Instrument air sources shall produce air at a gauge pressure of not less than how many PSIG?

The required gauge pressure for instrument air sources is determined by industry standards and the specific applications for which the air is used. A gauge pressure of 200 PSIG is specified as the minimum for instrument air systems to ensure that the air delivered is adequate for the operation of various instruments and equipment.

This pressure level is crucial because it allows for proper functioning and reliability in processes where air is used to operate pneumatic instruments, valves, and control systems. Insufficient pressure may lead to inadequate performance, causing malfunction or failure of critical systems, which could result in safety hazards or operational inefficiencies.

In comparison, lower pressures, such as 100 or 150 PSIG, may not provide sufficient force to operate the necessary instruments effectively, and therefore they do not meet the minimum requirements for instrument air sources. The higher specification at 200 PSIG ensures that there is enough pressure to compensate for any potential losses due to factors like friction or distance in the distribution system, maintaining sufficient delivery pressure at the point of use.