Knowing the Functions of a Back Pressure Control Valve
A back pressure control valve is a type of valve that holds the pressure for production vessels (separators, treaters, and free water knockouts). The primary function of this valve is to release upstream pressure when it reaches a designated set point. This type of control valve is best for oil hydraulics.
This valve is perfect because pressure is common in the hydraulics industry. Whether a vessel is full or empty, it has pressure on it because it does not require directional input. Similar to a hammer on a nail, it only needs to route within a specific operation or direction for reliable transmission and vessel control.
So how does this valve work?
What is the Main Purpose of Back Pressure Control Valves?
A back pressure valve is generally used to control the pressure of any fluid, whether it is in a gas form, liquid form, or a mixture of both in a pumping system.
The valve also monitors the upstream pressure that forms into the piping system. Upstream pressure means that the direction of the pressure runs toward the source but also against the current.
The spring of the valve then pushes down on the diaphragm assembly, which the pilot plug is positioned. The pilot plug then allows gas formed from the upstream pressure to push down on the diaphragm.
The flow of the fluid pressure then pushes up on the plunger as gas is pushing down on the diaphragm. Since the diaphragm has a larger surface area than the plunger, the same pressure can hold the valve in a closed position. The gas then sets constant back pressure and passes through the diaphragm and the plunger. Only then the valve will begin regulating or controlling the pressure.
If the gas pressure exceeds the setpoint, the upstream pressure pushes up on the diaphragm assembly. Afterwards, closing off the pilot plug and gas vents from the top of the diaphragm. Thus, the valve regulates the upstream pressure.
In simpler terms, pressure control valves contain a mechanism that opens the valve above a set pressure threshold — keeping the pressure at the vent remaining mainly constant. At the same time, the flow increases dramatically after the valve opens.
That is how a back pressure control valve works in a hydraulic or piping system. If you are in search of valves with excellent quality, Mastermac 2000 is your partner in getting the best parts for industries that need them. Contact us now.
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About The Author
Stuart Havill
Stuart Havill is the owner and manager of MasterMac2000, Queensland's largest privately owned pneumatic and process valve company.
With his early working career as a maintenance fitter for Boral in 1992, Stuart has spent his life in the field of pneumatics and process equipment. He gained extensive experience in plant design, maintenance, repairs, fabrication, and site management.
In 1996, he transitioned to a pneumatic sales technician role at MasterMac2000, where he excelled in key account management, providing cost-effective solutions, and managing a sales team of 9 employees.
Since 2002, Stuart has been the manager at MasterMac2000, overseeing the company's growth and establishing it as a leader in pneumatic automation and process valve engineering. His expertise spans customer training, CRM setup, industrial compressor sizing and installation, and turn-key project management.
Under Stuart's leadership, MasterMac2000 has been servicing the industry since 1988, with 5 full-time sales representatives covering northern rivers NSW, Queensland, Northern Territory, and PNG. The company prides itself on providing the best-priced solutions to all customers in the marketplace.
View Stuart’s LinkedIn profile to learn more about his expertise in pneumatics and process equipment.