Pressure relief valves & pressure regulators - What's the difference?

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the distinct functions of pressure reducing valves and pressure relief valves. A pressure reducing valve regulates system pressure by adjusting flow to maintain a set-point pressure at its outlet, while a pressure relief valve serves as a safety mechanism that vents excess pressure to the atmosphere. Both devices utilize a diaphragm mechanism that interacts with a spring, but they operate under different principles—pressure reducing valves function as series regulators, whereas pressure relief valves act as shunt regulators. Understanding these differences is crucial for effective system design and safety management.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of fluid dynamics and pressure systems
  • Familiarity with valve mechanics and operation
  • Knowledge of safety protocols in pressure management
  • Basic principles of pneumatic and hydraulic systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the design and application of pressure reducing valves
  • Explore the safety standards for pressure relief valves
  • Learn about diaphragm mechanisms in valve technology
  • Investigate the impact of non-idealities in pressure regulation
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, safety managers, and technicians involved in fluid control systems, as well as anyone responsible for designing or maintaining pressure management systems.

eleanorwest83
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What is the difference between a pressure reducing valve and a pressure relief valve? pressure-reducing/regulating/ relief/release - There are so many different options available!

I read this article on Fluid Controls that did a really good job of explaining pressure regulators, but I am a bit lost on the difference between regulators and relief valves.
 
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A regulatory regulates the pressure in your system, changing one pressure into another, whereas a relief valve is a safety device that vents to atmosphere. They don't really have anything in common, so I'm confused as to what you would see in them that's similar.
 
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A pressure reducing valve is a device that varies cross-section (throttles a valve) to maintain a set-point pressure at it's outlet (or another point of interest). Ideally, this works over a range of flow conditions. A relief valve 'cracks' at a set-point-pressure, typically to prevent system pressures from exceeding some value. These devices might also be thought of as 'Series' and 'Shunt' pressure regulators, respectively. The simplest implementation of both devices involves a diaphragm which allows gas pressure to work against a spring to control a valve. in both cases, there are important non-idealities.
 
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