Industrial safety valves are crucial components used to protect equipment, systems, and personnel from overpressure situations in various industrial processes. They are designed to automatically relieve excess pressure by opening to release fluid from the system when the pressure exceeds a predetermined set point. Here’s an overview of industrial safety valves:

1. Pressure Relief Valves (PRVs): Pressure relief valves are the most common type of safety valve. They are designed to open and relieve pressure when it exceeds a predetermined set point, known as the “set pressure” or “opening pressure.” PRVs can be configured as spring-loaded, pilot-operated, or balanced bellows valves, depending on the application requirements.

2. Safety Relief Valves (SRVs): Safety relief valves are similar to pressure relief valves but are typically designed for applications involving compressible fluids such as steam or gases. They are used to protect equipment such as boilers, pressure vessels, and piping systems from overpressure conditions. SRVs operate based on the same principles as PRVs but are specifically designed to handle compressible fluid flows.

3. Safety Valves: Safety valves are a broad category of valves designed to provide protection against overpressure in various industrial applications. They include pressure relief valves, safety relief valves, and other specialized valves designed for specific applications. Safety valves are essential for maintaining the integrity and safety of industrial processes.

4. Spring-loaded Safety Valves: Spring-loaded safety valves use a spring mechanism to maintain a constant force on the valve disc or piston. When the pressure in the system exceeds the set point, the spring force is overcome, causing the valve to open and relieve pressure. Spring-loaded safety valves are commonly used in applications where a simple and reliable pressure relief solution is required.

5. Pilot-operated Safety Valves: Pilot-operated safety valves use a pilot valve connected to the main valve to sense system pressure. When the pressure exceeds the set point, the pilot valve opens, allowing pressure to act on the main valve, causing it to open and relieve pressure from the system. Pilot-operated safety valves are often used in applications where precise pressure control and stability are required.

6. Balanced Bellows Safety Valves: Balanced bellows safety valves use a bellows assembly to sense system pressure. The bellows assembly is balanced to minimize the effect of back pressure on the valve’s set point. When the pressure exceeds the set point, the bellows expand, causing the valve to open and relieve pressure. Balanced bellows safety valves are commonly used in applications where tight pressure control is required.

7. High-pressure Safety Valves: High-pressure safety valves are designed to handle pressures above the typical range of standard safety valves. They are often used in applications such as high-pressure steam systems, hydraulic systems, and oil and gas processing plants. High-pressure safety valves are engineered to withstand extreme pressures and provide reliable overpressure protection.

8. Low-pressure Safety Valves: Low-pressure safety valves are designed to protect equipment and systems operating at low pressures. They are commonly used in applications such as vacuum systems, pneumatic systems, and low-pressure steam systems. Low-pressure safety valves are calibrated to open at low pressure thresholds to prevent damage to sensitive equipment.

9. API Standard Safety Valves: Safety valves designed and manufactured in accordance with the American Petroleum Institute (API) standards are commonly used in the oil and gas industry. These valves are rigorously tested and certified to ensure compliance with industry standards for safety and reliability. API standard safety valves are suitable for a wide range of applications in the oil and gas sector, including refining, production, and transportation.

10. ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Safety Valves: Safety valves that comply with the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code are widely used in industries where pressure equipment is subject to regulatory requirements. These valves are designed and manufactured to meet stringent quality and performance standards set forth by ASME, ensuring the safety and integrity of pressure vessels, boilers, and piping systems.

Industrial safety valves are essential components of pressure relief systems in a wide range of industries, including oil and gas, chemical processing, power generation, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing. Proper selection, installation, and maintenance of safety valves are critical to ensuring the safety, reliability, and compliance of industrial processes.