Why a Pressure Control Valve is Crucial in a Pneumatic System

The pressure control valve (also known as relief valves) are used to restrict the pressure downstream of a unit. They are utilised mainly to prevent the pneumatic system from overpressure and to ensure safety.

Overpressure happens if the flow of water or air is not regulated, which may cause some parts of the system to build up energy or fluid. This may cause a harmful discharge if the system fails. To prevent this from happening, one must be familiar with the weakest parts inside a pneumatic system.

How to Identify If a Component Is At Risk of Overpressure

There are three ways to identify if a component is reaching its pressure limit:

• Piping
• Main Regulator
• Downstream Equipment

Check for Any Pipe Leakage

Piping is one of the vulnerable components of an air system that might cause overpressure since its ability is only limited to hold pressure. One should always check if there is a pipe leakage. The relief valve might not correctly work if it becomes corroded.

Identifying Pressure Ratings on the Main Regulator

When determining the allowable flow of a pressure-reducing regulator, the lowest pressure point should be considered. Main regulators have a variety of pressure ratings that refer to the internal, inlet, and outlet components.

Examine the Downstream Equipment Pressure Ratings

Downstream components such as boilers, burners, and appliances can be affected by the highest pressure since they have the lowest maximum pressure rating.

Why are pressure control valves popular?

Relief valves are popular for several reasons. First, they do not obstruct the regular flow of air through the line. Second, they serve as alarms if ever air compressors operate abnormally; they help avoid the chances of malfunctions. And lastly, they do not reduce the regulator capacities they protect.

Types of Relief Valves

There are four general types of pressure control valves: pop type, internal relief valves, direct-operated, and pilot-operated valves.

Pop Type

Pop type relief valves are the most simple type. They are utilised wherever the economy is the main concern and some setpoint drift is suitable.

Internal

Internal relief valves serve as system protection from overpressure to prevent blockage of a pump. This means that regulators with this valve can exclude the need for external overpressure protection.

Direct-Operated

Unlike pop type relief valves, direct-operated relief valves make throttling action possible and may need less pressure accumulation to open the relief valve.

Pilot-Operated

Pilot-operated relief valves work if they reach the setpoint, then they open and discharge the pressure from the dome. The system fluid is exhausted as soon as the piston opens. The control pilot opens either to the atmosphere or to the primary valve exhaust.

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