11

Safety Relief and Control Valves

If I have ever made any valuable discoveries, it has been owing more to patient attention, than to any other talent.”

—Isaac Newton, 1643–1727, Scientist

I.    SAFETY RELIEF VALVES

A.    BACKGROUND

It is imperative that all pressure vessels be equipped with a relief device to prevent the pressure from exceeding the maximum allowable working pressure (MAWP) of the vessel, with the consequent rupture of the vessel and loss of containment of the contents. A typical installation is illustrated in Figure 11.1. Typical “worst case” scenarios that could result in excessive pressure buildup include runaway reactions, blockage of discharge lines, external fires, etc. A safety relief valve (SRV) is designed to open ...

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