A(n) ____ is used to reduce and control the pressure of the welding gases.

A regulator is a crucial component in welding operations as it serves the primary function of reducing and controlling the pressure of the gases used during the welding process. When high-pressure gas is stored in cylinders, it needs to be safely and effectively managed to ensure that it flows at the correct pressure for efficient and safe welding. The regulator achieves this by converting the high-pressure gas to a lower, more manageable pressure, allowing for a consistent supply that meets the requirements of the specific welding application.

In addition to pressure reduction, regulators often have gauges that display the current pressure levels, enabling welders to monitor gas flow accurately. This is essential for maintaining the proper welding parameters, ensuring that the process is not only efficient but also safe.

Other components mentioned serve different functions. For example, a flowmeter measures the flow rate of the gas rather than controlling the pressure. A manifold is designed for distributing gas to multiple welding stations and does not regulate pressure independently. A bypass valve is used to allow the gas to flow around the regulator, generally for safety in situations where pressure needs to be manually managed or relieved, but it does not serve the primary role of reducing pressure like a regulator does.