In molding, die casting, and forging, keeping mold temperature and water flow in check can be the difference between consistent cycles and scrap-heavy runs. A water flow regulator is one of the simpler ways to see what each cooling circuit is doing without reaching for a pyrometer. But with used industrial equipment, the question is never just "does it work"-it's "does this particular unit fit the job and the budget?"
Quick Verdict
The IMS Industrial Molding Supplies Water Flow Regulator 2 Zone is a used industrial flow monitor listed at $169. It puts cooling-circuit flow and temperature in front of you at a glance, and the unit is described as being in excellent condition. Whether it fits your shop depends on the number of circuits you need to monitor and how much physical space you have.
Who It Suits
This regulator suits machinists, mold technicians, and small shops that run molds with a modest number of cooling circuits. The calibrated sight tubes and set-point markers make it easy to set a target flow and then spot-check it during the run. Anyone comfortable working with used gear will appreciate the condition of this unit.
IMS Water Flow Regulator 2 Zone # 105398
The IMS 2-zone unit uses a 1" NPT brass water inlet and outlet, with 1/2" straight feed and 1/2" 90-degree return lines. Each station has a calibrated sight tube with set-point markers, solid brass floats, and shutoff valves, so you can isolate a circuit and watch flow rate and temperature directly on the tube-no separate pyrometer needed for each circuit. The unit is made in Italy. Choose this regulator if you want a direct-view flow indicator with per-station control and brass hardware. The built-in limitation is the two-zone capacity-you would need another regulator if your mold has more than two cooling circuits.
Standout Details
The regulator is rated to 100 psi maximum working pressure and 170°F maximum working temperature, and it measures 9.5" wide by 18.5" tall by 5.5" deep, so vertical clearance on your press or cart is worth checking. At $169, the used unit costs less than the $233 new-unit price reference for the same model. The shutoff valves at each station make this a sturdy, tactile piece of shop equipment.
Meaningful Trade-offs
The biggest trade-off is the two-zone design. If your mold has more than two water lines, you would need multiple regulators. The used condition also means there is inherent wear to consider, so a physical inspection before mounting is a reasonable step. The 18.5-inch height is substantial for a bench or cart, and because this is a visual readout tool, you are not getting electronic data logging or remote monitoring.
Bottom Line
For a mold setup that fits within this regulator's capacity, this IMS water flow regulator gives you a clear, mechanical view of flow and temperature. The listed price, combined with the brass construction and direct-view design, makes it a practical shop-floor addition for someone ready to work with a used unit in excellent condition.
