What are Pressure Limiting Valves and how do they work?

Pressure Limiting Valves: Protecting Your System from Overpressure

In any hydraulic or pneumatic system, maintaining the correct pressure is crucial for safe and efficient operation. However, pressure spikes can occur due to a variety of reasons such as sudden changes in demand or malfunctioning components, which can cause damage to the system and pose a risk to personnel. This is where pressure limiting valves come into play.

A pressure limiting valve is a type of relief valve that is designed to limit the pressure in a hydraulic or pneumatic system by diverting the excess pressure to a secondary circuit or venting it to the atmosphere. The valve works by opening when the pressure in the system exceeds a preset limit, allowing the excess pressure to escape and preventing further buildup.

There are two main types of pressure limiting valves: direct-acting and pilot-operated. Direct-acting valves are simpler in design and operate based on the pressure acting directly on the valve’s poppet or piston. On the other hand, pilot-operated valves are more complex and require an external pilot pressure to operate the valve.

Direct-acting pressure limiting valves are suitable for smaller systems with low flow rates and pressures, while pilot-operated valves are better suited for larger systems with high flow rates and pressures. Pilot-operated valves also offer more precise pressure control and can be adjusted for different pressure settings.

Pressure limiting valves are commonly used in a variety of applications, including hydraulic power units, industrial machinery, and mobile equipment such as cranes and excavators. They are also used in the oil and gas industry, where overpressure can cause explosions and other hazards.

It is important to choose the right pressure limiting valve for your system based on factors such as the maximum pressure and flow rate, as well as the type of fluid being used. It is also important to ensure that the valve is installed correctly and maintained regularly to ensure proper operation.

In addition to pressure limiting valves, other types of relief valves such as sequence valves and counterbalance valves can also be used to protect hydraulic systems from overpressure. Sequence valves are used to ensure that a specific sequence of events occurs in a hydraulic system, while counterbalance valves are used to control the motion of a load in a hydraulic system.

In conclusion, pressure limiting valves are an essential component of any hydraulic or pneumatic system, providing an important safety feature to protect the system and personnel from overpressure. With the right selection, installation, and maintenance, pressure limiting valves can ensure safe and efficient operation of your system for years to come.

VOLVO PRESSURE LIMITING VALVE