Pressure Relief Valves For Air Compressors

July 31, 2023

Pressure relief valves or safety valves are a simple but critical part of any air compressor system. Pressure relief valves control and limit the pressure build-up in a system. If the pressure exceeds the amount allowed by the pressure relief valve, the pressure relief valve will automatically open and release air until the pressure reduces.

Why Do Pressure Relief Valves Matter?

Pressure-Relief-ValvePressure relief valves keep everyone safe. If the pressure within an air compressor system or air receiver tank gets too high, one or more components could explode, and pressure relief valves prevent this.

The rated pressure of the pressure relief valve must not exceed the maximum allowable working pressure (MAWP) marked on the air pressure vessel. This requirement ensures the pressure relief valve always opens before the vessel reaches its maximum pressure tolerance.

In addition, the minimum relieving capacity of the pressure relief device must meet the requirements of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Code. ASME is the international leader in developing and revising codes associated with mechanical engineering.

How Do Pressure Relief Valves Work?

Pressure relief valves for air compressor systems  are simple, spring-loaded mechanisms. When the inlet pressure force exceeds the spring load, the safety valve opens proportionately to the pressure increase and allows air to “leak out” as needed.

Pressure relief valves for compressed air applications are direct-acting, automatically reacting if the pressure gets too high. If excessive pressurization occurs, a disc seal moves up due to system pressure against a spring, which closes the valve. If the compressed air force exceeds the force exerted by the spring, the valve disc lifts off the valve seat, and the valve discharges the compressed air to the atmosphere.

Under the requirements of the ASME relief valve standard, the full discharge capacity of the valve typically will be achieved when the system pressure climbs to no more than 10% above the set pressure of the valve. Full shutoff must be achieved if the system pressure falls below the set pressure value, usually 90%.

How To Test Pressure Relief Valves

A set pressure function test should be carried out at least once per year to maintain pressure relief valve effectiveness over time. At VMAC, we recommend inspecting pressure relief valves annually for signs of corrosion or loss of functionality.

The pressure relief valve tests are the responsibility of the owner or operator, while the air compressor manufacturer should supply test instructions. For example, VMAC’s manuals include test instructions to perform a pressure relief valve inspection:

“To test the pressure relief valve functionality, turn the system on and bring it up to operating pressure. Pull the ring on the pressure relief valve to depressurize the system. Turn the system off, and ensure the system comes back to operating pressure when the system is restarted. If the pressure relief valve is showing loss of functionality, contact your local VMAC dealer for a replacement part. Relief valve failure can result in air/oil tank over-pressurization leading to system failure or rupture.”

If you are operating a system that is not a VMAC air compressor, check your manual or contact the manufacturer for detailed instructions on how to test your pressure relief valve.

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