luglugalugaaen |

seabsea

sea nav gua

Language: en spa ru fra it
sea

form

GET YOUR FREE QUOTE

We will contact you within 24 hours.

The Difference Between PSVs and PRVs

Time: 21-May 2025 | Source: I-FLOW| Share

Today we’re tackling a common but crucial question:What’s the real difference between a Pressure Safety Valve (PSV) and a Pressure Relief Valve (PRV)?They’re often confused, but they’re not interchangeable.
Pressure Safety Valve (PSV): Emergency First Line of Defense
The PSV is designed for sudden, catastrophic overpressure protection in compressible fluid systems (e.g., gas, steam, vapor). When the system pressure hits a predefined setpoint, the PSV "pops" open fully and instantly, releasing pressure to avoid rupture or explosion.
Example: In a steam system, a PSV prevents explosion by instantly venting steam if pressure spikes.
✅ Instantaneous full lift
✅ Snap-acting mechanism
✅ Automatic reseating
✅ Typically used in boilers, gas systems, reactors
Pressure Relief Valve (PRV): Controlled Pressure Balance
The PRV serves a similar protective function, but it operates with a modulated, gradual opening—perfect for incompressible fluids like oil or water. As system pressure increases beyond the setpoint, the valve opens proportionally to maintain safe pressure levels without a violent discharge.
Example: A PRV on a water pump prevents overpressurization by bleeding off excess fluid smoothly.
✅ Proportional lift
✅ Smooth, controlled relief
✅ Ideal for continuous flow processes
✅ Common in pumps, liquid storage, hydraulic lines
Why It Matters
Pressure build-up and system damage
nefficient operation
Safety compliance violations
Costly downtime or failure
Need help choosing the right protection valve
Our engineering team at I-Flow specializes in tailored valve solutions for high-risk applications. Reach out and let’s ensure your system is protected the right way—from the start.
Back To The List btn

Related News

What is The Dirrerence Between Brass and PVC Ball Valve
1-September 2025

What is The Dirrerence Between Brass and PVC Ball Valve

Choosing the right plumbing parts is important. You need a system that is durable and won't leak. Homeowners and professionals often face a choice between brass and PVC ball valves. Both control water flow, but their materials make them suitable for very different jobs.

View Details
What Are The Four Types of Valve Actuators
28-August 2025

What Are The Four Types of Valve Actuators

Every valve needs something to move it. That “something” is the actuator. It supplies the force that opens or closes the valve so fluids can flow when you want and stop when you don’t. Some actuators are simple. Others are designed for speed, power, or precision. In general, there are four main types: manual, pneumatic, hydraulic, and electric.

View Details
Is Your Valve Actuator Failing
27-August 2025

Is Your Valve Actuator Failing

A malfunctioning valve actuator can bring a process to a standstill, leading to costly downtime and lost productivity. Whether you're in a municipal water plant, a chemical facility, or an oil & gas operation, understanding the warning signs of a failing actuator is critical for proactive maintenance.

View Details
What Is The Real Difference Between Check Valve and Backflow Preventer
25-August 2025

What Is The Real Difference Between Check Valve and Backflow Preventer

Many people think a check valve and a backflow preventer are the same thing. They’re not. Both stop water from flowing the wrong way, but they serve different purposes. Knowing the difference can save you time, money, and sometimes even protect public health.

View Details
What Are The Disadvantages of Wafer Check Valves
21-August 2025

What Are The Disadvantages of Wafer Check Valves

Wafer check valves are small and practical. They save space and are easy to install. Many engineers choose them for HVAC, water supply, or industrial plants. They offer value, but they also have limits. Understanding the weak points helps with smarter system design.

View Details
How Does Non-Rising Stem Gate Valve Work
20-August 2025

How Does Non-Rising Stem Gate Valve Work

In flow control systems, choosing the right valve type directly affects efficiency, safety, and maintenance costs. Among the various designs, the non-rising stem (NRS) gate valve is widely used in industries where space is limited and durability is essential. Understanding how this valve works, along with its advantages and limitations, helps engineers, contractors, and facility managers make better decisions.

View Details