New York Low Pressure Boiler COF Practice

What is the minimum blowdown for a spring loaded safety valve as a percent of set pressure?

1. 5%

2. 10%

3. 15%

4. 20%

The correct answer is: 10%

The minimum blowdown for a spring-loaded safety valve is typically set at a standard of 10% of the valve's set pressure. Blowdown is the difference in pressure between the valve’s set pressure—the pressure at which the valve is designed to open—and the pressure at which it reseats after it has opened. In practical terms, maintaining a blowdown of 10% helps ensure that the valve will not chatter or open and close rapidly around the set pressure. This 10% figure is widely accepted in the field to balance the need for safety with the operational integrity of the system. By allowing the system to drop to a consistent pressure before reseating, it minimizes the risk of premature closing when the pressure fluctuates. It's important to recognize that while higher blowdown percentages can be utilized, they might lead to compromised safety or operational efficiency. Since the aim is to enhance the reliability and proper functioning of safety valves in controlled environments, sticking to the 10% standard is considered prudent and effective.