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

In summary, a pressure reducing valve is used to regulate and maintain a set-point pressure in a system, while a pressure relief valve is a safety device that vents excess pressure to atmosphere. They have different functions and are often referred to as "Series" and "Shunt" pressure regulators. Both use a diaphragm and spring to control a valve, but there are some differences and non-idealities to consider.
  • #1
eleanorwest83
1
0
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.
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
  • #2
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.
 
  • Like
Likes davenn and Lnewqban
  • #3
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.
 
  • Like
Likes jbriggs444 and Lnewqban

1. What is the purpose of a pressure relief valve?

A pressure relief valve is designed to protect a system or equipment from overpressure by releasing excess pressure when it reaches a certain level. This helps to prevent damage to the system and maintain safe operating conditions.

2. How does a pressure relief valve work?

A pressure relief valve works by using a spring-loaded mechanism to keep the valve closed until the pressure in the system reaches a predetermined level. Once this level is reached, the valve will open and release the excess pressure, allowing it to escape and bring the pressure back to a safe level.

3. What is the difference between a pressure relief valve and a pressure regulator?

While both pressure relief valves and pressure regulators are used to control pressure, they serve different purposes. A pressure relief valve is meant to protect a system from overpressure, while a pressure regulator is used to maintain a steady and specific pressure within a system.

4. Can a pressure relief valve be used as a pressure regulator?

No, a pressure relief valve should not be used as a pressure regulator. Pressure relief valves are designed to open fully and release all excess pressure, while pressure regulators are used to maintain a specific pressure level. Using a pressure relief valve as a pressure regulator could result in unstable or unsafe pressure levels.

5. How often should pressure relief valves and pressure regulators be inspected?

It is recommended to have pressure relief valves and pressure regulators inspected and tested at least once a year to ensure they are functioning properly. However, the frequency of inspections may vary depending on the specific system and its usage.

Similar threads

Replies
2
Views
154
  • General Engineering
Replies
8
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
8
Views
927
  • General Engineering
Replies
4
Views
5K
Replies
4
Views
22K
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • General Engineering
Replies
23
Views
2K
  • General Engineering
Replies
2
Views
2K
Back
Top