Final answer:
In direct-operated pressure regulators, the diaphragm is exposed to outlet pressure to maintain consistent pressure, thus making the answer to the question 'false'.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a direct-operated pressure regulator, the diaphragm is not protected from pressurized air in the outlet port, so the answer to the question is false.
Pressure regulators are designed to maintain a constant output pressure regardless of variations in the input pressure and flow rate demands.
The diaphragm is a crucial component that reacts to changes in downstream pressure, causing the regulator to adjust the flow to maintain the set pressure. If the diaphragm was isolated from the outlet pressure, it couldn't perform this function effectively.