A Look into the Pressure Control Valve Called Pressure-Relief Valve

The pressure control valve is the reason hydraulic systems work properly. Without it, systems would fail. They would not be able to maintain system pressures safely and under the desired maximum level. They wouldn’t even be able to keep a fixed pressure in part of a circuit.

This valve comes in different types, as it possesses a wide range of functions in many industries that rely on hydraulic and pneumatic equipment. The purpose of the valve is normally the basis for its name. In this article, we get to talk about one specific kind.

Pressure-relief valves

The primary function of pressure-relief valves is to control a hydraulic circuit’s maximum pressure by giving another path for the fluid to flow as the pressure reaches its peak level. All fixed-volume pump circuits need relief valves to prevent extreme pressure in the system. These pumps must move fluid as they turn, so when actuators are running, or a pump unloads via an open-centre circuit, the movement of fluid should then go off without a hitch. Relief valves are likewise crucial as the actuators stall with the directional valve in a shifted position.

There are two classifications of a pressure-relief valve: the compound or pilot-operated pressure valve and the simple or direct-acting pressure valve.

Pilot-operated valve

The pilot-operated or compound pressure relief valve comes with a main relief valve and a small pilot relief valve. It functions in two stages. First, the pilot relief valve opens when it reaches a pre-set maximum level of pressure. Secondly, as this happens, the main relief valve also opens.  

Simple Pressure-Relief Valve

The direct-acting pressure control valve is the most commonly used kind of pressure control valve, as it operates most – if not, all – hydraulic systems. Usually, it’s a closed valve that works by limiting the pressure to a certain maximum level through diverting the pump flow back to the tank. There is a poppet seated inside the valve, attached by a heavy spring. As the pressure in the system goes high enough, the poppet is then forced off the seat, allowing flow through the outlet to the tank, provided that the high levels of pressure are maintained.

The pressure control valve is indeed a beneficial and significant tool for controlling pressure, temperature, flow, and liquid levels in hydraulic systems. Should you need any of the above-mentioned valves for your system, or other types of pressure control valves, visit Mastermac 2000 today!