pressure relief valve (PRV) is a critical safety device that automatically releases excess pressure from boilers, tanks, and piping systems when they exceed set limits

• Purpose: To protect personnel and equipment from overpressure events.
• How They Work: They remain closed until pressure exceeds a setpoint, forcing a spring-loaded mechanism to open, allowing fluid or gas to escape through a discharge pipe.
• Types:
  • Spring-loaded: The most common, straightforward design.
  • Pilot-operated: Used for higher accuracy.
  • Combination T&P Valves: Control both temperature and pressure.
• Applications: Common in industrial settings (power plants, refineries) and domestic systems (hot water heaters, boilers).
• Sizing and Maintenance: Proper sizing is crucial; undersized valves may fail to protect the system, while oversized valves can lead to instability. 

• Hydraulic Systems: At the outlet of a pump to prevent overpressure in the system.
• Pipelines: Installed on tees to divert excess pressure.