What is the primary function of the old gas regulator known as the dead weight regulator?

The primary function of the dead weight regulator is to maintain a consistent pressure within a gas system. This regulator uses a column of mercury to achieve this, relying on the weight of the mercury to create a pressure differential. As gas flows through the system, the mercury level rises or falls according to the changes in pressure, which helps in automatically adjusting the valve to maintain a specific pressure level.

Unlike diaphragm regulators, which operate by responding to changes in pressure using a flexible membrane, the dead weight regulator provides more stable and reliable pressure control due to its simple mechanical design. It does not focus on controlling gas flow, preventing leaks, or monitoring gas quality; instead, its main function is to ensure that the pressure remains consistent for safe and efficient gas delivery throughout the system.