How back pressure affects safety relief valves

The prefered valve types to reduce back pressure are the pilot operated valve, the balanced direct spring valve, and the conventional direct spring valve. Back pressure (static pressure at the outlet when the valve is closed), superimposed back pressure, and built up back pressure are defined. The relief characteristics of the pilot, balanced, and direct spring valves are schematicized. Typical safety valve operations are outlined. Methods for sizing discharge piping to avoid piping pressure losses that produce excessive back pressure are recommended. The guidelines discussed improve overpressure protection.