Industries use valves almost every day. Valves control, regulate and shut off supplies. Plumbing valves are devices that carry out a lot of functioning. They need to work correctly. Safety valves are the devices that save the system from overpressure. Relief valves are a type of safety valve. We use them to control increasing pressure.

Pressure Relief Valves (Types and Working Principle)

Relief valves release extra pressure and optimize the flow through the channel. They save from the hazards of blasts. A relief valve is a durable device with many features. Before getting into detail, let’s check what a relief valve is.

What is a Relief Valve?

A pressure relief valve is a safety valve that controls pressure in a system. We need it when overpressure can cause problems. Pressure relief valves solve the problem of system failure due to pressure changes. A pressure relief valve is a critical safety device. It ensures the safe operation of pressurized systems. We must maintain and test these valves to ensure their proper functioning.

There are different types of pressure relief valves. It includes spring-loaded, pilot-operated, and safety relief valves. The choice of valve depends on the application and the required level of safety.

When the pressure in a system rises above a setpoint, the relief valve opens. It allows fluid to flow out of the system, which reduces the pressure to a safe level. The valve then closes once it relieves stress. The pressure relief valve must be set to open at a pressure below the setpoint. We should consider the pressure relief valve in case other control measures fail.

Specifications. Product: Brass Pressure Relief Valve. Material: CW617N, H58-3 Size: 1/2 Working Pressure: 1.3 Bar, 3 Bar, 6 Bar, 8 Bar Thread Connection: BSP. Applications: The applications include Water treatment plants and household uses.

Types of Pressure Relief Valves:

There are several types of pressure relief valves (PRVs) available. Each type has unique features and applications. Below are the kinds of Pressure Relief Valves.

Power Actuated Relief Valve: 

A power-actuated relief valve (PARV) is a type of pressure relief valve (PRV) that uses a power source.  The source can be hydraulic fluid or compressed gas. It assists in opening the valve during overpressure conditions. The power actuator can be a piston or diaphragm. It helps in opening the valve during an overpressure event. A control system handles the actuator. It receives input from sensors that track the system.

When the system pressure rises above the set point actuator start working. It opens the valve and relieves excess stress. The power actuator may also provide extra benefits. It includes faster response times and greater accuracy. They also can operate in high-pressure or high-temperature environments.

PARVs are common in applications where the system pressure is high. They are also applicable in the process, which requires a fast response time. Examples include power generation, chemical processing, and oil and gas production. We can also use them when a standard spring-loaded PRV is insufficient.

Temperature Actuated Pressure Relief Valve:

A temperature-actuated pressure relief valve has a unique design to relieve excess pressure. The cause of stress may be the thermal expansion in pressurized systems. The valve works by using a temperature-sensitive element. The element can be a wax pellet or a bimetallic strip. It controls the opening and closing of the valve. When the temperature in the system rises above a set point, this element expands. It results at the beginning of the valve and relieves the excess pressure.

The main component of a temperature-actuated valve is a temperature-sensitive element. The temperature-sensitive part is present within the body. It responds to changes in the temperature of the system. The temperature-sensitive element contracts when the pressure in the system relieves. The contraction closes the valve and prevents further fluid escape.

We use these valves in applications where thermal expansion may cause excessive pressure. It can be hot water heating systems or steam systems.

Spring-loaded Pressure Relief Valves:

These are the most common type of PRVs. They use a spring to hold a disk against a nozzle or seat. When the system pressure rises above the set pressure of the valve, the spring compresses. The disk lifts off the nozzle or seat. It allows fluid to escape and reduce tension. We use Spring-loaded PRVs in low-to-medium pressure applications.

Pilot-operated Pressure Relief Valves:

These valves use a pilot valve to control the opening and closing of the main valve. It uses a small amount of system pressure to operate the pilot valve. This pressure then holds the primary valve disk. Pilot-operated PRVs are applicable in high-pressure applications.

Safety Relief Valves:

 The design of the safety relief valve is to operate in steam application. It uses a spring-loaded disk to seal against a nozzle. When the pressure in the system rises above the set pressure of the valve, the disk lifts off the nozzle. It allows steam to escape and reduces stress. Safety relief valves are applicable in high-pressure steam applications.

Vacuum Pressure Relief Valves: 

A vacuum relief valve (VRV) protects pressurized systems from severe vacuum conditions. Vacuum conditions can occur when they expose a system to a sudden drop in pressure. It may also happen when fluid drains from the system. These conditions create a vacuum that can cause the system to collapse or implode.

When the pressure in the system drops below atmospheric pressure, the spring compresses. It allows the seat to lift off the nozzle. The air enters the system as the disc moves away from the nozzle. It equalizes the pressure and prevents vacuum conditions from causing damage. Once the pressure in the system returns to normal, the spring pushes the seat, resealing the valve.

Vacuum valves are standard in applications where vacuum conditions may pose a risk. It includes storage tanks, pipelines, and other pressurized systems. We can also use them with different pressure relief valves for vacuum protection.

The choice of Pressure relief valve depends on the application. It is crucial to select the correct type of PRV. The valve should be set to the appropriate pressure. It ensures the safe and reliable operation of the system it protects.

Working Mechanism of Pressure Relief Valves:

The working mechanism of a pressure relief valve (PRV) is quite precise. The valve itself opens and releases excess pressure. It happens when the system pressure exceeds the “set pressure. The main components of a PRV include a valve body, a spring, a disk or seat, and a nozzle. The valve body houses the other features and provides a connection point to the system.

The spring holds the disk against the nozzle. It creates a seal that prevents fluid from escaping under normal operating conditions. When the pressure in the system rises above the set pressure, it compresses the spring. It causes the disk to lift off the nozzle or outlet.

As the disk moves away from the nozzle, it escapes the fluid from the system. The process reduces the pressure back to the safe operating range. Once the pressure drops below the set point, the spring pushes the disk back onto the nozzle. It reseals the valve.

The pressure relief valve operates on a regular basis to maintain the set pressure. It opens and closes as needed to prevent damage or injury. It is important to note that PRVs are critical safety devices. We must maintain them to ensure they are functioning well. They can provide reliable protection in the event of an overpressure situation.

Applications of Pressure Relief Valves: 

Here are some typical applications of pressure relief valves in various industries.

Chemical Industry:

The chemical industry is one of the most significant users of pressure relief valves. PRVs protect reactors, tanks, and pipelines from overpressure conditions in this industry. We use these valves to protect equipment from overpressure. Causes of overpressure include blocked lines, excessive temperature, and chemical reactions. Pressure relief valves in the chemical industry handle corrosive and toxic chemicals. It requires unique materials to prevent degradation.

Oil and Gas Industry:

The oil and gas industry is another significant user of pressure relief valves. These valves protect oil and gas pipelines. They also serve protection in drilling operations. In offshore drilling operations, they are critical for preventing fatal blowouts. Such situations can lead to oil spills and other environmental disasters.

Petrochemical Industry:

The petrochemical industry has a close relation to the chemical industry. It also uses pressure relief valves to protect process equipment. Pressure relief valves protect equipment from overpressure due to temperature or chemical reactions. These industries also contain toxic chemicals. For this purpose, pressure relief valves have stable materials.

Pharmaceutical Industry:

The pharmaceutical industry is another industry that relies on pressure relief valves. Pressure Relief valves protect reactors and pipelines from overpressure conditions. These valves handle sensitive and delicate products that need strict quality measures.

Power Generation:

Power generation plants include nuclear power plants and thermal power plants. These industries have extensive use of relief valves. PRVs protect boilers, turbines, and critical parts from overpressure. They also protect pressure vessels and piping systems in steam distribution networks.

Water Treatment:

We also use Pressure relief valves in water treatment facilities. They handle water storage tanks, piping systems, and treatment plants by pressure control. They also protect water treatment plants from pressure during startup and shutdown.

Food Processing:

The food processing industry is another industry that uses pressure relief valves. They protect cookers and sterilizers from pressure. Pressure relief valves also protect pressure vessels and piping systems in these plants.

The applications of pressure relief valves are diverse.  They range from chemical processing to food processing. Proper selection, installation, and maintenance of pressure relief valves are crucial. It ensures high performance and reliability in doing the job.

Advantages of Pressure Relief Valves: 

Pressure relief valves offer several benefits, including:

• Protection From Overpressure:

 The top advantage of PRVs is their ability to protect the system from overpressure. Overpressure can cause system failure, damage, and even explosions. They have a self-mechanism to open and relieve excess pressure. It saves the system from damage to the system, personnel, or the environment.

• Prevents Leaks:

 Relief valves can also prevent leaks in piping systems. They relieve pressure when it exceeds enormous working pressure. Leaks can be costly and can cause environmental damage. It can also cause threats to personnel.

• Saves Energy: 

Relief valves can also help save energy by reducing the pressure when we don’t need it. It reduces the load on the system and results in lower energy consumption.

• Extends Equipment Life: 

By preventing overpressure, these valves can help extend the life of the equipment. Overpressure can cause equipment fatigue, which can lead to decreased lifespan. Long life span makes it an economical choice.

• Improves System Reliability: 

Pressure relief valves can help improve the reliability of a system. They prevent overpressure conditions that can cause downtime and maintenance issues. A reliable strategy can perform way better.

• Compliance With Regulations: 

Many industries must follow the rules and standards that mandate using PRVs. It protects equipment and personnel from overpressure conditions. Following these regulations can prevent legal and financial consequences.

• Versatility: 

Pressure relief valves are available in various types and sizes. They can fit different applications and systems. Their versatility makes them suitable for use in many industries and scenarios. It also makes pressure relief valves durable.

Conclusion:

Pressure relief valves are the latest safety valves. They are adequate for protection purposes. We can use them in houses and every industry. They can save us from significant hazards of explosion. Pressure relief valves are excellent for maintaining secure systems. There are many materials available for these valves. Bronze relief valves, copper, brass, etc., are standard.

The material varies as per application. We can get a suitable relief valve by looking for the proper requirements. A buyer can prepare buying guide before purchasing the product. It’s better to go through the maker’s product details. It helps tell one’s choices and priorities.