Understanding the Difference: Conservation Vents vs. Emergency Relief Valves

EXPLORE CONSERVATION VENTS & TANK SOLUTIONS

Safety valves and pressure relief valves are two important pieces of equipment used to protect storage tanks from overpressurization. While both systems serve similar purposes, there are some key differences. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at savings valves and emergency relief valves and explain the differences between them.

What Are Maintenance Valves?

Maintenance valves allow vapors to be safely released from storage tanks during normal operation. They are attached to the top of the tank and are typically non-recloseable, meaning that once opened, they cannot be resealed. Safety valves play a critical role in maintaining the structural integrity of the tank by preventing damage from overpressurization. They also help reduce emissions and provide a safe working environment.

Understanding Emergency Relief Valves

Emergency relief valves, on the other hand, provide rapid pressure relief in an emergency. They are the last line of defense protecting the tank and its contents from catastrophic failure. Unlike safety valves, emergency relief valves are resealable, providing additional protection. They are typically larger and have a higher set pressure than maintenance valves.

Key Differences Between Valve Types

One of the main differences between maintenance and emergency valves is their functionality:

Safety and emergency release valves are designed for normal tank operation and continuously release small amounts of steam.
Emergency release valves are used only in emergency situations and open only when the pressure in the tank reaches dangerously high levels.

Another difference between conservation and emergency valves is the pressure they are designed for:

Maintenance and emergency safety valves typically open at a much lower pressure, often as low as 0.25 psig. This allows for gradual pressure relief and prevents sudden and potentially dangerous pressure fluctuations in the tank.
Emergency safety valves are set at a much higher pressure, usually between 2 and 10 psig, allowing for rapid pressure relief in emergency situations.

Conclusion

In summary, safety and emergency water release valves have different functions and different pressure levels. While both are essential for the safety of storage tanks, they are designed for different scenarios. To ensure the safe and efficient operation of storage tanks, it is important to understand the differences between the two devices.

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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 .