Which valve is used to relieve excessive steam pressure?

The safety valve, also known as a pop-off valve, is designed specifically to relieve excessive steam pressure in a system. It is a critical safety device that automatically opens at a predetermined pressure limit to prevent accidents or failures due to overpressure conditions. When the steam pressure exceeds the safe operating levels, the safety valve opens to allow steam to escape, thus reducing the pressure back to safe levels and protecting the integrity of the system, as well as the safety of personnel and equipment.

This valve operates automatically and is set to close again once the pressure has dropped to a safe level, ensuring continuous monitoring and management of pressure without requiring manual intervention. It is a crucial component in any steam system to ensure compliance with safety regulations and to prevent hazardous situations associated with excessive pressure.

Understanding the role of the safety valve reinforces the importance of regular maintenance and inspection to ensure these valves are functioning correctly, as failure of the safety valve can lead to catastrophic results in a steam system.