argon thru co2 regulator

[mk10]

I know that using straight co2 through an argon regulator is possible (at low flow rates to prevent freezing), but what about the other way around? Can I use argon through a co2 regulator? The flowmeter will be inaccurate (since argon is less dense than co2) but is this the only issue that I will encounter?

[Synchroman]

I know that using straight co2 through an argon regulator is possible (at low flow rates to prevent freezing), but what about the other way around? Can I use argon through a co2 regulator? The flowmeter will be inaccurate (since argon is less dense than co2) but is this the only issue that I will encounter?

I have two Smiths flowmeters. One is marked for Argon, Helium, C02 and the other is marked Argon, C02. That means that either of them can use either Argon or C02.

The difference is in the scale markng for each gas and that's only about 1/2" at the top of the tube. My MIG is usd on straight C02 at around 15-20 scfm and has yet to freeze up. At that setting, the scales are almost exactly the same. C02 will, of course, freeze a flowmeter if you use excessive gas flow rates.

There should be no difference in the structure of the flowmeters since both of the gases are inert. I would say that you will be OK.

[mk10]

The regulator that I have is a Victor HRF2380--the HRF2325 is its argon counterpart. The differences between the two seem to be:

co2
- preset outlet pressure: 80 psig
- flowtube scale: 8-28 scfh
- safety relief valve: 150 psig

Argon
- preset outlet pressure: 25 psig
- flowtube scale: 10-50 scfh
- safety relief valve: 60 psig

Do you think I need to adjust the preset pressure screw to compensate for using lower density argon?

[Synchroman]

The regulator that I have is a Victor HRF2380--the HRF2325 is its argon counterpart. The differences between the two seem to be:

co2
- preset outlet pressure: 80 psig
- flowtube scale: 8-28 scfh
- safety relief valve: 150 psig

Argon
- preset outlet pressure: 25 psig
- flowtube scale: 10-50 scfh
- safety relief valve: 60 psig

Do you think I need to adjust the preset pressure screw to compensate for using lower density argon?

You got me. I would simply hook it up and give it a try. The only adjustment on my flowmeters is the scfm flow rate.

[BWS29128]

The regulator that I have is a Victor HRF2380--the HRF2325 is its argon counterpart. The differences between the two seem to be:

co2
- preset outlet pressure: 80 psig
- flowtube scale: 8-28 scfh
- safety relief valve: 150 psig

Argon
- preset outlet pressure: 25 psig
- flowtube scale: 10-50 scfh
- safety relief valve: 60 psig

Do you think I need to adjust the preset pressure screw to compensate for using lower density argon?

You're going to need a bottle adapter regardless, and that should take care of your preset pressures. You're still going to be doing some guess work on your HP gauge though.