How to choose a safety valve?

How to choose a safety valve?

A safety valve should be selected to suit the individual requirements of the system in which it will be installed and the work the device will perform. It is important to consider the standards that the valve must meet in a given installation, as well as the material from which it is made. If a neutral medium flows through the system, the requirements will be lower than if the equipment is in constant contact with an aggressive fluid that causes damage to pipe walls. Safety valves are essential for protection against excessive pressure and failures. Adapted to specific standards and temperature ranges, they can be integrated with alarm systems, signaling irregularities. Choosing the right type of valve guarantees effective protection and efficient operation of the entire system.

Safety Valves

The purpose of safety valves used in pressure systems is to protect the system against excessive pressure increases in liquids, steam, or gases.

Safety Valves maintain the pressure in the system at a specific value, releasing excess medium into the atmosphere or into a connected (angle safety valves) tank when the maximum permissible pressure is reached. The advantage of the safety valves we offer is their speed of operation. The valves open and close based on the pressure exerted by the medium on the safety valve.

Safety valves are divided according to the type of connection. Valves are therefore divided into valves with the following connections:

  • threaded,
  • threaded at the inlet,
  • flanged at the outlet,
  • flanged,
  • welded.

To select the appropriate safety valve, several key parameters should be considered, such as opening pressure, flow capacity, medium, operating temperature, and connection type. It is also necessary to adapt the valve to the specific system in which it will be installed, e.g., a heating system, compressor, or boiler.

Selection of a Safety Valve

Opening Pressure of a Safety Valve

This is the pressure at which the valve begins to release excess fluid from the system. They are typically selected approximately 10% higher than the maximum operating pressure of the system.

Safety valve capacity

Determines the amount of fluid that can flow through the valve per unit of time. It must be appropriately sized for the capacity of the pressure source (e.g., compressor).

Safety valve medium

The type of medium that will flow through the valve (e.g., water, air, gas) should be taken into account, as different media require valves made of different materials.

Safety valve operating temperature

A valve should be selected that is suitable for the temperature range in which it will operate.

Safety valve connection type

It is important that the valve has the appropriate connections (e.g., threaded, flanged) to suit the installation in which it will be installed.

Additional factors to consider

  • Installation type: a safety valve is selected differently for a heating system than for a compressor or Boiler.
  • Manufacturer's requirements: In the case of a boiler, check the manufacturer's recommendations for the safety valve, including its opening pressure and connection diameter.
  • Expert recommendations: When selecting a safety valve, it is best to consult a specialist who will advise on the appropriate model and its parameters.

Safety valve selection procedure

Determining system parameters

Determine the maximum operating pressure, operating temperature, and type of medium in the installation.

Safety valve selection

Based on the collected information, select a valve with the appropriate opening pressure, flow capacity, and connection type.

Compatibility check

Before installation, check that the valve is not damaged and that its parameters meet the installation requirements.

Valve installation Safety Valves

The valve is installed in a suitable location, in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

Regular Inspections

Safety valves  in industrial installations should be regularly inspected by the Office of Technical Inspection.

Applicable regulations

The selection of a safety valve for closed-loop systems should be in accordance with one of the following documents:

  • PN-B-02414:1999: "Heating and district heating – Protection of closed-loop water heating systems with diaphragm expansion vessels – Requirements"
  • WUDT-UC-KW/04: "Requirements of the Office of Technical Inspection – Pressure equipment – Water boilers – Accessories"

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