How Safety Valve Works

                                     How Safety Valve Works

A safety valve is a mechanical device designed to protect equipment, systems, or processes from excessive pressure. It is commonly used in various applications, including steam boilers, pressure vessels, pipelines, and other industrial systems.

The primary function of a safety valve is to release fluid or gas when the pressure inside a system exceeds a predetermined set point. This prevents the pressure from rising to dangerous levels and helps prevent catastrophic failures or explosions. Here's a general overview of how a safety valve works:

• Pressure Sensing: The safety valve is typically equipped with a spring-loaded mechanism or a weighted lever that responds to pressure changes. It contains a sensing element, such as a diaphragm or a piston, which is exposed to the system's pressure.
• Set Pressure: The safety valve is adjusted to open at a specific pressure known as the "set pressure" or "blow-off pressure." This set point is determined based on the design specifications and the maximum safe operating pressure for the protected system.
• Force Balance: When the system pressure exceeds the set point, the force exerted on the sensing element overcomes the opposing force exerted by the spring or weight. This force imbalance triggers the opening mechanism of the safety valve.
• Valve Opening: As the sensing element moves in response to the excess pressure, it lifts or unseats the valve's disk or plugs, creating an opening. The fluid or gas under pressure is then discharged through the valve.
• Discharge and Pressure Relief: Once the valve is open, the fluid or gas is released from the system, diverting it to a safe location or a designated discharge path. The pressure inside the system begins to decrease, relieving the excess pressure.
• Closing and Resetting: As the pressure drops below the set point, the force exerted by the spring or weight becomes greater than the force from the system pressure. This causes the valve to close, resealing the system and preventing further discharge.

It's important to note that safety valves require periodic inspection, maintenance, and testing to ensure their proper functioning. Compliance with relevant safety codes and standards is crucial to maintain the integrity of the protected systems and ensuring the safety of personnel and equipment