Introduction to the Correct Selection Guide for Relief Valves
Three Elements of Relief Valve Selection
When it comes to selecting a relief valve, there are three key elements to consider: fluid properties, operating conditions and valve requirements. Educational reviews of the principles of fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, material selection, design and safety are essential prior to selecting a relief valve. The purpose of this guide is to assist in selecting the valve that will suit the application and ultimately provide safe operation.
Fluid Properties
The first step in choosing a relief valve is to understand the properties of the fluid. This includes factors such as viscosity, specific gravity, vapor pressure, temperature and other characteristics of the fluid being used. It is important to accurately measure and record these values to ensure the relief valve is properly sized for the application.
Operating Conditions
The second step in choosing a relief valve is to understand what the system will be operating at. This includes the ambient temperature and other environmental factors such as humidity and altitude that could affect the pressure and flow rate of the system. Additionally, the relief valve must be rated and sized to handle the amount of flow expected in the application.
Valve Requirements
The final step in choosing a relief valve is to know what the requirements of the application are. This includes considerations such as the pressure rating of the valve, the type of material it is made from, and the type of actuation. This will ensure the relief valve not only meets the requirements of the application, but also provides the best protection.
Conclusion
Selecting the right relief valve for a particular application can be a challenging task. However, by taking the time to understand the fluid properties, operating conditions and valve requirements, the selection process can be made much easier. This guide has provided a comprehensive overview of choosing the correct relief valve for any application.
