The main purpose of a relief valve is to do what?

A relief valve is a critical component in a piping system designed to maintain safety and protect equipment from potential damage caused by excessive pressure. Its primary function is to open automatically when the pressure in a system exceeds a predetermined limit, allowing the excess pressure to be released safely. This helps prevent catastrophic failures, such as explosions or ruptures, which can occur if pressure is allowed to build unchecked.

The correct focus on preventing overpressure ensures that the system operates within safe parameters, thereby safeguarding people, equipment, and the environment. This is especially vital in systems involving hazardous materials or high-pressure operations.

Other functions, such as increasing pressure, controlling flow, or regulating temperature, do not align with the purpose of a relief valve. These tasks are typically managed by different types of valves or devices designed specifically for those functions, reinforcing the distinct role that relief valves play in pressure management and safety mechanisms within piping systems.