[0197] - a second control head 501 comprising a second mobile group 541 for the controlled movement of the second mobile bolt 151 .

[0198] Conveniently, the third zone 131 is fluidically connected to the second zone 140, or may correspond with / comprise at least in part said second zone 140, and in any case the gas in the third zone 131 is at a pressure P1 which corresponds to the pressure of the gas in the second zone 140 of the first regulation stage 200 and that is to the pressure of the gas exiting from said first regulation stage 200.

[0199] Conveniently, the second mobile shutter 151 is movable relative to the second passage opening 171 so as to vary the obstruction of the gas passage opening from the third zone 131 to said fourth zone 141 , thereby causing a corresponding reduction in gas pressure from said third zone 131 to said fourth zone 141. Therefore, the gas in the fourth zone 141 is at a P2 which is lower / reduced with respect to the pressure P1 of the second zone 140 and the third zone 131 .

[0200] Conveniently, the second control head 501 comprises a chamber wherein is housed a second dividing element 511 which is movable and which divides the chamber itself into a third sub-chamber 521 and a fourth sub-chamber 531.

[0201] The second dividing element 511 is mechanically connected to the second mobile shutter 151 , to thus control the movement of the latter with respect to the second passage opening 171. Preferably, the second dividing element 511 is mechanically connected to the second mobile shutter 151 by means of the second mobile group 541 which, more preferably, comprises a second shaft 551 and which at one end is fixed centrally to the second dividing element 511 and at the other end supports or defines the second mobile shutter 151. Ideally, the second shaft 551 may comprise two pieces (rods) made integral or in any case fixed to each other.

[0202] As stated, the second regulation stage 210 is of the balanced type and, in particular, is configured so as to use / draw the gas at pressure P1 to balance the movement of the second mobile group 541 resulting from the thrust that the gas - and in particular the gas at pressure P1 present in the third zone 131 - exerts directly on the face / part of the second shutter 151 facing said third zone 131. More preferably, for this purpose, a second circuit is provided which fluidly connects the third zone 131 with a second balancing chamber 571 . Ideally, the second balancing chamber 571 is defined between a further mobile wall 581 which is integral in movement with this and therefore with the second mobile group 541 , and a second wall 591 which is crossed by the second mobile group 541 so as to act as a support and guide for the movement of the mobile group itself. In more detail, the further mobile wall 581 can be made of elastic or deformable material and is fixed, with its first edge (the internal one), to the second shaft 551 of the second mobile group 541 while its second edge (the external one) is fixed to the second wall 591 . Conveniently, in this way, the thrust exerted on the second mobile shutter 151 of the second mobile group 541 by the pressure P1 of the gas present in the third zone 131 is substantially balanced by the thrust, directed in the opposite direction, which is exerted on the second mobile group 541 by the pressure of the gas which is present in the second balancing chamber 571 and which, having arrived in said balancing chamber through the second circuit, corresponds to the pressure P1 of the gas present in the third zone 131. In essence, through the second balancing chamber 571 , the thrust exerted directly on the second mobile shutter 151 is thus balanced - preferably nullified and rendered irrelevant in the reduction carried out by the second stage 210 - and then on the second mobile group 541 , which derives from the gas at pressure P1 present in the third zone 131. Conveniently, the second wall 591 is fixed or in any case independent with respect to the movement of the second mobile group 541 and can be made of rigid material, possibly including a portion in elastic material (for example a membrane) to delimit the second balancing chamber 571.

[0203] Preferably, said third sub-chamber 521 can be fluidically connected to the fourth zone 141 by means of a corresponding fluid connection section 599. Conveniently, therefore, the third sub-chamber 521 of the second control head 501 of the second regulation stage 210 is at a pressure P2 corresponding to the outlet pressure (which has been reduced with respect to P1 ) of the second regulation stage 200 and also corresponding to the pressure Pu of the gas exiting the regulator 100. Preferably, the third sub-chamber 521 is defined between the second wall 591 and the second movable dividing element 511 .

[0204] Conveniently, the second spring 611 also acts on the second movable dividing element 511 , which is preferably housed in the fourth sub-chamber 531 . Conveniently, the second spring 611 is made up of a helical spring placed between a second fixed cap 621 (or other equivalent element) and the second movable dividing element 511 so as to operate by pushing on the latter. Preferably, said fourth sub-chamber 531 can be fluidically connected with a passage 330 which is intended to be in direct fluidic connection with the environment external to the regulator itself. Conveniently, therefore, the fourth sub-chamber 531 of the second head 501 of the second regulation stage 210 is at a pressure corresponding to the atmospheric pressure of the environment. Preferably, therefore, the gas at pressure P2 present in the third sub-chamber 521 (and corresponding to the gas outlet pressure Pu from the regulator 100) acts on the second movable dividing element 511 , while, in the opposite direction, the second spring 611 acts by pushing, possibly with the addition of the contribution of the gas / air at atmospheric pressure.

[0205] Conveniently, the thrust of the second spring 611 is regulated or adjustable and thus defines the calibration of the second regulation stage 210. In particular, the thrust of the second spring 611 is regulated so as to cause an opening movement of the second mobile group 541 and therefore a consequent movement of the second shutter 151 with respect to the second passage opening 171 such as to define a restriction that causes a drop in gas pressure until it reaches (at least) the pressure P2.

[0206] Preferably, as shown in figure 10B, the second regulation stage 210 is of the “fail to open” type, i.e. it is configured so that, in the event of a failure / breakage of the second mobile dividing element 511 of the second control head 501 , it moves into an open condition (i.e. the second shutter 151 of the second regulation stage 210 moves completely away from the second passage opening 171). In particular, to this end, the second spring 611 acts on the second mobile dividing element 511 so that its extension causes, through the second mobile group 541 which is fixed or integral with said dividing element, the second shutter 151 to move away from the second passage opening 171.

[0207] Preferably, in a possible embodiment, said second regulation stage 210 can be provided with an interception / blocking device configured to activate automatically in the event of failure of the first regulation stage 200.

[0208] Preferably, in a possible embodiment, said second regulation stage 210 is provided with an interception / blocking device configured to activate automatically in the event of a failure of the second regulation stage 210.

[0209] From what has been said it is clear that the solution according to the invention is advantageous since, in the event of an anomaly or failure of the first or second regulation stage, it still allows a reduction in the pressure of the gas exiting the regulator to be obtained, while at the same time avoiding completely interrupting the gas supply downstream of the regulator and also avoiding discharging the gas into the atmosphere.

[0210] Variant of the regulator 100 illustrated in figs. 11 A, 11 B and 12

[0211] In a possible variant of the regulator 100 which is illustrated in figs. 11A, 11 B and 12, the first regulation stage 200 (see fig. 11A) substantially corresponds to the one already described and illustrated with reference in particular to figs. 9A and 10A, while the second regulation stage 210 (see figs. 11 B and 12) substantially corresponds to the one already described and illustrated with reference in particular to figs. 9B and 10B with the addition of a mobile element 290 configured to, and intended to, cooperate with the second shutter 151 to block, in the event of failure of the first regulation stage 200, the passage of gas towards the outlet of the regulator itself.

[0212] Preferably, the mobile element 290 cooperates with the second shutter 151 at said second passage opening 171.

[0213] The gas coming out of the first regulation stage 200 and the thrust of a third spring 291 act on the mobile element 290 in opposite directions. In particular, the gas coming out of the first regulation stage 200 acts on a first side (or first face) of the mobile element 290, which preferably faces substantially towards the third zone 131 ; while, in the opposite direction, a third spring 291 acts by pushing, as does the gas coming out of the second regulation stage 210. In particular, the gas coming out of the second regulation stage 210 and also the third spring 291 act on another / second side (or other / second face) of the mobile element 290, which preferably faces substantially towards the fourth zone 141. Conveniently, said first side and said second side of the mobile element 290 are opposite to each other.

[0214] In particular, the third spring 291 pushes the mobile element 290 towards a abutment element 292 which is fixed and which is positioned at said second passage opening 171. Preferably, the abutment element 292 can be defined by a section (the one closest to the second shutter 151 ) of a structure which acts as a guide for the second shaft 551 of the second mobile group 541. Conveniently, the gas exiting from the first regulation stage 200 acts on the mobile element 290, and also on the second shutter 151 , so as to move it / them away from the abutment element 292.

[0215] Conveniently, the third spring 291 is configured so that - in a normal operating condition of the regulator (i.e. in the absence of anomalies or faults in both regulation stages of the regulator, and in particular of the first regulation stage 200) - its thrust on the mobile element 290 is greater than the (opposite) thrust deriving from the action of the gas at pressure P1 which exits the first stage and which acts on the face of the mobile element 290 facing the third zone 131 , where the pressure P1 - in a normal and correct operating condition of the regulator itself and in particular of the first regulation stage 200 - is reduced with respect to the pressure Pm at the inlet to the regulator itself . Therefore, in this normal operating condition of the regulator , the mobile element 290 thus remains resting on the abutment element 292 (fig. 11 B).

[0216] In the event of a failure or malfunction of the first regulation stage 200, there is no reduction in the pressure Pm of the gas entering the regulator and, therefore, the gas at pressure Pm reaches the second regulation stage 200 and, in particular, the third zone 131. In this condition, the thrust deriving from the gas at pressure Pm which acts on the side of the mobile element 290 facing the third zone 131 is much greater than the sum of the thrusts given by the third spring 291 and by the gas, at the outlet pressure of the second regulation stage 210, which acts on the side of the mobile element 290 facing the fourth zone 141. Therefore, in this condition, the mobile element 290 is thus moved away from the abutment element 292 and the second shutter 151 (whose movement is controlled by the second head 501 ) remains substantially adjacent / in contact with the mobile element 290 as the second regulation stage 210 continues to try to regulate the pressure coming out of said second stage; in essence, the second shutter 151 , which is controlled by the second head 501 (given that the gas at the pressure coming out of the second regulation stage acts on the second mobile dividing element 541 of said head) moves in the same direction as the mobile element 290, i.e. away from the abutment element 292.

[0217] Preferably, the second regulation stage 200 comprises a mechanical stop 295 for the movement of the second mobile group 541 , thus defining a limit switch for the movement of the second shutter 151. In particular, when the second shutter 151 reaches the maximum of its travel away from the abutment element 292 - and in particular this occurs when a section of the second mobile group 541 which is integral in movement with the second shutter 151 abuts the mechanical stop 295 which, ideally, can be defined by a further section of the structure which acts as a guide for the shaft 551 of the second mobile group 541 - the mobile element 290, pushed by the gas at pressure Pm, comes into contact with the second shutter 151 thus interrupting / closing the passage of the gas from the third zone 131 towards the fourth zone 141 (i.e. closing the second regulation stage 210).

[0218] Conveniently, the moving element 290 and the second shutter 151 are configured so that, when they are in mutual contact, they interrupt the passage of gas towards the outlet of the second regulation stage 210, and in particular they interrupt the passage of gas from the third zone 131 towards the fourth zone 141 through the second passage opening 171.

[0219] Preferably, the mobile element 290 defines a movable adjustment seat for the second regulation stage 210. Preferably, the mobile element 290 can have an annular shape, wherein with its radially outermost parts it cooperates slidably - more preferably also by means of a gasket (for example of the O-ring type) which is housed inside an external groove - with the internal walls of a tubular section interposed between the third zone 131 and the fourth zone 141 , while with its radially innermost parts it cooperates with the face of the second shutter 151 facing towards the third zone 131. Preferably, one side of the mobile element 290 is shaped so as to cooperate with the abutment element 292, while the opposite side of the mobile element comes into contact / rest on the third spring 291.

[0220] Advantageously, therefore, in the event of failure or malfunction of the first regulation stage 200, the gas outlet from the regulator is blocked and thus the gas supply to the users downstream of the regulator itself is interrupted; this allows the downstream users to be protected from overpressure.

[0221] Advantageously, in the solution according to the present invention, in the event of failure or malfunction of the first regulation stage 200, the mobile element 290 - with the second mobile shutter 151 - is moved away from the abutment element 292 and, furthermore, since the limit switch of the second mobile group 541 is known (which is defined by the abutment with the mechanical stop 295), the corresponding conformation assumed by the further mobile wall 581 (which is integral in movement with the second mobile group 541 ) of the second balancing chamber 571 is also known when the second mobile group 541 is in said limit switch position.

[0222] Preferably, the second mobile group 541 comprises a counter-shaped portion 296 which faces the further mobile wall 581 and which is shaped in a substantially complementary manner to the shape assumed by the portion in elastic or deformable material (for example defined by a membrane) of the further mobile wall 581 when the second mobile group 541 is in the end-of-travel position. More preferably, said countershaped portion 296 of the second mobile group 541 is defined by a support section of the elastic or deformable portion of the second dividing element 511 .

[0223] Advantageously, the counter-shaped portion 296 protects the membrane of the further mobile wall 581 of the second balancing chamber 571 in the event of failure or malfunction of the first regulation stage 200. In fact, following failure or malfunction of the first regulation stage 200, the gas at the upstream pressure Pm reaches the third zone 131 and - if the second regulation stage 210 is of the balanced type (and there is therefore a fluid connection between the third zone 131 and the second balancing chamber 571 ) - the gas at pressure Pm enters the second balancing chamber 571 and, therefore, the portion in elastic or deformable material (for example defined by a membrane that is configured to generally operate at a pressure P1 <2Psi, 138mbar) of the further mobile wall 581 of the second balancing chamber 571 is subject to overpressure. Advantageously, in this condition, the portion in elastic or deformable material (for example defined by a membrane) of the further mobile wall 581 rests on the counter-shaped portion 296 of the second mobile group 541 , thus finding protection and support that prevents its burst and / or detachment / slip out from the wall 591 and / or from the wall of the mobile group 541 to which it is connected.

[0224] Preferably, the first regulation stage 200 comprises a further first spring 630, housed inside the second sub-chamber 530, and acting by pushing between the first dividing element 510 and a first abutment element 631 which is fixed on a section of the first shaft 550 which is housed inside the second sub-chamber 530.

[0225] Preferably, the second regulation stage 210 comprises a further second spring 640, housed inside the fourth sub-chamber 531 , and acting by pushing between the second dividing element 511 and a second abutment element 641 which is fixed on a section of the second shaft 551 which is housed inside the fourth sub-chamber 531 .

[0226] The present invention has been illustrated and described in a preferred embodiment, but it is understood that executive variations may be made to it in practice, without however departing from the scope of protection of the present patent for industrial invention.

Claims

C L A I M S1. Regulator (100) for a gas regulation apparatus and, in particular, of the type suitable to be installed in a gas transport and / or distribution network, comprising a containment body (110) with a gas inlet (310) and a gas outlet (320), said regulator (100) comprising within the containment body (110):- a first regulation stage (200) which is configured to reduce the pressure Pm of the gas entering the regulator (10) to a pressure P1 ,- a second regulation stage (210), which is fluidically in series and downstream of the first regulation stage (200), and which is configured to reduce the pressure P1 to a pressure P2 corresponding to the pressure Pu of the gas exiting the regulator, and wherein:- the first regulation stage (200) is of the balanced type,- the first regulation stage (200) is configured so that the pressure P1 of the gas exiting the first regulation stage is less than approximately 138 - 140 mbar, preferably less than approximately 70 mbar.

2. Regulator according to claim 1 , wherein said second regulation stage (210) is provided with a interception / blocking device configured to activate automatically in the event of failure of the first regulation stage (200).

3. Regulator (100) for a gas regulation apparatus and, in particular, of the type suitable to be installed in a gas transport and / or distribution network, comprising a containment body (110) with a gas inlet (310) and a gas outlet (320), said regulator (100) comprising within the containment body (110):- a first regulation stage (200) which is configured to reduce the pressure Pm of the gas entering the regulator (10) to a pressure P1 ,- a second regulation stage (210), which is fluidically in series and downstream of the first regulation stage (200), and which is configured to reduce the pressure P1 to a pressure P2 corresponding to the pressure Pu of the gas exiting the regulator, and wherein said second regulation stage (210) is provided with an interception / blocking device configured to activate automatically in the event of failure of the first regulation stage (200).

4. Regulator according to the preceding claim, wherein the first regulation stage (200) is of the balanced type.

5. Regulator according to claims 3 or 4, wherein the first regulation stage (200) is configured so that the pressure P1 of the gas exiting the first regulation stage is less than approximately 138 - 140 mbar, preferably less than approximately 70 mbar.

6. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the first regulation stage (200) is of the “fail to open” type and the second regulation stage (210) is of the “fail to open” type.

7. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said second regulation stage (210) is provided with an interception / blocking device configured to activate automatically in the event of failure of the second regulation stage (210).

8. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the first regulation stage (200) comprises:- a first mobile group (540) which is provided with or is integral in movement with a first shutter (150) to restrict a first passage opening (170) between a first zone (130) and a second zone (140),- a first head (500) comprising a first mobile group (540) to control / command the movement of the first shutter (150) thus varying the constriction of the first passage opening (170) and causing a corresponding reduction in gas pressure which passes from the first zone (130) to the second zone (140), and wherein:- said first head (500) comprises a first chamber wherein it is movable a first dividing element (510) which is integral in movement with the first mobile group (540),- the gas at the outlet pressure from the first regulation stage (200) acts on the first dividing element (510), and at least one first spring (610) also acts by pushing in the opposite direction so as to move the first shutter (150) away from the first passage opening (170),9. Regulator according to the previous claim, wherein the first regulation stage (200) also comprises a first balancing chamber (570) which is fluidically connected to the first zone (130) to receive the gas at pressure Pm of said first zone so that said gas at pressure Pm present in said balancing chamber (570) acts on the first mobile group (540) in a direction opposite to the thrust that the gas exerts on the face / part of the first shutter (150) facing said first zone (130).

10. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the second regulation stage (210) comprises:- a second mobile group (541) which is provided with or is integral in movement with a second shutter (151 ) to restrict a second passage opening (171 ) between a third zone (131 ) and a fourth zone (141 ), in said third zone (131 ) the gasbeing at a pressure corresponding to that of said second zone (130) of the first regulation stage (200),- a second head (501 ) comprising a second mobile group (541 ) to control / command the movement of the second shutter (151 ) thus varying the constriction of the second passage opening (171 ) and causing a corresponding reduction in gas pressure which passes from the third zone (131) to the fourth zone (141 ); and wherein:- said second head (501 ) comprises a second chamber with a second dividing element (511 ) which is movable and integral in movement with the second mobile group (541 ),- the gas at the outlet pressure of the second regulation stage (210) and also corresponding to the pressure Pu exiting the regulator (100) acts on the second dividing element (511 ), and a second spring (611) also acts by pushing in the opposite direction so as to move the second shutter (151 ) away from the second passage opening (171 ).

11. Regulator according to the preceding claim, wherein said second regulation stage (210) comprises a second balancing chamber (571 ) which is fluidically connected to the third zone (131 ) to receive the gas of said third zone so that said gas present inside said second balancing chamber (571) acts on the second mobile group (541 ) in a direction opposite to the thrust that the gas exerts on the face / part of the second shutter (151 ) facing said third zone (131 ).

12. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said first balancing chamber (570) is defined between a first radial narrowing section (580) of a first shaft (550) of the first mobile group (540) and a tubular section of a first wall (590), and wherein said tubular section is crossed by the first mobile group (540).

13. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said second balancing chamber (571 ) is defined between a further mobile wall (581 ), which is integral in movement with said second mobile group (541 ), and a second wall (591 ) which is crossed by the second mobile group (541 ) so as to act as a support and guide for the movement of the second mobile group itself.

14. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said second regulation stage (210) comprises a mobile element (290) which is mobile and which cooperates with the second shutter (151 ) to block, in the event of failure of the first regulation stage (200), the passage of gas towards the outlet of the regulator itself.

15. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said second regulation stage (210) comprises a mobile element (290) on which the gas exiting from the first regulation stage (200) and the thrust of a third spring (291) act in opposite directions .

16. Regulator according to the preceding claim, wherein:- on a first side of the mobile element (290), which preferably faces substantially towards the third zone (131), the gas exiting from the first regulation stage (200) acts,- on another side of the mobile element (290), which preferably faces substantially towards the fourth zone (141), the thrust of the third spring (291) and the gas exiting from the second regulation stage (210) act.

17. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the third spring (291) pushes the mobile element (290) towards an abutment element (292) which is fixed and which is positioned at a second passage opening (171) wherein a second shutter (151) of the second regulation stage (210) acts.

18. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the third spring (291) is configured so that its thrust on the mobile element (290) is greater than that resulting from the action of the gas at pressure P1 exiting the first regulation stage, and wherein the pressure P1 is reduced by the first regulation stage (200) with respect to the pressure Pm of the gas entering the regulator.

19. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the mobile element (290) and the second shutter (151) of the second regulation stage (210) are configured so that, when they are in mutual contact, they interrupt the passage of gas towards the outlet of the second regulation stage (210).

20. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the second regulation stage (210) comprises a mechanical stop for the movement of the second mobile group (541 ), thus defining a limit switch for the movement of said second mobile group (541) and also of the second shutter (151).21 . Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the second mobile group (541) comprises a counter-shaped portion (296) which faces the further mobile wall (581) of the second balancing chamber (571) and which is shaped in a substantially complementary way with respect to the conformation assumed by the portion in elastic or deformable material of said further mobile wall (581) when the second mobile group (541) is in the end-of-travel position.

22. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the first regulation stage (200) comprises:- a first control head (500), which comprises a chamber wherein a first dividing element (510) is housed which is movable and which divides the chamber itself into a first sub-chamber (520) and a second sub-chamber (530),- a further first spring (630), housed inside the second sub-chamber (530), and acting by pushing between the first dividing element (510) and a first abutment element (631 ) which is fixed on a section of the first shaft (550) which is housed inside the second sub-chamber (530).

23. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the second regulation stage (210) comprises:- a second control head (501), which comprises a chamber wherein a second dividing element (511) is housed which is movable and which divides the chamber itself into a third sub-chamber (521) and a fourth sub-chamber (531),- the second regulation stage (210) comprises a further second spring (640), housed inside the fourth sub-chamber (531), and acting by pushing between the second dividing element (511) and a second abutment element (641) which is fixed on a section of the second shaft (551) which is housed inside the fourth sub-chamber (531).

24. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein, within the containment body, the regulator comprises:- a further regulation stage (40) which comprises a further mobile group (38) with a further shutter (39) for the obstruction of a further passage opening (41) which is defined in a fluid path, obtained in the containment body, which connects the inlet with the outlet, and wherein said further regulation stage (40) is configured to:- operate normally open,- cause, when activated, a reduction in the pressure of the gas which, passing through the regulator, passes from the inlet to the outlet,- be controlled by the gas at pressure Pu, which corresponds to the gas pressure exiting the regulator or downstream of the regulator itself.

25. Regulator (10) for a gas regulation apparatus and, in particular, of the type suitable to be installed in a gas transport and / or distribution network, comprising a containment body (11) with a gas inlet (31) and a gas outlet (32), and where, inside the containment body (11), the regulator (10) comprises:- at least one regulation stage (20, 21) configured to cause a reduction in the pressure of the gas which, passing through the regulator (10), passes from the inlet (31) to the outlet (32),- a further regulation stage (40) which comprises a further mobile group (38) with a further shutter (39) for the obstruction of a further passage opening (41) which is defined in a fluid path, obtained in the containment body (11), which connects the inlet (31) with the outlet (32), and wherein said further regulation stage (40) is configured to:- operate normally open,- cause, when activated, a reduction in the pressure of the gas which, passing through the regulator (10), passes from the inlet (31) to the outlet (32),- be controlled by the gas at pressure Pu, which corresponds to the gas pressure exiting the regulator (10) or downstream of the regulator itself.

26. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said further regulation stage (40) is configured so that:- on the further mobile group (38) gas at pressure Pu acts, which corresponds to the pressure of the gas exiting the regulator (10) or downstream of the regulator itself,- it is activated when said gas pressure Pu exceeds an activation pressure value Ps, which is preferably defined within the range between approximately 70 and approximately 138 - 140 mbar, more preferably it is within the range 70 - 100 mbar,- when activated, the gas at pressure Pu acts on the further mobile group (38) to move the further shutter (39) towards said further passage opening (41) and cause a reduction in the pressure of the gas which, passing through the regulator (10), passes from the inlet (31) to the outlet (32).

27. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein:- on the further mobile group (38) act, in opposite directions, thrust means (70) and the gas at pressure Pu corresponding to the pressure of the gas exiting the regulator (10) or downstream of the regulator itself,- the thrust means (70) act on the further mobile group (38) so as to move the further shutter (39) away from the further passage opening (41) of the further regulation stage (40).

28. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said further regulation stage (40) is of the balanced type.

29. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein:- said further passage opening (41) is arranged between an upstream zone (72) and a downstream zone (73),- from the face of the further mobile shutter (39) acting inside the upstream zone (72) and facing the further passage opening (41) a further circuit (79) branches which fluidly connects the downstream zone (73) with a further balancing chamber (80),- the further mobile group (38) comprises a further shaft (78),- the further circuit (79) comprises at least one duct obtained inside the further shaft (78) of the further mobile group (38),- the further balancing chamber (80) is delimited by a further radial widening section (81) of the further shaft (78) and by a further wall (82), which is crossed by the further mobile group (38) so as to act as a support and guide for the movement of the further mobile group.

30. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said at least one regulation stage of the regulator (10) comprises:- only a first stage of regulation (20), or- a first regulation stage (20) and a second regulation stage (21) which is fluidically in series and downstream of the first regulation stage.31 . Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said further regulation stage (40) faces the first regulation stage (20).

32. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said further regulation stage (40) acts upstream of the first regulation stage (20) and is interposed in a gas fluid path between said first regulation stage (20) and said gas inlet (31).

33. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the gas at pressure Pu acting on the further mobile group (38) is taken from a zone which is obtained inside the containment body (11) of the regulator (10).

34. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said at least one regulation stage comprises a first regulation stage (20) which comprises:- a first passage opening (17) between a first zone (13) and a second zone (14) which is downstream of said first zone (13),- a first mobile shutter (15) for obstructing the first passage opening (17),- a first control head (50) comprising a first mobile group (54) for the controlled movement of the mobile shutter (15), and wherein the first control head (50) is configured so that on the first mobile group (54) they act:- in a first direction of distancing of the first shutter (15) from the first opening (17), a first spring (61) and gas at pressure Pu corresponding to the downstream / outlet pressure of the regulator (10 ),- in a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction, the gas at pressure Pr corresponding to the pressure that has been reduced by the action of the first shutter (15) on the first passage opening (17).

35. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said first regulation stage (20) is of the balanced type and of the “fail to open” type and / or said second regulation stage (21 ) is of the “fail to open” type and is not of the balanced type.

36. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the containment body (11) comprises inside:- a cavity (86) to house at least in part said first regulation stage (20),- a further cavity (87) to house at least in part said further regulation stage (40), and wherein said cavity (86) and said further cavity (87) are separated from each other by a dividing element (88) comprising a tubular section (85), and wherein said first passage opening (17) of the first regulation stage (20) is defined at a first end of the tubular section (85) and said further passage opening (41) of the further regulation stage (40) is defined at the other end, which is opposite to the first, of the same tubular section (85).

37. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said further regulation stage (40) comprises at least one component which is interchangeable with a corresponding component of the first regulation stage (20).

38. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein:- said further regulation stage (40) comprises a further chamber wherein a further dividing element (74) is housed which is movable and which divides the chamber itself into a further first sub-chamber (75) and into a further second sub-chamber (76),- the further dividing element (74) is mechanically connected to the further mobile shutter (39), thus controlling the movement of the latter with respect to the further passage opening (41),- said further first sub-chamber (75) is defined between a further wall (82), which is fixed, and the further dividing element (74),- thrust means (70) housed in said further first sub-chamber (75) act on the further dividing element (74).

39. Regulator according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein:- said first regulation stage (20) comprises a chamber wherein a first dividing element (51) is housed which is movable and which divides the chamber itself into a first sub-chamber (52) and a second sub-chamber (53),- the first dividing element (51) is mechanically connected to the first mobile shutter (15), to thus control the movement of the latter with respect to the first passage opening (17),- said first sub-chamber (52) is defined between a first wall (59), which is fixed, and the first dividing element (51),- a first spring (61 ) housed in said first sub-chamber (52) acts on the first dividing element (51).

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