Conservation Vents vs. Safety Valves: What You Need to Know

When managing storage tanks, it is essential that they are equipped with the necessary safety measures to prevent potential hazards. One of the most important pieces of equipment for storage tanks is the pressure reducing system, which includes both safety relief valves and conservation vents. Although these two terms may sound interchangeable, they serve different purposes and are used in different circumstances.

Safety Relief Valves vs. Conservation Vents

A safety relief valve is a pressure-reducing device that protects a tank from over-pressurization by automatically releasing excess pressure. A conservation vent, on the other hand, is designed to control the flow of air and gas into or out of a storage tank to maintain a safe internal pressure level.

When to Use Safety Relief Valves

Safety relief valves are typically used in high-pressure situations where there is a risk of exceeding the tank’s maximum allowable working pressure. These valves are commonly found in tanks storing flammable or toxic substances, such as crude oil or chemicals. They are engineered to open quickly during a pressure spike and completely release excess pressure, thereby preventing tank rupture or explosion.

When to Use Conservation Vents

Conservation vents are primarily used in low-pressure situations where there is a risk of vacuum formation or tank collapse. This can occur if a tank is emptied too quickly or during external events such as hurricanes or seismic activity. Conservation vents allow air to flow into the tank, equalizing pressure and preventing implosion due to negative pressure conditions.

Choosing the Right Protection for Your Tank

So, when should you use a safety relief valve, and when is a conservation vent the better option?

• Use a safety relief valve in high-pressure applications where rapid over-pressurization could lead to explosion or structural damage.
• Use a conservation vent when there's a risk of vacuum formation and collapse due to negative pressure or volume changes during filling and emptying.

Conclusion

In short, safety relief valves and conservation vents serve different purposes and are used in distinct situations. Safety valves protect against overpressure, while conservation vents safeguard against under-pressure and collapse. Both are vital components of a complete pressure management system and play an essential role in protecting storage tank integrity, personnel safety, and the surrounding environment.

 

Need the Right Conservation Vent? Get Expert Help Choosing the Ideal Fit for Your Storage Tanks |

Conservation vents are a vital component of the Storage Tank Equipment category, designed to manage pressure and maintain the integrity of stored products while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance. For more information about Cashco's reliable Conservation Vents, view all models here .

Cashco is dedicated to ensuring you select the best solution for your tank protection needs. Need help choosing the right conservation vent? Contact us and our experienced team will gladly assist you in finding the ideal product!