In a high-pressure steam environment, there are certain departments or pieces of equipment that require lower pressure steam in order to protect the equipment. In these situations, a Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) is needed. A PRV is a safety-related part that reduces the steam pressure so that it doesn’t build up and become a danger to people or the machinery. When a PRV is installed, it is set to a required pressure for the specific piece of equipment. Once it hits its max pressure, it will release excess pressure by opening the valve. After the pressure has been released and it is back to its set pressure, the valve will close.
In instances where the reduced pressure cannot be reached with one PRV, there is a multistage steam station. A multistage steam station is where there are steam traps and strainers, along with the PRV to help protect the equipment.
There are many things you need to consider to ensure proper safety before selecting your PRV. Some of the things to consider are:
- Maximum pressure level
- Required flow for the system
- Temperature
- Failure Mode
- Material Type
- Environment
- Port Size
It is important to take the correct safety measures so that the equipment will work its best. At Ohio Pipe, Valves, & Fittings, Inc./Automated Valve & Equipment Co., we are here to help you find the correct PRV.
