Other (non-beverage) Regulators - Use for Beer?

[djradz]

Can I use a regulator from a welding gas or lab gas (not acetylene, not propane) for beer CO2? These seem to be available at lower costs. I believe I could change the tank fitting and I'd be sure to use a regulator good for at least 3000 psi, high-side.

[BrewGuru]

Cross use of regulators for dispensing gasses they are not intended for is not recommended for several reasons, the diaphragms in each regulator is often designed for the specific gas, operational temperature, safety concerns, etc...

A good quality CO2 regulator with a proper CGA-320 connection shouldn't set you back that much that changing your tank valve is a viable option, plus tank exchanges (most places around here are now prohibited by the state from doing onsite fills due to the dangers) with a non-standard valve could prove problematic, and I've found that tank adaptors for various CGA valves are only good in a pinch and are MUCH more prone to leaking failures if the regulator is bumped or jostled, and the adaptors will cost you half the cost of an acceptable quality regulator.

What were you thinking about doing? It sounds like you need a good primary, if you're talking about in-line / secondary regulators, there are many options available.