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Selecting a Regulator
The regulation characteristic indicates the ability of the regulator to maintain a relatively constant delivery pressure as the supply pressure changes due to the cycling of the compressor or to upstream pressure changes caused by other equipment.

Flow characteristic indicates the ability of the regulator to maintain a relatively constant delivery pressure as the downstream flow demand changes. This can occur when downstream air tools or other devices are being turned on and off.

Choosing a regulator requires knowing what type of features are needed in addition to the correct regulation and flow characteristics. These features could be flow capacity, pressure and temperature rating, fluid compatibility, relieving or nonrelieving, pilot operated, balanced valve, diaphragm or piston sensor, high relief flow, full flow gauge ports, ease of adjustment, locking and tamper proofing capability and mounting.