What is a symptom of a worn regulator poppet?

A symptom of a worn regulator poppet is generally associated with a decreased ability to maintain proper pressure within the pneumatic system. When the poppet, which controls the flow of air into the system, becomes worn, it may not seal properly. This can lead to an inability to regulate pressure effectively. As a result, the system may experience fluctuations, possibly leading to a higher system pressure than intended.

It's important to note that the correct answer highlights a critical characteristic of how worn components can affect system performance, specifically the regulation of pressure. When the poppet does not function as intended, the system may operate outside its designed pressure range, leading to potential overpressure situations.

In other contexts, symptoms such as lower flow rates, air leakage, or unusual noises can also indicate different issues in a pneumatic system but do not specifically pinpoint the condition of a worn regulator poppet. Each of those symptoms could be attributed to various other factors, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis based on system behavior.