PRVtechman PDF

Pressure
Pressure Relief
Relief Valves
Valves
Technical
Technical Manual
Manual
ANDERSON GREENWOOD
flow control
Anderson Greenwood Pressure Relief Valves
Technical Manual
Contents
Pressure Relief Valves
General Information ........................................................................... 1, 2

Glossary ............................................................................................ 3, 4
Valve Sizing
Nomenclatures ................................................................................... 5-7
Valve Data ......................................................................................... 8 - 14
Back Pressure and Subsonic Correction............................................ 16 - 21
Gas and Vapor.................................................................................... 22 - 24
Steam ................................................................................................. 25 - 30
Liquid .................................................................................................. 31 - 35
Subsonic Flow .................................................................................... 37 - 45
Special Applications ........................................................................... 46 - 47
Reaction Forces ................................................................................. 48
Conversion Factors
........................................................................................................... 49 - 55
Fluid Data
........................................................................................................... 56 - 61
ANSI Flange Standards

........................................................................................................... 62 - 76
Valve Installations - Handling Procedures

........................................................................................................... 77
ASME Code Section I1

Excerpts ............................................................................................. 78 - 91
ASME Code Section IV1

Excerpts ............................................................................................. 92 - 97
ASME Code Section VIII1

Excerpts ............................................................................................. 98 - 116
API RP 520 Part I1

Excerpts ............................................................................................117 - 149
API RP 520 Part II1

Pressure Relief Valve Excerpts ............................................................................................150 - 158
NACE MR0175-951
Technical Manual Excerpts ............................................................................................159 - 169
Revised May 1998 API RP 5211
Catalog: PRVTM-US.97 Noise Levels ...................................................................................... 170
API RP 5271
Seat Leakage Requirements ..............................................................171 - 173
Section 16
Note
Chemical Resistance for Metals ........................................................174 - 180
1. Some referenced figures, tables, equations,
or paragraphs may not be included. Consult Section 17
original document for complete text. Chemical Resistance for Elastomers/Thermoplastics ........................181 - 205
© 1997 Anderson Greenwood reserves the right to change product

designs and specifications without notice. 3
Technical Manual
General Information
Intro Body Materials (g) Drilling of both inlet and outlet flanges
Anderson Greenwood is a globally recog- Pressure relief valve standard body mate- always straddles center lines. Offset
nized leader in the field of pressure relief rials are ASME SA-216 grade WCB or drilling is available with proper appli-
device technology. Fundamental to our WCC CS, or ASME SA-351 GR. CF8M cation.
ability to solve the most challenging appli- SS. Also available at additional costs are
Special Flanges
cation is our belief in understanding all bodies of special alloys, such as Hastelloy®
application parameters. As a leader in the ‘C’, Monel®, high temperature alloy, du- Anderson, Greenwood offers a variety of
field of pressure relief device education, we plex SS, Titanium, alloy 20 and others. non-standard connection arrangements to
proudly provide this manual for use as the meet the most exacting special flange re-
finest technical source on our technology Castings quirement.
and the specialized area of these safety Valve castings to meet requirements of
Spring Materials
devices. The users of this manual will ben- radiography, magnetic particle, liquid pen-
efit from its completeness as a pressure etrant examination and Charpy Impact Pressure relief valve standard spring ma-
relief device resource document. tests are available on special order. Our terials are carbon steel aluminum painted.
documented quality control can provide Spring materials of special alloys, such as
complete chemical and physical analysis tungsten steel, 316 SS, 302 SS, phosphor
for all cast materials on request. bronze, K-Monel® and Inconel® and oth-
ers are all available in many models on
Standard Flanged Connections request.
(a) All steel flange ratings conform to
Spring Assembly
ANSI B-16.5 – 1977 and are indicated
Corrosion Protection
on each orifice selector chart in the ap-
plicable product catalog. Heavier outlet At additional cost, springs can be fur-
flanges are available on application. nished with protective finishes of phenolic,
For back pressure exceeding listed plastic, epoxy resin, and nickel plate.
values, consult the factory for valve
Bellows Valves
limitations. Steel raised face flanges
are provided with a serrated finish on For easy field conversion, the convention-
the flange face. al valve – D Series – may be changed to a
bellows valve – all orifice sizes from F to T
(b) Standard Aluminum valves are manu-
– by installing the bellows assembly and
factured with flat faced flange finish in
gaskets. Standard material for all bellows
accordance with commercial practice.
is Inconel® 625. KYNAR® coating, Monel®
The flanges are designated as Class
and other materials available at additional
125 FF, with drilling equal to ANSI
cost. Bellows conversions in D and E ori-
Class 150.
fices require a body adapter, stem, guide,
Copyright Notes (c) All iron flange ratings conform to gaskets and bellows.
ANSI B-16.1 – 1977 and to Flange
1. © ASME: the American Society of
Dimension Table (page 70). Iron flat Bellows Coating
Mechanical Engineers.
face flanges are supplied with a The standard bellows is Inconel® 625.
2. © NACE: National Association of Corrosion smooth surface on flange face.
Engineers. KYNAR® coating of the bellows for addi-
(d) Bronze flange ratings conform to ANSI tional corrosion protection is available at
3. © API: American Petroleum Institute. B-16.24 and to Flange Dimension additional cost.
Table (page 86). Bronze flat face
flanges are supplied with a smooth Seating Surfaces
Notes surface on flange face. Armco 17-4 PH stainless steel hardened
(e) All ring joint flange facings comply with to hardfaced equivalence is an optional
1. Shop test procedure for temperature com-
ANSI B-16.5 – 1977 ring groove. For D Series disc material. The seating sur-
pensation available on request.
ring joint facing dimensions, refer to faces for other models with stainless steel
2. All shop orders will state 100°F [38°C] un- the Flange Dimension Table (page 73). trim can be hardfaced, when specified, at
less customer’s purchase order states
(f) Flange facings different from raised additional cost.
otherwise.
face can be furnished at additional cost.
3. Inconel® and Monel® are registered trade-
The standard surface finish roughness
marks of the International Nickel Company.
is 125-250 AARH. DIN, JIS, or other
4. KYNAR® is a registered trademark of the flange finishes may be available on a
Pennwatt Chemical Corporation.
product-by-product basis. Contact our
5. Hastelloy® is a registered trademark of sales department for availabilities.
Haynes International.

Technical Manual
General Information
O-ring Seat Seals Seat Tightness Steam Jacketed Valves

Anderson Greenwood offers the most All metal seated pressure relief valves are To keep viscous fluids flowing or to pre-
complete line of pressure relief valves with tested for seat leakage per API STD 527 vent lading fluids from becoming solidified,
O-ring seat seals. All valves are available and ANSI B147.1. heat is often applied to the valves. Appli-
– up to the maximum pressure limits – in cation of heat, to the valves and piping,
The Anderson Greenwood tightness
a variety of O-ring materials. See O-ring however, is often a problem. Steam
standard for Series 80 and Pilot Operated
Seals Section for complete details and tracing lines and insulation are frequently
pressure relief valves soft seated valves
specifications. required, in addition to heating coils.
is: ‘no leakage at 95% of set pressure for
Removal and reinstallation of a valve is
Trim or Wetted Parts set pressures of 60 psig [4.13 barg] and
expensive, time consuming and can cre-
higher, or no leakage at 3 psig [.21 barg]
Trim refers to the nozzle or base and the ate costly delays in a process application.
below the set pressure for set pressures
disc in direct spring valves. Consult each
below 60 psig [4.13 barg].’ For all other di- Proper heat transfer to keep viscous fluids
product catalog for available materials.
rect spring, soft-seated pressure relief in their correct flowing state can be ob-
Operating and Set valves, seat tightness is: ‘no leakage at tained by integrally jacketing the housing
Pressure Differentials 90% of set pressure for set pressures 15 of the valve. Piping can be simplified, thus
psig [1.03 barg], or no leakage at 3 psig reducing maintenance time and permitting
Optimum performance of a direct spring
[.21 barg] below the set pressure for set the use of many standard replacement
pressure relief valve protected system is
pressures below 15 psig [1.03 barg].’ parts.
available at operating pressures up to
90% of valve set pressure. Pump and Special Applications Contact your Anderson Greenwood
compressor discharge pulsations are off- representative or the factory for more in-
Many exacting process applications re-
set by the greatest allowable valve set formation on Steam Jacketed Valves.
quire specially built valves. When your
pressure differentials. System pressure Steam Jackets are available in integrally
valve requirements exceed catalog de-
pulsations can cause valve malfunctions. cast or bolt on type for the D and L Series
scriptions, Anderson Greenwood invites
Therefore, the pressure relief valve should only.
you to submit the specifications. Design
be set as high as possible above the
data and quotations will be furnished. Installation and Maintenance
discharge line pressure. Applications re-
quiring closer system-to-valve pressure Valves for Corrosive Service Complete installation and maintenance
differentials may be accommodated by training manuals are available on request.
A design advantage frequently overlooked
soft seat seal, or Anderson, Greenwood
in corrosive application is the full nozzle Replacement Valves
high performance Series 80 or Pilot
inlet option on many of our valve models.
Operated Valves. and Repair Parts
Until a valve discharges – an infrequent
occurrence – the only contact surfaces Submit valve serial number for exact
Cold Differential Test
are the wetted parts – nozzle and disc. replacement. Anderson Greenwood will
Pressure Recommendations supply a valve with correct materials and
Where standard materials are susceptible
When pressure relief valves for high tem- dimensions. The serial number for most
to attack, corrosion resistant alloys are
perature service are tested at room valves is located on the nameplate and
recommended.
temperature, a compensating adjustment stamped on the perimeter of the outlet
is made in the set pressure. High temper- Valves for Low Temperature or body flange. Proper replacement will
ature reduces set pressure – lessens Service be made for valves which have become
spring load – via thermal expansion of obsolete. Iron and bronze valves may re-
Anderson Greenwood has a wide range of
spring, body and bonnet. Cold differential quire the complete model number, located
pressure relief devices to meet service
test pressure adjustments are also on the nameplate.
temperatures to -450°F [-267°C].
required on unbalanced valves when
constant applied back pressure conditions Repair Tools
exist. Cold differential test pressure For proper maintenance of Anderson
adjustments are indicated on the valve Greenwood Pressure Relief Valves, noz-
nameplate, and are recorded on the func- zle wrenches, lapping discs and lapping
tional test report. plates are available, as are complete
operating, installation and maintenance
Set Pressure Lower Limits manuals.
Minimum set pressure per valve series
is listed in the applicable product catalog.
©
© 1997
1995Anderson Greenwood reserves
Keystone/Anderson, the right to change
Greenwood & Co.product 2
Technical Manual
Glossary
Accumulation is the pressure increase Design Gauge Pressure refers to at least

over the maximum allowable working the most severe conditions of coincident
pressure of the vessel during discharge temperature and pressure expected during
through the pressure relief device, ex- operation. This pressure may be used in
pressed in pressure units or as a percent. place of the maximum allowable working
Maximum allowable accumulations are pressure in all cases where the MAWP has
established by applicable codes for oper- not been established. The design pressure
ating and fire contingencies. is equal to or less than the MAWP.
Actual Discharge Area is the measured Effective Discharge Area or Equivalent

minimum net area that determines the Flow Area is a nominal or computed area
flow through a valve. of a pressure relief valve used in recog-
nized flow formulas to determine the size
Back Pressure is the pressure that
of the valve. It will be less than the actual
exists at the outlet of a pressure relief
discharge area.
device as a result of the pressure in the
discharge system. Huddling Chamber is an annular pres-
sure chamber in a pressure relief valve
Balanced Pressure Relief Valve is a
located beyond the seat for the purpose
spring-loaded pressure relief valve that in-
of generating a rapid opening.
corporates a means for minimizing the
effect of back pressure on the perfor- Inlet Size is the nominal pipe size (NPS)
mance characteristics. of the valve at the inlet connection, unless
otherwise designated.
Blowdown is the difference between the
set pressure and the closing pressure of a Leak-test Pressure is the specified inlet
pressure relief valve, expressed as a per- static pressure at which a seat leak test is
cent of the set pressure or in pressure performed.
units.
Lift is the actual travel of the disc away
Built-up Back Pressure is the increase in from the closed position when a valve is
pressure in the discharge header that de- relieving.
velops as a result of flow after the
Maximum Allowable Working Pressure
pressure relief device opens.
(MAWP) is the maximum gauge pressure
Closing Pressure is the value of de- permissible at the top of a completed
creasing inlet static pressure at which the vessel in its operating position for a desig-
valve disc re-establishes contact with the nated temperature. The pressure is based
seat or at which lift becomes zero. on calculations for each element in a ves-
sel using nominal thicknesses, exclusive
Cold Differential Test Pressure is the
of additional metal thicknesses allowed for
pressure at which the pressure relief valve
corrosion and loadings other than pres-
is adjusted to open on the test stand. The
sure. The maximum allowable working
cold differential test pressure includes cor-
pressure is the basis for the pressure set-
rections for the service conditions of back
ting of the pressure relief devices that
pressure or temperature or both.
protect the vessel.
Conventional Pressure Relief Valve is a
Maximum Operating Pressure is the
spring-loaded pressure relief valve whose
maximum pressure expected during sys-
performance characteristics are directly
tem operation.
affected by changes in the back pressure
on the valve. Nozzle Area is the cross-sectional flow
area of a nozzle at the minimum nozzle
Curtain Area is the area of the cylindrical
diameter.
or conical discharge opening between the
seating surfaces above the nozzle seat
created by the lift of the disc.

Technical Manual
Glossary
Opening Pressure is the value of in- Rupture Disc Device is a nonreclosing

creasing inlet static pressure at which differential pressure relief device actuated
there is a measurable lift of the disc or at by inlet static pressure and designed to
which discharge of the fluid becomes con- function by bursting the pressure-contain-
tinuous. ing rupture disc. A rupture disc device
includes a rupture disc and a rupture disc
Outlet Size is the nominal pipe size
holder.
(NPS) of the valve at the discharge con-
nection, unless otherwise designated. Safety Relief Valve is a spring-loaded
pressure relief valve that may be used as
Overpressure is the pressure increase
either a safety or relief valve depending
over the set pressure of the relieving de-
on the application.
vice, expressed in pressure units or as a
percent. It is the same as accumulation Safety Valve is a spring-loaded pressure
when the relieving device is set at the relief valve actuated by the static pressure
maximum allowable working pressure upstream of the valve and characterized
of the vessel, and the inlet pipe pressure by rapid opening or pop action. A safety
loss is zero. valve is normally used with compressible
fluids.
Pilot Operated Pressure Relief Valve is
a pressure relief valve in which the main Set Pressure is the inlet gauge pressure
valve is combined with and controlled by at which the pressure relief valve is set to
an auxiliary pressure relief device. open under service conditions.
Pressure Relief Device is actuated by Simmer is the audible or visible escape of

inlet static pressure and designed to open compressible fluid between the seat and
during an emergency or abnormal condi- disc at an inlet static pressure below the set
tions to prevent a rise of internal fluid pressure and at no measurable capacity.
pressure in excess of a specified value.
Spring-loaded Pressure Relief Valve is
The device also may be designed to pre-
a pressure relief device designed to auto-
vent excessive internal vacuum. The
matically reclose and prevent the further
device may be a pressure relief valve,
flow of fluid.
a nonreclosing pressure relief device, or
a vacuum relief valve. Stamped Capacity is the rated relieving
capacity that appears on the device
Rated Relieving Capacity is that portion
nameplate. The stamped capacity is
of the measured relieving capacity permit-
based on the set pressure or burst pres-
ted by the applicable code or regulation to
sure plus the allowable overpressure for
be used as a basis for the application of a
compressible fluids and the differential
pressure relief device.
pressure for incompressible fluids.
Relief Valve is a spring-loaded pressure
Superimposed Back Pressure is the
relief valve actuated by the static pressure
static pressure that exists at the outlet of
upstream of the valve. The valve opens
a pressure relief device before it actuates.
normally in proportion to the pressure in-
It is the result of pressure in the discharge
crease over the opening pressure. A relief
system coming from other sources and
valve is used primarily with incompress-
may be constant or variable.
ible fluids.
Relieving Conditions is the term used to

indicate the inlet pressure and tempera-
ture on a pressure relief device at a
specific overpressure. The relieving pres-
sure is equal to the valve set pressure (or
rupture disc burst pressure) plus the over-
pressure. (The temperature of the flowing
fluid at relieving conditions may be higher
or lower than the operating temperature.)

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Nomenclature
Gas and Steam Flow
Symbol Description Inch Metric

Pounds Units
A Orifice area or equivalent flow area. square inch square centimeter

(in2) [cm2]
C The gas constant of gas, derived from — —
the specific heat ratio, k. If C is un-
known, use C = 315, a conservative
value. Refer also to Physical Properties
of Selected Gases.
F´ Subsonic flow factor, based on the ratio — —
of specific heats and pressure drop (dif-
ferential) across the valve or nozzle.
k The ratio of specific heats of gas, where — —
k = Cp/Cv. When the value of k is un-
known, use k = 1.001, a conservative
value. Refer also to Physical Properties
of Selected Gases.
K The valve coefficient to be used where — —
set pressure is 15 psig [1.03 barg] and
greater, and in accordance with the re-
quirements of Section VIII, Division 1 of
the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel
Code, ASME I, and ASME III. Valve co-
efficient K includes the required derating
to 90% of actual average measured noz-
zle coefficient, KD, as required by the
ASME Code. Please note that safety
valve models available for gas and liq-
uid applications will have differing
nozzle coefficients.
Kb A back pressure correction factor for — —
gas, used when the flow becomes sub-
sonic, occurring when the pressure ratio
across the valve nozzle exceeds the
critical pressure, PCF/P1.
KN Steam flow correction factor, from the — —
Napier equation.
KSH Superheat correction factor for use in — —
the steam formulas.
M Molecular weight of the flowing gas. — —
Refer to Physical Properties of Selected
Gases, or other resources, for listing of M.
P Set pressure in gauge units. All formulas lb/in2 gauge bar gauge
herein are based on barg or psig. (psig) [barg]
Pb Back pressure, under relieving condi- lb/in2 gauge bar gauge
tions, at valve outlet in gauge pressure (psig) [barg]
units.

Technical Manual
Gas and Steam Flow Note

1. The formulas using this pseudo pressure
ratio are valid only for the specified pres-
Pounds Units sure units to the right and for the Series 90
low pressure pilot operated safety valves.
P1 Absolute pressure at valve inlet con- lb/in2 absolute bar absolute
nection under relieving conditions (psia) [bara]
and equal to set pressure, p + over-
pressure + atmospheric pressure.
Atmospheric pressure will be equal
to standard sea level pressure,
14.7 psia [1.013 bara], unless other-
wise specified. When a local plant
site barometric pressure is men-
tioned, sizing for orifice area should
be made with the stated local baro-
metric pressure.
P2 Absolute pressure at valve outlet lb/in2 absolute bar absolute
under relieving conditions; equal to (psia) [bara]
back pressure, pb + atmospheric
pressure (as expressed in previous
paragraph). P2
PCF/P1 Critical pressure ratio. The critical pres- lb/in2 absolute bar absolute
sure ratio is used to determine if the (psia) [bara]
back pressure correction factor Kb
shall be applied to the sizing formula.
P1
t Relieving temperature, to be evaluat- — —
ed at the valve inlet, under relieving
Set pressure = 15 psig
condition.
[1.03 barg] and higher
T Absolute relieving temperature, degrees Fahrenheit degrees Celsius
equal to relieving temperature plus (°F) [°C]
base temperature, where:
T [°Rankin] = t [°F] + 460 and degrees Rankin degrees Kelvin
T [Kelvin] = t [°C] + 273 (°R) [°K]
V Gas flow capacity expressed in standard cubic feet normal cubic meters
volumetric units per time unit. The per minute per hour
formulas in this section are based (scfm) [Nm3/h]
on a sea level atmospheric pressure
of 14.7 psia [1.013 bars] and a
temperature base of 60°F or 0°C,
respectively for metric and inch-
pound systems. Refer to Gas Flow
Conversions for other pressure and P2
temperature bases as well as other
units of measure.
W Gas flow capacity expressed in pounds per hour kilograms per hour
weight units per time unit. Refer to (lb/h) [kg/h]
Gas Flow Conversions for other
units of measure.
Z Compressibility factor, correcting for — — P1
the difference between the physical
characteristics of a theoretical gas Set pressure is less than
and the actual gas under considera- 15 psig [1.03 barg]
tion. If Z is unknown, use Z = 1.00.

Technical Manual
Notes Liquid Flow

1. Relief valves certified for liquid applica-
tions with full lift at 10% overpressure,
shall use Kp = 1.00 at 10% and greater Pounds Units
overpressure. The 1985 revision to ASME
VIII required all liquid relief valves to have A Orifice area square inch square centimeter
certified capacities at 10% overpressure. (in2) [cm2]
G Relative density of liquid at flowing tem- — —
Therefore, the use of Kp in the sizing for- perature, referred to water at 68°F [20°C].
mula would apply to non-ASME Code Gwater = 1.00.
valves only.
K Effective or certified nozzle coefficient. The — —
2. The maximum permitted values of over- certified nozzle coefficients, when given,
pressure for various types of liquid safety are in accordance with the requirements of
valves in this manual are as follows: Section VIII, Division 1 of the ASME Boiler
and Pressure Vessel Code, ASME I, and
Maximum Liquid Safety ASME III and include a derating to 90% of
Overpressure Valve Type actual, as required by the Code. The effec-
tive nozzle coefficients, when given, also
10% Pilot operated.
assume the same derating, but are not cer-
10% Conventional and bal- tified by the National Board of Boiler and
anced direct spring Pressure Vessel Inspectors. Please note
operated, with certified full that safety valve models available for gas
lift at 10% overpressure. and liquid applications will have differing
25% Conventional and nozzle coefficients.
balanced direct spring op- Kp Capacity correction factor due to lift charac- — —
erated valves not meeting teristics of conventional and balanced spring
the above requirements. operated valves, in liquid service, where full
Note: Sizing may be done lift is achieved at 25% overpressure. Use Kp
at 10% overpressure when = 0.60 for sizing these valve types at 10%
the correction factor Kp is overpressure, and Kp = 1.00 for 25% and
made equal to 0.60. greater overpressure.1
Kv Capacity correction factor due to viscosity. — —
For most applications, viscosity may not be
significant, in which case use Kv = 1.00.
Kw Capacity correction factor for balanced bel- — —
lows safety valves due to back pressure.
Use Kw = 1.00 for conventional (unbal-
anced) and pilot operated safety valves.
p1 Upstream pressure under relieving condi- lb/in2 gauge bar gauge
tions. This is set pressure, plus (psig) [barg]
overpressure.2
p2 Total back pressure, under relieving con- lb/in2 gauge bar gauge
ditions, at valve outlet. (psig) [barg]
R Reynolds Number. A dimensionless ex- — —
pression for the flow behavior of fluids
and is used to determine the viscosity
correction factor Kv.
µ Absolute viscosity of the liquid at the re- centipoise centipoise
lieving temperature. Kinematic viscosity
and/or viscosity expressed in other units
of measure must be converted to ab-
solute viscosity in centipoise. Most liquid
applications need not consider viscosity
and should therefore use a Kv = 1.00.
The approximate viscosity of water under
most conditions is 1 centipoise. When vis-
cosity is given, it should be considered.
W Liquid flow rate. US gallons cubic meters
per min per hour
(US gpm) [m3/h]

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Nozzle Coefficients
ASME Nozzle Coefficients – Direct Spring PRVs
Valve ASME I ASME III ASME IV ASME VIII

Steam Hot Water Steam Gas, Vapor Liquids Steam Steam Gas, Vapor Liquids
A Series .975 .878 .878 .710
D Series .878 .878 .700 .878 .878 .700
F Series .798 .878 .878
G Series .840 .878 .878
K Series .878 .878
L Series .874 .874 .475 .874 .874 .475
Y Series .840 .878 .878
15W .975
Model 61 .877
Model 63B .877
Model 83F .847
Model 81, 83 .988
Model 86 .816 .816
Model 81P .720
API Nozzle Coefficients – Direct Spring PRVs
Valve ASME I ASME III ASME IV ASME VIII

Steam Hot Water Steam Gas, Vapor Liquids Steam Steam Gas, Vapor Liquids
A Series .878
D Series .971 .971 .776 .971 .971 .776
F Series .876 .910 .910
G Series .876 .910 .910
K Series .878 .878
L Series .971 .971 .528 .971 .971 .528
Y Series .876
15W .975
Model 61 .877
Model 63B .847
Model 83F .998
Model 81, 83 .816
Model 86 .816
Model 81P .720
Note
1. ASME nozzle coefficient is the actual coeffi- The API nozzle coefficient is an effective
cient recorded by the National Board of coefficient to be used when sizing PRVs
Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors. It using API 526 orifice areas.
differs from the API nozzle coefficient.
When sizing PRVs using the ASME coeffi-
cient, the ASME area must be used.

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Nozzle Coefficients
ASME Nozzle Coefficients – Pilot Operated PRVs
Valve ASME VIII

Steam Gas, Vapor Liquids
223, 233 .830
423, 433 .830 .650
623, 633 .830 .650
823, 833 .830 .650
923, 933 .830 .650
226 .833
526 .833 .833 .650
576 .809 .809
727 .788 .788
273, 473, 673, 873, 973 .809
91/94 .770
93/93T .845
95 .852
9300 .629
API Nozzle Coefficients – Pilot Operated PRVs
Valve ASME VIII

Steam Gas, Vapor Liquids
223, 233 .860
423, 433 .860 .670
623, 633 .860 .670
823, 833 .860 .670
923, 933 .860 .670
226 .860
526 .860 .860
576 .860 .860
727 .975 .975
273, 473, 673, 873, 973 .860
91/94 .770
93/93T .845
95 .852
9300 .629

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Orifice Areas
Orifice Areas – Direct Spring PRVs
Valve Orifice ASME Area API Area

Designation (in2) [cm2] (in2) [cm2]
A Series D .1213 .783 .110 .710
A Series E .2157 1.392 .196 1.265
A Series F .3369 2.174 .307 1.981
A Series G .553 3.568 .503 3.245
A Series H .864 5.574 .785 5.065
A Series J 1.415 9.129 1.287 8.303
D Series D .1219 .786 .110 .710

D Series E .2173 1.402 .196 1.265
D Series F .340 2.194 .307 1.981
D Series G .558 3.600 .503 3.245
D Series H .869 5.606 .785 5.065
D Series J 1.427 9.206 1.287 8.303
D Series K 2.036 13.135 1.838 11.858
D Series L 3.160 20.380 2.853 18.406
D Series M 3.987 25.720 3.600 23.230
D Series N 4.807 31.010 4.340 28.030
D Series P 7.070 45.610 6.380 41.160
D Series Q 12.240 73.970 11.050 71.290
D Series R 17.720 114.320 16.000 103.230
D Series T 28.800 185.810 26.000 167.740
Note
1. The ASME area is the actual flow area certi-
fied by the National Board of Boiler and
Pressure Vessel Inspectors. The API area is
the flow area defined per API 526. When
sizing PRVs, care should be exercised to
not mix API and ASME values.

Technical Manual
Orifice Areas – Direct Spring PRVs
Valve Orifice ASME Area API Area

Designation (in2) [cm2] (in2) [cm2]
K Series F .307 1.981 .307 1.981
K Series G .503 3.245 .503 3.245
K Series H .785 5.065 .785 5.065
K Series J 1.287 8.303 1.287 8.303
K Series K 1.838 11.858 1.838 11.858
K Series L 2.853 18.406 2.853 18.406
K Series M 3.597 23.200 3.600 23.230
K Series N 4.340 28.030 4.340 28.030
K Series P 6.380 41.160 6.380 41.160
K Series Q 11.045 71.260 11.050 71.290
L Series — .0767 .495 .069 .445
L Series C .150 .968 .135 .871
L Series V .248 1.600 .223 1.439
L Series G .559 3.606 .503 3.245
Model 61 .110 .710 .110 .710

Model 63B 5 .150 .968 .150 .968
Model 63B 7 .437 2.819 .437 2.819
Model 81, 83, 81P -4 .049 .316 .049 .316
Model 81, 83 -6 .110 .710 .110 .710
Model 81, 83, 81P -8 .196 1.265 .196 1.265
Model 81, 83 F .307 1.981 .307 1.981
Model 81, 83, 81P G .503 3.245 .503 3.245
Model 81, 83 H .785 5.065 .785 5.065
Model 81, 83, 81P J 1.287 8.303 1.287 8.303

Technical Manual
ASME Orifice Areas – Pilot Operated PRVs
Valve Size Orifice Area, in2 [cm2]

Type X331 Type X231 Type X731 Type 226/526 Type 576 Type 727
1” x 2” 0.152 (‘D’) [0.98]2
0.318 (‘F’) [2.05] — — — —
11/2” x 2” 0.265 (‘E’) [1.71]
11/2” x 2” 0.599 (‘G’) [3.86]3 0.817 (‘H’) [5.27]3 1.336 [8.62] — 1.336 [8.62] —
11/2” x 3” 0.599 (‘G’) [3.86] 0.817 (‘H’) [5.27] — 0.817 (‘H’) [5.27] — —
0.629 (‘G’) [4.06]
0.631 (‘G’) [4.07]
2” x 3” 1.336 (‘J’) [8.62] 2.530 [16.32] 1.336 (‘J’) [8.62] 2.530 [16.32] 0.981 (‘H’) [6.33]
0.973 (‘H’) [6.28]
1.635 (‘J’) [10.55]
1.635 (‘J’) [10.55]
3” x 4” 1.448 (‘J’) [9.34] 2.985 (‘L’) [19.26] 6.651 [42.91] 2.985 (‘L’) [19.26] 6.651 [42.91] 2.298 (‘K’) [14.82]
2.162 (‘K’) [13.95] 3.557 (‘L’) [22.95]
3.557 (‘L’) [22.95]
3.512 (‘L’) [22.66]
4.505 (‘M’) [29.06]
4” x 6” 4.369 (‘M’) [28.19] 6.651 (‘P’) [42.91] 9.629 [62.12] 6.651 (‘P’) [42.91] 9.629 [62.12]
5.425 (‘N’) [35.00]
5.054 (‘N’) [32.61]
7.911 (‘P’) [51.04]
13.813 (‘Q’) [89.12]
—
6” x 8” 12.350 (‘Q’) [79.68] 16.655 (‘R’) [107.45] 16.655 (‘R’) [107.45] 21.520 [138.84] 20.000 (‘R’) [129.03]
22.990 (‘RR’) [148.32]
6” x Dual 8” — — 21.520 [138.84] — — —
8” x 10” — 27.109 (‘T’) [174.90] — 27.109 (‘T’) [174.90] 44.180 [285.03] 32.500 (‘T’) [209.68]
8” x Dual 8” — — 29.420 [189.81] — — —
8” x Dual 10”
— — 44.180 [285.03] — 44.180 [285.03] —
8” x Single 10”
Notes
1. Series 200/300/400/600/800/900.
2. Except for liquid service.
3. Threaded body only.

Technical Manual
API Orifice Areas – Pilot Operated PRVs
Valve Size Orifice Area, in2 [cm2]

Type X331 Type X231 Type X731 Type 226/526 Type 576 Type 727
1” x 2” 0.110 (‘D’) [0.71]2
0.307 (‘F’) [1.98] — — — —
11/2” x 2” 0.196 (‘E’) [1.26]
11/2” x 2” 0.503 (‘G’) [3.24]3 0.785 (‘H’) [5.06]3 1.257 [8.11] — 1.257 [8.11] —
11/2” x 3” 0.503 (‘G’) [3.24] 0.785 (‘H’) [5.06] — 0.785 (‘H’) [5.06] — —
0.503 (‘G’) [3.24]
0.503 (‘G’) [3.24]
2” x 3” 1.287 (‘J’) [8.30] 2.380 [15.35] 1.287 (‘J’) [8.30] 2.380 [15.35] 0.785 (‘H’) [5.06]
0.785 (‘H’) [5.06]
1.287 (‘J’) [8.30]
1.287 (‘J’) [8.30]
1.287 (‘J’) [8.30]
3” x 4” 2.853 (‘L’) [18.41] 6.257 [40.37] 2.853 (‘L’) [18.41] 6.257 [40.37] 1.838 (‘K’) [11.86]
1.838 (‘K’) [11.86]
2.853 (‘L’) [18.41]
2.853 (‘L’) [18.41]
2.853 (‘L’) [18.41]
3.60 (‘M’) [23.22]
4” x 6” 3.60 (‘M’) [23.22] 6.38 (‘P’) [41.16] 9.058 [58.44] 6.38 (‘P’) [41.16] 9.058 [58.44]
4.34 (‘N’) [28.00]
4.34 (‘N’) [28.00]
6.38 (‘P’) [41.16]
11.05 (‘Q’) [71.29]
6” x 8” 11.05 (‘Q’) [71.29] 16.00 (‘R’) [103.22] — 16.00 (‘R’) [103.22] —
16.00 (‘R’) [103.22]
6” x Dual 8” — — 20.244 [130.61] — — —
8” x 10” — 26.00 (‘T’) [167.74] — 26.00 (‘T’) [167.74] 41.56 [268.13] 26.00 (‘T’) [167.74]
8” x Dual 8” — — 27.675 [178.55] — — —
8” x Dual 10”
— — 41.56 [268.13] — 41.56 [268.13] —
8” x Single 10”
Notes
1. Series 200/300/400/600/800/900.
2. Except for liquid service.
3. Threaded body only.

Technical Manual
Orifice Areas - Types 93/93T Orifice Areas - Types 91/94
Valve ASME API Valve ASME API

Size (in2) [cm2] (in2) [cm2] Size (in2) [cm2] (in2) [cm2]
2” 2.29 14.77 2.29 14.77 2” 2.92 18.84 2.92 18.84
3” 5.16 33.29 5.16 33.29 3” 6.24 40.26 6.24 40.26
4” 8.74 56.38 8.74 56.38 4” 10.33 66.65 10.33 66.65
6” 19.56 126.93 19.56 126.93 6” 22.22 143.35 22.22 143.35
8” 36.40 234.84 36.40 234.84 8” 39.57 255.29 39.57 255.29
10” 51.00 329.03 51.00 329.03 10” 56.75 366.12 56.75 366.12
12” 84.00 541.93 84.00 541.93 12” 89.87 579.80 89.87 579.80
Orifice Areas - Type 95 Orifice Areas - Type 96A
Valve ASME API Valve ASME API

Size (in2) [cm2] (in2) [cm2] Size (in2) [cm2] (in2) [cm2]
2” 2.92 18.84 2.92 18.84 2” 11.70 75.48 11.70 75.48
3” 6.25 40.32 6.25 40.32 3” 23.89 154.12 23.89 154.12
4” 10.32 66.58 10.32 66.58 4” 36.80 237.42 36.80 237.42
6” 22.15 142.90 22.15 142.90 6” 80.93 522.12 80.93 522.12
Orifice Areas - Series 9000
Valve ASME API

Size (in2) [cm2] (in2) [cm2]
2” 3.356 21.65 3.356 21.65
3” 7.393 47.69 7.393 47.69
4” 12.73 82.12 12.73 82.12
6” 28.89 186.38 28.89 186.38
8” 50.027 322.71 50.027 322.71
10” 78.854 508.73 78.854 508.73
12” 113.097 729.66 113.097 729.66

Technical Manual
Back Pressure and Subsonic Flow Correction Factor

for Section I and Section VIII Sizing Formulas for Gas,
Steam and Liquid

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Evaluating Back Pressure Correction
Kb Factor for Gas and Steam Sources of Back Pressure • When a conventional pressure relief
When any back pressure exists, a test for A pressure relief valve whose outlet is dis- valve is set to open with a superim-
subsonic flow should be made. If the ab- charging into vent piping or to another posed back pressure sufficiently high to
solute outlet-to-inlet flowing pressure ratio pressure vessel or system will encounter create subsonic flow, the back pressure
(P2/P1) is greater than 0.30 a back pres- one or two types of back pressure: super- correction factor may be applied (as-
sure correction factor Kb may be required imposed and/or built-up. suming that the pressure ratio exceeds
subject to the additional commentary below. the critical ratio).
Superimposed back pressure may come
The required values of Kb as a function of from the vent system due to the discharge • If the valve is known to be tolerant to a
P outlet/P inlet are determined from the of other pressure relief valves into a com- greater amount, the back pressure cor-
curves presented in this section for both mon manifold or due to the nature of other rection factor may be applied.
conventional spring operated and pilot op- processes that affect the downstream
Balanced Pressure Relief Valves
erated pressure relief valves. pressure. The presence of superimposed
back pressure may not necessarily create The balanced bellows valve is balanced
General subsonic flow. However the outlet pres- against superimposed back pressure. It
Whenever flow through a pressure relief sure may rise further, due to flow from the is also resistant to a moderate amount
valve occurs under sonic conditions, the pressure relief valve, and may be suffi- of built-up back pressure. Apply the back
value of Kb is 1.00. When a pressure relief cient to cause subsonic flow. pressure correction factor Kb. When
valve discharges directly to the atmos- balanced bellows valves are used, the
Built-up back pressure occurs as a result maximum permissible built-up back pres-
phere and the set pressure is 15 psig
of the discharge of fluid through a flowing sure should not exceed 40%.
[1.03 barg] or greater, flow is considered
pressure relief valve with connected
to be sonic, therefore Kb remains equal to
downstream piping or equipment. In some Pilot Operated Pressure
1.00. If the pressure relief valve dis-
instances, relatively short sections of pip- Relief Valves
charges into any piping where the back
ing connected by the outlet of a pressure A properly selected and installed pilot op-
pressure at the valve outlet under reliev-
relief valve and venting to the atmosphere erated pressure relief valve will operate
ing conditions exceeds a definitive limit,
will be sufficient to create back pressure effectively under all combinations of su-
flow will be subsonic. The orifice area cal-
during a relieving cycle that will cause flow perimposed and built-up back pressure,
culation of a pressure relief valve, flowing
to be subsonic. limited only by the valve pressure rating
under these conditions, must be mathe-
matically adjusted using the back and practical considerations. Apply the
The result will be a reduction of flow
pressure correction factor Kb. back pressure correction factor Kb, if ap-
capacity. If this is less than the required
plicable.
relieving capacity, the inlet pressure may
Kw Factor for Liquids
rise sufficiently to exceed the permissible Solving for Kb
Whenever back pressure is encountered accumulation for the application. The prob-
in bellows and pressure balanced spring The critical pressure ratio is a function of
lem is compounded when there is also
operated liquid relief valves, a reduction in the value of k, the specific heat ratio of the
some superimposed back pressure, since
flow capacity due to reduced valve lift can gas. The value of PCF /P1 varies from
built-up back pressure will be additive.
result. A Kw factor to correct for this reduc- 0.444 to 0.607 for a range of k between
tion is included in the liquid capacity Conventional Direct Spring 1.00 and 2.00. When sizing valve designs
equation. The required values of Kw Operated Pressure Relief Valves for set pressures below 15 psig covered
based upon P2/P1 are determined from under API 2000, the P outlet/P inlet ratio
If a conventional, direct spring operated
the curves at the back of this section. may be calculated and compared directly
pressure relief valve is to be applied
to the correct P critical for the gas or va-
where any built-up back pressure will be
por k value. The k values for selected
developed, the maximum permissible
gases, the P critical vs. k equation and a
built-up back pressure shall not exceed
set of P critical vs. k curves for frequently
10% of set pressure. Under this limit, no
encountered k values are presented in the
back pressure correction factor need be
‘Fluid Data’ section of this manual.
applied, except as follows:

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Superimposed Back Pressure

Correction Factors
Direct Spring PRVs/Vapor and Gases ASME Section VIII
Constant Back Pressure Correction Factor Kb
1.00
Back Pressure Correction Factor Kb

.90
.80
.70
.60
.50
.40
.30
.20
.10
0 ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
Back pressure, psia or bara
Back Pressure Percentage = x 100
Flowing pressure, psia or bara
Example:
Set pressure = 200 psig [13.79 barg]
Constant back pressure = 160 psig [11.03 barg]
160 + 14.7
Back pressure percentage (absolute) = –––––––––––––– x 100 = 74% or
200 + 20 + 14.7
11.03 + 1.013
–––––––––––––––––– = 74%
13.79 + 1.38 + 1.013
Factor Kb = 0.91 (follow dotted line from curve)
Capacity with back pressure = 0.91 x rated capacity without back pressure

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Superimposed and Built Up Back

Pressure/Subsonic Flow Correction Factors
Direct Spring PRVs - Model Designations - Bellows Valves Only/Vapors
and Gases ASME Section VIII
Variable Back Pressure Correction Factor Kb

Rated capacity without back pressure
Back pressure percentage =

Capacity with back pressure
1.00 Back pressure, psig or barg

x 100
Set pressure, psig or barg
50 psig [3.44 barg]
.90
and over Example:
10% Overpressure
.80 Set pressure = 100 psig [6.89 barg]
15 psig Back pressure = 0 to 35 psig [2.41 barg]
[1.013 barg] 35
.70 Back pressure percentage (gauge) = –––
x 100 = 35% max. 100
.60 Factor Kb = 0.94 (follow dotted line from
▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲
curve)
Kb =
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 Capacity with back pressure = 0.94 x rated

capacity without back pressure

Rated capacity without back pressure
Back pressure, psig or barg

x 100
Variable Back Pressure Correction Factor Kb Set pressure, psig or barg
50 psig [3.44 barg] Example:

1.00
and over Set pressure = 100 psig [6.89 barg]
20% Overpressure
Back pressure = 0 to 35 psig [2.41 barg]
.90
15 psig 35
Back pressure percentage (gauge) = –––
[1.013 barg] 100
.80 x 100 = 35% max.
▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ Factor Kb = 0.99 (follow dotted line from
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 curve)
Kb =
Capacity with back pressure = 0.99 x rated

capacity without back pressure

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Superimposed and Built Up Back

Pressure/Subsonic Flow Correction Factor (Kb)
Back Pressure Correction Factor for Piston Pilot Operated PRVs -
Gas, Vapor, or Steam
1.000
k = 1.0
0.900
k = 1.2
k = 1.4
0.800
k = 1.6
k = 1.8
0.700
k = 2.0
Back Pressure Factor, Kb
0.600
0.500
0.400
0.300
0.200
0.100
0.000
0.200 0.300 0.400 0.500 0.600 0.700 0.800 0.900 1.000
P2 = Absolute Pressure Ratio at Valve Inlet

P1
The above curves are applicable for all ty for full lift, API orifice valves. For full
pressure ranges and overpressures and bore valves, multiply above ‘Kb’ values by
accurately predict the reduction on capaci- 0.95.

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing - Back Pressure Correction Factor for Type 727 – Gas, Vapor or Steam
1.0
0.98
k = 1.0
0.96
k = 1.2
Back Pressure Factor, K b
0.94
k = 1.4
0.92
k = 1.6
0.90
k = 1.8
0.88 k = 2.0
0.86
0.40 0.45 0.50 0.55 0.60 0.65 0.70
P2 /P1 = Absolute Pressure Ratio at Orifice

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing - Liquid Flow
Direct Spring PRVs - Model Designation - Bellows Valves Only/Liquid

Service
Variable or Constant Back Pressure Correction Factor Kw
Capacity with variable back pressure

Back pressure, psig or barg
x 100
Set pressure, psig or barg
Rated capacity based on Fd

1.00
Example:
Set pressure = 100 psig [6.89 barg] .90
Back pressure = 0 to 24 psig [1.65 barg]
24 .80
Back pressure percentage (gauge) = –––
x 100 = 24% max. 100
.70
Factor Kw = 0.95 (follow dotted line from
curve)
.60
Capacity with variable back pressure =
Kw = ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲
0.95 x rated capacity 5
0 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50
Based on differential pressure Fd
Curve to Evaluate Liquid Back Pressure for Series 81P

Correction Factor kw
1.00
Kw = Back Pressure Correction Factor
0.90
0.80
Based on 10% Overpressure
Correction Curve
0.70 for Types 81P - 4
and 81P - 8
0.60
Correction Curve
0.50 for Types 81P - G
and 81P - J
0.40
0.30
0.20
0.10
0.00
▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60
Back Pressure, psig [barg]

Percentage Back Pressure = x 100
Set Pressure, psig [barg]

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Gas and Vapor Equations
ASME VIII Gas Flow (Set Pressure ≥ 15 psig [1.03 barg]) Sizing Information
ASME Section I and VIII
U.S. Weight Flow (lb/h) Metric Weight Flow [kg/h] After system capacity has been deter-
Formula 1 Formula 1M mined, a properly sized pressure relief
valve is determined by the following
–––– –––– method.
√ √
W TZ 1.316 W TZ
A = ––––––– ––– A = ––––––– ––– A. From the formulas in this section
CK P1Kb M CK P1Kb M
calculate required orifice area as a
function of capacity. The orifice sizes
for steam, air, or water may be ob-
U.S. Volumetric Flow (scfm) Metric Volumetric Flow [Nm3/h] tained from the capacity tables
Formula 2 Formula 2M catalog.
B. Identify the required orifice letter des-

–––– ––––
V √ MTZ V √ MTZ ignation, such as D, E, F, etc. Always
A = –––––––––––– A = ––––––––––––– choose an orifice which is equal to, or
6.32 CK P1Kb 17.02 CK P1Kb greater than the required orifice area.
C. Specifications exceeding Anderson

Greenwood standard catalog descrip-
tions should be referred to our sales
department.
D. When selecting orifice areas and

nozzle coefficients, either select the
ASME area and nozzle coefficient,
or the equivalent API area and nozzle
coefficient.
Mixing ASME and API values is incor-

rect and may result in a dangerous
sizing error.

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Gas and Vapor Flow (English Units)
Examples for Steam and Gas Applications

Example 1 - ASME VIII Gas Solution:
Given: Butane, with a required flow rate of Use Formula 1 V = 16,000
16,000 scfm, set at 88 psig, 10% M = 58.12
overpressure, gas temperature –––––
V √ MTZ C = 326
of 60°F, discharging to a closed A = ––––––––––––
header system. The back pressure 6.32 CK P1Kb T = 60 + 460 = 520
(maximum) is 40 psig. Z = 1.0
Find: The required orifice area. P1 = 88 (1.1) + 14.7 = 111.5

––––––––––––––
16,999 √ (58.12)(520)(1) 12.108
A = ––––––––––––––––––––– = –––––– Kb = 40 = 45%
6.32 (326)(111.5) K Kb K Kb 88
Bellows Valve – Kb = 0.77
Pilot Valve – 40 + 14.7 = 49%

111.5
Kb = 0.98
For the bellows valve, the correct orifice selection would be an 8T10 (26.0 in2). For the
case of selecting a POSRV, the correct orifice selection would be 6R8 (16.00 in2).
Case 1 - Select a DB Series with K = 0.971, Kb = 0.77, A = 16.19 in2.
Case 2 - Select a POSRV with K = 0.86, Kb = 0.98, A = 14.36 in2.

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Gas and Vapor Flow - [Metric Units]
Examples for Gas and Steam Applications
Solution: Example 2
Use formula 1M and the physical properties found on pages 51-63. Given: Butane, with a required flow rate
P1 = 5 x (1.1) + 1.013 = 6.513 bara of 9,000 Nm3/h, set at 5 barg,
T = 15 + 273 = 288°K 10% overpressure, relieving tem-
M = 58.12, C = 326 perature of 15°C, discharging to
Z = 1.00 (used when no value is given) atmosphere.
Kb = 1.00 (when back pressure equals atmospheric)
Find: The required orifice area for a typi-
–––––––––––––––– cal conventional safety valve and
9,000 √ 58.12 x 288 x 1.00 32.22 cm2 the orifice selected.
A [cm2] = ––––––––––––––––––––––––– = –––––––––
17.02 x 326 x K x 6.513 x 1.00 K
32.22
A= = 33.18 cm2
.971
Selecting a valve with a K = 0.971, the orifice to be selected is a 4P6 (41.16 cm2).
Solution:
The same data is used as in example 2, except use a nozzle coefficient K = 0.809 (from
Example 3
page 9) in formula 2M. Given: Same as example 2.
––––––––––––––––
9,000 √ 58.12 x 288 x 1.00 Find: The appropriate size valve for a
A [cm ] = –––––––––––––––––––––––––––– = 39.83 cm2
2
piston type (Series 200, 300, etc.),
17.02 x 326 x 0.809 x 6.513 x 1.00
pilot operated safety valve.
From page 12, the next larger available orifice is 42.91 cm2 corresponding to a ‘full-
bore,’ 3-inch x 4-inch valve, Series 273 or 473. Note in this example, ASME not API
coefficients are used.
Solution:
Example 4
The back pressure represents 44% of the set pressure (2.2/5.0).
Given: The same as example 2, except
For a Direct Spring SRV, Kb = 0.78, for a 200 Series Pilot Operated PRV, the back pres- with a built-up back pressure of
sure represents 49% of the absolute pressure ratio: 2.2 + 1.03 2.2 barg.
5.0 x 1.1 + 1.03
Find: The appropriate size to meet the
Therefore, the Kb for the Series 200 = 0.985 (from page 19). relieving conditions.
Again using formula 2M, for the Direct Spring Valve:
–––––––––––––––
9,000 √ 58.12 x 288 x 1.0
A = ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– = 42.54 cm2
17.02 x 326 x 971 x 6.513 x .78
Selecting a direct spring would result in a 6Q8 (71.29 cm2).
For the POSRV:
–––––––––––––––
9,000 √ 58.12 x 288 x 1.0 32.71 cm2
A = ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– = ––––––––
17.02 x 326 x K x 6.513 x .985 K
Case 1 - Select a Type 223, K = 0.830, A = 39.40 cm2.
Case 2 - Select a Type 273, K = 0.809, A = 40.43 cm2.
Selecting a pilot valve could either be a 4P6 (42.91 cm2) or a full bore 3 x 4 (42.91 cm2).

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Steam Flow
Sizing Information ASME I Sonic Steam Flow (Set Pressure ≥ 15 psig [1.03 barg])
ASME Section I and VIII
After system capacity has been deter- U.S. Units (lb/h) Metric Units [kg/h]
mined, a properly sized pressure relief Formula 3 Formula 3M
valve is determined by the following
method. W W
A = ––––––––––––––––– A = –––––––––––––––––
A. From the formulas in this section 51.45 K P1KSHKNK b 52.45 K P1KSHKNK b
calculate required orifice area as a
function of capacity. The orifice sizes KN = 1.00 for P ≤ 1500 psig KN = 1.00 for P ≤ 103.4 barg
for steam, air, or water may be ob-
tained from the capacity tables 0.1906 P - 1000 2.764 P - 1000
KN = ––––––––––––– KN = –––––––––––––
catalog. 0.2292 P - 1061 3.323 P - 1061
B. Identify the required orifice letter des-
where 1500 psig < P < 3200 psig where 103.4 barg < P < 220.7 barg
ignation, such as D, E, F, etc. Always
choose an orifice which is equal to, or
greater than the required orifice area.
ASME VIII Sonic Steam Flow (Set Pressure ≥ 15 psig [1.03 barg])
C. Specifications exceeding Anderson
Greenwood standard catalog descrip-
U.S. Units (lb/h) Metric Units [kg/h]
tions should be referred to our sales
Formula 4 Formula 4M
department.
D. When selecting orifice areas and noz- W W

A = –––––––––––––––– A = ––––––––––––––––
zle coefficients, either select the ASME 51.5 K P1KSHKNK b 52.5 K P1KSHKNK b
area and nozzle coefficient, or the
equivalent API area and nozzle coeffi- KN = 1.00 for P ≤ 1500 psig KN = 1.00 for P ≤ 103.4 barg
cient.
Mixing ASME and API values is incor- 0.1906 P - 1000 2.764 P - 1000
KN = ––––––––––––– KN = –––––––––––––
rect and may result in a dangerous 0.2292 P - 1061 3.323 P - 1061
sizing error.
where 1500 psig < P < 3200 psig where 103.4 barg < P < 220.7 barg

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Steam (English Units)
Examples for Steam Applications

Solution: Example 5 - ASME I Steam
Use Formula 3 W = 4050 Given: Steam, with a required flow rate
W KSH = 0.97 of 4,050 lb/h, set at 18 psig, is
A=
51.45 K P1KSHKNKb KN = 1.00 required for an ASME I boiler
application. Steam temperature
Kb = 1.00 is 420°F.
4050 2.388
A = –––––––––––––––––––– = –––––– P1 = 18 + 2 + 14.7 = 34.7
51.45 K (.97)(1)(34.7)(1) K Find: The required orifice area.
Selecting a valve with a K = 0.878 (K Series), A = 2.66 in2. 2.338
=
K
This orifice corresponds to an L orifice (2.853 in2).
Note the overpressure for set
pressures between 15 psig and 70 psig is 3% or 2 psig minimum.
Solution: Example 6 - ASME VIII Steam

Use Formula 4 Given: Steam, with a required flow rate
W W = 84,000 of 84,000 lb/h, set at 400 psig,
A=
51.5 K P1KSHKNKb KSH = 1.00 is required for an unfired pressure
vessel application. Steam temper-
KN = 1.00
ature is 448°F.
84,000 3.587
A = –––––––––––––––––––– = –––––– Kb = 1.00
51.5 (K)(1)(1)(454.7)(1) K Find: The required orifice area and
P1 = 400 (1.1) + 14.7 = 454.7
approximate valve capacity.
Selecting a valve with a K = 0.971 (D Series), A = 3.69 in2.

This orifice corresponds to a 4N6 orifice (4.34 in2).
The approximate flowing capacity can be estimated from the ratio of actual area to
required area as follows:
4.34
W = 84,000 x = 98,796 lb/hr
3.69

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Sonic Flow (English Units)
Curve to Evaluate Napier Correction Factor KN for High Pressure

Dry Saturated Steam
1.200
1.190
1.180
1.170
1.160
0.1906 P - 1000
KN = (10a)
1.150 0.2292 P - 1061
1.140 where 1500 psig < P < 3200 psig
1.130
Napier Correction Factor, KN 1.120
1.110
1.100
1.090
1.080
1.070
1.060
1.050
1.040
1.030
1.020
1.010
1.000
▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲
1500 1700 1900 2100 2300 2500 2700 2900 3100 3300
Steam Relieving Pressure, P1 (psig)

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Sonic Flow [Metric Units]
Curve to Evaluate Napier Correction Factor KN for High Pressure

Dry Saturated Steam
1.210
1.200
1.190
1.180 2.764 P - 1000

KN = (10)
3.323 P - 1061
1.170
where 103.4 barg < P < 220.7 barg
1.160
1.150
1.140
Napier Correction Factor, KN
1.130
1.120
1.110
1.000
1.090
1.080
1.070
1.060
1.050
1.040
1.030
1.020
1.010
▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲
100 110 120 130 140 150 160 170 180 190 200 210 220 230
Steam Relieving Pressure, P1 (barg)

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Steam – Superheat Correction

Superheat Correction Factor (KSH) for Superheated Steam
Relieving Total Steam Temperature °F [°C]
Pressure 400 450 500 550 600 650 700 750 800 850 900 950 1000 1050 1100 1150 1200
psia [bara] [204] [232] [260] [288] [316] [343] [371] [399] [427] [454] [482] [510] [538] [566] [593] [621] [649]
50 [3.4] .987 .957 .930 .905 .882 .861 .841 .823 .805 .789 .774 .759 .745 .732 .719 .708 .696
100 [6.9] .998 .963 .935 .909 .885 .864 .843 .825 .807 .790 .775 .760 .746 .733 .720 .708 .697
150 [10.3] .984 .970 .940 .913 .888 .866 .846 .826 .808 .792 .776 .761 .747 .733 .721 .709 .697
200 [13.8] .979 .977 .945 .917 .892 .869 .848 .828 .810 .793 .777 .762 .748 .734 .721 .709 .698
250 [17.2] .972 .951 .921 .895 .871 .850 .830 .812 .794 .778 .763 .749 .735 .722 .710 .698
300 [20.7] .968 .957 .926 .898 .874 .852 .832 .813 .796 .780 .764 .750 .736 .723 .710 .699
350 [24.1] .968 .963 .930 .902 .877 .854 .834 .815 .797 .781 .765 .750 .736 .723 .711 .699
400 [27.6] .963 .935 .906 .880 .857 .836 .816 .798 .782 .766 .751 .737 .724 .712 .700
450 [31.0] .961 .940 .909 .883 .859 .838 .818 .800 .783 .767 .752 .738 .725 .712 .700
500 [34.5] .961 .946 .914 .886 .862 .840 .820 .801 .784 .768 .753 .739 .725 .713 .701
550 [37.9] .962 .952 .918 .889 .864 .842 .822 .803 .785 .769 .754 .740 .726 .713 .701
600 [41.4] .964 .958 .922 .892 .867 .844 .823 .804 .787 .770 .755 .740 .727 .714 .702
650 [44.8] .968 .958 .927 .896 .869 .846 .825 .806 .788 .771 .756 .741 .728 .715 .702
700 [48.3] .958 .931 .899 .872 .848 .827 .807 .789 .772 .757 .742 .728 .715 .703
750 [51.7] .958 .936 .903 .875 .850 .828 .809 .790 .774 .758 .743 .729 .716 .703
800 [55.2] .960 .942 .906 .878 .852 .830 .810 .792 .774 .759 .744 .730 .716 .704
850 [58.6] .962 .947 .910 .880 .855 .832 .812 .793 .776 .760 .744 .730 .717 .704
900 [62.1] .965 .953 .914 .883 .857 .834 .813 .794 .777 .760 .745 .731 .718 .705
950 [65.5] .969 .958 .918 .886 .860 .836 .815 .796 .778 .761 .746 .732 .718 .705
1000 [69.0] .974 .959 .923 .890 .862 .838 .816 .797 .779 .762 .747 .732 .719 .706
1050 [72.4] .960 .927 .893 .864 .840 .818 .798 .780 .763 .748 .733 .719 .707
1100 [75.9] .962 .931 .896 .867 .842 .820 .800 .781 .764 .749 .734 .720 .707
1150 [79.3] .964 .936 .899 .870 .844 .821 .801 .782 .765 .749 .735 .721 .708
1200 [82.8] .966 .941 .903 .872 .846 .823 .802 .784 .766 .750 .735 .721 .708
1250 [86.2] .969 .946 .906 .875 .848 .825 .804 .785 .767 .751 .736 .722 .709
1300 [89.7] .973 .952 .910 .878 .850 .826 .805 .786 .768 .752 .737 .723 .709
1350 [93.1] .977 .958 .914 .880 .852 .828 .807 .787 .769 .753 .737 .723 .710
1400 [96.6] .982 .963 .918 .883 .854 .830 .808 .788 .770 .754 .738 .724 .710
1450 [100.0] .987 .968 .922 .886 .857 .832 .809 .790 .771 .754 .739 .724 .711
1500 [103.4] .993 .970 .926 .889 .859 .833 .811 .791 .772 .755 .740 .725 .711
1550 [106.9] .972 .930 .892 .861 .835 .812 .792 .773 .756 .740 .726 .712
1600 [110.3] .973 .934 .894 .863 .836 .813 .792 .774 .756 .740 .726 .712

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Steam – Superheat Correction

Superheat Correction Factor (KSH) for Superheated Steam
Relieving Total Steam Temperature °F [°C]
Pressure 400 450 500 550 600 650 700 750 800 850 900 950 1000 1050 1100 1150 1200
psia [bara] [204] [232] [260] [288] [316] [343] [371] [399] [427] [454] [482] [510] [538] [566] [593] [621] [649]
1650 [113.8] .973 .936 .895 .863 .836 .812 .791 .772 .755 .739 .724 .710
1700 [117.2] .973 .938 .895 .863 .835 .811 .790 .771 .754 .738 .723 .709
1750 [120.7] .974 .940 .896 .862 .835 .810 .789 .770 .752 .736 .721 .707
1800 [124.1] .975 .942 .897 .862 .834 .810 .788 .768 .751 .735 .720 .705
1850 [127.6] .976 .944 .897 .862 .833 .809 .787 .767 .749 .733 .718 .704
1900 [131.0] .977 .946 .898 .862 .832 .807 .785 .766 .748 .731 .716 .702
1950 [134.5] .979 .949 .898 .861 .832 .806 .784 .764 .746 .729 .714 .700
2000 [137.9] .982 .952 .899 .861 .831 .805 .782 .762 .744 .728 .712 .698
2050 [141.4] .985 .954 .899 .860 .830 .804 .781 .761 .742 .726 .710 .696
2100 [144.8] .988 .956 .900 .860 .828 .802 .779 .759 .740 .724 .708 .694
2150 [148.3] .956 .900 .859 .827 .801 .778 .757 .738 .722 .706 .692
2200 [151.7] .955 .901 .859 .826 .799 .776 .755 .736 .720 .704 .690
2250 [155.2] .954 .901 .858 .825 .797 .774 .753 .734 .717 .702 .687
2300 [158.6] .953 .901 .857 .823 .795 .772 .751 .732 .715 .699 .685
2350 [162.1] .952 .902 .856 .822 .794 .769 .748 .729 .712 .697 .682
2400 [165.5] .952 .902 .855 .820 .791 .767 .746 .727 .710 .694 .679
2450 [169.0] .951 .902 .854 .818 .789 .765 .743 .724 .707 .691 .677
2500 [172.4] .951 .902 .852 .816 .787 .762 .740 .721 .704 .688 .674
2550 [175.9] .951 .902 .851 .814 .784 .759 .738 .718 .701 .685 .671
2600 [179.3] .951 .903 .849 .812 .782 .756 .735 .715 .698 .682 .664
2650 [182.8] .952 .903 .848 .809 .779 .754 .731 .712 .695 .679 .664
2700 [186.2] .952 .903 .846 .807 .776 .750 .728 .708 .691 .675 .661
2750 [189.7] .953 .903 .844 .804 .773 .747 .724 .705 .687 .671 .657
2800 [193.1] .956 .903 .842 .801 .769 .743 .721 .701 .684 .668 .653
2850 [196.6] .959 .902 .839 .798 .766 .739 .717 .697 .679 .663 .649
2900 [200.0] .963 .902 .836 .794 .762 .735 .713 .693 .675 .659 .645
2950 [203.4] .902 .834 .790 .758 .731 .708 .688 .671 .655 .640
3000 [206.9] .901 .831 .786 .753 .726 .704 .684 .666 .650 .635
3050 [210.3] .899 .827 .782 .749 .722 .699 .679 .661 .645 .630
3100 [213.8] .896 .823 .777 .744 .716 .693 .673 .656 .640 .625
3150 [217.2] .894 .819 .772 .738 .711 .688 .668 .650 .634 .620
3200 [220.7] .889 .815 .767 .733 .705 .682 .662 .644 .628 .614

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Liquid Flow
ASME VIII Liquids (Set Pressure ≥ 15 psig [1.03 barg])
U.S. Volumetric Flow Metric Volumetric Flow

(gpm @ 10% overpressure) [m3/h @ 10% overpressure]
––– –––
W√ G 0.19631 W √ G
A = –––––––––––––––––––––
–––––––––– A = ––––––––––––––––––
–––––––––
38 K KvKw √1.10 P - P2 K KvKw √1.10 P - P2
Liquids (Non ASME Certified)
U.S. Volumetric Flow (gpm) Metric Volumetric Flow [m3/h]

––– –––
W√ G 0.19631 W √ G
A = –––––––––––––––––––
––––– A = ––––––––––––––––
–––––
38 K KpKvKw √ P - P2 K KpKvKw √ P - P2
Reynolds Number Calculation
U.S. Volumetric Flow (gpm) Metric Volumetric Flow [m3/h]

12,700 W 31,313 WG
R = –––––––––
–– R = –––––––––––
––
U √A µ √A

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Liquid Flow Viscosity Correction

(English)
Example 7 Step 1
–––
When a relief valve is sized for viscous liq- W√ G
A = –––––––––––––––––––––
––––––––––
38 K KvKw √1.10 P - P2
uid service, it is suggested that it be sized
first as for nonviscous-type application in
order to obtain a preliminary required dis-
charged area, A. From manufacturers’ –––
standard orifice sizes, the next larger ori- 300 √ 1.0
A = –––––––––––––––––––––
––––––––
38 (.776)(1) √1.10 - 15
fice size should be used in determining
the Reynold’s number, R, from the follow-
ing relationship: A = 1.043
12,700 W
R = ––––––––––
–– Preliminary Required Discharge Area
µ √ A1
A1, Select Standard Orifice Area = 1.287 -
Where: ‘J ’ Orifice
W = required flow rate at the flowing tem-
perature, in U.S. gallons per minute. Step 2
A1 = effective discharge area, in
12,700 x 300
square inches R = –––––––––––––––
––––––
U = viscosity at the flowing temperature, 10,000 √ 1.287
in Saybolt Universal seconds.
After the value of R is determined, the R= 335.8
factor Kv is obtained from page 33. Kv is
applied to correct the ‘preliminary re-
quired discharge area.’ If the corrected Step 3
area exceeds the ‘chosen standard orifice
R= 335.8 correction factor from chart
area,’ the above calculations should be
repeated using the next larger standard Kv = 0.815
orifice size.
Step 4
Example:
Viscosity - SSU .......10,000 SSU @ 100°F Corrected ‘Preliminary Required
A
Discharge Area’ = ––––
Required Capacity ......................300 GPM Kv
Set Pressure.................................100 psig
= 1.043
Constant Back Pressure.................15 psig ––––––
.815
Allowable Overpressure......................10%
= 1.279 in2
Specific Gravity......................1.0 @ 100°F
Relieving Temperature .....................100°F If corrected ‘Preliminary Required
Discharge Area’ is greater than selected
standard orifice area, select next orifice
size and repeat steps 2, 3, and 4. In this
example, the corrected orifice area is still
within the ‘J’ orifice and therefore is the
correct selection.

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Liquid Flow
Curve to Evaluate Liquid Viscosity Correction Factor Kv
100,000
50,000
40,000
30,000
20,000
10,000
5,000
4,000
3,000
Reynolds Number, R
2,000
1,000
500
400
300
200
100
50
40
30
20
▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲
0.20 0.30 0.40 0.50 0.60 0.70 0.80 0.90 1.00
Liquid Viscosity Correction Factor, KV

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Liquid Flow (English Units)
Examples for Liquid Applications

Solution: Example 8 - ASME VIII Liquids
Use Formula 5 W = 69 Given: Ethylene Glycol, with a required
G = 1.115 flow rate of 69 GPM, set at 26
–––
69 √ G P = 26 psig, 10% overpressure, built-up
A = ––––––––––––––––––– back pressure of 4 psig.
–––––––– P2 = 4
38 K KvKw √1.1 P - P2
KV = 1 Find: The required orifice area and the
orifice area to be selected.
KW = 1
––––––
69 √ 1.115 .3865
A = –––––––––––––––––––––––
––––––––– = –––––
38 K x 1 x 1 x √1.1(26) - 4 K
For Direct Spring D Series: K = .776

For POSRV: K = .670
For AGCO D Series: A = .3865 = 0.498, Select 11/2 G 21/2 (0.503 in2)
.776
For AGCO 400 Series POSRV: A = .3865 = 0.576, Select 11/2 H3 (0.785 in2)
.67
Solution: Example 9
ASME API Compare the ASME vs API sizing coeffi-
K for D Series = .700 K for D Series = .776 cients for the data used in example 8.
K for 400 Series = .650 K for 400 Series = .670 This example illustrates two important
points to consider in valve sizing.
For D Series: 1. Either ASME or API coefficients may be
.3865 used, but they may not be mixed. An
A= = .552, Select 11/2 G 21/2 (0.558 in2) = same orifice selection
.700 error results if the ASME area is used
with the API coefficient, and vice versa.
For 400 Series: 2. Consider the selection of the 400
.3865 Series Pilot Operated PRV. Using aver-
A= = .594, Select 11/2 G 3 (0.599 in2) = smaller orifice may be selected
.650 aged API coefficients actually would
result in specifying a larger orifice than
using the ASME actual data. When a
calculated orifice (using API data) is
very close to an orifice area selection,
a check using ASME actual data may
result in a smaller orifice.

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Liquid Flow [Metric Units]
Examples for Liquid Applications

Example 10 Solution:
Given: Water with a required flow rate Use formula 5M and the physical properties found on pages 51-63.
of 50.0 m3/h, set at 10.0 barg, P = 10 barg p 2 = 2 barg
10% overpressure, built-up G = 1.00 K = 0.720
back pressure of 2.0 barg.
Kp = 1.00 Kv = 1.00
Find: The required orifice area for a Kw = 1.00 –––––
Type 81P balanced pressure relief 0.19631 x 50 x √ 1.00
A[cm2] = ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
––––––––– = 4.54 cm
2
valve and the orifice area selected.
0.720 x 1.00 x 1.00 x 1.00 x √1.1(10) - 2
From page 11, the next available orifice, greater than this is 8.303 cm2, corresponding to
a ‘J’ orifice.
Given: Same as example 10. The same data is used as in example 10, except use a nozzle coefficient K = 0.776 (from
page 8), in formula 5M. The values of Kp, Kv and Kw = 1.00 for this application.
Find: The appropriate size valve for a
–––––
D Series pressure relief valve, 0.19631 x 50 x √ 1.00
suitable for liquid service. A[cm2] = ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– = 4.216 cm
2
.776 x 1.00 x 1.00 x 1.00 x √11 - 2
From page 10, the next available larger area is 5.065 cm2, corresponding to an ‘H’ orifice.
Given: A liquid with a required flow rate Use formula 5M and make any adjustment for the effect of viscosity if necessary.
of 72 m3/h, set at 6.5 barg, 10% P = 6.5 barg p2 = 0.75 barg
overpressure, a relative density of K = 0.650 Kp = 1.00
0.95, viscosity of 450 centipoise, a
Kw = 1.00 Kv = 1.00 for initial sizing calculation, then
back pressure of 0.75 barg.
evaluated in subsequent calculation as ex-
Find: The required valve size for a plained on page 28.
–––––
Series 400 pilot operated pressure 0.19631 x 72 x √ 0.95
relief valve. Use API coefficients. A[cm2] = –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
––––––––––– = x 8.127 cm
2
0.670 x 1.00 x 1.00 x 1.00 x √1.1(6.5) - .75
From page 13, the next larger, available orifice area is 8.30 cm2.
This preliminary orifice area is then used to determine a value for Kv. Calculate R from
formula 7M on page 31.
31,313 x 72 x 0.95
R = –––––––––––––––––
––––– = 1652
450 √ 8.30
From page 33, Kv = 0.925

8.127
Atrial = –––––– = 8.78 cm2
0.915
This is larger than the preliminary orifice A therefore the next larger orifice must be selected
and re-evaluated. The new preliminary orifice is 11.86 cm2. Calculate a new R.
31,313 x 72 x 0.95
R = ––––––––––––––––
––––– = 1382
450 √ 11.86
From page 33, Kv = 0.925
8.127
Atrial = –––––– = 8.88 cm2 which confirms the selection of a type 423 3K4 size.
0.925
This result is smaller than our last preliminary orifice area of 11.86 cm2, which therefore is
satisfactory for the application. Orifice designation ‘K’ is the appropriate choice.

Technical Manual

Technical Manual
Subsonic Flow API 2000 and Open Discharge Valves

Without Kb Factor

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Subsonic Flow per API RP 520
Gas Flow - Direct Spring Valves with ASME K coefficient1 Note

(Set Pressure < 15 psig [1.03 barg]) 1. Applicable for conventional valves set at
pressures below 15 psig [1.03 barg], or
U.S. Weight Flow (lb/h) Metric Weight Flow [kg/h] when the ratio of back pressure to inlet
Formula 8 Formula 8M pressure (P2/P1) exceeds the critical pres-
sure ratio (PCF/P1). For balanced bellows
–––––––––––– –––– valves that operate in the subsonic flow
√
W ZT W √ TZ region, the sonic flow equations should be
A(in2) = ––––––– –––––––––––– A[cm2] = ––––––––––––––––––––––
––––––––––––
2087 F2K √ MP1(P1 - P2)
735 F2K MP1(P1 - P2) used with a back pressure correction factor
(Kb) particular to this application.
U.S. Volumetric Flow (scfm) Metric Volumetric Flow [Nm3/h]

–––– –––––
V √MTZ V √ MTZ
A(in2) = ––––––––––––––––––––––
–––––––––– A[cm2] = ––––––––––––––––––––––
–––––––––––
4645.2 F2K √ P1(P1 - P2) 4892 F2K √ P1 (P1 - P2)
–––––––––––––––––––––––
√(
2 (k - 1)
(––) 1 - r k
F2 =
k
) [
––– r k ––––––––
k-1 1-r ]
k = ratio of specific heats
P2
r=
P1

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Subsonic Flow per API RP 520
Examples for Gas Applications
Solution:
Example 13 (English Units) Using formula 9 from page 38: V = 1500
Given: Methane, with a required flow –––– M = 16.04
rate of 1500 scfm, set at 19 psig, W √MTZ
A = ––––––––––––––––––––––
–––––––––– k = 1.31
flows into a header where the
4645.2 F2K √ P1(P1 - P2) T = 120 + 460 = 580°R
back pressure is 9 psig. The gas
temperature is 120°F. P1 = 19 (3 + 14.7) = 36.7 Z = 1.00
Find: The required orifice area. P2 = 9 + 14.7 = 23.7 K = 0.971 (AGCO D Series)
r = P2/P1 = 23.7/36.7 = 0.6457
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
√(
2 .31
(–––) 1 - .6457 (1.31)
F2 =
1.31
) [
–––– 0.6457 1.31 ––––––––––––
.31 1 -.6547 ]
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––
F2 =
√ [
1 - .9016
4.2258 x .5128 ––––––––
.3543 ]
F2 = .7757
–––––––––––––
1500 √ 16.04 x 580 x 1
A = –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
––––––––––––––– = 1.893 in
2
4645.2 x .7757 x .971 √ 36.7 (36.7 - 23.7)
Example 14 (Metric Units) Solution:

Given: Air, at .78 barg and -15°C, with a Using formula 9M from page 38: V = 195
required flow rate of 195 Nm3/h, –––– M = 29
requires a pressure relief valve for V √MTZ T = -15 + 273 = 258
protection. The valve is to be in- A = –––––––––––––––––––––
––––––––––
stalled at 2,000 meters above sea 4892 F2K √ P1(P1 - P2) Z = 1
level. K = 0.971
At 2000 M above sea level, the barometric
Find: The required valve size. Also,
determine the error using the stan- pressure is 0.793 bara.
dard sonic formula for the same P1 = .78 + .2069 + .793 = 1.779 bara
conditions given. P2 = 0.793
r = P2/P1 = .793/1.779 = .5227
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
√(
2 .4
(–– ) 1 - r (1.4 )
F2 =
1.4
)
––– .5227 1.4 –––––––
.4 1-r[ ]
––––––––––––––––––––––––
F2 =
√ [
1 - .8308
3.5 x .3958 ––––––––
1 - .5227 ]
F2 = .7007
–––––––––––
195 √ 29 x 258 x 1
A = ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
––––––––––––––––– = 3.826 cm
2
4892 x .7007 x .971 √ 1.779 (1.779 - .793)
Therefore, the correct valve size would be 11/2H3 (5.064 cm2). Had the standard sonic
sizing formula been used, the orifice calculation would have been as follows:
–––– ––––––––––
V √MTZ 195 √29 x 258 x 1
A = ––––––––––––––– A = –––––––––––––––––––––––––––– = 1.603 cm2
17.02 CKdP1Kb 17.02 x 356 x 971 x 1.779 x 1.00
The resultant error would be the selection of an undersized valve (11/2 F2, with 1.98 cm2).
This would create a condition where the pressure relief valve could not control the design
overpressure transients.

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing1 – Subsonic Flow per API RP 2000
Pilot Operated PRV Types 91, 93, 94, 95, 9200 and 9300 Note
(Set Pressure < 15 psig [1.03 barg]) 1. A computer sizing program is available.
Consult your local representative.
U.S. Weight Flow (lb/h) Metric Weight Flow [kg/h]
––– –––
W√ TZ W√ TZ
A(in2) = –––––––––––––––
––– A[cm2] = –––––––––––––––
–––´
735 KdP1F √ M 558 KdP1F √ M
U.S. Volumetric Flow (SCFM) Metric Volumetric Flow [Nm3/h]

––––– –––––
V√ MTZ V√ MTZ
A(in2) = ––––––––––– A[cm2] = ––––––––––––
4645 KdP1F 12510 KdP1F
where:
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
√ [( ]
2
k P 2 –– P2 k + 1
F = ––––
k-1
)
–––– k –
P1 P1
( )
––– ––––
k
Coefficients of Discharge
For Type 9200 Kd = 0.756 (P1)0.0517

US units. See page 42.
For Type 9200, Kd = 0.8681 (P1)0.0517

Metric units. See page 42.
For Type 9300 Kd = 0.650 (P2/P1)-0.349

See page 42.
For Type 9200 Vacuum Kd = 0.667.
For Type 9300 Vacuum Kd = 0.55.
For Types 91, 94, 95 Kd = 0.678 (P2/P1)-0.285
For Type 93 Kd = 0.700 (P2/P1)-0.265

Technical Manual
Sizing - Series 90 and 9000
Flow Correction Factor F (For use in subsonic sizing page 39)
1.000
.995
.990
.100
.095
.090 .550
1.90
.085 .525
1.70
.080 1.60
1.50
.500
1.40
.075 .475
1.30
1.20
thru 1.90
.070 .450
1.10
1.00
F .065 k = 1.00
.425
.060 .400
.055 .375
0
1.9
k=
.050 .350
F
0
.045 .325
1.0
k=
.040 .300
.035 .275
.030 .250
.225
.200
.175
thru 1.90
.150
k = 1.00
.125
.100
1.000
.990
.950
.900
.850
.800
.750
.700
.650
.600
.550
.500
.450
.400
Absolute Pressure Ratio ( ) P2

P1

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Subsonic Flow
Type 9200 Valve Coefficient (Kd) vs. Relief Pressure Notes (Type 9200 only)
.90 1. P = set pressure + overpressure - inlet pip-
ing loss + atmospheric pressure (psia).
.85
2. P = set pressure + overpressure - inlet pip-
Valve Coefficient (Kd )
ing loss + atmospheric pressure (barg).

.80
.75
English Units = Kd = 0.756 (P) .0517 1

.70 .0517 2
Metric Units = Kd = 0.756 (P x 14.50)
.65
.60
0 .5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5 psig
0 .05 1 .15 2 .25 .3 .35 barg

Flowing Pressure (P)
Type 9300 Valve Coefficient (Kd) vs. Absolute Pressure Ratio

.90
Valve Coefficient (Kd )
.85
( )P2 -.349
.80 Kd = 0.650
P1
.75
.70
.65
.60
.50 .55 .60 .65 .70 .75 .80 .85 .90 .95 1.00
Absolute Pressure Ratio ( )

P2
P1
Types 91 and 94 Valve Coefficient (Kd) vs. Absolute Pressure Ratio

.85
.83
.81
Kd = .678 ( )
P2
-.285
Valve Coefficient (Kd)
.79 P1
.77
.75
.73
.71
.69
.67
.65
.50 .55 .60 .65 .70 .75 .80 .85 .90 .95 1.00
Absolute Pressure Ratio ( ) P2

P1

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Subsonic Flow
Type 93 Valve Coefficient (Kd) vs. Absolute Pressure Ratio

.85
.83
.81
Kd = .700
( )
P2 -.265
Valve Coefficient (Kd)

.79 P1
.77
.75
.73
.71
.69
.67
.65
.50 .55 .60 .65 .70 .75 .80 .85 .90 .95 1.00
Absolute Pressure Ratio ( )

P2
P1

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Subsonic Flow (English)
Examples for Gas Applications

Find: Using the same conditions as stat- Using formula 11 from page 40:
ed in Example 13, size for a Type
9300 pilot operated pressure relief
––––
valve. V √ MTZ
A = ––––––––––––
4645 K d P1F
P
___2 =
0.6458
P1
______________
√
F=
___
2 ____
k +1
k
____
k-1 [( P2
___
P1
k
) ( )–
P2
___
P1
k
]
_____________
√
F=
___ ____
[
2 2.27
1.27
___
.31
1.31
(.6458) – (.6458)
1.31
]
F = 0.4616
Kd = 0.650
K = 0.7572
–––––––––––––
1500 √ 16.04 x 580 x 1
A = –––––––––––––––––––––
(4645) (.7572) (36.7) (.4616)
A = 2.4282 in2

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Special Applications
Thermal Relief, Fire and Example: Step 2

Special Water What is the total heat input, in BTU/h, From equation (14)
Detailed requirements for fire siz- to a vertical distillation column 8 feet in
Q 1,738,800
ing of pressure relief devices are diameter by 50 feet long with flat ends, Wp = ––– = ––––––––– = 14,490 lbs/h
mounted 4 feet above ground and L 120
contained in API RP520 Part I. A
insulated to provide 6 BTU/h x ft x °F
summary of sizing equations is
conductance with a 1600°F temperature
given below. Step 3
difference? 2
P = 70 psia
Heat absorption (Q) into a vessel is deter-
mined by equation (13). Step 1 Where: P = relieving pressure =
Q = 21,000 FA 0.82 (Set Pressure x 1.10) + 14.7
(13) Q = 21,000 FA 0.82
6 (70 – 14.7)
Where: F = ––––– = 0.45 Set Pressure = ––––––––– 50 psig
13.33 1.10
A = wetted surface area of the vessel, in
square feet.
F = an insulation factor. F = 1.0 for an
A= ( ––π4 ) D
2 + (h x πD) Determine required orifice area (A) as
follows:
uninsulated vessel corresponding to a
Where: h equals 25 ft max. minus the Step 4
heat conductance of 13.33 BTU/h x ft 2 x
°F with a 1600°F temperature difference. height above the ground. ––––
√
A = Wp Z
F = Actual Conductance (BTU/h x ft 2 x °F) ––––––– ––
13.33
A= ( 3.1416
–––––– ) 8
4
2 + (25 - 4) 3.1416 x 8 CKdPFp T
For horizontal pressure vessels, use total ––––––––––––
√
A = 50.27 ft 2 + 527.79 ft 2 14,490 1 x (400 + 460)
area in square feet. For vertical vessels, A = –––––––––––––––– –––––––––––
use the area up to 25 feet above ground. A = 578.06 ft 2 315 x 0.971 x (70) x 1 60
For spherical vessels, use height above Q = 21,000 (0.45) (578.06)0.82
ground of maximum diameter or 25 feet, A = 2.562 in2
Q = 21,000 (0.45) (184)
whichever is greater.
Q = 1,738,800 BTU/h Step 5
Once the heat input (Q) is determined – in Select orifice just in excess of 2.562 in2,
BTU/h from equation (13) – gas flow rate Example:
orifice L at 2.853 in2.
must be determined from the latent heat If the vessel contains a liquid with a latent
of the fluid medium. The rate of change heat of 120 BTU/lb at 70 psia, 400°F and
from liquid to vapor, or vaporization rate, molecular weight of 60, what is the re-
is a function of both the fluid’s physical/ quired valve capacity and set pressure?
chemical properties and the relieving
pressure value. The vapor mass flow rate,
lbs/hr, (Wp) is derived from equation (14).
Q
(14) Wp = ––– (lbs/h)
L
Where:
Wp = the flow rate in lbs/h
Notes
1. Thermal properties of the specific fluid
Q = the maximum heat input in BTU/h
should be obtained from appropriate
from equation (13). sources.
L = minimum latent heat of vaporization1, 2. For vessels with other than flat ends, use the
BTU/lb, at the absolute relieving appropriate equations for surface area of the
pressure (psia). ends.

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing for Saturated High From the required flow rate, derive the Determine As and Aw required area for
Temperature Liquids which Flash vapor flow and liquid flow from equations steam and water, respectively.
to Vapor at Relief Conditions. as follows:
Wp
As a hot liquid suddenly increases in Vapor flow: As = –––––––––––
51.5 KP1Ksh
volume, such as in flow through a pres-
sure relief valve, part of it expands to % Flash
(16) Wp = ––––––– x Reg. Capacity2 (lbs/h) 2731
vapor or ‘flashes.’ Under these conditions 100 As = ––––––––––––––––––– = 0.188 in2
the required flow area for the pressure re- 51.5 x 0.971 x 289.7 x 1
lief valve is greater than that required for Liquid flow:
liquid alone. Since enthalpy, or total ener- –––
W√ G
(Required Capacity - Wp)
gy, in the fluid remains constant, and (17) W = ––––––––––––––––––––– gpm
500 x G Aw = –––––––––––––––––––––
–––––––––––
since fluid properties1 are available at sat-
38 K Kv Kw √1.1 P1 - P2
urated liquid and saturated vapor G is the specific gravity of the liquid.
conditions, the amount of liquid which
flashes to vapor can be calculated using Combine the required flow area values for –––––
equation (15). vapor and liquid and use that value in the 384√ 0.892
area equations on pages 7 and 8. Select Aw = –––––––––––––––––––––––––––
–––––––––––
H1 - H2 the valve orifice area which just exceeds 38 x .776 x 1 x 1 x √1.1 (250) - 0
(15) % of Flash = ––––––– x (100%)
HFg the required combined area.
Where: Example of sizing or flashing service Aw = .7416 in2

conditions:
H1 is the maximum enthalpy at the reliev-
ing absolute pressure; Set Pressure P = 250 psig
Required Capacity W = 74,000 lbs/h Thus, total required area, A, is:
H2 is the enthalpy of saturated liquid at
sonic flow conditions occurring in the Temperature T = 380°F A = As + Aw = 0.188 + 0.742 = 0.930 in2
nozzle; and HFg is the latent heat of Accumulation = 10% Select orifice 1.287 in2, orifice J .
vaporization, or the difference in enthalpy P1= 250 x 1.1 + 14.7 = 289.7 psia
between vapor and liquid states. See
Enthalpy graph on page 46. Pcp = 289.7 x 0.58 = 168 psia
H1 (380°F liquid) = 353.6 BTU/lb
The set pressure (P1) is the accumulated
H2 (sat. liquid @ 168 psia) = 340.2 BTU/lb
absolute pressure plus the overpressure.
HFg (latent heat @ 168 psia) = 855.6 BTU/lb
The sonic flow pressure, also called the
G (specific gravity) @ 168 psia = .892
critical pressure, is obtained by using the
fluid’s specific heat ratio (k)1 as a term in W - liquid capacity
the following equation.
Notes
k H1 - H2
( )
2 ––––
k-1 % of Flash = –––––––– x (100%)
Pcp = P1 ––––– HFg 1. Thermal properties of the specific fluid
k+1 should be obtained form appropriate
353.6 - 340.2 sources.
––––––––––– x (100%) = 1.57%
P1 855.6
If k is not known, Pcp = –––– 2. The required capacity is given for the
2 application by process requirements.
WP = 0.0157 x 174000 = 2731 lbs/h, steam
WG = 174000 - 2731 = 171269 lbs/h, water

lbs/h, water 171269
WG = –––––––––– = –––––––– = 384 gpm
500 x G 500 x 0.892

Technical Manual

Reference Specifications
Special Water Sizing Enthalpy Graph
Critical Point
T1
P1
H1
T2
P2
Hpg
H2
P – Pressure, PSIA
Sa ap
Liq ated
tu
ra
uid
tur
te
or
d
Sa
H (Enthalpy), BTU/Lb.
Notes Standards – Sources

ANSI American National Standards Terminology for pressure relief devices: Overpressure Boilers:
Institute ANSI B95. 1-1977 Pressure Vessels:
ASME Section I, Par. PG-72
API American Petroleum Institute Sample pressure relief valve specification
ASME Section VIII, Par. UG - 125
sheet:
ASME American Society of Mechanical
API–STD-526 Installation Boiler:
Engineers
Pressure Vessels:
Guide for operating differentials:
NFPA National Fire Protection ASME Section I, Par. PG-71
ASME Section VIII, APP. M
Association ASME Section VIII, Par. UG-135
Fire Sizing: And Appendix M.
API-RP-520, Part I API-RP-520, Part II
NFPA No. 58
Commercial Seat Tightness:
API-STD-527

Technical Manual
Valve Sizing – Reaction Forces
Reaction Forces – Vapors and Gases

The discharge from a pressure relief valve F = reaction force at the point of dis-
exerts a reaction force on the valve or charge to the atmosphere, in
outlet piping. If the discharge piping is pounds (newtons)
unsupported, this force is transmitted to
W = flow of any gas or vapor, in pounds
the valve inlet and associated piping. The
per hour (kilograms per second)
following formula or chart may be used
to determine the reaction force. It is as- k = ratio of specific heats (Cp/Cv)
sumed that critical flow of the gas or vapor
is obtained at the valve outlet. Under con- Cp = specific heat at constant pressure
ditions of sub-critical flow, the reaction Cv = specific heat at constant volume
force will be less than that calculated.
T = temperature at inlet, in degrees
The chart is based on a value of k = 1.4. Rankine (degrees Fahrenheit + 460)
This will provide a conservative value for
the reaction force for most applications. M = molecular weight of the process fluid
However, if more accurate results are
Ao = area of the outlet at the point of dis-
desired, the reaction forces can be deter-
charge, in square inches (square
mined by the following formula (18):
millimeters)
–––––––––
√
P2 = static pressure at the point of dis-
kT charge, in pounds per square inch
–––––––
W (k (
+ 1)M + Ao x P2
(18) F = ––––––––––––––– ) gauge (bar gauge)
366
Reference: API RP 520, Part II

Technical Manual
Conversion Factors
Notes Equivalents and Conversion Factors

This table may be used in two ways:
A B C
1. Multiply the unit under column A by the Multiply By To Obtain
figure under column B; the result is the
unit under column C. Atmospheres 14.697 Pounds per in2
2. Divide the unit under column C by the figure Atmospheres 1.033 Kilograms per cm2
under column B; the result is the unit under
column A. Atmospheres 29.92 Inches of mercury
Atmospheres 760 Millimeters of mercury
Atmospheres 407 Inches of water
Atmospheres 33.90 Feet of water
Barrels (petroleum) 42 Gallons
Barrels per day 0.0292 Gallons per minute
Bars-G 14.5 Pounds per in2
Centimeters 0.3937 Inches
Centimeters 0.03281 Feet
Centimeters 0.01 Meters
Centimeters 0.01094 Yards
Cubic centimeters 0.06102 Cubic inches
Cubic feet 7.48055 Gallons
Cubic feet 0.17812 Barrels
Cubic feet per second 448.833 Gallons per minute
Cubic inches 16.39 Cubic centimeters
Cubic inches 0.004329 Gallons
Cubic meters 264.17 Gallons
Cubic meters per hour 4.4 Gallons per minute
Feet 0.3048 Meters
Feet 0.3333 Yards
Feet 30.48 Centimeters
Feet of water 0.882 Inches of mercury
Feet of water 0.433 Pounds per in2
Gallons (U.S.) 3785 Cubic centimeters
Gallons (U.S.) 0.13368 Cubic feet
Gallons (U.S.) 231 Cubic inches
Gallons (Imperial) 277.4 Cubic inches
Gallons (U.S.) 0.833 Gallons (Imperial)
Gallons (U.S.) 3.785 Liters
Gallons of water 8.328 Pounds (at 70°F)
Gallons of liquid per minute 500 x Sp. Gr. Pounds per hr. liquid (at 70°F)
Gallons per minute 0.002228 Cubic feet per second
Horsepower (boiler) 34.5 Pounds water per hr. evaporation

Technical Manual
Conversion Factors
Equivalents and Conversion Factors Notes

This table may be used in two ways:
A B C
Multiply By To Obtain 1. Multiply the unit under column A by the
figure under column B; the result is the
Horsepower (boiler) 33479 BTU per hour unit under column C.
2. Divide the unit under column C by the figure
Inches 2.54 Centimeters
under column B; the result is the unit under
Inches 0.0833 Feet column A.
Inches 0.0254 Meters

Inches 0.02778 Yards
Inches of mercury 1.133 Feet of water

Inches of mercury 0.4912 Pounds per in2
Inches of mercury 0.0345 Kilograms per cm2

Inches of water 0.03613 Pounds per in2
Inches of water 0.07355 Inches of mercury

Kilograms 2.205 Pounds
Kilograms 0.001102 Short tons (2000 lbs.)
Kilograms per minute 132.3 Pounds per hour
Kilograms per cm2 14.22 Pounds per in2
Kilograms per cm2 0.9678 Atmospheres
Kilograms per cm2 28.96 Inches of mercury
Kilopascals .145 Pounds per in2
Liters 1000 Cubic centimeters
Liters 0.2642 Gallons
Liters per hour 0.0044 Gallons per minute
Meters 3.281 Feet
Meters 1.0936 Yards
Meters 100 Centimeters
Meters 39.37 Inches
Megapascals 145 Pounds per in2
Metric Ton 1000 Kilogram
Pounds 0.0005 Short tons (2000 lbs.)
Pounds 0.4536 Kilograms
Pounds 0.000454 Metric tons
Pounds 16 Ounces
Pounds per hour 6.32/M.W. Cubic feet per minute
Pounds per hour liquid 0.002/Sq. Gr. Gallons per minute liquid (at 70°F)
Pounds per in2 27.684 Inches of water
Pounds per in2 2.307 Feet of water
Pounds per in2 2.036 Inches of mercury
Pounds per in2 0.0703 Kilograms per cm2
Pounds per in2 51.71 Millimeters of mercury

Technical Manual
Conversion Factors
Equivalents and Conversion Factors
A B C
Multiply By To Obtain
Pounds per in2 0.7037 Meters of water
Specific Gravity (of gas or vapors) 28.97 Molecular wt. (of gas or vapors)
Square centimeters 0.1550 Square inches
Square inches 6.452 Square centimeters

Tons (short ton, 2000 lbs) 907.2 Kilograms
Tons (short ton, 2000 lbs.) 1.102 Metric tons

Tons (metric) per day 91.8 Pounds per hour
Water (cubic feet) 62.3 Pounds (at 70°F)

Yards 0.9144 Meters
Yards 91.44 Centimeters

Technical Manual
Conversion Factors
Pressure Conversions1
Given To Find
(To find desired value, multiply ‘Given’ value by factor below)
mm wc mb mm Hg in wc oz kPa in Hg psig kg/cm2 bars
mm wc 1 1
(mm water column) ––– 0.0980 0.735 0.0394 0.0227 0.00980 0.00290 0.001421 10010 10207
(60°F or 15.6°C)
mb (millibars) 10.21 –––– 0.750 0.4019 0.2320 0.1000 0.0296 0.01450 0.00102 0.00100
2
mm Hg
(mm Mercury) 13.61 1.333 –––– 0.5358 0.3094 0.1333 0.03948 0.01934 0.00136 0.00133
(32°F or 0°C)
in wc
(in. water column) 25.40 2.488 1.866 –––– 0.5775 0.2488 0.0737 0.03609 0.00254 0.00249
(60°F or 15.6°C)
0.0625
oz (oz/in2) 43.99 4.309 3.232 1.732 –––– 0.4309 0.1276 0.00439 0.00431
or 1/16
kPa (kilopascal) 102.1 10.00 7.501 4.019 2.321 –––– 0.2961 0.1450 0.0102 0.0100
in Hg (in. Mercury)
344.7 33.77 25.33 13.57 7.836 3.377 –––– 0.4898 0.0344 0.0338
(60°F or 15.6°C)
psig (lbs/in2) 703.8 68.95 51.72 27.71 16.00 6.895 2.042 –––– 0.0703 0.0689
3
kg/cm2 (kg/cm2) 10010 980.7 735.6 394.1 227.6 98.07 29.04 14.22 –––– 0.9807
bars 10207 1000 750.1 401.9 232.1 100.0 29.61 14.50 1.020 ––––
Notes
1. When pressure is stated in liquid column 4. Normal Temperature and Pressure, (NTP) Inch-Pound Standard Conditions are at sea level,
height, conversions are valid only for listed conditions, are at sea level, equal to 1.013 equal to 14.7 psia (pounds force per square
temperature. bars (absolute) or 1.033 kg/cm2 a (kilograms inch absolute), rounded from 14.696 psia, at a
2. Also expressed as torr. force per square centimeter absolute) at base temperature of 60°F [15.6°C].
base temperature of 32°F [0°C]. This differs Temperature conversion:
3. Also expressed as kp/cm2 and kgf/cm2. slightly from Metric Standard conditions,
(MSC), which uses 15°C for the base tem- If °F is known, to find °C: °C = (°F/1.8)-17.78
perature. If °C is known, to find °F: °F = (°C+17.78)1.8
Example: Temperature is -20°C, find °F:
F = (-20+17.78)1.8 = -2.22 x 1.8 = -4°F

Technical Manual
Conversion Factors
Notes Gas Flow Conversions

M = molecular weight of gas.
Given To Find
1. Volumetric flow (per time unit of hour or (To find desired value, multiply ‘Given’ value by factor below)
minute as shown) in standard cubic feet
scfm scfh lb/h kg/h Nm3/h Nm3/min
per minute at 14.7 psia, 60°F.
2. Weight flow in pounds per hour. M M
scfm1 –––– 60 1.608 0.0268
3. Weight flow in kilograms per hour. 6.32 13.93
4. Volumetric flow (per time unit of hour or M M

scfh1 0.01677 –––– 0.0268 0.000447
minute as shown) at 1.013 bars absolute, 379.2 836.1
0°C. This represents the commercial stan-
6.32 379.2 10.17 0.1695
dard, known as the Normal Temperature lb/h2 –––– 0.4536
M M M M
and Pressure (NTP).
13.93 836.1 22.40 0.3733
kg/h3 2.205 ––––
M M M M
M M
Nm3/h4 0.6216 37.30 –––– 0.01667
10.17 22.40
Nm3/min4 37.30 2238 5.901 M 2.676 M 60 ––––
Conversions from volumetric to volumetric If flow is expressed in actual volume, such

or to weight flow (and vice versa) may as cfm (cubic feet per minute) or acfm (ac-
only be done when the volumetric flow is tual cfm) as is often done for compressors,
expressed in the standard conditions where the flow is described as displace-
shown above. If flows are expressed at ment or swept volume, the flow may be
temperature or pressure bases that differ converted to scfm as follows (or from flow
from those listed above, they must first be expressed in m3/h to Nm3/h).
converted to the standard base.
Inch-Pound Units
14.7 + p 520
scfm = (cfm or acfm) x ––––––– x ––––––
14.7 460 + t
Where: p = gauge pressure of gas in psig
t = temperature of gas in °F
cfm or acfm = displacement or swept volume in cubic feet or actual cubic feet per minute
Metric Units
1.013 + p 273
Nm3/h = m3/h x –––––––– x ––––––
1.013 460 + 1
Where: p = gauge pressure of gas in barg
t = temperature of gas in °C
m3/h = displacement or swept volume in cubic meters/hour

Technical Manual
Conversion Factors
Liquid Flow Conversions Note

G = relative density of liquid at its relieving
Given To Find
temperature to that of water at 68°F [20°C],
(To find desired value, multiply ‘Given’ value by factor below) where Gwater = 1.00.
l/h gpm (US) gpm(Imp) barrels/day m3/h
l/h
–––– 0.00440 0.003666 0.1510 0.0010
liters/hour
gpm (US)
US gallons per 227.1 –––– 0.8327 34.29 0.2271
––––
minute
gpm (Imp)
Imperial gallons 272.8 1.201 –––– 41.18 0.2728
per minute
barrels/day
(petroleum) 6.624 0.02917 0.02429 –––– 0.006624
(42 US gallons)
m3/h
1000 4.403 3.666 151.0 ––––
cubic meters per hour
m3/s
3.6 x 106 15.850 13.200 543.400 3600
cubic meters per second
kg/h 1 1 1 0.151 1
kilograms per hour G 227.1G 272.8G G 1000G
lb/h 1 1 1 1 1
pounds per hour 2.205G 500.8G 601.5G 14.61G 2205G

Technical Manual
Conversion Factors
Viscosity Units and Their Viscosity Conversion Table

Conversion
When a correction for the effects of Seconds Seconds Seconds Seconds Seconds
viscosity in the liquid orifice sizing Viscosity Saybolt Saybolt Redwood1 Redwood2
formula is needed, the value of viscosity, Centistokes Universal Furol (standard) (Admiralty)
expressed in centipoise, is required. Since ν ssu ssf
most liquid data for viscosity uses other
1.00 31 29.0
expressions, a convenient method for
conversion is presented below. 2.56 35 32.1
4.30 40 36.2 5.10
The viscosity, µ (Greek mu), in centipoise,
is correctly known as absolute or dynamic 7.40 50 44.3 5.83
viscosity. This is related to the kinematic 10.3 60 52.3 6.77
viscosity expression, ν (Greek nu), in cen-
13.1 70 12.95 60.9 7.60
tistokes as follows:
15.7 80 13.70 69.2 8.44
µ (absolute viscosity, centipoise) =
18.2 90 14.4 77.6 9.30
ν (kinematic viscosity, centistokes) x
ρ (density, grams/cm3) 20.6 100 15.24 85.6 10.12
The liquid sizing formula uses the relative 32.1 150 19.30 128.0 14.48
density, G, where G = ρliquid / ρwater and 43.2 200 23.5 170.0 18.90
where the density of water is accepted (for
54.0 250 28.0 212.0 23.45
this manual) as 1g/cm3. The value of G
then becomes the density in g/cm3. 65.0 300 32.5 254.0 28.0
87.60 400 41.9 338.0 37.1
Substituting G for ρ (Greek rho) in the for-
mula above, gives: 110.0 500 51.6 423.0 46.2
132.0 600 61.4 508.0 55.4
µ = ν x G (22),
where: 154.0 700 71.1 592.0 64.6
µ = absolute viscosity, centipoise 176.0 800 81.0 677.0 73.8
ν = kinematic viscosity, centistokes
G = relative density (water = 1.00) 198.0 900 91.0 462.0 83.0
220.0 1000 100.7 896.0 92.1
Most other viscosity units in common
usage are also kinematic units and can be 330.0 1500 150.0 1270.0 138.2
related to the kinematic viscosity in centis- 440.0 2000 200.0 1690.0 184.2
tokes, via the accompanying table. To use
550.0 2500 250.0 2120.0 230.0
this table, obtain the viscosity from data
furnished. Convert this to ν, in centistokes, 660.0 3000 300.0 2540.0 276.0
then convert to absolute viscosity µ, in 880.0 4000 400.0 3380.0 368.0
centipoise.
1100.0 5000 500.0 4230.0 461.0
The conversions are approximate but 1320.0 6000 600.0 5080.0 553.0
satisfactory for viscosity correction in
1540.0 7000 700.0 5920.0 645.0
liquid safety valve sizing.
1760.0 8000 800.0 6770.0 737.0
1980.0 9000 900.0 7620.0 829.0
2200.0 10000 1000.0 8460.0 921.0
3300.0 15000 1500.0 13700.0
4400.0 20000 2000.0 18400.0

Technical Manual
Fluid Data
Curve to Evaluate Gas Constant C and Gas Specific Heat Ratio k
400
390
k+1
380 C = 520 k
( (
2
k+1
k-1
370
Gas Constant, C
360
350
340
330
320
310
▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲
1.00 1.10 1.20 1.30 1.40 1.50 1.60 1.70 1.80 1.90 2.00
Gas Specific Heat Ratio, k

Technical Manual
Fluid Data
PCF
Curve to Evaluate Critical Pressure Ratio
P1
0.610
0.600
k
0.590 PCF k-1
P1
= (k +2 1)
0.580
0.570
0.560
PCF
0.550
P1
Critical Pressure Ratio,
0.540
0.530
0.520
0.510
0.500
0.490
0.480
0.470
0.460
0.450
0.440
▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲
1.00 1.10 1.20 1.30 1.40 1.50 1.60 1.70 1.80 1.90 2.00
Gas Specific Heat Ratio, k

Technical Manual
Fluid Data
The specific heat ratios listed herein have Exercise caution when selecting the specific
been obtained from numerous sources. They heat ratio. Please note that the values for C
may vary from values available to the reader. and PCF/P1 are derived from the listed k.
Physical Properties for Selected Gases

Gas Empirical Molecular Specific Gas Critical
Formula Weight Heat Constant Pressure
M Ratio C Ratio
k PCF/P1
Acetone C3H6O 58.08 1.12 329 0.581
Acetylene (Ethyne) C2H2 26.04 1.26 343 0.553
Air — 28.97 1.40 356 0.528
Ammonia, Anhydrous NH3 17.03 1.31 348 0.544
Argon Ar 39.95 1.67 378 0.487
Benzene (Benzol or Benzole) C6H6 78.11 1.12 329 0.581
Boron Trifluoride BF3 67.82 1.2 337 0.564
Butadiene-1,3 (Divinyl) C4H6 54.09 1.12 329 0.581
Butane (Normal Butane) C4H10 58.12 1.09 326 0.587
Butylene (1-Butene) C4H8 56.11 1.11 328 0.583
Carbon Dioxide CO2 44.01 1.29 346 0.548
Carbon Disulfide (C. Bisulfide) CS2 76.13 1.21 338 0.563
Carbon Monoxide CO 28.01 1.40 356 0.528
Carbon Tetrachloride CCI4 153.82 1.11 328 0.583
Chlorine Cl2 70.91 1.36 353 0.535
Chloromethane (Methyl Chloride) CH3Cl 50.49 1.28 345 0.549
Cyclohexane C6H12 84.16 1.09 326 0.587
Cyclopropane (Trimethylene) C3H6 42.08 1.11 328 0.583
Decane-n C10H22 142.29 1.04 320 0.598
Diethylene Glycol (DEG) C4H10O3 106.17 1.07 323 0.591
Diethyl Ether (Methyl Ether) C2H6O 46.07 1.11 328 0.583
Dowtherm A — 165.00 1.05 321 0.595
Dowtherm E — 147.00 1.00 315 0.607
Ethane C2H6 30.07 1.19 336 0.566
Ethyl Alcohol (Ethanol) C2H6O 46.07 1.13 330 0.578
Ethylene (Ethene) C2H4 28.05 1.24 341 0.557
Ethylene Glycol C2H6O2 62.07 1.09 326 0.587
Ethylene Oxide C2H4O 44.05 1.21 338 0.563
Fluorocarbons:
12, Dichlorodifluoromethane CCI2F2 120.93 1.14 331 0.576
13, Chlorotrifluoromethane CCIF3 104.47 1.17 334 0.570
13B1, Bromotrifluoromethane CBrF3 148.93 1.14 331 0.576
22, Chlorodifluoromethane CHCIF2 86.48 1.18 335 0.568
115, Chloropentafluoroethane C2CIF5 154.48 1.08 324 0.589
Glycerine (Glycerin or Glycerol) C3H8O3 92.10 1.06 322 0.593

Technical Manual
Fluid Data
Physical Properties for Selected Gases, continued

Gas Empirical Molecular Specific Gas Critical
Formula Weight Heat Constant Pressure
M Ratio C Ratio
k PCF/P1
Helium He 4.00 1.67 378 0.487
Heptane C7H16 100.21 1.05 321 0.595
Hexane C6H14 86.18 1.06 322 0.593
Hydrogen H2 2.02 1.41 357 0.527
Hydrogen Chloride, Anhydrous HCl 36.46 1.41 357 0.527
Hydrogen Sulfide H2S 34.08 1.32 349 0.542
Isobutane (2-Methylpropane) C4H10 58.12 1.10 327 0.585
Isobutane (2-Methyl-1,3butadiene) C5H8 68.12 1.09 326 0.587
Isopropyl Alcohol (Isopropanol) C3H8O 60.10 1.09 326 0.587
Krypton Kr 83.80 1.71 380 0.481
Methane CH4 16.04 1.31 348 0.544
Methyl Alcohol (Methanol) CH4O 32.04 1.20 337 0.564
Methylanmines, Anhydrous:
Monomethylamine (Methylamine) CH5N 31.06 1.02 317 0.602
Dimethylamine C2H7N 45.08 1.15 332 0.574
Triethylamine C3H9N 59.11 1.18 335 0.568
Methyl Mercapton (Methylamine) CH4S 48.11 1.20 337 0.564
Naphthalene (Naphthaline) C10H8 128.17 1.07 323 0.591
Natural Gas (Relative Density = 0.60) — 17.40 1.27 344 0.551
Neon Ne 20.18 1.64 375 0.491
Nitrogen N2 28.01 1.40 356 0.528
Nitrous Oxide N2O 44.01 1.30 347 0.546
Octane C8H18 114.23 1.05 321 0.595
Oxygen O2 32.00 1.40 356 0.528
Pentane C5H12 72.15 1.07 323 0.591
Propadiene (Allene) C3H4 40.07 1.69 379 0.484
Propane C3H8 44.10 1.13 330 0.578
Propylene (Propene) C3H6 42.08 1.15 332 0.574
Propylene Oxide C3H6O 58.08 1.13 330 0.578
Styrene C8H8 104.15 1.07 323 0.591
Sulfur Dioxide SO2 64.06 1.28 345 0.549
Sulfur Hexafluoride SF6 146.05 1.09 326 0.587
Steam H2O 18.02 1.31 348 0.544
Toluene (Toluol or Methylbenzene) C7H8 92.14 1.09 326 0.587
Triethylene Glycol (TEG) C6H14O4 150.18 1.04 320 0.598
Vinyl Chloride Monomer (VCM) C2H3Cl 62.50 1.19 336 0.566
Xenon Xe 131.30 1.65 376 0.490
Xylene (p-Xylene) C8H10 106.17 1.07 323 0.591

Technical Manual
Fluid Data
Physical Properties for Selected Liquids
Fluid Empirical Relative Fluid

Formula Density G: Temperature
Water = 1 ˚C ˚F
Acetaldehyde C2H4 0.779 20 68
Acetic Acid C2H4O2 1.051 20 68
Acetone C3H6O 0.792 20 68
Ammonia, Anhydrous NH3 0.666 20 68
Automotive Crankcase and Gear Oils:
SAE-5W Through SAE 150 — 0.88-0.94 15.6 60
Beer — 1.01 15.6 60
Benzene (Benzol) C6H6 0.880 20 68
Boron Trifluoride BF3 1.57 -100 -148
Butadiene-1,3 C4H6 0.622 20 68
Butane-n (Normal Butane) C4H10 0.579 20 68
Butylene (1-Butene) C4H8 0.600 20 68
Carbon Dioxide CO2 1.03 -20 -4
Carbon Disulphide (C. Bisulphide) CS2 1.27 20 68
Carbon Tetrachloride CCl4 1.60 20 68
Chlorine Cl2 1.42 20 68
Chloromethane (Methyl Chloride) CH3Cl 0.921 20 68
Crude Oils:
32.6 Deg API — 0.862 15.6 60
35.6 Deg API — 0.847 15.6 60
40 Deg API — 0.825 15.6 60
48 Deg API — 0.79 15.6 60
Cyclohexane C6H12 0.780 20 68
Cyclopropane (Trimethylene) C3H6 0.621 20 68
Decane-n C10H22 0.731 20 68
Diesel Fuel Oils — 0.82-0.95 15.6 60
Diethylene Glycol (DEG) C4H10O3 1.12 20 68
Dimethyl Ether (Methyl Ether) C2H6O 0.663 20 68
Dowtherm A — 0.998 20 68
Dowtherm E — 1.087 20 68
Ethane C2H6 0.336 20 68
Ethyl Alcohol (Ethanol) C2H6O 0.79 20 68
Ethylene (Ethene) C2H4 0.569 -104 -155
Ethylene Glycol C2H6O2 1.115 20 68
Ethylene Oxide C2H4O 0.901 20 68
Fluorocarbons:
R12, Dichlorodifluoromethane CCl2F2 1.34 20 68
R13, Chlorotrifluoromethane CClF3 0.916 20 68
R13B1, Bromtrifluoromethane CBrF3 1.58 20 68
R22, Chlorodifluoromethane CHClF2 1.21 20 68
R115, Chloropentafluoroethane C2ClF5 1.31 20 68

Technical Manual
Fluid Data
Physical Properties for Selected Liquids, continued
Fluid Empirical Relative Fluid

Formula Density G: Temperature
Water = 1 ˚C ˚F
Fuel Oils, Nos. 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 — 0.82-0.95 15.6 60
Gasolines — 0.68-0.74 15.6 60
Glycerine (Glycerin or Glycerol) C3H8O3 1.26 20 68
Heptane C7H16 0.685 20 68
Hexane C6H14 0.660 20 68
Hydrochloric Acid HCl 1.64 15.6 60
Hydrogen Sulphide H2S 0.78 20 68
Isobutane (2-Methylpropane) C4H10 0.558 20 68
Isoprene (2-Methyl-1,3-Butadiene) C5H8 0.682 20 68
Isopropyl Alcohol (Isopropanol) C3H8O 0.786 20 68
Jet Fuel (average) — 0.82 15.6 60
Kerosene — 0.78-0.82 15.6 60
Methyl Alcohol (Methanol) CH4O 0.792 20 68
Methylamines, Anhydrous:
Monomethylamine (Methylamine) CH5N 0.663 20 68
Dimethylamine C2H7N 0.656 20 68
Trimethylamine C3H9N 0.634 20 68
Methyl Mercapton (Methanethiol) CH4S 0.870 20 68
Nitric Acid HNO3 1.5 15.6 60
Nitrous Oxide N2O 1.23 -88.5 -127
Octane C8H18 0.703 20 68
Pentane C5H12 0.627 20 68
Propadiene (Allene) C3H4 0.659 -34.4 -30
Propane C3H8 0.501 20 68
Propylene (Propene) C3H6 0.514 20 68
Propylene Oxide C3H6O 0.830 20 68
Styrene C8H8 0.908 20 68
Sulfur Dioxide SO2 1.43 20 68
Sulphur Hexafluoride SF6 1.37 20 68
Sulphur Acid: H2SO4
95-100% — 1.839 20 68
60% — 1.50 20 68
20% — 1.14 20 68
Toluene (Toluol or Methylbenzene) C7H8 0.868 20 68
Triethylene Glycol (TEG) C6H12O4 1.126 20 68
Vinyl Chloride Monomer (VCM) C2H3Cl 0.985 -20 -4
Water, fresh H2O 1.00 20 68
Water, sea — 1.03 20 68
Xylene (p-Xylene) C8H10 0.862 20 68

Technical Manual

Technical Manual
Pressure and Temperature Ratings
WCB
800
[427]
600
Temperature ˚F [˚C]
[316]
600
400
[204] 30 0
15 0
200
[93]
0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600

[13.8] [27.6] [41.3] [55.1] [69.0] [82.7] [96.5] [110.2]
Pressure - psig [barg]
1000
[538]
800
[427]
600
[316] 2500
400 1500
[204]
900
200
[93]
0 800 1600 2400 3200 4000 4800 5600 6400

[55.1] [110.2] [165.4] [220.5] [275.6] [330.7] [385.8] [441.0]

Technical Manual
WC6
1000
[538]
800
[427]
600
[316] 600
30 0
400
[204] 15 0
200
[93]
0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600

[13.8] [27.6] [41.3] [55.1] [69.0] [82.7] [96.5] [110.2]
1000
[538]
800
[427]
600
[316] 2500
400 1500
[204]
900
200
[93]
0 800 1600 2400 3200 4000 4800 5600 6400

[55.1] [110.2] [165.4] [220.5] [275.6] [330.7] [385.8] [441.0]

Technical Manual
Monel
1000
[538]
800
[427]
600
600
[316]
30 0
400
[204]
15 0
200
[93]
0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600

[13.8] [27.6] [41.3] [55.1] [69.0] [82.7] [96.5] [110.2]
1000
[538]
800
[427]
600
[316]
2500
400
[204] 1500
900
200
[93]
0 800 1600 2400 3200 4000 4800 5600 6400

[55.1] [110.2] [165.4] [220.5] [275.6] [330.7] [385.8] [441.0]

Technical Manual
Hastelloy
1000
[538]
800
[427]
600
600
[316]
30 0
400
[204]
15 0
200
[93]
0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600

[13.8] [27.6] [41.3] [55.1] [69.0] [82.7] [96.5] [110.2]
1000
[538]
800
[427]
600
[316] 2500
400 1500
[204]
900
200
[93]
0 800 1600 2400 3200 4000 4800 5600 6400

[55.1] [110.2] [165.4] [220.5] [275.6] [330.7] [385.8] [441.0]

Technical Manual
CF8M
1200
[649]
1000
[538]
800
[427]
600
600
[316]
30 0
400
[204]
15 0
200
[93]
0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600

[13.8] [27.6] [41.3] [55.1] [69.0] [82.7] [96.5] [110.2]
1200
[649]
1000
[538]
800
[427]
2500
600
[316]
1500
400
[204]
900
200
[93]
0 800 1600 2400 3200 4000 4800 5600 6400

[55.1] [110.2] [165.4] [220.5] [275.6] [330.7] [385.8] [441.0]

Technical Manual
WC9
1200
[649]
1000
[538]
800
[427]
600
600
[316]
30 0
400
[204]
15 0
200
[93]
0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600

[13.8] [27.6] [41.3] [55.1] [69.0] [82.7] [96.5] [110.2]
1200
[649]
1000
[538]
800
[427]
2500
600
[316]
1500
400
[204]
900
200
[93]
0 800 1600 2400 3200 4000 4800 5600 6400

[55.1] [110.2] [165.4] [220.5] [275.6] [330.7] [385.8] [441.0]

Technical Manual
Types of Flanges Refer to the next two following pages for amount of the projection or depression
All flange faces and ratings conform to ANSI dimensions for raised face and ring over the ANSI total flange thickness.
ANSI B16.5-1977. Steel, full nozzle valve joint.
For outlets furnished with heavier than
inlet flange thickness is equal to or The drilling of inlet and outlet flanges standard flanges, the centerline of inlet
greater than ANSI minimum thickness. straddle the centerlines of the valves. to face of outlet dimension increases by
The raised face thickness is also equal to the difference in the ANSI total flange
or greater than ANSI standard, and inlet For ring joint outlet face and other avail-
thickness.
thickness ‘D’ dimension should be used able similar faces with projections or
for calculating length of stud for inlet bolt- depressions, the centerline of inlet to face
ing on the various available flange faces. of outlet dimension is increased by the
Raised Face Ring Joint Large Tongue
Large Groove Small Male Small Female
Small Tongue Small Groove Large Female

Technical Manual
Semi-Nozzle Full
Nozzle
Body Body
ASA
Raised D
Face
E
Inlet Iron Semi-Nozzle ANSI B16.1 Inlet Iron Full Nozzle ANSI B16.5
Specifications
Pipe Diam. of Min. Thk. Diam. of Diam. of Number Diam. of

Size Flange of Flange Raised Face Bolt Circle of Bolts Bolts
in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm]
125 lb. Iron Flange
11/2 [40] 5 [127] 9/16 [14] — — 3 7/8 [98] 4 [102] 1/2 [13]
2 [50] 6 [152] 5/8 [16] — — 4 3/4 [121] 4 [102] 5/8 [16]
21/2 [65] 7 [178] 11/16 [17] — — 5 1/2 [140] 4 [102] 5/8 [16]
3 [80] 7 1/2 [191] 3/4 [19] — — 6 [152] 4 [102] 5/8 [16]
4 [100] 9 [229] 15/16 [24] — — 7 1/2 [178] 8 [203] 5/8 [16]

6 [150] 11 [279] 1 [25] — — 9 1/2 [241] 8 [203] 3/4 [19]
8 [200] 13 1/2 [343] 11/8 [29] — — 11 3/4 [298] 8 [203] 3/4 [19]
250 lb. Iron Flange
11/2 [40] 6 1/8 [156] 13/16 [21] 3 9/16 [90] 4 1/2 [114] 4 [102] 3/4 [19]
2 [50] 6 1/2 [165] 7/8 [22] 4 3/16 [106] 5 [127] 8 [203] 5/8 [16]
21/2 [65] 7 1/2 [191] 1 [25] 4 15/16 [125] 5 7/8 [149] 8 [203] 3/4 [19]
3 [80] 8 1/4 [210] 11/8 [29] 5 11/16 [144] 6 5/8 [168] 8 [203] 3/4 [19]
4 [100] 10 [254] 11/4 [32] 6 15/16 [176] 7 7/8 [200] 8 [203] 3/4 [19]
6 [150] 12 1/2 [318] 17/16 [37] 9 11/16 [246] 10 5/8 [270] 12 [305] 3/4 [19]
8 [200] 15 [381] 15/8 [41] 11 15/16 [303] 13 [330] 12 [305] 7/8 [22]
Pipe Diam. of Min. Thk. Diam. of Diam. of Number Diam. of D-Dim E-Dim
Size Flange of Flange Raised Bolt of Bolts Thk. Thk.
Face Circle Bolts D Series D Series
in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm]
150 lb. Steel Flange
1 [25] 4 1/4 [108] 7/16 [11] 2 [51] 3 1/8 [79] 4 [102] 1/2 [13] 1 3/16 [30] 1/2 [13]
11/2 [40] 5 [127] 9/16 [14] 2 7/8 [73] 3 7/8 [98] 4 [102] 1/2 [13] 1 5/16 [33] 11/16 [17]
2 [50] 6 [152] 5/ 8 [16] 3 5/8 [92] 4 3/4 [121] 4 [102] 5/8 [16] 1 3/8 [35] 11/16 [17]
21/2 [65] 7 [178] 11/16 [17] 4 1/8 [105] 5 1/2 [140] 4 [102] 5/8 [16] — — — —
3 [80] 7 1/2 [191] 3/ 4 [19] 5 [127] 6 [152] 4 [102] 5/8 [16] 1 1/2 [38] 11/16 [17]
4 [100] 9 [229] 15/16 [24] 6 3/16 [157] 7 1/2 [178] 8 [203] 5/8 [16] 1 11/16 [43] 11/16 [17]
6 [150] 11 [279] 1 [25] 8 1/2 [216] 9 1/2 [241] 8 [203] 3/4 [19] 1 7/8 [48] 13/16 [21]
8 [200] 13 1/2 [343] 11/8 [29] 10 5/8 [270] 11 3/4 [298] 8 [203] 3/4 [19] 2 [51] 13/16 [21]
10 [250] 16 [406] 13/16 [30] 12 3/4 [324] 14 1/4 [362] 12 [305] 7/8 [22] — — — —

Technical Manual
Specifications
Pipe Diam. of Min. Thk. Diam. of Diam. of Number Diam. of D-Dim E-Dim
Size Flange of Flange Raised Bolt of Bolts D Series D Series
Face Circle Bolts
in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm]
1 [25] 4 7/8 [124] 11/16 [17] 2 [51] 3 1/2 [89] 4 [102] 5/8 [16] 1 7/16 [37] 1/2 [13]
11/2 [40] 6 1/8 [156] 13/16 [21] 2 7/8 [73] 4 1/2 [114] 4 [102] 3/4 [19] 1 5/8 [41] 11/16 [17]
2 [50] 6 1/2 [165] 7/8 [22] 3 5/8 [92] 5 [127] 8 [203] 5/8 [16] 1 3/4 [44] 11/16 [17]
21/2 [65] 7 1/2 [191] 1 [25] 4 1/8 [105] 5 7/8 [149] 8 [203] 3/4 [19] 1 7/8 [48] 11/16 [17]
3 [80] 8 1/4 [210] 1 1/8 [29] 5 [127] 6 5/8 [168] 8 [203] 3/4 [19] 2 [51] 11/16 [17]
4 [100] 10 [254] 1 1/4 [32] 6 3/16 [157] 7 7/8 [200] 8 [203] 3/4 [19] 2 1/16 [52] 11/16 [17]
6 [150] 12 1/2 [318] 1 7/16 [37] 8 1/2 [216] 10 5/8 [270] 12 [305] 3/4 [19] 2 5/16 [59] 13/16 [19]
8 [200] 15 [381] 1 5/8 [41] 10 5/8 [270] 13 [330] 12 [305] 7/8 [22] 2 1/2 [64] 13/16 [19]

1 [25] 4 7/8 [124] 11/16 [17] 2 [51] 3 1/2 [89] 4 [102] 5/8 [16] 1 7/16 [37] 1/2 [13]
11/2 [40] 6 1/8 [156] 7/8 [22] 2 7/8 [73] 4 1/2 [114] 4 [102] 3/4 [19] 1 5/8 [41] 11/16 [17]
2 [50] 6 1/2 [165] 1 [25] 3 5/8 [92] 5 [127] 8 [203] 5/8 [16] 1 3/4 [44] 11/16 [17]
21/2 [65] 7 1/2 [191] 1 1/8 [29] 4 1/8 [105] 5 7/8 [149] 8 [203] 3/4 [19] 1 7/8 [48] 11/16 [17]
3 [80] 8 1/4 [210] 1 1/4 [32] 5 [127] 6 5/8 [168] 8 [203] 3/4 [19] 2 [51] 11/16 [17]
4 [100] 10 3/4 [273] 1 1/2 [38] 6 3/16 [157] 8 1/2 [216] 8 [203] 7/8 [22] 2 1/4 [57] 11/16 [17]
6 [150] 14 [356] 1 7/8 [48] 8 1/2 [216] 11 1/2 [292] 12 [305] 1 [25] 2 3/4 [70] 13/16 [19]

11/2 [40] 7 [178] 1 1/4 [32] 2 7/8 [73] 4 7/8 [124] 4 [102] 1 [25] 2 [51] 11/16 [17]
2 [50] 8 1/2 [216] 1 1/2 [38] 3 5/8 [92] 6 1/2 [165] 8 [203] 7/8 [22] 2 1/4 [57] 11/16 [17]
21/2 [65] 9 5/8 [244] 1 5/8 [41] 4 1/8 [105] 7 1/2 [191] 8 [203] 1 [25] 2 3/8 [60] 11/16 [17]
3 [80] 9 1/2 [241] 1 1/2 [38] 5 [127] 7 1/2 [191] 8 [203] 7/8 [22] 2 1/4 [57] 11/16 [17]
4 [100] 11 1/2 [292] 1 3/4 [44] 6 3/16 [157] 9 1/4 [235] 8 [203] 11/8 [29] 2 1/2 [64] 11/16 [17]

11/2 [40] 7 [178] 1 1/4 [32] 2 7/8 [73] 4 7/8 [124] 4 [102] 1 [25] 2 [51] 11/16 [17]
2 [50] 8 1/2 [216] 1 1/2 [38] 3 5/8 [92] 6 1/2 [165] 8 [203] 7/8 [22] 2 5/16 [59] 11/16 [17]
3 [80] 10 1/2 [267] 1 7/8 [48] 5 [127] 8 [203] 8 [203] 11/8 [29] 2 5/8 [67] 11/16 [17]
4 [100] 12 1/4 [311] 2 1/8 [54] 6 3/16 [157] 9 1/2 [241] 8 [203] 11/4 [32] 2 7/8 [73] 11/16 [17]

11/2 [40] 8 [203] 1 3/4 [44] 2 7/8 [73] 5 3/4 [146] 4 [102] 11/8 [29] 2 1/2 [64] 11/16 [17]
2 [50] 9 1/4 [235] 2 [51] 3 5/8 [92] 6 3/4 [171] 8 [203] 1 [25] 2 13/16 [71] 11/16 [17]
Note
1. Inlet Thickness = Flange Thickness plus
Raised Face Thickness.

Technical Manual
Specifications
Pipe Diam. of Min. Thk. Diam. of Diam. of Number Diam. of

Size Flange of Flange Raised Face Bolt Circle of Bolts Bolts
in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm]
150 lb. Bronze Flange, ANSI B16.24
1/ 2 [15] 3 1/2 [89] 5/16 [8] — — 2 3/8 [60] 4 [102] 1/2 [13]
3/ 4 [20] 3 7/8 [98] 11/32 [9] — — 2 3/4 [70] 4 [102] 1/2 [13]
1 [25] 4 1/4 [108] 3/8 [10] — — 3 1/8 [79] 4 [102] 1/2 [13]
11/ 4 [32] 4 5/8 [117] 13/32 [10] — — 3 1/2 [89] 4 [102] 1/2 [13]
11/2 [40] 5 [127] 7/16 [11] — — 3 7/8 [98] 4 [102] 1/2 [13]
2 [50] 6 [152] 1/2 [13] — — 4 3/4 [121] 4 [102] 5/8 [16]
21/2 [65] 7 [178] 9/16 [14] — — 5 1/2 [140] 4 [102] 5/8 [16]
3 [80] 7 1/2 [191] 5/8 [16] — — 6 [152] 8 [203] 5/8 [16]
4 [100] 9 [229] 11/16 [17] — — 7 1/2 [191] 8 [203] 5/8 [16]

5 [125] 10 [254] 3/4 [19] — — 8 1/2 [216] 8 [203] 3/4 [19]
6 [150] 11 [279] 13/16 [21] — — 9 1/2 [241] 8 [203] 3/4 [19]

8 [200] 13 1/2 [343] 15/16 [24] — — 11 3/4 [298] 12 [305] 3/4 [19]
10 [250] 16 [406] 1 [25] — — 14 1/4 [362] 12 [305] 7/8 [22]
300 lb. Bronze Flange, ANSI B16.24

1/ 2 [15] 3 3/4 [95] 1/2 [13] — — 2 5/8 [67] 4 [102] 1/2 [13]
3/ 4 [20] 4 5/8 [117] 17/32 [13] — — 3 1/4 [83] 4 [102] 5/8 [16]
1 [25] 4 7/8 [124] 19/32 [15] — — 3 1/2 [89] 4 [102] 5/8 [16]
1 1/ 4 [32] 5 1/4 [133] 5/8 [16] — — 3 7/8 [98] 4 [102] 5/8 [16]
11/2 [40] 6 1/8 [156] 11/16 [17] — — 4 1/2 [114] 4 [102] 3/4 [19]
2 [50] 6 1/2 [165] 3/4 [19] — — 5 [127] 8 [203] 5/8 [16]
21/2 [65] 7 1/2 [191] 13/16 [21] — — 5 7/8 [149] 8 [203] 3/4 [19]
3 [80] 8 1/4 [210] 29/32 [23] — — 6 5/8 [168] 8 [203] 3/4 [19]
4 [100] 10 [254] 11/16 [27] — — 7 7/8 [200] 8 [203] 3/4 [19]

5 [125] 11 [279] 11/8 [29] — — 9 1/4 [235] 8 [203] 3/4 [19]
6 [150] 12 1/2 [318] 13/16 [30] — — 10 5/8 [270] 12 [305] 3/4 [19]
8 [200] 15 [381] 13/8 [35] — — 13 [330] 12 [305] 7/8 [22]

Technical Manual
Note
Use 1500 psig in sizes 1 to 21/2 for 900 lbs.
pressure. The depth of groove is added to mini-
mum thickness of the flange increasing the
center line of inlet to face of outlet. Ring Joint
inlet Face and other flange facings have the
same dimension from center line of outlet to ± 1/64 -0 E
face of inlet as raised inlet flange. Diameter of

raised face is stamped with groove number. All F 23° ± 1/2°
dimensions conform to ANSI B16.5-1977. R ± .008
P ± .005
K Minimum
Ring Joint Facings
Nominal Pipe Size Groove Groove Dimensions Diameter of Raised Face ‘K’
ANSI Flange Class Pitch ANSI Flange Class
Number Dia. Depth Width Radius 300
150 300 600 900 1500 2500 P E F R 150 600 900 1500 2500
in[mm] in[mm] in[mm] in[mm] in[mm] in[mm] in[mm] in[mm] in [mm] in[mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in[mm]
1 [25] R-15 1 7/8 [48] 1/4 [6] 11/32 [9] 1/32 [1] 21/2 [64]
1 [25] 1 [25] 1 [25] 3/4 [20] R-16 2 [51] 1/4 [6] 11/32 [9] 1/32 [1] 23/4 [70] 213/16 [71] 27/8 [73]
11/2 [40] R-19 2 9/16 [65] 1/4 [6] 11/32 [9] 1/32 [1] 3 1/4 [83]
11/2 [40] 1 1/2 [40] 11/2 [40] R-20 2 11/16 [68] 1/4 [6] 11/32 [9] 1/32 [1] 39/16 [90] 35/8 [92]
2 [50] R-22 3 1/4 [83] 1/4 [6] 11/32 [9] 1/32 [1] 4 [102]
2 [50] 2 [50] 11/2 [40] R-23 3 1/4 [83] 5/16 [8] 15/32 [12] 1/32 [1] 41/4 [108] 41/2 [114]
2 [50] R-24 3 /43 [95] 5/16 [8] 15/32 [12] 1/32 [1] 47/8 [124]
21/2 [65] R-25 4 [102] 1/4 [6] 11/32 [9] 1/32 [1] 43/4 [121]
2 1/2 [65] 2 1/2 [65] 2 [50] R-26 4 [102] 5/16 [8] 15/32 [12] 1/32 [1] 5 [127] 51/4 [133]
2 1/2 [65] R-27 4 1/4 [108] 5/16 [8] 15/32 [12] 1/32 [1] 53/8 [137]
3 [80] R-29 4 1/2 [114] 1/4 [6] 11/32 [9] 1/32 [1] 51/4 [133]
3 [80] 3 [80] 3 [80] R-31 4 7/8 [124] 5/16 [8] 15/32 [12] 1/32 [1] 53/4 [146] 61/8 [156]
3 [80] R-35 5 3/8 [137] 5/16 [8] 15/32 [12] 1/32 [1] 65/8 [168]
4 [100] R-36 5 7/8 [149] 1/4 [6] 11/32 [9] 1/32 [1] 63/4 [171]
4 [100] 4 [100] 4 [100] R-37 5 7/8 [149] 5/16 [8] 15/32 [12] 1/32 [1] 67/8 [175] 71/8 [181]
4 [100] R-39 6 3/8 [162] 5/16 [8] 15/32 [12] 1/32 [1] 75/8 [194]
6 [150] R-43 7 5/8 [194] 1/4 [6] 11/32 [9] 1/32 [1] 85/8 [219]
6 [150] 6 [150] R-45 8 5/16 [211] 5/16 [8] 15/32 [12] 1/32 [1] 91/2 [241] 91/2 [241]
8 [200] R-48 9 3/4 [248] 1/4 [6] 11/32 [9] 1/32 [1] 103/4 [273]
8 [200] R-49 10 5/8 [270] 5/16 [8] 15/32 [12] 1/32 [1] 117/8 [302]
10 [250] R-52 12 [305] 1 /4 [6] 11/32 [9] 1 /32 [1] 13 [330]

Technical Manual
Raised Facing and Ring Joint Facing
ANSI Flange Class

Temperature 150 300 600 900 1500 2500
°F [°C] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm]
SS (A351 Gr CF8M) Maximum Pressure psig [barg]
100 [38] 275 [19.0] 720 [49.7] 1440 [99.3] 2160 [149.0] 3600 [248.3] 6000 [413.8]
200 [93] 240 [16.6] 620 [42.8] 1240 [85.5] 1860 [128.3] 3095 [213.4] 5160 [355.9]
300 [149] 215 [14.8] 560 [38.6] 1120 [77.2] 1680 [115.9] 2795 [192.8] 4660 [321.4]
400 [204] 195 [13.4] 515 [35.5] 1030 [71.0] 1540 [106.2] 2570 [177.2] 4280 [295.2]
500 [260] 170 [11.7] 480 [33.1] 955 [65.9] 435 [99.0] 390 [164.8] 3980 [274.5]
600 [316] 140 [9.7] 450 [31.0] 905 [62.4] 1355 [93.4] 2255 [155.5] 3760 [259.3]
700 [371] 110 [7.6] 430 [29.7] 865 [59.7] 1295 [89.3] 2160 [149.0] 3600 [248.3]
800 [427] 80 [5.5] 415 [28.6] 830 [57.2] 1245 [85.9] 2075 [143.1] 3460 [238.6]
900 [482] 50 [3.4] 395 [27.2] 790 [54.5] 1180 [81.4] 1970 [135.9] 3280 [226.2]
1000 [538] 20 [1.4] 365 [25.2] 725 [50.0] 1090 [75.2] 1820 [125.5] 3030 [209.0]
1100 [593] — — 325 [22.4] 645 [44.5] 965 [66.6] 1610 [111.0] 2685 [185.2]
1200 [649] — — 205 [14.1] 410 [28.3] 620 [42.8] 1030 [71.0] 1715 [118.3]
Monel® (A494 Gr M-35-2)

100 [38] 230 [15.9] 600 [41.4] 1200 [82.8] 1800 [124.1] 3000 [206.9] 5000 [344.8]
200 [93] 200 [13.8] 530 [36.6] 1055 [72.8] 1585 [109.3] 2640 [182.1] 4400 [303.4]
300 [149] 190 [13.1] 495 [34.1] 990 [68.3] 1485 [102.4] 2470 [170.3] 4120 [284.1]
400 [204] 185 [12.8] 480 [33.1] 955 [65.9] 1435 [99.0] 2390 [164.8] 3980 [274.5]
500 [260] 170 [11.7] 475 [32.8] 950 [65.5] 1435 [99.0] 2375 [163.8] 3960 [273.1]
600 [316] 140 [9.7] 475 [32.8] 950 [65.5] 1435 [99.0] 2375 [163.8] 3960 [273.1]
700 [371] 110 [7.6] 475 [32.8] 950 [65.5] 1435 [99.0] 2375 [163.8] 3960 [273.1]
750 [399] 95 [6.6] 470 [32.4] 935 [64.5] 1405 [96.9] 2340 [161.4] 3900 [269.0]
Hastelloy® C (A494 CW-N12MW)

100 [38] 290 [20.0] 750 [51.7] 1500 [103.4] 2250 [155.2] 3750 [258.6] 6250 [431.0]
200 [93] 260 [17.9] 750 [51.7] 1500 [103.4] 2250 [155.2] 3750 [258.6] 6250 [431.0]
300 [149] 230 [15.9] 730 [50.3] 1455 [100.3] 2185 [150.7] 3640 [251.0] 6070 [418.6]
400 [204] 200 [13.8] 705 [48.6] 1410 [97.2] 2115 [145.9] 3530 [243.4] 5880 [405.5]
500 [260] 170 [11.7] 665 [45.9] 1230 [84.8] 1915 [132.1] 3325 [229.3] 5540 [382.1]
600 [316] 140 [9.7] 605 [41.7] 1210 [83.4] 1815 [125.2] 3025 [208.6] 5040 [347.6]
700 [371] 110 [7.6] 570 [39.3] 1135 [78.3] 1705 [117.6] 2840 [195.9] 4730 [326.2]
750 [399] 95 [6.6] 530 [36.6] 1065 [73.4] 1595 [110.0] 2660 [183.4] 4430 [305.5]

Technical Manual
ANSI Flange Class

Temperature 150 300 600 900 1500 2500
°F [°C] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm]
CS (A216 Grade WCB) Maximum Pressure psig [barg]
100 [38] 285 [19.7] 740 [51.0] 1480 [102.1] 2220 [153.1] 3705 [255.5] 6170 [425.5]
200 [93] 260 [17.9] 675 [46.6] 1350 [93.1] 2025 [139.7] 3375 [232.8] 5625 [387.9]
300 [149] 230 [15.9] 655 [45.2] 1315 [90.7] 1970 [135.9] 3280 [226.2] 5470 [377.2]
400 [204] 200 [13.8] 635 [43.8] 1270 [87.6] 1900 [131.0] 3170 [218.6] 5280 [364.1]
500 [260] 170 [11.7] 600 [41.4] 1200 [82.8] 1795 [123.8] 2995 [206.6] 4990 [344.1]
600 [316] 140 [9.7] 550 [37.9] 1095 [75.5] 1640 [113.1] 2735 [188.6] 4560 [314.5]
650 [343] 125 [8.6] 535 [36.9] 1075 [74.1] 1610 [111.0] 2685 [185.2] 4475 [308.6]
700 [371] 110 [7.6] 535 [36.9] 1065 [73.4] 1600 [110.3] 2665 [183.8] 4440 [306.2]
750 [399] 95 [6.6] 505 [34.8] 1010 [69.7] 1510 [104.1] 2520 [173.8] 4200 [289.7]
800 [427] 80 [5.5] 410 [28.3] 825 [56.9] 1235 [85.2] 2060 [142.1] 3430 [236.6]
ANSI Flange Class

Temperature 150 300 400 600 900 1500 2500
°F [°C] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm] in [mm]
Chrome-Moly Steel (A217 Grade WC6) Maximum Pressure psig [barg]
100 [38] 290 [20.0] 750 [51.7] 1000 [69.0] 1500 [103.4] 2250 [155.2] 3750 [258.6] 6250 [431.0]
200 [93] 260 [17.9] 710 [49.0] 950 [65.5] 1425 [98.3] 2135 [147.2] 3560 [245.5] 5930 [409.0]
300 [149] 230 [15.9] 675 [46.6] 895 [61.7] 1345 [92.8] 2020 [139.3] 3365 [232.1] 5605 [386.6]
400 [204] 200 [13.8] 660 [45.5] 880 [60.7] 1315 [90.7] 1975 [136.2] 3290 [226.9] 5485 [378.3]
500 [260] 170 [11.7] 640 [44.1] 855 [59.0] 1285 [88.6] 1925 [132.8] 3210 [221.4] 5350 [369.0]
600 [316] 140 [9.7] 605 [41.7] 805 [55.5] 1210 [83.4] 1815 [125.2] 3025 [208.6] 5040 [347.6]
650 [343] 125 [8.6] 590 [40.7] 785 [54.1] 1175 [81.0] 1765 [121.7] 2940 [202.8] 4905 [338.3]
700 [371] 110 [7.6] 570 [39.3] 755 [52.1] 1135 [78.3] 1705 [117.6] 2840 [195.9] 4730 [326.2]
750 [399] 95 [6.6] 530 [36.6] 710 [49.0] 1065 [73.4] 1595 [110.0] 2660 [183.4] 4430 [305.5]
800 [427] 80 [5.5] 510 [35.2] 675 [46.6] 1015 [70.0] 1525 [105.2] 2540 [175.2] 4230 [291.7]
850 [454] 65 [4.5] 485 [33.4] 650 [44.8] 975 [67.2] 1460 [100.7] 2435 [167.9] 4060 [280.0]
900 [482] 50 [3.4] 450 [31.0] 600 [41.4] 900 [62.1] 1350 [93.1] 2245 [154.8] 3745 [258.3]
950 [510] 35 [2.4] 380 [26.2] 505 [34.8] 755 [52.1] 1130 [77.9] 1885 [130.0] 3145 [216.9]
1000 [538] 20 [1.4] 225 [15.5] 300 [20.7] 445 [30.7] 670 [46.2] 1115 [76.9] 1860 [128.3]

Technical Manual
Bronze Flange Ratings ANSI B16.24 1971

ANSI Flange Class
Temperature 150 300
°F [°C] in [mm] in [mm]
Bronze (B62) Maximum Pressure psig [barg]
0 to 150 [-18 to +66] 225 [15.5] 500 [34.5]
175 [79] 220 [15.2] 480 [33.1]
200 [93] 210 [14.5] 465 [32.1]
225 [107] 205 [14.1] 445 [30.7]
250 [121] 195 [13.4] 425 [29.3]
275 [135] 190 [13.1] 410 [28.3]
300 [149] 180 [12.4] 390 [26.9]
350 [177] 165 [11.4] 350 [24.1]
400 [204] — — 315 [21.7]
406 [208] 150 [10.3] — —
422 [217] — — 300 [20.7]
Iron Flange Ratings ANSI B16.1

ANSI Flange Class
Temperature 150 300
°F [°C] in [mm] in [mm]
Iron (A126) Maximum Pressure psig [barg]
0 to 150 [-18 to +66] 175 [12.1] 400 [27.6]
200 [93] 165 [11.4] 370 [25.5]
225 [107] 155 [10.7] 355 [24.5]
250 [121] 150 [10.3] 340 [23.4]
275 [135] 145 [10.0] 325 [22.4]
300 [149] 140 [9.7] 310 [21.4]
350 [177] 130 [9.0] 295 [20.3]
375 [191] 125 [8.6] 280 [19.3]
400 [208] — — 265 [18.3]
— — 250 [17.2]

Technical Manual
Valve Installations
Valve Installation Precautions 9. Pressure relief valves should be 15. Minimum differential between operat-
1. No intervening stop valve is permitted mounted in a vertical position. Installing ing pressure and set pressure: 5 psig
between the system and/or piping and a pressure relief valve in other than to 70 psig; set 10% from 71 to 1000
its protective relieving valve or valves, a vertical position will adversely affect psig; 7% over 1000 psig. See ASME
except per ASME SEC. VIII UG-135 (E). operation in varying degrees as a SEC. VIII Appx. M-M11C.
result of consequent misalignment
2. No intervening stop valve is permitted 16. ASME-type pressure valves must be
of moving parts. Also, warranties may
between the protective relieving valve equipped with lift levers for all air,
be voided. Upside-down mounted
and discharge port, except per ASME steam and hot water (above 140°F
valves should be provided with ample
SEC. VIII UG-135 (E). [60°C]) service.
drainage of accumulated liquids from
all sections of the valve. 17. Upon installation or after repair, the
3. No valve discharge media is permitted
to strike other piping, or other equip- proper valve set pressure must be ver-
10. Prior to all installations, inlet connec-
ment, when discharge is to atmosphere. ified. Also, pressure gauges should be
tions – flanged or threaded – must be
Also, discharge media must be aimed calibrated periodically, insuring proper
cleared of foreign matter. Any dirt
away from personnel platforms and all system readout.
entering the valve may damage valve
traffic areas. seats. Use only wrench flats when 18. Any water leg between the valve
securing threaded valves. and gauge must be compensated for.
4. All set pressure adjustments must be
verified as falling within the design Otherwise, incorrect pressure readout
11. Should leakage be detected from a
range for that valve spring. Consult will result.
newly installed valve, first assume the
factory. State laws dictate that valve cause to be from shipping and han- 19. Pressure relief valves left on-line
seals be broken only by persons dling or installation procedures. Apply during extended shutdowns should be
authorized to do so by ASME and pressure to the inlet side equal to 75% inspected and tested before resuming
Anderson Greenwood and Co. Other- of operating pressure so that the lift service. Certain conditions or acts
wise, valve warranties are void and lever can be manually activated, thus which often occur during long, unat-
laws breached. Consult factory. operating the valve. For valves without tended idle periods, such as corrosion,
lift levers, system pressure may be fouling or tampering, may prevent the
5. When discharging more than one
allowed to rise to the point of valve device from performing properly. Where
valve into a common header, exces-
operation. In most instances, the valve a change in operating conditions fol-
sive back pressure must be avoided.
will properly reseat and the leakage lows a shutdown, the inspection
See ASME SEC. VIII Appx. M-8
will stop. interval must be reviewed.
6. The capacity of the relieving valve will
12. Absolute tightness at seat surfaces is
always be increased or decreased
difficult to achieve. Valve manufacturers
proportionally with increase or de-
adhere to a commercial seat tightness
crease of set pressure.
standard – API Standard 527.
7. Test Gags Must Be Removed. Failure
13. Chatter may result when improper
to do so renders the valve inoperable
piping at valve inlet or outlet exists,
and, due to overpressure, may dam-
or oversizing the valve.
age either the relieving valve or the
system, or both. 14. Temperature and corrosion effects on
valve materials are very important to
8. Bonnet vents on all bellows or bal-
any pressure relief valve application.
anced pressure relief valves must be
Disregard of these critical considera-
left open – the shipping plugs must be
tions may damage or cause malfunction
removed.
of the pressure relief valve.

Technical Manual
Following is an Excerpt from ASME Code Section I,

Section IV, and Section VIII (1995 Addenda)

Technical Manual
ASME Code Section I, Power Boilers - (1995 Addenda)
Safety Valves and Safety Relief steaming capacity as determined by the A93
Valves1 Manufacturer and shall be based on the PG-67.2.6 Any economizer which may be
capacity of all the fuel burning equipment shut off from the boiler, thereby permitting
PG-67 as limited by other boiler functions.
Boiler Safety Valve Requirements the economizer to become a fired pres-
sure vessel, shall have one or more safety
A93 A93
relief valves with a total discharge capaci-
PG-67.1 Each boiler shall have at least PG-67.2.2 The minimum required reliev- ty, in lbs/hr, calculated from the maximum
one safety valve or safety relief valve and ing capacity for a waste heat boiler shall expected heat absorption in Btu/hr, as de-
if it has more than 500 sq ft of bare tube be determined by the Manufacturer. When termined by the Manufacturer, divided by
water-heating surface, or if an electric auxiliary firing is to be used in combination 1000. This absorption shall be stated in
boiler has a power input more than 1100 with waste heat recovery, the maximum the stamping (PG-106.4).
kW, it shall have two or more safety output as determined by the boiler
Manufacturer shall include the effect of PG-67.3 One or more safety valves on
valves or safety relief valves. For a boiler
such firing in the total required capacity. the boiler proper shall be set at or below
with combined bare tube and extended
When auxiliary firing is to be used in place the maximum allowable working pressure
water-heating surface exceeding 500 sq
of waste heat recovery, the minimum re- (except as noted in PG-67.4). If additional
ft, two or more safety valves or safety re-
quired relieving capacity shall be based valves are used the highest pressure set-
lief valves are required only if the design
on auxiliary firing or waste heat recovery, ting shall not exceed the maximum
steam generating capacity of the boiler
whichever is higher. allowable working pressure by more than
exceeds 4000 lb/hr. Organic fluid vaporiz-
3%. The complete range of pressure set-
er generators require special
A93 tings of all the saturated-steam safety
consideration as given in Part PVG.
PG-67.2.3 The minimum required valves on a boiler shall not exceed 10% of
A93 relieving capacity for electric boilers shall the highest pressure to which any valve is
be in accordance with PEB-15. set. Pressure setting of safety relief valves
PG-67.2 The safety valve or safety relief
on high-temperature water boilers2 may
valve capacity for each boiler (except as
A93 exceed this 10% range.
noted in PG-67.4) shall be such that the
safety valve, or valves, will discharge all PG-67.2.4 The minimum required
PG-67.4 For a forced-flow steam genera-
the steam that can be generated by the relieving capacity in lb/hr for a high-tem-
tor with no fixed steam and waterline,
boiler without allowing the pressure to rise perature water boiler shall be determined
equipped with automatic controls and pro-
more than 6% above the highest pressure by dividing the maximum output in Btu/hr
tective interlocks responsive to steam
at which any valve is set and in no case to at the boiler nozzle, produced by the high-
pressure, safety valves may be provided
more than 6% above the maximum allow- est heating valve fuel for which the boiler
in accordance with the above paragraphs
able working pressure. is designed, by 1000.
or the following protection against over-
A93 pressure shall be provided:
A93
PG-67.2.1 The minimum required reliev- PG-67.2.5 The minimum required reliev-
ing capacity of the safety valves or safety ing capacity for organic fluid vaporizers
relief valves for all types of boilers shall shall be in accordance with PVG-12.
not be less than the maximum designed
Notes
1. Safety Valve: An automatic pressure reliev- Safety Relief Valve: An automatic pressure- 2. Safety relief valves in hot water service are
ing device actuated by the static pressure actuated relieving device suitable for use more susceptible to damage and subse-
upstream of the valve and characterized by either as a safety valve or relief valve, de- quent leakage, than safety valves relieving
full opening pop action. It is used for gas or pending on application. steam. It is recommended that the maximum
vapor service. Unless otherwise defined, the definitions re- allowable working pressure of the boiler and
Relief Valve: An automatic pressure reliev- lating to pressure relief devices in Appendix the safety relief valve setting for high-tem-
ing device actuated by the static pressure I of ASME/ANSI PTC 25.3, Safety and perature water boilers be selected
upstream of the valve which opens further Relief Valves, shall apply. substantially higher than the desired operat-
with the increase in pressure over the opening pressure so as to minimize the times the
ing pressure. It is used primarily for liquid safety relief valve must lift.
service.

Technical Manual
PG-67.4.1 One or more power-actuated PG-67.4.2 Spring-loaded safety valves operating level and of modulating firing
pressure relieving valves3 shall be provided shall be provided, having a total combined rates and feedwater flow in proportion to a
in direct communication with the boiler when relieving capacity, including that of the variable steam output; and
the boiler is under pressure and shall re- power-actuated pressure relieving capaci-
PG-67.4.3.2.2 A control which overrides
ceive a control impulse to open when the ty installed under PG-67.4.1, of not less
PG-67.4.3.2.1 by reducing the fuel rate
maximum allowable working pressure at the than 100% of the maximum designed
and feedwater flow when the steam pres-
superheater outlet, as shown in the master steaming capacity of the boiler, as deter-
sure exceeds the maximum allowable
stamping (PG-106.3), is exceeded. The total mined by the Manufacturer, except the
working pressure as shown in the master
combined relieving capacity of the power- alternate provisions of PG-67.4.3 are sat-
stamping (PG-106.3) by 10%; and
actuated relieving valves shall be not less isfied. In this total, no credit in excess of
than 10% of the maximum design steaming 30% of the total required relieving capaci- PG-67.4.3.2.3 A direct-acting overpres-
capacity of the boiler under any operating ty shall be allowed for the power-actuated sure-trip-actuating mechanism, using an
condition as determined by the Manufacturer. pressure relieving valves actually in- independent pressure sensing device, that
The valve or valves shall be located in the stalled. Any or all of the spring-loaded will stop the flow of fuel and feedwater to
pressure part system where they will relieve safety valves may be set above the maxi- the boiler, at a pressure higher than the
the overpressure. mum allowable working pressure of the set pressure of PG-67.4.3.2.2, but less
parts to which they are connected, but the than 20% above the maximum allowable
An isolating stop valve of the outside-
set pressures shall be such that when all working pressure as shown in the master
screw-and-yoke type may be installed
of these valves (together with the power- stamping (PG-106.3).
between the power-actuated pressure
actuated pressure relieving valves) are in
relieving valve and the boiler to permit PG-67.4.3.3 There shall be not less than
operation the pressure will not rise more
repairs provided an alternate power- two spring-loaded safety valves and the
than 20% above the maximum allowable
actuated pressure relieving valve of the total rated relieving capacity of the spring-
working pressure of any part of the boiler,
same capacity is so installed as to be loaded safety valves shall be not less than
except for the steam piping between the
in direct communication with the boiler 10% of the maximum designed steaming
boiler and the prime mover.
in accordance with the requirements of capacity of the boiler as determined by the
this paragraph. PG-67.4.3 The total installed capacity of Manufacturer. These spring-loaded safety
spring-loaded safety valves may be less valves may be set above the maximum al-
Power-actuated pressure relieving valves
than the requirements of PG-67.4.2 provid- lowable working pressure of the parts to
discharging to intermediate pressure and
ed all of the following conditions are met. which they are connected but shall be set
incorporated into bypass and/or startup
such that the valves will lift at a pressure
circuits by the boiler Manufacturer need PG-67.4.3.1 The boiler shall be of no less
no higher than 20% above the maximum
not be capacity certified. Instead, they steaming capacity than 1,000,000 lb/hr
allowable working pressure as shown in
shall be marked by the valve manufacturer and installed in a unit system for power
the master stamping (PG-106.3).
with a capacity rating at a set of specified generation (i.e., a single boiler supplying a
inlet pressure and temperature conditions. single turbine-generator unit). PG-67.4.3.4 At least two of these spring-
Power-actuated pressure relieving valves loaded safety valves shall be equipped with
PG-67.4.3.2 The boiler shall be provided
discharging directly to atmosphere shall a device that directly transmits the valve
with automatic devices, responsive to vari-
be capacity certified. This capacity certifi- stem lift action to controls that will stop the
ations in steam pressure, which include no
cation shall be conducted in accordance flow of fuel and feedwater to the boiler.
less than all the following:
with the provisions of PG-69.3. The valves The control circuitry to accomplish this
shall be marked in accordance with the PG-67.4.3.2.1 A control capable of main- shall be arrange in a ‘fail-safe’ manner.4
provisions of PG.69.4 and PG-69.5. taining steam pressure at the desired
Notes
3. The power-actuated pressure relieving valve 4. ‘Fail-safe’ shall mean a circuitry arranged as It is not mandatory to duplicate the
is one of whose movements to open or close either of the following: mechanism that actually stops the flow of
are fully controlled by a source of power (1) Energize to trip: There shall be at least fuel and feedwater.
(electricity, air, steam, or hydraulic). The two separate and independent trip cir- (2) De-energize to trip: If the circuits are
valve may discharge to atmosphere or to a cuits served by two power sources, to arranged in such a way that a continu-
container at lower pressure. The discharge initiate and perform the trip action. One ous supply of power is required to keep
capacity may be affected by the downstream power source shall be a continuously the circuits closed and operating and
conditions, and such effects shall be taken charged dc battery. The second source such that any interruption of power
into account . If the power-actuated pressure shall be an ac-to-dc converter connected supply will actuate the trip mechanism,
relieving valves are also positioned in re- to the dc system to charge the battery then a single trip circuit and single power
sponse other control signals, the control and capable of performing the trip ac- supply will be enough to meet the
impulse to prevent overpressure shall be re- tion. The trip circuits shall be requirements of this subparagraph.
sponsive only to pressure and shall override continuously monitored for availability.
any other control function.

Technical Manual
PG-67.4.3.5 The power supply for all con- Deadweight or weighted lever safety constructed that steam is supplied to it at
trols and devices required by PG-67.4.3 valves or safety relief valves shall not be practically equal intervals throughout its
shall include at least one source contained used. length so that there is a uniform flow of
within the same plant as the boiler and steam through the superheater tubes and
which is arranged to actuate the controls For high-temperature water boilers safety
the header, the safety valve, or valves,
and devices continuously in the event of relief valves shall be used. Such valves
may be located anywhere in the length of
failure or interruption of any other power shall have a closed bonnet. For purposes
the header.
sources. of selection the capacity rating of such
safety relief valves shall be expressed in PG-68.2 The discharge capacity of the
PG-67.4.4 When stop valves are terms of actual steam flow determined on safety valve, or valves, on an attached
installed in the water-steam flow path be- the same basis as for safety valves. In ad- superheater may be included in determin-
tween any two sections of a forced-flow dition the safety relief valves shall be ing the number and size of the safety
steam generator with no fixed steam and capable of satisfactory operation when re- valves for the boiler, provided there are
waterline: lieving water at the saturation temperature no intervening valves between the super-
corresponding to the pressure at which heater safety valve and the boiler, and
PG-67.4.4.1 The power-actuated pres-
the valve is set to blow. provided the discharge capacity of the
sure relieving valve(s) required by
PG-67.4.1 shall also receive a control im- safety valve, or valves, on the boiler, as
PG-67.6 A safety valve or safety relief
pulse to open when the maximum distinct from the superheater is at least
valve over 3-inch in size, used for pres-
allowable working pressure of the compo- 75% of the aggregate valve capacity
sures greater than 15 psig, shall have a
nent, having the lowest pressure level required.
flanged inlet connection or weld-end inlet
upstream to the stop valve, is exceeded; connection. The dimensions of flanges PG-68.3 Every independently fired super-
and subjected to boiler pressure shall conform heater which may be shut off from the
PG-67.4.4.2 The spring-loaded safety to the applicable American National boiler and permit the superheater to be-
valves shall be located to provide the Standards as given in PG-42. The facing come a fired pressure vessel shall have
pressure protection requirements in PG- shall be similar to those illustrated in the one or more safety valves having a dis-
67.4.2 or PG-67.4.3. Standard. charge capacity equal to 6 lb of steam per
PG-67.7 Safety valves or safety relief hour per square foot of superheater sur-
PG-67.4.5 A reliable pressure-recording
valves may have bronze parts complying face measured on the side exposed to the
device shall always be in service and
with either SB-61 or SB-62, provided the hot gases. In the case of electrically heat-
records kept to provide evidence of con-
maximum allowable stresses and tempered superheaters, the safety valve capacity
formity to the above requirements.
atures do not exceed the values given in shall be based upon 31/2 lb/hr/kW input.
PG-67.5 All safety valves or safety relief Table 1B of Section II, Part D, and shall The number of safety valves installed
valves shall be so constructed that the be marked to indicate the class of material shall be such that the total capacity is at
failure of any part cannot obstruct the free used. Such valves shall not be used on least equal to that required.
and full discharge of steam and water superheaters delivering steam at a temper- PG-68.4 Every reheater shall have one or
from the valve. Safety valves shall be of ature over 450°F and 306°F respectively, more safety valves, such that the total re-
the direct spring-loaded pop type, with and shall not be used for high-temperature lieving capacity is at least equal to the
seat inclined at any angle between 45 water boilers.
degrees and 90 degrees, inclusive, to the maximum steam flow for which the re-
center line of the spindle. The coefficient heater is designed. At least one valve
of discharge of safety valves shall be shall be located in the stamp flow path be-
PG-68 Superheater Safety Valve
determined by actual steam flow mea- tween the reheater outlet and the first stop
Requirements
surements at a pressure not more than valve. The location shall be suitable for
PG-68.1 Except as permitted in PG- the service intended and shall provide the
3% above the pressure at which the valve
58.3.1, every attached superheater shall overpressure protection required. The
is set to blow and when adjusted for blow-
have one or more safety valves in the pressure drop upstream of each safety
down in accordance with PG-72. The
steam flow path between the superheater valve shall be considered in the determi-
valves shall be credited with capacities as
outlet and first stop valve. The location nation of set pressure and relieving
determined by the provisions of PG-69.2
shall be suitable for the service intended capacity of that valve. The relieving ca-
Safety valves or safety relief valves may and shall provide the overpressure protec- pacity of that valve shall be not less than
be used which give any opening up to the tion required. The pressure drop upstream
15% of the required total. The capacity of
full discharge capacity of the area of the of each safety valve shall be considered in
reheater safety valves shall not be includ-
opening of the inlet of the valve (see PG- the determination of set pressure and re-
ed in the required relieving capacity for
69.5), provided the movement of the lieving capacity of that valve. If the
the boiler and superheater.
steam safety valve is such as not to in- superheater outlet header has a full, free
duce lifting of water in the boiler. steam passage from end to end and is so

Technical Manual
PG-68.5 A soot blower connection may PG-69.1.4 Capacity certification tests Slope = measured capacity
be attached to the same outlet from the shall be conducted at a pressure which absolute flow rating pressure, psia
superheater or reheater that is used for does not exceed the set pressure by 3%
All values derived from the testing must
the safety valve connection. or 2 psi, whichever is greater. Safety and
fall within ±5% of the average slope.
safety relief valves shall be adjusted so
PG-68.6 Every safety valve used on a
that the blowdown does not exceed 4% If all slopes derived from the testing do
superheater or reheater discharging
of the set pressure. For valves set at or not fall within ±5% of the average slope,
superheated steam at a temperature over
below 100 psi, the blowdown shall be ad- the Authorized Observer shall require two
450°F shall have a casing, including the
justed so as not to exceed 4 psi. Safety additional valves to be tested as replace-
base, body, and bonnet and spindle, of
valves used on forced-flow steam genera- ments for each valve having a slope
steel, steel alloy, or equivalent heat-resist-
tors with no fixed steam and waterline, outside this range, with a limit of four addi-
ing material.
and safety relief valves used on high-tem- tional valves. Failure of any slope to fall
The valve shall have a flanged inlet con- perature water boilers shall be adjusted within ±5% of the new average slope, ex-
nection, or a weld-end inlet connection. so that the blowdown does not exceed cluding the replaced valve(s), shall be
It shall have the seat and disk of suitable 10% of the set pressure. The reseating cause to refuse certification of that partic-
heat erosive and corrosive resisting mate- pressure shall be noted and recorded. ular valve design.
rial, and the spring fully exposed outside
PG-69.2 Relieving capacities shall be The rated relieving capacity to be
of the valve casing so that it shall be pro-
determined using one of the following stamped on the valve shall be determined
tected from contact with the escaping
methods. as follows:
steam.
PG-69.2.1 Three Valve Method. rated relieving capacity
A capacity certification test is required on = 0.90 x average slope x (1.03 x set
PG-69 Certification of Capacity of a set of three valves for each combination pressure + 14.7)
Safety and Safety Relief Valves of size, design and pressure setting. The or
capacity of each valve of the set shall fall
PG-69.1 Before the Code symbol is ap- = 0.90 x average slope x (set pressure
within a range of ±5% of the average ca-
plied to any safety or safety relief valve, + 2 psi + 14.7)
pacity. If one of the three valves tested
the valve manufacturer shall have the re- whichever is greater.
falls outside this range, it shall be re-
lieving capacity of his valves certified in
placed by two valves, and a new average PG-69.2.3 Coefficient of Discharge
accordance with the provisions of this
shall be calculated based on all four Method.
paragraph.
valves, excluding the replaced valve.
A coefficient of discharge for the design,
PG-69.1.1 Capacity certification tests Failure of any of the four capacities to fall
K, may be established for a specific valve
shall be conducted using dry saturated within a range of ±5% of the new average design according to the following proce-
steam. The limits for test purposes shall shall be cause to refuse certification of dure.
be 98% minimum quality and 20°F maxi- that particular valve design.
mum superheat. Correction from within A. For each design, the safety or safety
The rated relieving capacity for each com- relief valve manufacturer shall submit for
these limits may be made to the dry satu-
bination of design, size, and test pressure test at least three valves for each of three
rated condition.
shall be 90% of the average capacity. different sizes (a total of nine valves).
PG-69.1.2 Tests shall be conducted at a Each valve of a given size shall be set
PG-69.2.2 Four Valve Method.
place which meets the requirements of at a different pressure, covering the range
Four valves of each combination of valve
Appendix A-312. of pressures for which the valve will be
inlet size and orifice size shall be tested.
These four valves shall be set at pressures used or the range available at the facility
A92
covering the range for which the valves will where the tests are conducted.
PG-69.1.3 Capacity test data reports for
be used or the range available at the certi- B. Tests shall be made on each safety
each valve design and size, signed by the
fied test facility where tests are conducted. or safety relief valve to determine its lift at
manufacturer and Authorized Observer
witnessing the tests, together with draw- The slope of the actual measured capaci- capacity, popping, and blowdown pres-
ings showing the valve construction, shall ty versus the absolute flow rating pressure sures, and actual relieving capacity.
be submitted to the ASME designee for for each test point shall be calculated and
review and acceptance.5 averaged: Notes
5. Valve capacities are published in ‘Pressure
Relief Device Certifications.’ This publica-
tion may be obtained from the National
Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel
Inspectors, 1055 Crupper Ave., Columbus,
OH 43229.

Technical Manual
An individual coefficient, KD, shall be WT = theoretical flow, defined by the same where:
established for each valve as follows: equation used to determine KD, lb/hr W = capacity, lb of steam/hr
K = coefficient of discharge for the design P = absolute inlet pressure, psia
Actual flow Individual coeffi-
KD = =
cient of discharge ν = inlet specific volume, cu ft/lb
Theoretical flow The coefficient of discharge for the de-
sign, K, shall not be greater than 0.975. dW/dP = rate of change of measured
Where actual flow is determined by test The coefficient shall not be applied to capacity with respect to absolute
and theoretical flow, WT is calculated by valves whose beta ratio (ratio of valve pressure
one of the following equations: throat to inlet diameter) lies outside the A92
For 45 degree seat range of 0.15 to 0.75, unless tests have PG-69.4 Power-actuated pressure
WT = 51.45 x πDLP x 0.707 demonstrated that the individual coeffi- relieving valves, having capacities certi-
cient of discharge, KD, for valves at the fied in accordance with the provision of
For flat seat
extreme ends of a larger range, is within PG-69.3 and computed in accordance
WT = 51.45 x πDLP
±5% of the coefficient, K. with the formula contained therein, shall
For nozzle be marked as required by PG-110 with the
WT = 51.45 AP For designs where the lift is used to deter-
computed capacity, corresponding to 3%
where: mine the flow area, all valves shall have the
above the full load operating pressure and
WT = theoretical flow, lb/hr same nominal lift to seat diameter ratio (L/D).
temperature conditions at the valve inlet
A = nozzle throat area, in2 For pressures over 1500 psig and up to when the valve is operated by the con-
P = (1.03 x set pressure + 14.7), or 3200 psig, the value of W shall be multi- troller, and they shall also be stamped
= (set pressure + 2 + 14.7), plied by the correction factor: with the set pressure of the controller.
whichever is greater, psia 0.1906P - 1000 When the valve is marked as required by
L = lift pressure at P, in. this paragraph, it shall be the guarantee
0.2292P - 1061
by the manufacturer that the valve also
D = seat diameter, in.
PG-69.3 If a manufacturer wishes to ap- conforms to the details of construction
The coefficient of discharge for the design, ply the Code symbol to a power-actuated herein specified.
K, shall be the average of the nine individual pressure relieving valve under PG-67.4.1,
coefficients, KD. All individual coefficients one valve of each combination of inlet A92
of discharge, KD, shall fall within a range pipe size and orifice size to be used with PG-69.6 When changes are made in the
of ±5% of the coefficient, K. If a valve fails that inlet pipe size shall be tested. The design of a safety or safety relief valve in
to meet this requirement, the Authorized valve shall be capacity tested at four dif- such a manner as to affect the flow path,
Observer shall require two additional ferent pressures approximately covering lift, or performance characteristics of the
valves to be tested as replacements for the range of the certified test facility on valve, new tests in accordance with this
each valve having an individual coeffi- which the tests are conducted. The capac- Section shall be performed.
cient, KD, outside the ±5% range, with a ities, as determined by these four tests,
limit of four additional valves. Failure of shall be plotted against the absolute flow
a coefficient, KD, to fall within ±5% of the test pressure and a line drawn through PG-70 Capacity of Safety Valves
new average value, excluding the re- these four test points. All points must lie A93
placed valve(s), shall be cause to refuse within ±5% in capacity value of the plotted
line and must pass through 0-0. From the PG-70.1 Subject to the minimum number
certification of that particular valve design.
plotted line, the slope of the line dW/dP required by PG-67.1, the number of safety
The rated relieving capacity of all sizes shall be determined and a factor of valves or safety relief valves required shall
and set pressures of a given design, for (0.90/51.45) x (dW/dP) shall be applied to be determined on the basis of the maxi-
which K has been established under the capacity computations in the supercritical mum designed steaming capacity, as
provision of this paragraph, shall be deter- region at elevated pressures by means of determined by the boiler Manufacturer,
mined by the equation: the isentropic flow equation.6 and the relieving capacity marked on the
valves by the manufacturer.
W = WT x K x 0.9 ––––––
√
where: 0.90 dW P In many cases a greater relieving capacity
W = 1135.8 ––––––– x ––– –––
W = rated relieving capacity, lb/hr 51.45 dP ν of safety valves or safety relief valves will
have to be provided than the minimum
specified by this rule, and in every case
Notes the requirements of PG-67.2 shall be met.
6. The constant 1135.8 is based on a γ factor ods of capacity computations must be used
of 1.30 which is accurate for superheated at temperatures below 800°F at supercritical
steam at temperature above approximately pressures.
800°F. In interest of accuracy, other meth-

Technical Manual
PG-71 Mounting to be carried clear from running boards dependent of any other outside steam
PG-71.1 When two or more safety valves or platforms. Ample provision for gravity connection, the area of opening to be at
are used on a boiler, they may be mount- drain shall be made in the discharge pipe least equal to the aggregate areas of inlet
ed either separately or as twin valves at or near each safety valve or safety connections of all of the safety valves or
made by placing individual valves on relief valve, and where water of conden- safety relief valves to be attached thereto.
Y-bases, or duplex valves having two sation may collect. Each valve shall have An internal collecting pipe, splash plate, or
valves in the same body casing. Twin an open gravity drain through the casing pan may be used, provided the total area
valves made by placing individual valves below the level of the valve seat. For for inlet of steam thereto is not less than
on Y-bases, or duplex valves having two iron- and steel-bodied valves exceeding twice the aggregate areas of the inlet con-
valves in the same body, shall be of 21/2-inch size, the drain hole shall be nections of the attached safety valves.
approximately equal capacity. tapped not less than 3/8-inch pipe size. The holes in such collecting pipes shall be
at least 1/4-inch in diameter and the least
When not more than two valves of differ- Discharge piping from safety relief valves
dimension in any other form of opening for
ent sizes are mounted singly the relieving on high-temperature water boilers shall be
inlet of steam shall be 1/4-inch.
capacity of the smaller valve shall be not provided with adequate provisions for wa-
less than 50% of that of the larger valve. ter drainage as well as the steam venting. Such dimensional limitations to operation
for steam need not apply to steam scrub-
PG-71.2 The safety valve or safety relief The installation of cast iron bodied safety
bers or driers provided the net free steam
valve or valves shall be connected to the relief valves for high-temperature water
inlet area of the scrubber or drier is at
boiler independent of any other connec- boilers is prohibited.
least 10 times the total area of the boiler
tion, and attached as close as possible to PG-71.4 If a muffler is used on a safety outlets for the safety valves.
the boiler or the normal steam flow path, valve or safety relief valve, it shall have
without any unnecessary intervening pipe PG-71.8 If safety valves are attached
sufficient outlet area to prevent back
or fitting. Such intervening pipe or fitting to a separate steam drum or dome, the
pressure from interfering with the proper
shall be not longer than the face-to-face opening between the boiler proper and
operation and discharge capacity of the
dimension of the corresponding tee fitting the steam drum or dome shall be not less
valve. The muffler plates or other devices
of the same diameter and pressure under than required by PG-71.7.
shall be so constructed as to avoid a
the applicable American National possibility of restriction of the steam pas-
Standard listed in PG-42 and shall also PG-72 Operation
sages due to deposit. Mufflers shall not
comply with PG-8 and PG-39. Every safe- be used on high-temperature water boiler PG-72.1 Safety valves shall be designed
ty valve or safety relief valve shall be safety relief valves. and constructed to operate without chatter-
connected so as to stand in an upright ing and to attain full lift at a pressure no
position, with spindle vertical. On high- When a safety valve or safety relief valve greater than 3% above their set pressure.
temperature water boilers of the is exposed to outdoor elements which may After blowing down, all valves shall close
watertube forced-circulation type, the affect operation of the valve, it is permissi- at a pressure not lower than 96% of their
valve shall be located at the boiler outlet. ble to shield the valve with a satisfactory set pressure, except that all drum valves
cover. The shield or cover shall be proper- installed on a single boiler may be set to
PG-71.3 The opening or connection be- ly vented and arranged to permit servicing reseat at a pressure not lower than 96% of
tween the boiler and the safety relief valve and normal operation of the valve. the set pressure of the lowest set drum
shall have at least the area of the valve in-
PG-71.5 When a boiler is fitted with two valve. The minimum blowdown for spring-
let. No valve of any description shall be
or more safety relief valves on one con- loaded safety or safety relief valves shall be
placed between the required safety valve
nection, this connection to the boiler shall 2% of the set pressure, except that for boil-
or safety relief valve or valves and the
have a cross-sectional area not less than ers whose maximum allowable working
boiler, nor on the discharge pipe between
the combined areas of inlet connections of pressure is less than 100 psi, the valves
the safety valve or safety relief valve and
all the safety valves or safety relief valves may be set to reseat between 2 and 4 psi
the atmosphere. When a discharge pipe is
with which it connects and shall also meet below their set pressure.
used, the cross-sectional area shall be not
less than the full area of the valve outlet the requirements of PG-71.3. Safety valves used on forced-flow steam
or of the total of the areas of the valve generators with no fixed steam and water-
PG-71.6 Safety valves may be attached
outlets, discharging thereinto. It shall be line, and safety relief valves used on
to drums or headers by welding provided
as short and straight as possible and so high-temperature water boilers may be
the welding is done in accordance with
arranged as to avoid undue stresses on set and adjusted to close after blowing
Code requirements.
the valve or valves. down not more than 10% of the set pres-
PG-71.7 Every boiler shall have proper sure. The valves for these special uses
All safety valve or safety relief valve dis-
outlet connections for the required safety must be so adjusted and marked by the
charges shall be so located or piped as
valve, or safety relief valve, or valves, in- manufacturer.

Technical Manual
PG-72.2 The popping point tolerance PG-73.1.3 To provide a means for verify- stalled in such a manner as to prevent
plus or minus shall not exceed the following whether it is free, each safety valve changing the adjustment without breaking
ing: 2 psi for pressures up to and or safety relief valve shall have a sub- the seal and, in addition, shall serve as a
including 70 psi, 3% for pressures over 70 stantial lifting device, which when means of identifying the manufacturer, his
psi up to and including 300 psi, 10 psi for activated will release the seating force on authorized representative, or the assem-
pressures over 300 psi up to and includ- the disk when the valve is subject to bler making the adjustment.
ing 1000 psi, and 1% for pressures over pressure of at least 75% of the set pres-
PG-73.2 Material Selections
1000 psi. sure. The lifting device shall be such that
it cannot lock or hold the valve disk in lift- PG-73.2.1 Cast iron seats and disks are
PG-72.3 The spring in a safety valve or
ed position when the exterior lifting force not permitted.
safety relief valve shall not be reset for any
is released. Disks of safety relief valves
pressure more than 5% above or below that PG-73.2.2 Adjacent sliding surfaces such
used on high-temperature water boilers
for which the valve is marked unless the as guides and disks or disk holders shall
shall not be lifted while the temperature
new setting is within the spring design range both be of corrosion resistant material.
of the water exceeds 200°F. If it is de-
established by the manufacturer or is deter- Springs of corrosion resistant material or
sired to lift the valve disk to assure that it
mined to be acceptable to the manufacturer. having a corrosion resistant coating are
is free, this shall be done when the valve
is subjected to a pressure of at least 75% required. The seats and disks of safety
If the set pressure is to be adjusted within
of the set pressure. For high-temperature valves or safety relief valves shall be of
the limits specified above, the adjustment
water boilers, the lifting mechanism shall suitable material to resist corrosion by the
shall be performed by the manufacturer, his
be sealed against leakage. lading fluid.7
authorized representative, or an assembler.
An additional valve data tag identifying the PG-73.2.3 Materials used in bodies and
PG-73.1.4 The seat of a safety valve
new set pressure, capacity, and date shall bonnets or yokes shall be listed in Section
shall be fastened to the body of the valve
be furnished and installed, and the valved II, Parts A and B, and identified in Tables
in such a way that there is no possibility of
shall be resealed. 1A and 1B of Section II, Part D, as permit-
the seat lifting.
ted for Section I construction. Materials
PG-72.4 If the set pressure of a valve is
PG-73.1.5 A body drain below seat level used in nozzles, disks, and other parts con-
changed so as to require a new spring,
shall be provided in the valve and this tained within the external structure of the
the spring shall be acceptable to the man-
drain shall not be plugged during or after safety or safety relief valves shall be one of
ufacturer. The spring installation and valve
field installation. For valves exceeding the following categories:
adjustment shall be performed by the
21/2-inch pipe size, the drain hole or holes
manufacturer, his authorized representa- 1. listed in ASME Section II;
shall be tapped not less than 3/8-inch pipe
tive, or an assembler. A new nameplate as
size. For valves of 21/2-inch pipe size or 2. listed in ASTM Specifications;8
described in PG-110 shall be furnished
smaller, the drain hole shall not be less
and installed, and the valve shall be re- 3. controlled by the manufacturer of the
than 1/4-inch in diameter.
sealed. safety or safety relief valve by a specifica-
PG-73.1.6 In the design of the body of tion insuring control of chemical and
the valve, consideration shall be given to physical properties and quality at least
PG-73 Minimum Requirements for minimizing the effects of water deposits. equivalent to ASTM Standards.8
Safety and Safety Relief Valves
PG-73.1.7 Valves having screwed
PG-73.1 Mechanical Requirements
inlet or outlet connections shall be provid-
PG-73.1.1 The design shall incorporate ed with wrenching surfaces to allow for Notes
guiding arrangements necessary to insure normal installation without damaging op- 7. The degree of corrosion resistance, appro-
consistent operation and tightness. erating parts. priate to the intended service, shall be a
matter of agreement between the manufac-
PG-73.1.2 The spring shall be turer and purchaser.
designed so that the full lift spring com- A92
8. It shall be the manufacturer’s responsibility
pression shall be no greater than 80% PG-73.1.8 Means shall be provided in the to insure that the allowable stressed at tem-
of the nominal solid deflection. The per- design of all valves for use under this perature meet the requirements of Section
manent set of the spring (defined as the Section, for sealing all external adjust- II, Part D, Appendix 1, Nonmandatory Basis
difference between the free height and ments. Seals shall be installed by the for Establishing Stress Values in Table 1A
height measured 10 min after the spring manufacturer, his authorized representa- and 1B.
has been compressed solid three additive, or an assembler at the time of the
tional times after presetting at room initial adjustment. After spring replace-
temperature) shall not exceed 0.5% of the ment and/or subsequent adjustment, the
free height. valve shall be resealed. Seals shall be in-

Technical Manual
PG-73.3 Inspection of Manufacturing 4. Failure of any of the replacement valves PG-73.4.2 Every valve shall be tested
and/or Assembly to meet the capacity or the performance with steam by the manufacturer or assem-
requirements of this Section shall be bler to demonstrate the popping point,
A92/A93 cause for revocation within 60 days of blowdown, tightness, and pressure con-
PG-73.3.1 A manufacturer shall demon- the authorization to use the Code sym- taining integrity. Valves beyond the
strate to the satisfaction of an ASME bol on that particular type of valve. capability of production test facilities may
designee that his manufacturing, produc- During this period, the Manufacturer or be shop tested with air, provided required
tion, and test facilities and quality control assembler shall demonstrate the cause field tests and applicable adjustments are
procedures will insure close agreement of such deficiency and the action taken made.
between the performance of random pro- to guard against future occurrence, and
PG-73.4.3 A seat tightness test shall be
duction samples and the performance of the requirements of PG-73.3.3 above
conducted at maximum expected operat-
those valves submitted for capacity certifi- shall apply.
ing pressure, but at a pressure not
cation.
A93 exceeding the reseating pressure of the
A93 valve. When being tested, a valve exhibit-
PG-73.3.4 Use of the Code Symbol
ing no visible signs of leakage shall be
PG-73.3.2 Manufacturing, assembly, Stamp by an assembler indicates the use
considered adequately tight.
inspection, and test operations including of original unmodified parts in strict accor-
capacity, are subject to inspections at any dance with the instructions of the A92
time by an ASME designee. manufacturer of the valve.
PG-73.4.4 A manufacturer or assembler
A92/A93 A93 shall have a documented program for the
application, calibration, and maintenance
PG-73.3.3 A Manufacturer or assembler PG-73.3.5 In addition to the requirements
of test gauges.
may be granted permission to apply the V of PG-110, the same plate marking shall
Code Symbol to production pressure relief include the name of the Manufacturer and PG-73.4.5 Testing time on steam valves
valves capacity-certified in accordance the assembler. The Code Symbol Stamp shall be sufficient to assure that test re-
with PG-69, provided the following tests shall be that of the assembler.9 sults are repeatable and representative of
are successfully completed. This permis- field performance.
PG-73.4 Testing by Manufacturers or
sion shall expire on the fifth anniversary of
Assemblers A92
the date it is initially granted. This permis-
sion may be extended for 5 year periods if PG-73.4.1 Valves exceeding 1-inch inlet PG-73.4.6 Test fixtures and test drums,
the following tests are successfully repeat- size or 300 psig set pressure shall meet where applicable, shall be of adequate
ed within the 6 month period before the following requirements. Primary pres- size and capacity to assure that the ob-
expiration. sure containing cast and welded parts of served set pressure is consistent with the
pressure relief valves shall be tested at a stamped set pressure within the tolerance
1. Two sample production pressure relief
pressure at 1.5 times the design pressure required by PG-72.2.
valves of a size and capacity within the
of the parts. These tests shall be conduct-
capability of an ASME accepted labora- PG-73.5 Design Requirements
ed after all machining operations to the
tory shall be selected by an ASME At the time of submission of valves for
parts have been completed. There shall
designee. capacity certification or testing in accor-
be no visible signs of leakage.
dance with PG-69, the ASME designee
2. Operational and capacity tests shall be
Closed bonnet pressure relief valves de- has the authority to review design for con-
conducted in the presence of an ASME
signed for discharge to a closed system formity with the requirements of this
designee at an ASME accepted labora-
shall be tested with a minimum of 30 psig Section and to reject or require modifica-
tory. The valve manufacturer or
air or other gas in the secondary pressure tion of designs which do not conform, prior
assembler shall be notified of the time
zone. There shall be no visible signs of to capacity testing.
of the test and may have representa-
leakage.
tives present to witness the test.
3. Should any valve fail to relieve at or

above its certified capacity or should it
fail to meet performance requirements Notes
of this Section, the test shall be repeat-
9. Within the requirements of PG-73.3 and PG- An assembler is defined a person or organi-
ed at the rate of two replacement 73.4, a manufacturer is defined as a person zation who purchases or receives from a
valves, selected in accordance with or organization who is completely responsi- manufacturer the necessary component
PG-73.3.3(1), for each valve that failed. ble for design, material selection, capacity parts or valves and assembles, adjusts,
certification, manufacture of all component tests, seals, and ships safety or safety relief
parts, assembly, testing, sealing, and ship- valves certified under this Section at a geo-
ping of safety and safety relief valves graphical location other than and using
certified under this Section. facilities other than those used by the manu-
facturer.

Technical Manual
PFT-44 Opening Between Boiler ed the rated steaming capacity is stamped No valve of any description shall be
and Safety Valve on the boiler and safety valves or safety placed between the required safety valve
relief valves of the required relieving ca- or safety relief valve or valves and the
The opening or connection between the
pacity are supplied such that the boiler, or on the discharge pipe between
boiler and the safety valve shall have at
provisions of PG-67.2 are satisfied. the safety valve or safety relief valve and
least the area of the valve inlet. In the
the atmosphere. When a discharge pipe is
case of firetube boilers, the openings in After the boiler Manufacturer provides for
used, the cross-sectional area shall be not
the boilers for safety valves or safety relief the opening required by the Code, a bush-
less than the full area of the valve outlet or
valves shall be not less than given in ing may be inserted in the opening in the
of the total of the areas of the valve out-
Table PFT-44, except firetube boilers used shell to suit a safety valve that will have
lets discharging thereinto and shall be as
for waste heat purposes only, not the capacity to relieve all the steam that
short and straight as possible and so
equipped for direct firing, need not meet can be generated in the boiler and which
arranged as to avoid undue stresses on
the requirements of Table PFT-44 provid- will meet the Code requirements.
the valve or valves.
Table PFT-44
Minimum Total Areas of Openings (in2) in Firetube Boilers for Safety Valve Connections 1, 2
Gauge Boiler Heating Surface, sq. ft.

Press.
psi 100 200 300 400 500 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600 1800 2000 2500 3000 V
16 3.174 6.348 9.522 12.696 15.869 19.043 25.392 31.739 38.086 44.435 50.783 57.130 63.478 79.347 95.216 13.330
25 2.500 5.000 7.499 10.000 12.498 15.000 20.000 24.996 30.000 35.000 40.000 44.992 49.992 62.489 74.987 10.498
50 1.584 3.168 4.752 6.338 7.920 9.504 12.677 15.839 19.007 22.175 25.354 28.510 31.678 39.599 47.517 6.655
75 1.166 2.331 3.497 4.663 5.828 6.995 9.326 11.657 13.989 16.320 18.652 20.983 23.314 29.143 34.972 4.896
100 0.924 1.849 2.773 3.697 4.621 5.546 7.394 9.243 11.092 12.940 14.789 16.637 18.486 23.106 27.729 3.882
125 0.767 1.533 2.300 3.067 3.834 4.600 6.134 7.667 9.201 10.734 12.267 13.800 15.334 19.166 23.000 3.220
150 0.655 1.311 1.966 2.621 3.276 3.932 5.242 6.553 7.863 9.174 10.484 11.795 13.106 16.382 19.658 2.752
175 0.572 1.145 1.718 2.289 2.862 3.435 4.579 5.725 6.870 8.015 9.158 10.305 11.450 14.312 17.175 2.404
200 0.508 1.016 1.525 2.033 2.541 3.049 4.066 5.082 6.099 7.115 8.132 9.148 10.164 12.706 15.247 2.1345
225 0.457 0.913 1.370 1.827 2.284 2.740 3.654 4.567 5.481 6.394 7.308 8.221 9.134 11.417 13.702 1.9183
250 0.415 0.830 1.244 1.659 2.074 2.489 3.318 4.148 4.978 5.807 6.637 7.466 8.296 10.370 12.444 1.7422
Nominal Pipe Internal Internal Nominal Pipe Internal Internal Nominal Pipe Internal Internal
Size, Inch Diameter Area, in2 Size, inch Diameter Area, in2 Size, inch Diameter Area, in2
1/2 0.622 0.304 2 2.067 3.355 4 4.026 12.730
3/4 0.824 0.533 21/2 2.469 4.788 5 5.047 20.006
1 1.049 0.864 3 3.068 7.393 6 6.065 28.891
11/4 1.380 1.495 31/2 3.548 9.886 8 8.071 51.161
11/2 1.610 2.036
Notes
1. Based on formula A = HV/420 2. Number and size of openings shall provide
where for not less than the area given.
A = total area of openings, in 2 Intermediate values may be interpolated.
H = boiler heating surface, ft 2 With flanged openings, use internal area for
determining diameter.
V = specific volume of steam in cu. ft/lb at
maximum allowable working pressure.

Technical Manual
ASME Code Section I, Miniature Boilers - (1995 Addenda)
PMB-15 Safety Valves The minimum relieving capacity of the without allowing the pressure to rise more
Each miniature boiler shall be equipped safety valve shall be determined in accor- than 6% above the maximum allowable
with a sealed spring loaded safety valve dance with PG-70. In addition to these working pressure.
of not less than NPS 1/2. requirements, the safety valve shall have
All other provisions for safety valves in
sufficient capacity to discharge all the
this Section shall be complied with.
steam that can be generated by the boiler
ASME Code Section I, Electric Boilers - (1995 Addenda)
PEB-15 Safety Valves relief valve, and if it has a power input PEB-15.2 The minimum safety valve or
PEB-15.1 Each electric boiler shall have more than 1100 kW, it shall have two or safety relief valve relieving capacity for
at least one safety valve or safety more safety valves or safety relief valves. electric boilers shall be 31/2 lb/hr/kW input.
ASME Code Section I, Organic Vapor Generator - (1995 Addenda)
PVG-12 Safety Valves

Figure PVG-12
PVG-12.1 Safety valves shall be of a to-
tally enclosed type so designed that Constant C For Vapor Related to Ratio of Specific Heats (k = Cp/Cv)
vapors escaping beyond the valve seat
400
shall not discharge into the atmosphere,
except through an escape pipe that will
carry such vapors to a safe point of dis- 390
charge outside of the building. A suitable
condenser that will condense all the va- 380
pors discharged from the safety valve
may be used in lieu of piping the vapors to
370
Constant, C
the atmosphere. The safety valve shall not

have a lifting lever. The vaporizer shall be
designed in accordance with the rules in 360
this Code for a working pressure of at
least 40 psi above the operating pressure 350
at which it will be used. Valve body drains
Flow Formula Calculations
are not mandatory.
340
W = K (CAP M/T)
PVG-12.2 Safety valves shall be discon-
nected from the vaporizer at least once 330 k+1
yearly, when they shall be inspected, re- C = 520 k

( k +2 1 ( k-1
paired if necessary, tested, and then

320
replaced on the vaporizer.
PVG-12.3 In order to minimize the loss ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲

1.0 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2.0
by leakage of material through the safety
valve, a rupture disk may be installed be- k
tween the safety valve and the vaporizer
provided the following requirements are 5% (plus or minus) of its specified burst- PVG-12.3.4 A rupture disk may be
met. ing pressure. installed between a safety valve and the
vaporizer provided:
PVG-12.3.1 The cross-sectional area of PVG-12.3.3 The specified bursting
the connection to a vaporizer shall be not pressure at the coincident operating tem- PVG-12.3.4.1 The maximum pressure of
less than the required relief area of the perature shall be determined by bursting the range for which the disk is designed to
rupture disk. two or more specimens from a lot of the rupture does not exceed the opening
same material and of the same size as pressure for which the safety valve is set
PVG-12.3.2 Every rupture disk shall
those to be used. The tests shall be made or the maximum allowable working pres-
have a specified bursting pressure at a
in a holder of the same form and pressure sure of the vessel.
specified temperature, shall be marked
area dimensions as that with which the
with a lot number, and shall be guaran-
disk is to be used.
teed by its manufacturer to burst within

Technical Manual
ASME Code Section I, Organic Vapor Generator -

(1995 Addenda)
PVG-12.3.4.2 The opening provided PVG-12.5 Safety valves for organic fluid
through the rupture disk, after breakage, is vaporizers shall be tested and certified un-
sufficient to permit a flow equal to the ca- der PG-69, and they shall be stamped
pacity of the attached valve and there is with the rated relieving capacity in pounds
no chance of interference with the proper per hour at coincident temperature as
functioning of the valve; but in no case determined in PVG-12.4 The fluid identifi-
shall this area be less than the inlet area cation shall be stamped on the nameplate.
of the valve.
PVG-12.6 The required minimum safety
PVG-12.3.4.3 The space between a rup- valve relieving capacity shall be deter-
ture disk and the valve should be provided mined from the formula:
with a pressure gauge, try cock, free vent,
or a suitable telltale indicator. This W = C x H x 0.75
h
arrangement permits the detection of disk
rupture or leakage.1 where:
h = latent heat of heat transfer fluid at
PVG-12.4 Safety valve discharge capacity
relieving pressure, BTU/lb
shall be determined from the formula:
–––– W = weight of organic fluid vapor
W = (0.90)CKAP √ M/T generated per hour, lb
where: C = maximum total weight or volume
W = flow of vapor, lb/hr of fuel burned per hour, lb or cu ft
C = constant for vapor which is a function H = heat of combustion of fuel, BTU/lb
of the ratio of Specific Heats or BTU/cu ft (see A-17)
k = Cp /Cv (see Fig. PVG-12) Note:
Where k is not known, k = 1.001. The sum of the safety valve capacities
marked on the valves shall be equal to
K = average coefficient of discharge or greater than W.
A = discharge area of safety valve, in2
P = (set pressure x 1.03) + Atmosphere
Pressure, psia
M = molecular weight
T = absolute temperature at inlet, °F + 460
Note
1. Users are warned that a rupture disc will
not burst at its designed pressure if back
pressure builds up in the space between
the disc and the safety valve which will oc-
cur should leakage develop in the rupture
disc due to corrosion or other cause.

Technical Manual
ASME Code Section I,

Mandatory Appendix A - (1995 Addenda)
Safety Valves for Power Boilers allowable working pressure. The remaining A-46.1 By making an accumulation test,
valves may be set within a range of 3% that is, by shutting off all other steam-dis-
A93
above the maximum allowable working charge outlets from the boiler and forcing
A-44 pressure, but the range of setting of all of the fires to the maximum. The safety valve
The safety valve capacity of each boiler the saturated steam valves on a boiler equipment shall be sufficient to prevent an
shall be such that the safety valve or shall not exceed 10% of the highest pres- excess pressure beyond that specified in
valves will discharge all the steam that sure to which any saturated steam valve PG-67.2. This method should not be used
can be generated by the boiler without al- is set. on a boiler with a superheater or reheater
lowing the pressure to rise more than 6% or on a high-temperature water boiler.
When boilers of different maximum allow-
above the maximum allowable working
able working pressures with minimum A-46.2 By measuring the maximum
pressure, or more than 6% above the high-
safety valve settings varying more than amount of fuel that can be burned and
est pressure to which any valve is set.
6% are so connected that steam can flow computing the corresponding evaporative
The minimum safety valve or safety relief toward the lower pressure units, the latter capacity upon the basis of the heating val-
valve relieving capacity for other than shall be protected by additional safety ue of the fuel (see A-12 through A-17).
electric boilers, waste heat boilers, organic valve capacity, if necessary, on the lower
fluid vaporizers, and forced-flow steam pressure side of the system. The additional A93
generators with no fixed steam and water- safety valve capacity shall be based upon A-46.3 By determining the maximum
line, when provided in accordance with the maximum amount of steam which can evaporative capacity by measuring the
PG-67.4.3, shall be determined on the ba- flow into the lower pressure system. The feedwater. The sum of the safety valve
sis of the pounds of steam generated per additional safety valves shall have at least capacities marked on the valves shall be
hour per square foot of boiler heating sur- one valve set at a pressure not to exceed equal to or greater than the maximum
face and waterwall heating surface, as the lowest allowable pressure and the oth- evaporative capacity of the boiler. This
given in Table A-44. er valves shall be set within a range not to method shall not be used on high-temper-
exceed 3% above that pressure. ature water boilers.
The minimum safety valve or safety relief
valve relieving capacity for electric boilers A93 A93
shall be 31/2 lb/hr/kW input.
A-46 A-48
In many cases, a greater relieving capacity If the safety valve or safety relief valve When operating conditions are changed,
of safety valves or safety relief valves will capacity cannot be determined or if it is or additional heating surface such as wa-
have to be provided than the minimum desirable to verify the computations, the ter screens or waterwalls is connected to
specified in Table A-44, in order to meet the capacity may be checked in one of the the boiler circulation, the safety valve or
requirements of the first paragraph of A-44. three following ways, and if found insuffi- safety relief valve capacity shall be in-
cient, additional capacity shall be provided. creased, if necessary, to meet the new
A-45 conditions and be in accordance with PG-
One or more safety valves on every boiler 67.2. The additional valves required on
shall be set at or below the maximum account of changed conditions may be
Table A-44
Note Minimum Pounds of Steam Per Hour Per Square Foot of Surface
When a boiler is fired only by a gas having a
Firetube Boilers Watertube Boilers
heat value not in excess of 200 BTU/cu ft, the
minimum safety valve or safety relief valve re- Boiler heating surface:
lieving capacity may be based on the values
given for hand-fired boilers above. Hand fired 5 6
Stoker fired 7 8
Oil, gas or pulverized fuel fired 8 10
Waterwall heating surface

Hand fired 8 8
Stoker fired 10 12
Oil, gas, or pulverized fuel fired 14 16

Technical Manual
ASME Code Section I,

Mandatory Appendix A - (1995 Addenda)
installed on the piping between the boiler charge pipe shall be fitted with an open
and the main stop valve except when the drain to prevent water lodging in the upper
boiler is equipped with a superheater or part of the safety valve or in the pipe. If a
other piece of apparatus. In the latter case muffler is used on a safety valve it shall
they may be installed on the piping behave sufficient outlet area to prevent back
tween the boiler drum and the inlet to the pressure from interfering with the proper
superheater or other apparatus, provided operation and discharge capacity of the
that the piping between the boiler and valve. The muffler plates or other devices
safety valve (or valves) connection has a shall be so constructed as to avoid any pos-
cross-sectional area of at least three times sibility of restriction of the steam passages
the combined areas of the inlet connec- due to deposit. When an elbow is placed on
tions to the safety valves applied to it. a safety valve discharge pipe, it shall be lo-
cated close to the safety valve outlet or the
A-49 pipe shall be securely anchored and sup-
No valve of any description shall be place ported. All safety valve discharges shall be
between the safety valve and the boiler, or so located or piped as to be carried clear
on the discharge pipe between the safety from running boards or working platforms
valve and the atmosphere. When a dis- used in controlling the main stop valves of
charge pipe is used, it shall be not less boilers or steam headers.
than the full size of the valve, and the dis-

Technical Manual
ASME Code Section IV – Heating Boiler Code (1995 Addenda)
Pressure Relieving Devices output at the boiler nozzle obtained by seating type, identified with the V or HV
the firing of any fuel for which the unit Symbol, and set to relieve at or below
HG-400 Pressure Relieving Valve
is installed by 1000, or shall be deter- the maximum allowable working pres-
Requirements mined on the basis of the pounds of sure of the boiler. Safety relief valves
HG-400.1 Safety Valve Requirements steam generated per hour per square officially rated as to capacity shall have
for Steam Boilers foot of boiler heating surface as given pop action when tested by steam.
A. Each steam boiler shall have one or in Table HG-400.1. For cast iron boilers When more than one safety relief valve
more officially rated safety valves that constructed to the requirements of Part is used on either hot water heating or
are identified with the V or HV Symbol HC, the minimum valve capacity shall hot water supply boilers, the additional
of the spring pop type adjusted and be determined by the maximum output valve or valves shall be officially rated
sealed to discharge at a pressure not to method. In many cases a greater re- and may have a set pressure within a
exceed 15 psi. Seals shall be attached lieving capacity of valves will have to range not to exceed 6 psi above the
in a manner to prevent the valve from be provided than the minimum speci- maximum allowable working pressure
being taken apart without breaking the fied by these rules. In every case, the of the boiler up to and including 60 psi,
seal. The safety valves shall be requirement of HG-400.1(E) shall be and 5% for those having a maximum
arranged so that they cannot be reset met. allowable working pressure exceeding
to relieve at a higher pressure than the 60 psi. Safety relief valves shall be
maximum allowable working pressure E. The safety valve capacity for each
spring loaded. Safety relief valves shall
of the boiler. Drain holes are not re- steam boiler shall be such that with the
be set and sealed so that they cannot
quired for valves 3/4-inch and smaller, fuel burning equipment installed, and
be reset without breaking the seal.
when the seating surface of the valve is operated at maximum capacity, the
above the lowest portion of the inside pressure cannot rise more than 5 psi B. No materials liable to fail due to
diameter of the discharge piping. Means above the maximum allowable working deterioration or vulcanization when
shall be provided for complete drainage pressure. subjected to saturated steam tempera-
of the discharge piping. ture corresponding to capacity test
F. When operating conditions are
pressure shall be used for any part.
B. No safety valve for a steam boiler shall changed, or additional boiler heating
be smaller than 1/2-inch. No safety surface is installed, the valve capacity C. No safety relief valve shall be smaller
valve shall be larger than 41/2-inch. The shall be increased, if necessary, to than 3/4-inch nor larger than 41/2-inch
inlet opening shall have an inside diam- meet the new conditions and be in ac- standard pipe size except that boilers
eter equal to, or greater than, the seat cordance with HG-400.1(E). The having a heat input not greater than
diameter. additional valves required, on account 15,000 BTU/hr may be equipped with a
of changed conditions, may be installed rated safety relief valve of 1/2-inch stan-
C. The minimum relieving capacity of valve on the outlet piping provided there is no dard pipe size. The inlet opening shall
or valves shall be governed by the capaci- intervening valve. have an inside diameter approximately
ty marking on the boiler called for in equal to, or greater than, the seat di-
HG-530. HG-400.2 Safety Relief Valve
ameter. In no case shall the minimum
Requirements for Hot Water Boilers
opening through any part of the valve
D. The minimum valve capacity in pounds A. Each hot water heating or supply boiler
be less than 1/4-inch in diameter or its
per hour shall be the greater of that de- shall have at least one officially rated
equivalent area.
termined by dividing the maximum BTU safety relief valve, of the automatic re-
Table HG-400.1
Notes Minimum Pounds of Steam Per Hour Per Square Foot of Heating Surface
1. When a boiler is fired only by a gas having
Firetube Boilers Watertube Boilers
a heat value not in excess of 200 BTU/cu ft,
the minimum safety valve or safety relief Boiler heating surface
valve relieving capacity may be based on
the values given for hand fired boilers Hand fired 5 6
above. Stoker fired 7 8
2. The minimum safety valve or safety relief Oil, gas or pulverized fuel fired 8 10
valve relieving capacity for electric boilers
shall be 31/2 lb/hr/kW input. Waterwall heating surface
3. For heating surface determination, see Hand fired 8 8
HG-403.
Stoker fired 10 12
Oil, gas, or pulverized fuel fired 14 16

Technical Manual
D. The required steam relieving capacity, B. High Temperature Water to Water Heat E. Steam valves shall have a controlled
in pounds per hour, of the pressure re- Exchanger. 1 When high temperature blowdown of 2 psi to 4 psi and this
lieving device or devices on a boiler water is circulated through the coils or blowdown need not be adjustable.
shall be the greater of that determined tubes of a heat exchanger to warm wa-
F. The spring shall be designed so that the
by dividing the maximum output in BTU ter for space heating or hot water
full lift spring compression shall be no
at the boiler nozzle obtained by the fir- supply, within the service limitations set
grater than 80% of the nominal solid de-
ing of any fuel for which the unit is forth in HG-101, the heat exchanger
flection. The permanent set of the spring
installed by 1000, or shall be deter- shall be equipped with one or more offi-
(defined as the difference between the
mined on the basis of pounds of steam cially rated safety relief valves that are
free height and height measured 10 min
generated per hour per square foot of identified with the V or HV Symbol, set
after the spring has been compressed
boiler heating surface as given in Table to relieve at or below the maximum al-
solid three additional times after pre-set-
HG-400.1. For cast iron boilers con- lowable working pressure of the heat
ting at room temperature) shall not
structed to the requirements of Part exchanger, and of sufficient rated ca-
exceed 0.5% of the free height.
HC, the minimum valve capacity shall pacity to prevent the heat exchanger
be determined by the maximum output pressure from rising more than 10% G. There shall be a lifting device and a
method. In many cases a greater re- above the maximum allowable working mechanical connection between the
lieving capacity of valves will have to pressure of the vessel. lifting device and the disk capable of
be provided than the minimum speci- lifting the disk from the seat a distance
C. High Temperature Water to Steam Heat
fied by these rules. In every case, the of at least 1/16-inch with no pressure on
Exchanger.1 When high temperature
requirements of HG-400.2(F) shall the boiler.
water is circulated through the coils or
be met.
tubes of a heat exchanger to generate A-92
E. When operating conditions are low pressure steam, within the service
H. A body drain below seat level shall be
changed, or additional boiler heating limitations set forth in HG-101, the heat
provided by the Manufacturer for all
surface is installed, the valve capacity exchanger shall be equipped with one
safety valves and safety relief valves,
shall be increased, if necessary, to or more officially rated safety valves
except that the body drain may be
meet the new conditions and shall be in that are identified with the V or HV
omitted when the valve seat is above
accordance with HG-400.2(F). The ad- Symbol, set to relieve at a pressure not
the bottom of the inside diameter of the
ditional valves required, on account of to exceed 15 psi, and of sufficient rated
discharge piping. For valves exceeding
changed conditions, may be installed capacity to prevent the heat exchanger
NPS 21/2 the drain hole or holes shall
on the outlet piping provided there is no pressure from rising more than 5 psi
be tapped not less than NPS 3/8. For
intervening valve. above the maximum allowable working
valves NPS 21/2 or smaller, the drain
pressure of the vessel. For heat ex-
F. Safety relief valve capacity for each hole shall not be less than 1/4-inch in
changers requiring steam pressures
boiler with a single safety relief valve diameter. Body drain connections shall
greater than 15 psi, refer to Section I or
shall be such that, with the fuel burning not be plugged during or after field in-
Section VIII, Division 1.
equipment installed and operated at stallation. In hot water relief valves of
maximum capacity, the pressure cannot the diaphragm type, the space above
rise more than 10% above the maxi- HG-401 Minimum Requirements for the diaphragm shall be vented to pre-
mum allowable working pressure. When Safety and Safety Relief Valves vent a buildup of pressure above the
more than one safety relief valve is diaphragm. Hot water relief valves of
HG-401.1 Mechanical Requirements
used, the overpressure shall be limited the diaphragm type shall be so de-
A. Bottom guided designs are not permit-
to 10% above the set pressure of the signed that failure or deterioration of the
ted on hot water valves.
highest set valve allowed by HG- diaphragm material will not impair the
400.2(A). B. Synthetic disk inserts of O-ring or ability of the valve to relieve at the rated
other types if used shall be compatible capacity.
HG-400.3 Safety and Safety Relief
with the maximum design temperature
Valves for Tanks and Heat Exchangers I. In the design of the body of the valve
established for the valve.
A. Steam to Hot Water Supply. When a consideration shall be given to minimiz-
hot water supply is heated indirectly by C. O-rings or other packing devices when ing the effects of water deposits.
steam in a coil or pipe within the ser- used on the stems of hot water safety
J. Valves shall be provided with wrenching
vice limitations set forth in HG-101, the relief valves shall be so arranged as not
surfaces to allow for normal installation
pressure of the steam used shall not to affect their operation or capacity.
without damaging operating parts.
exceed the safe working pressure of
the hot water tank, and a safety relief
D. The design shall incorporate guiding
valve at least 1-inch in diameter, set to Note
arrangements necessary to insure con-
relieve at or below the maximum allow-
sistent operation and tightness. 1. Suggested installation practices for the
able working pressure of the tank, shall
Excessive lengths of guiding surfaces secondary side of heat exchangers.
be applied on the tank.
should be avoided.

Technical Manual
K. The set pressure tolerances, plus or mi- granted. The permission may be ex- C. Testing time on steam valves shall be
nus, of steam safety valves shall not tended for 5 year periods if the sufficient, depending on size and de-
exceed 2 psi, and for safety relief following tests are successfully repeat- sign, to insure that test results are
valves shall not exceed 3 psi for pres- ed within the 6 month period before repeatable and representative of field
sures up to and including 60 psi and expiration. performance.
5% for pressures above 60 psi.
1. Two sample production pressure relief D. Test fixtures and test drums shall be of
HG-401.2 Material Selection valves of a size and capacity within the adequate size and capacity to assure
A. Cast iron seats and disks are not per- capability of an ASME accepted labora- representative pop action and accuracy
mitted. tory shall be selected by an ASME of blowdown adjustment.
designee.
B. Adjacent sliding surfaces such as E. A tightness test shall be conducted at
guides and disks shall both be of corro- 2. Operational and capacity tests shall be maximum expected operating pressure,
sion resistant material. conducted in the presence of an ASME but not at a pressure exceeding the re-
designee at an ASME accepted labora- seating pressure of the valve.
C. Springs of corrosion resistant material
tory. The valve Manufacturer shall be
or having a corrosion resistant coating HG-401.5 Design Requirements. At the
notified of the time of the test and may
are required. time of the submission of valves for ca-
have representatives present to wit-
pacity certification, or testing in
D. Material for seats and disks should be ness the test.
accordance with this Section, the ASME
such as to provide a reasonable degree
3. Should the valve fail to relieve at or Designee has the authority to review the
of resistance to steam cutting.
above its certified capacity or should it design for conformity with the require-
E. Material for valve bodies and bonnets fail to meet performance requirements ments of this Section, and to reject or
or their corresponding metallic pressure of this Section, the test shall be repeat- require modification of designs which do
containing parts shall be listed in ed at the rate of two replacement not conform, prior to capacity testing.
Section II, except that in cases where a valves, selected in accordance with
manufacturer desires to make use of HG-401.3(C)(1), for each valve that
materials other than those listed in failed. HG-402 Discharge Capacities of
Section II, he shall establish and main- Safety and Safety Relief Valves
4. Failure of any of the replacement
tain specifications requiring equivalent HG-402.1 Valve Markings. Each safety or
valves to meet the capacity or the per-
control of chemical and physical prop- safety relief valve shall be plainly marked
formance requirements of this Section
erties and quality. with the required data by the Manufacturer
shall be cause for revocation within 60
in such a way that the markings will not be
A-93 days of the authorization to use the
obliterated in service. The markings shall
Code Symbol on that particular type
HG-401.3 Manufacture and Inspection be stamped, etched, impressed, or cast
of valve. During this period, the
A. A Manufacturer shall demonstrate to on the valve or on a nameplate which
Manufacturer shall demonstrate the
the satisfaction of an ASME designee shall be securely fastened to the valve.
cause of such deficiency and the action
that his manufacturing, production, and The markings shall include the following:
taken to guard against future occur-
testing facilities and quality control pro- rence, and the requirements of A. the name or an acceptable abbrevia-
cedures will insure close agreement HG-401.3(C) above shall apply. tion of the Manufacturer;
between the performance of random
production samples and the perfor- HG-401.4 Manufacturer’s Testing B. Manufacturer’s design or type number;
mance of those valves submitted for
A. Every steam valve shall be tested to C. NPS size _____ inch (the nominal pipe
capacity certification.
demonstrate its popping point, blow- size of the valve inlet);
B. Manufacturing, inspection, and test op- down, and tightness. Every hot water
valve shall be tested to demonstrate its D. set pressure ________psi;
erations including capacity are subject
to inspection at any time by an ASME opening point and tightness. Steam E. capacity _________lb/hr, or
designee. valves shall be tested on steam or air capacity_________ BTU/hr
and hot water valves on water, steam, or in accordance with HG-402.3;
C. A Manufacturer may be granted per- air. When the blowdown is nonad-
mission to apply the HV Code Symbol justable, the blowdown test may be F. year built or, alternatively, a coding may
to production pressure relief valves ca- performed on a sampling basis. be marked on the valves such that the
pacity certified in accordance with valve Manufacturer can identify the year
HG-402.3 provided the following tests B. A Manufacturer shall have a well-estab- the valve was assembled and tested;
are successfully completed. This per- lished program for the application,
mission shall expire on the fifth calibration, and maintenance of test G. ASME Symbol as shown in Figure HG-
anniversary of the date it is initially gauges. 402.

Technical Manual
shall be set at a different pressure. the tests. The capacities shall be based
However, safety valves for steam boil- on these four tests as follows.
ers shall have all nine valves set at 15
1. The slope (dW/dP ) of the actual mea-
psig. A coefficient shall be established
sured relieving capacity versus the flow
for each test as follows:
pressure for each test point shall be
Actual steam flow Coefficient of calculated and averaged:
KD = =
Theoretical steam flow discharge
Slope = dW/dP = measured capacity/
The average coefficient of the tests re- absolute flow pressure (psia)
Figure HG-402
quired shall be taken as the coefficient
Official Symbol For Stamp to Denote The
K of the design, and the stamped ca- All values derived from the testing
American Society of Mechanical
pacity for all sizes and pressures of the must fall within ± 5% of the average
Engineers’ Standard
design shall not exceed the value de- value:
termined from the following formulas:
HG-402.2 Authorization to Use ASME Minimum slope = average slope x 0.95
Stamp. Each safety valve to which the For 45 degree seat,
Maximum slope = average slope x 1.05
Code Symbol (Figure HG-402) is to be ap- W = (51.45 π DLP x 0.707K ) 0.90
plied shall be produced by a Manufacturer For flat seat, If slope values derived from the test do
and/or Assembler who is in possession of W = (51.45 π DLPK ) 0.90 not fall between the minimum and maxi-
a valid Certificate of Authorization. (See mum slope values, the authorized
For nozzle,
HG-540) observer shall require that additional
W = (51.45 APK ) 0.90
valves be tested at the rate of two for
HG-402.3 Determination of Capacity to Where:
each value beyond the maximum and
Be Stamped on Valves. The Manufacturer W = weight of steam/hr, lb minimum values with a limit of four ad-
of the valves that are to be stamped with ditional valves.
D = seat diameter, inch
the Code symbol shall submit valves for
testing to a place where adequate equip- L = lift, inch 2. The relieving capacity to be stamped
ment and personnel are available to P = absolute pressure, psi (accumulated) on the valve shall not exceed 90% of
conduct pressure and relieving-capacity KD = coefficient of discharge for a the average slope times the absolute
tests which shall be made in the presence single test flow pressure:
of and certified by an authorized observer. K = average coefficient of discharge W ≤ average slope [(stamped set
The place, personnel, and authorized ob-
A = nozzle-throat area, in2 pressure x 1.10) + 14.7] 0.90
server shall be approved by the Boiler and
Pressure Vessel Committee. The valves B. Slope Method. If a Manufacturer wish- C. Three-Value Method. If a Manufacturer
shall be tested in one of the following es to apply the Code Symbol to a wishes to apply the Code Symbol to
three methods. design of pressure relief valves, four steam safety valves or safety relief
valves of each combination of pipe and valves of one or more sizes of a design
A. Coefficient Method.1 Tests shall be
orifice size shall be tested. These four set at one pressure, he shall submit
made to determine the lift, popping,
valves shall be set at pressures that three valves of each size of each de-
and blowdown pressures, and the ca-
cover the approximate range of pres- sign set at one pressure for testing and
pacity of at least three valves each of
sures for which the valve will be used, the stamped capacity of each size shall
three representative sizes (a total of
or that cover the range available at the not exceed 90% of the average capaci-
nine valves). Each valve of a given size
certified test facility that shall conduct ty of the three valves tested.2
Notes
1. The maximum and minimum coefficient de- side the acceptable limits, as determined by 2. The discharge capacity as determined by
termined by the tests of a valve design shall the new average coefficient, a valve of the the test of each valve tested shall not vary
not vary more than ±5% from the average. If Manufacturer’s choice must be replaced by by more than ±5% of the average capacity
one or more tests are outside the accept- two valves of the same size and pressure of the three valves tested. If one of the three
able limits, one valve of the Manufacturer’s as the rejected valve. A new average coeffi- valve tests falls outside of the limits, it may
choice shall be replaced with another valve cient, including the replacement valves, be replaced by two valves and a new aver-
of the same size and pressure setting or by shall be calculated. If any valve, excluding age calculated based on all four valves,
a modification of the original valve. the two replaced valves, now falls outside excluding the replaced valve.
Following this test a new average coefficient the acceptable limits, the tests shall be con-
shall be calculated, excluding the replaced sidered unsatisfactory.
valve test. If one or more tests are now out-

Technical Manual
HG-402.4 Pressures at Which Capacity from within these limits may be made to and construction. When changes are made
Tests Shall Be Conducted. Safety valves the dry saturated condition. The relieving in the design of a safety or safety relief
for steam boilers shall be tested for capac- capacity shall be measured by condensing valve in such a manner as to affect the
ity at 5 psi over the set pressure for which the steam or with a calibrated steam flow path, lift, or performance characteris-
the valve is set to operate. Capacity certifi- flowmeter. tics of the valve, new tests in accordance
cation tests of safety relief valves for hot with this Section shall be performed.3
A. To determine the discharge capacity of
water heating and hot water supply boilers
safety relief valves in terms of BTU, the
shall be conducted at 110% of the pres-
relieving capacity in pounds for steam HG-405 Thermal Elements for
sure for which the valve is set to operate.
per hour W is multiplied by 1000. Pressure-Temperature Relief Valves
HG-402.5 Opening Tests of Pressure-
A92 The thermal elements for pressure-tem-
Temperature Relief Valves. For the
perature relief valves shall be so designed
purpose of determining the set (opening) HG-402.8 Where and by Whom
and constructed that they will not fail in
pressure, the test medium shall be room Capacity Tests Shall Be Conducted.
any manner which could obstruct flow
temperature water. The actual set pres- A. Tests shall be conducted at a place
passages or reduce capacities of the
sure is defined as the pressure at the where the testing facilities, methods,
valves when the elements are subjected
valve inlet when the flow rate through the procedures, and person supervising the
to steam temperatures.4
valve is 40 cm3/min. Capacity tests shall tests (Authorized Observer) meet the
be conducted with steam (see HG-402.7) applicable requirements of ASME/ANSI
at a pressure 10% above the actual wa- PTC 25.3. The tests shall be made un-
HG-512 Safety and Safety Relief
ter set pressure. For production capacity der the supervision of and certified by
Valve Accumulation Tests
check tests, the rated capacity shall be an Authorized Observer. The testing fa-
based on the actual water set pressure. cilities, methods, procedures, and If the safety valve or safety relief valve
qualifications of the Authorized capacity cannot be computed or if it is de-
HG-402.6 Capacity Tests of Pressure- sirable to prove the computations, it may
Observer shall be subject to the accep-
Temperature Relief Valves. For the be checked in any one of the following
tance of ASME on recommendation of
purpose of determining the capacity of ways and, if found insufficient, additional
an ASME Designee. Acceptance of the
pressure-temperature relief valves, dum- capacity shall be provided:
testing facility is subject to review within
my elements of the same size and shape
each 5 year period. A. by making an accumulation test, that is,
as the regularly applied thermal element
shall be substituted and the relieving B. Capacity test data reports for each by shutting off all discharge outlets
capacity shall be based on the pressure valve model, type, and size, signed by from the boiler and forcing the fires to
element only. Valves selected to meet the the Manufacturer and the Authorized the maximum, the safety valve equip-
requirements of production testing, HG- Observer witnessing the tests, shall be ment shall be sufficient to prevent an
401.3, shall have their temperature submitted to the ASME Designee for excess pressure beyond that specified
elements deactivated by the Manufacturer review and acceptance.1,2 in HG-400.1(F) and HG-400.2(F);
prior to or at the time of capacity testing. B. by measuring the maximum amount of
HG-402.9 Test Record Data Sheet.
HG-402.7 Fluid Medium for Capacity A data sheet for each valve shall be filled fuel that can be burned, and computing
Tests. The tests shall be made with dry out and signed by the authorized observer the corresponding evaporative capacity
saturated steam. For test purposes the witnessing the test. Such data sheet will upon the basis of the heating value of
limits of 98% minimum quality and 20°F be the manufacturer’s authority to build the fuel. (See B-100, B-101, and B-
maximum superheat shall apply. Correction and stamp valves of corresponding design 102.)
Notes
1. When changes are made in the design, ca- 3. See HG-512 for safety and safety relief
pacity certification tests shall be repeated. valve accumulation test requirements. See
2. Valve capacities are published in ‘Pressure HG-701 for safety and safety relief valve in-
Relief Device Certifications.’ This publica- stallation requirements.
tion may be obtained from The National 4. Since the temperature elements are de-
Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel signed for temperatures up to only 250°F,
Inspectors, 1055 Crupper Avenue, they will fail when subjected to steam pres-
Columbus, Ohio, 43229. sures with corresponding saturation
temperatures in excess of 250°F.

Technical Manual
ASME Code Section IV –

Heating Boiler Code (1995 Addenda)
Installation Requirements A92
HG-700 Installation Requirements, HG-701.6 Safety and Safety Relief
All boilers Valve Discharge Piping
A. A discharge pipe shall be used. Its in-
HG-701 Mounting Safety and ternal cross-sectional area shall be not
Safety Relief Valves less than the full area of the valve out-
HG-701.1 Permissible Mounting. Safety let or of the total of the valve outlets
valves and safety relief valves shall be lo- discharging thereinto and shall be as
cated in the top or side1 of the boiler. They short and straight as possible and so
shall be connected directly to a tapped or arranged as to avoid undue stress on
flanged opening in the boiler, to a fitting the valve or valves. A union may be in-
connected to the boiler by a short nipple, stalled in the discharge piping close to
to a Y-base, or to a valveless header con- the valve outlet. When an elbow is
necting steam or water outlets on the placed on a safety or safety relief valve
same boiler. Coil or header type boilers discharge pipe, it shall be located close
shall have the safety valve or safety relief to the valve outlet downstream of the
valve located on the steam or hot water union.
outlet end. Safety valves and safety relief
B. The discharge from safety or safety re-
valves shall be installed with their spindles
lief valves shall be so arranged that
vertical. The opening or connection be-
there will be no danger of scalding at-
tween the boiler and any safety valve or
tendants. The safety or safety relief
safety relief valve shall have at least the
valve discharge shall be piped away
area of the valve inlet.
from the boiler to the point of dis-
HG-701.2 Requirements for Common charge, and there shall be provisions
Connections for Two or More Valves made for properly draining the piping.
A. When a boiler is fitted with two or more The size and arrangement of discharge
safety valves on one connection, this piping shall be independent of other
connection shall have a cross-sectional discharge piping and shall be such that
area not less than the combined areas any pressure that may exist or develop
of inlet connections of all the safety will not reduce the relieving capacity of
valves with which it connects. the relieving devices below that re-
quired to protect the boiler.
B. When a Y-base is used, the inlet area
shall be not less than the combined
outlet areas. When the size of the boil-
er requires a safety valve or safety
relief valve larger than 41/2-inch in di-
ameter, two or more valves having the Note
required combined capacity shall be
used. When two or more valves are 1. The top or side of the boiler shall mean the
highest practicable part of the boiler proper
used on a boiler, they may be single,
but in no case shall the safety valve be locat-
directly attached, or mounted on a
ed below the normal operating level and in
Y-base. no case shall the safety relief valve be locat-
ed below the water level.
HG-701.3 Threaded Connections. A
threaded connection may be used for at-
taching a valve.
HG-701.4 Prohibited Mountings. Safety

and safety relief valves shall not be con-
nected to an internal pipe in the boiler.
HG-701.5 Use of Shutoff Valves

Prohibited. No shutoff of any description
shall be place between the safety or
safety relief valve and the boiler, or on
discharge pipes between such valves and
the atmosphere.

Technical Manual
ASME Code Section VIII – Division I (1995 Addenda)
Pressure Relief Devices Such supplemental pressure relieving these provisions also comply with the re-
devices shall be capable of preventing quirements of UG-129(A)(5),
UG-125 General
the pressure from rising more than UG-131(C)(2), and UG-134(D)(2).
A. All vessels within the Scope of this 21% above the maximum allowable
Division, irrespective of size or pres- D. Pressure relieving devices shall be con-
working pressure. The same pressure
sure, shall be provided1 with protective structed, located, and installed so that
relieving devices may be used to satisfy
devices in accordance with the require- they are readily accessible for inspec-
the capacity requirements of (C) or
ments of UG-125 through UG-136. tion and repair and so that they cannot
(C)(1) above and this paragraph provid-
Unless otherwise defined in this be readily rendered inoperative (see
ed the pressure setting requirements of
Division, the definitions relating to pres- Appendix M), and should be selected
UG-134(A) are met.
sure relief devices in Appendix I of on the basis of their intended service.
ASME/ANSI PTC 25.3 Safety and 3. Pressure relief devices, intended primar-
E. Pressure relief valves or nonreclosing
Relief Valves shall apply. ily for protection against exposure of a
pressure relief devices4 may be used
pressure vessel to fire or other unex-
B. An unfired steam boiler, as defined in as protective devices. Nonreclosing
pected sources of external heat installed
U-1(G), shall be equipped with pres- pressure relief devices may be used
on vessels having no permanent supply
sure relief devices required by Section I either alone or, if applicable, in combi-
connection and used for storage at am-
insofar as they are applicable to the nation with safety or safety relief valves
bient temperatures of nonrefrigerated
service of the particular installation. on vessels.5
liquefied compressed gases,2 are ex-
C. All pressure vessels other than unfired cluded from the requirements of (C)(1) F. Vessels that are to operate completely
steam boilers shall be protected by a and (C)(2) above, provided: filled with liquid shall be equipped with
pressure relieving device that shall pre- liquid relief valves, unless otherwise
(a) the relief devices are capable of pre-
vent the pressure from rising more than protected against overpressure.
venting the pressure from rising more
10% or 3 psi, whichever is greater, than 20% above the maximum allowable G. The protective devices required in (A)
above the maximum allowable working working pressure of the vessels; above need not be installed directly on
pressure except as permitted in (1) and
a pressure vessel when the source of
(2) below. (See UG-134 for pressure (b) the set pressure of these devices
pressure is external to the vessel and
settings.) shall not exceed the maximum allowable
is under such positive control that the
pressure of the vessels;
1. When multiple pressure relieving devices pressure in the vessel cannot exceed
are provided and set in accordance with (c) the vessels have sufficient ullage to the maximum allowable working pres-
UG-134(A), they shall prevent the pres- avoid a liquid full condition; sure at the operating temperature except
sure from rising more than 16% or 4 psi, as permitted in (C) above (see UG-98).6
(d)the maximum allowable working pres-
whichever is greater, above the maxi-
sure of the vessels on which these H. Safety and safety relief valves for
mum allowable working pressure.
devices are installed is greater than the steam service shall meet the require-
2. Where an additional hazard can be vapor pressure of the stored liquefied ments of UG-131(B).
created by exposure of a pressure ves- compressed gas at the maximum antici-
sel to fire or other unexpected sources pated temperature3 that the gas will
UG-126 Pressure Relief Valves 7
of external heat, supplemental pres- reach under atmospheric conditions; and
sure relieving devices shall be installed A. Safety, safety relief, and relief valves
(e) pressure relief valves used to satisfy
to protect against excessive pressure. shall be of the direct spring loaded type.
Notes
1. Safety devices need not be provided by the 5. Use of nonreclosing devices of some types 7. A safety valve is a pressure relief valve
vessel manufacturer, but overpressure pro- may be advisable on vessels containing actuated by inlet static pressure and char-
tection shall be provided prior to placing the substances that may render a safety or acterized by rapid opening or pop action. A
vessel in service. safety relief valve inoperative, where a loss relief valve is a pressure relief valve actuat-
2. For the purpose of these rules, gases are of valuable material by leakage should be ed by inlet static pressure which opens in
considered to be substances having a vapor avoided, or where contamination of the at- proportion to the increase in pressure over
pressure greater than 40 psia at 100°F. mosphere by leakage of noxious fluids must the opening pressure. A safety relief valve is
be avoided. The use of rupture disc devices a pressure relief valve characterized by
3. Normally this temperature should not be may also be advisable when very rapid rapid opening or pop action, or by opening
less than 115°F. rates of pressure rise may be encountered. in proportion to the increase in pressure
4. A pressure relief valve is a pressure relief 6. Pressure reducing valves and similar me- over the opening pressure, depending on
device which is designed to reclose and chanical or electrical control instruments, application. A pilot operated pressure relief
prevent the further flow of fluid after normal except for pilot operated valves as permit- valve is a pressure relief valve in which the
conditions have been restored. A nonreclos- ted in UG-126(B), are not considered as major relieving device is combined with and
ing pressure relief device is a pressure relief sufficiently positive in action to prevent ex- is controlled by a self-actuated auxiliary
device designed to remain open after cess pressures from being developed. pressure relief valve.
operation.

Technical Manual
B. Pilot operated pressure relief valves (A)(1)(b) below with a manufacturing be used to establish a curve of bursting
may be used, provided that the pilot is design range9 at a specified disk tem- pressure versus temperature for the lot
self-actuated and the main valve will perature10 and shall be marked with a of disks. The stamped rating at the coin-
open automatically at not over the set lot number. The burst pressure tolerance cident disk temperature shall be
pressure and will discharge its full rated at the specific disk temperature shall not interpolated from this curve.
capacity if some essential part of the exceed ±2 psi for stamped burst pres-
(3) For prebulged, solid metal disks or
pilot should fail. sure up to and including 40 psi and ±5%
graphite disks only, a curve of percentage
for stamped burst pressure above 40
C. The spring in a safety valve or safety ratio at temperatures other than ambient
psi.
relief valve shall not be set for any may be establish as in (2) above, using
pressure more than 5% above or below (b) The stamped bursting pressure with- one size of disk for each lot of material.
that for which the valve is marked, un- in the manufacturing design range at the At least four bursts at four different tem-
less the setting is within the spring coincident disk temperature shall be de- peratures shall be used to establish the
design range established by the valve rived by one of the following methods. above curve over the applicable tempera-
manufacturer or is determined to be ac- All the tests of disks for a given lot shall ture range. At least two disks from each
ceptable to the manufacturer. The initial be made in a holder of the same form lot of disks, made from this lot of material
adjustment shall be performed by the and dimensions as that with which the and of the same size as those to be
manufacturer, his authorized represen- disk is to be used. used, shall be burst at ambient tempera-
tative, or an assembler, and a valve ture to establish the room temperature
(1) At least two sample rupture disks
data tag shall be provided that identifies rating of the lot of disks.
from each lot of rupture disks, made
the set pressure capacity and date. The
from the same materials and of the The percent change of bursting pres-
valve shall be sealed with a seal identi-
same size as those to be used, shall be sure taken from the above curve shall
fying the manufacturer, his authorized
burst to verify that the stamped bursting be used to establish the stamped rating
representative, or the assembler per-
pressure falls within the manufacturing at the coincident disk temperature for
forming the adjustment.
design range at the coincident disk tem- the lot of disks.
D. The set pressure tolerance, plus or mi- perature. At least one disk shall be
2. Capacity Rating
nus, of pressure relief valves shall not burst at room temperature. The
exceed 2 psi for pressures up to and in- stamped rating at specified disk temper- (a) The calculated capacity rating of a
cluding 70 psi and 3% for pressures ature shall be the average of the bursts rupture disk device shall not exceed a
above 70 psi. at coincident disk temperature. value based on the applicable theoretical
formula (UG-131) for the various media
(2) At least four sample rupture disks, multiplied by K = coefficient = 0.62. The
UG-127 Nonreclosing Pressure but not less than 5%, from each lot of area A (square inches) in the theoretical
Relief Devices rupture disks, made from the same ma- formula shall be the minimum net area
terial and of the same size as those to existing after disk burst.11,12
A. Rupture Disk Devices 8
be used, shall be burst at four different
1. General temperatures, distributed over the ap- (b) In lieu of the method of capacity rat-
(a) Every rupture disk shall have stamped plicable temperature range for which ing in (a) above, a Manufacturer may
burst pressure established by rules of the disk will be used. These data shall have the capacity of a given rupture disk
Notes
8. A rupture disc device is a nonreclosing 9. The manufacturing design range is a range area through the rupture disc device. The
pressure relief device actuated by inlet stat- of pressure within which the average burst net flow area for sizing purposes shall not
ic pressure and designed to function by the pressure of test discs must fall to be accept- exceed the nominal pipe size area of the
bursting of a pressure containing disc. A able for a particular requirement as agreed rupture disc device.
rupture disc is the pressure containing and upon between the rupture disc Manufacturer 12. When rupture disc devices are used, it is
pressure sensitive element of a rupture disc and the user or his agent. The disc shall be recommended that the design pressure of
device. A rupture disc holder is the structure marked at the average burst pressure of all the vessel be sufficiently above the intend-
which encloses and clamps the rupture disc test discs. ed operating pressure to provide sufficient
in position. Rupture discs may be designed 10. The specified disc temperature supplied to margin between operating pressure and
in several configurations, such as plain flat, the rupture disc Manufacturer shall be the rupture disc due to fatigue or creep.
prebulged or reverse buckling, and may be temperature of the disc when the disc is ex-
made of either ductile or brittle material; Application of rupture disc devices to liquid
pected to burst. service should be carefully evaluated to as-
rupture disc material is not required to con-
form to an ASME specification. The material 11. The minimum net flow area is the calculated sure that the design of the rupture disc
of the rupture disc holder shall be listed in net area after a complete burst of the disc device and the dynamic energy of the sys-
Section II and be permitted for use in this with appropriate allowance for any structural tem on which it is installed will result in
Division. members which may reduce the net flow sufficient opening of the rupture disc.

Technical Manual
device design determined for the KD indicator. This arrangement permits de- stamped bursting pressure of the rup-
coefficient in general accordance with tection of disk rupture or leakage.14 ture disk at the coincident operating
the procedures of UG-131, as applicable. temperature plus any pressure in the
(5) the opening12 provided through the
outlet piping exceed the maximum al-
3. Application of Rupture Disks rupture disk, after burst, is sufficient to
lowable working pressure of the vessel
(a) A rupture disk device may be used as permit a flow equal to the capacity of the
or the set pressure of the safety or safe-
the sole pressure relieving device on a ves- valve [(2) and (3) above], and there is no
ty relief valve.
sel. chance of interference with proper func-
tioning of the valve; but in no case shall (4) the opening provided through the
(b) A rupture disk device may be installed this area be less than the area of the in- rupture disk device after breakage is
between a pressure relief valve13 and the let of the valve unless the capacity and sufficient to permit a flow equal to the
vessel provided: functioning of the specific combination of rated capacity of the attached safety or
(1) the combination of the spring loaded rupture disk and valve have been estab- safety relief valve without exceeding the
safety or safety relief valve and the rup- lished by test in accordance with UG-132. allowable overpressure;
ture disk device is ample in capacity to (c) A rupture disk device may be installed (5) any piping beyond the rupture disk
meet the requirements of UG-133(A) on the outlet side15 of a spring loaded cannot be obstructed by the rupture disk
and (B); safety relief valve which is opened by di- or fragment;
(2) the stamped capacity of a spring rect action of the pressure in the vessel
(6) the contents of the vessel are clean
loaded safety or safety relief valve (noz- provided:
fluids, free from gumming or clogging
zle type) when installed with a rupture (1) the valve is so designed that it will not matter, so that accumulation in the
disk device between the inlet of the fail to open at its proper pressure setting space between the valve inlet and the
valve and the vessel shall be multiplied regardless of any back pressure that can rupture disk (or in any other outlet that
by a factor of 0.90 of the rated relieving accumulate between the valve disk and may be provided) will not clog the outlet;
capacity of the valve alone, or alterna- the rupture disk. The space between the
tively, the capacity of such a (7) the bonnet of the safety relief valve
value disk and the rupture disk shall be
combination shall be established in ac- shall be vented to prevent accumulation
vented or drained to prevent accumula-
cordance with (3) below; of pressure.
tion of pressure due to a small amount of
(3) the capacity of the combination of leakage from the valve.16 B. Breaking Pin Device 17
the rupture disk device and the spring (2) the valve is ample in capacity to 1. Breaking pin devices shall not be used
loaded safety or safety relief valve may meet the requirements of UG-133(A) as single devices but only in combina-
be established in accordance with the and (B); tion between the safety or safety relief
appropriate paragraphs of UG-132, valve and the vessel.
Certification of Capacity of Safety and (3) the stamped bursting pressure of the
rupture disk at the coincident disk tem- 2. The space between a breaking pin de-
Safety Relief Valves in Combination with
perature plus any pressure in the outlet vice and a safety or safety relief valve
nonreclosing Pressure Relief Devices;
piping shall not exceed the design pres- shall be provided with a pressure
(4) the space between a rupture disk de- sure of the outlet portion of the safety or gauge, a try cock, a free vent, or suit-
vice and a safety or safety relief valve safety relief valve and any pipe or fitting able telltale indicator. This arrangement
shall be provided with a pressure gauge, between the valve and the rupture disk permits detection of breaking pin device
a try cock, free vent, or suitable telltale device. However, in no case shall the operation or leakage.
Notes
13. Use of a rupture disc device in combination mitted to minimize the loss by leakage 17. A breaking pin device is a nonreclosing
with a safety relief valve shall be carefully through the valve of valuable or of noxious pressure relief device actuated by inlet stat-
evaluated to ensure that the media being or otherwise hazardous materials, and ic pressure and designed to function by the
handled and the valve operational charac- where a rupture disc alone or disc located breakage of a load-carrying section of a pin
teristics will result in pop action of the valve on the inlet side of the valve is impractica- which supports a pressure containing mem-
coincident with the bursting of the rupture ble, or to prevent corrosive gases from a ber. A breaking pin is the load-carrying
disc. common discharge line from reaching the element of a breaking pin device. A breaking
14. Users are warned that a rupture disc will not valve internals. pin housing is the structure which encloses
burst at its design pressure if back pressure 16. Users are warned that an ordinary spring the breaking pin mechanism. The material
builds up in the space between the disc and loaded safety relief valve will not open at its of the housing shall be listed in Section II
the safety or safety relief valve which will set pressure if back pressure builds up in and be permitted for use in this Division.
occur should leakage develop in the rupture the space between the valve and rupture
disc due to corrosion or other cause. disc. A specially designed valve is required,
15. This use of a rupture disc device in series such as a diaphragm valve or a valve
with the safety or safety relief valve is per- equipped with a bellows above the disc.

Technical Manual
3. Each breaking pin device shall have a 2. Manufacturer’s design or type number;
rated pressure and temperature at
3. NPS size _______ (the nominal pipe
which the pin will break. The breaking
size of the valve inlet);
pin shall be identified to a lot number
and shall be guaranteed by the 4. set pressure ________ psi;
Manufacturer to break when the rated
pressure, within the following toler- 5. certified capacity (as applicable);
ances, is applied to the device: (a) lb/hr of saturated steam at an over-
pressure of 10% or 3 psi, whichever is
Figure UG-129 Official Symbol for Stamp
Rated Pressure, psi Tolerance, Plus greater for valves certified on steam
to denote the American Society of
Minimum Maximum or Minus, psi complying with UG-131(B); or
Mechanical Engineers’ Standard
30 150 5 (b) gal/min of water at 70°F at an over-
2. The calculated capacity rating of a spring pressure of 10% or 3 psi, whichever is
151 275 10
loaded nonreclosing pressure relief de- greater for valves certified on water; or
276 375 15 vice shall not exceed a value based on
the applicable theoretical formula (see (c) SCFM (standard cubic feet per
UG-131) for the various media, multiplied minute at 60°F and 14.7 psia), or lb/min,
4. The rated pressure of the breaking pin of air at an overpressure of 10% or 3
by: K = coefficient = 0.62.
plus the tolerance in psi shall not ex- psi, whichever is greater. Valves that are
ceed 105% of the maximum allowable The area A (square inches) in the the- capacity certified in accordance with
working pressure of the vessel to which oretical formula shall be the flow area UG-131(C)(2) shall be marked ‘at 20%
it is applied. through the minimum opening of the overpressure.’
nonreclosing pressure relief device.
5. The rated pressure at the coincident (d) In addition to one of the fluids speci-
operating temperature18 shall be veri- 3. In lieu of the method of capacity rating fied above, the Manufacturer may
fied by breaking two or more sample (2) above, a Manufacturer may have indicate the capacity in other fluids (see
breaking pins from each lot of the same the capacity of a spring loaded nonre- Appendix 11).
material and the same size as those to closing pressure relief device design
be used. The lot size shall not exceed certified in general accordance with the 6. year built, or alternatively, a coding may
25. The test shall be made in a device procedures of UG-131, as applicable. be marked on the valve such that the
of the same form and pressure dimen- valve Manufacturer or Assembler can
sions as that in which the breaking pin identify the year the valve was assem-
is to be used. UG-128 Liquid Relief Valve bled or tested;
Any liquid relief valve used shall be at 7. ASME Symbol as shown in Fig. UG-
C. Spring Loaded Nonreclosing
least NPS 1/2. 129. The pilot of a pilot operated
Pressure Relief Device
pressure relief valve shall be plainly
1. A spring loaded nonreclosing pressure
marked by the Manufacturer or
relief device, pressure actuated by UG-129 Marking Assembler showing the name of the
means which permit the spring loaded
A. Safety, Safety Relief, Liquid Relief, and Manufacturer; the Manufacturer’s de-
portion of the device to open at the
Pilot Operated Pressure Relief Valves. sign or the type number, the set
specified set pressure and remain open
Each safety, safety relief, liquid relief pressure in pounds per square inch,
until manually reset, may be used pro-
and pilot operated valve NPS 1/2 and and the year built, or alternately a cod-
vided the design of the spring loaded
larger shall be plainly marked by the ing that the Manufacturer can use to
nonreclosing device will achieve full
manufacturer or assembler with the re- identify the year built.
opening at or below its set pressure.
quired data in such a way that the
Such a device may not be used in com- On valves smaller than NPS 1/2, the
marking may be placed on the valve or
bination with any other pressure relief markings may be made on a metal tag at-
on a plate or plates that satisfy the re-
device. The tolerance on opening point tached by wire or adhesive meeting the
quirements of UG-119:
shall not exceed ±5%. requirements of UG-119 or other means
1. the name, or an acceptable abbreviation, suitable for the service conditions.
of Manufacturer and the Assembler;
Notes
18. The specified temperature supplied to the
breaking pin manufacturer shall be the tem-
perature of the breaking pin when an
emergency condition exists and the pin is
expected to break.

Technical Manual
B. Safety and safety relief valves certified E. Rupture Disk Devices. Every rupture UG-131 Certification of Capacity of
for a steam discharging capacity under disk shall be plainly marked by the Pressure Relief Valves
the provisions of Section I and bearing Manufacturer in such a way that the
A. Before the Code Symbol is applied
the official Code Symbol Stamp of marking will not be obliterated in ser-
to any pressure relief valve, the valve
Section I for safety valves may be used vice. The rupture disk marking may be
Manufacturer shall have the capacity of
on pressure vessels. The rated capaci- placed on the flange of the disk or on a
his valves certified in accordance with
ty in term of other fluids shall be metal tab that satisfies the require-
provisions of this paragraph.
determined by the method of conver- ments of UG-119. The marking shall
sion given in Appendix 11. [See include the following: B. 1. Capacity certification tests for pres-
UG-131(H).] sure relief valves for compressible
1. the name or identifying trademark of
fluids shall be conducted on dry satu-
C. Pressure Relief Valves in Combination the Manufacturer;
rated steam, or air, or natural gas.
With Rupture Disk Devices. Pressure 2. Manufacturer’s design or type When dry saturated steam is used, the
relief valves in combination with rupture number; limits for test purposes shall be 98%
disk devices shall be marked with the
3. lot number; minimum quality and 20°F maximum
capacity as established in accordance
superheat. Correction from within these
with UG-127(A)(3)(b)(2) (using 0.90 fac- 4. disk material;
limits may be made to the dry saturated
tor) or the combination capacity factor 5. size ________ (NPS designator condition. Valves for steam service may
established by test in accordance with at valve inlet); be rated as above, but at least one
UG-132(A) or (B), in addition to the
6. stamped bursting pressure _____ valve of each series shall be tested on
marking of UG-129(A) and (F) below.
psi; steam to demonstrate the steam ca-
The marking may be placed on the
pacity and performance.
valve or rupture disk device or on a 7. coincident disk temperature _____°F;
plate or plates that satisfy the require- 8. capacity _______ lb of saturated 2. Capacity certification tests for pres-
ments of UG-119 or rupture disk device. steam/hr, or _______ cu ft of air/min sure relief valves for incompressible
The marking shall include the following: (60°F and 14.7 psia).19 fluids shall be conducted on water at a
1. name of Manufacturer of valve; temperature between 40°F and 125°F.
Items (1), (2), and (5) above shall also be
2. design or type number of valve; marked on the rupture disk holder. C. 1. Capacity certification tests shall be
conducted at a pressure which does
3. name of Manufacturer of rupture disk F. Spring Loaded nonreclosing Pressure not exceed the pressure for which the
device; Relief Devices. Spring loaded pressure relief valve is set to operate
4. design or type number of rupture disk nonreclosing pressure relief devices by more than 10% or 3 psi, whichever
device; shall be marked in accordance with (A) is greater, except as provided in (C)(2)
above except that the Code Symbol below. Minimum pressure for capacity
5. capacity or combination capacity
Stamp is to be applied only when the certification tests shall be at least 3 psi
factor;
capacity has been established and cer- above set pressure. The reseating
6. name of organization responsible for tified in accordance with UG-127(C)(3)
this marking. This shall be either the pressure shall be noted and recorded.
and all other requirements of UG-130
vessel user, vessel Manufacturer, have been met. 2. Capacity certification tests of pres-
rupture disk Manufacturer, or pressure relief valves for use in accordance
sure relief valve Manufacturer. with UG-125(C)(3) may be conducted
UG-130 Use of Code Symbol Stamp
D. Pressure Relief Valves in Combination at a pressure not to exceed 120% of
Each pressure relief valve 20 to which the the stamped set pressure of the valve.
With Breaking Pin Devices. Pressure
Code Symbol (see Fig. UG-129) will be
relief valves in combination with break-
applied shall have been fabricated or as- 3. (a) Pressure relief valves for com-
ing pin devices shall be marked in
sembled by a Manufacturer or Assembler pressible fluids having an adjustable
accordance with (A) above. In addition,
holding a valid Certificate of Authorization blowdown construction shall be adjusted
the rated pressure shall be marked on
(UG-117) and capacity certified in accor- prior to testing so that the blowdown
the breaking pin and the breaking pin
dance with the requirements of this does not exceed 5% of the set pressure
housing.
Division. or 3 psi, whichever is greater.
Notes
19. In addition, the Manufacturer may indicate 20. Vacuum relief valves are not covered by
the capacity in other fluids (see Appendix Code Symbol Stamp requirements.
11).

Technical Manual
(b) The blowdown of pressure relief capacities based on these four tests nus discharge pressure) test pressure
valves for incompressible fluids and shall be as follows: and a straight line drawn through these
pressure relief valves for compressible (a) For compressible fluids, the slope four points. If the four points do not es-
fluids having nonadjustable blowdown W/P of the actual measured capacity tablish a straight line, two additional
shall be noted and recorded. versus the flow pressure for each test valves shall be tested for each unsatis-
4. Capacity certification of pilot operat- point shall be calculated and averaged: factory point, with a limit of two
ed pressure relief valves may be based unsatisfactory points. Any point that de-
W measured capacity
on tests without the pilot valve installed, slope = ––– = –––––––––––––––––––––– parts from the straight line by more than
P absolute flow pressure, psia 5% should be considered an unsatis-
provided prior to capacity tests it has
been demonstrated by test to the satis- All values derived from the testing must factory point. The relieving capacity
faction of the Authorized Observer that fall within ±5% of the average value: shall be determined from this line. The
the pilot valve will cause the main valve certified capacity shall not exceed 90%
minimum slope = 0.95 x average slope of the capacity taken from the line.
to open fully at a pressure which does
not exceed the set pressure by more maximum slope = 1.05 x average slope E. Instead of individual capacity certifica-
than 10% or 3 psi, whichever is greater, If the values derived from the testing tion as provided in (D) above, a
and that the pilot valve in combination do not fall between the minimum and coefficient of discharge K may be
with the main valve will meet all the re- maximum slope values, the Authorized established for specific safety valve
quirements of this Division. Observer shall require that additional design according to the following
D. 1. A capacity certification test is re- valves be tested at the rate of two for procedure.
quired on a set of three valves for each each valve beyond the maximum and 1. For each design, the pressure relief
combination of size, design, and pres- minimum values with a limit of four addi- valve manufacturer shall submit for test
sure setting. The stamped capacity tional valves. at least three valves for each of three
rating for each combination of design, The relieving capacity to be stamped different sizes (a total of nine valves) to-
size, and test pressure shall not ex- on the valve shall not exceed 90% of gether with detailed drawings showing
ceed 90% of the average capacity of the average slope times the absolute the valve construction. Each valve of a
the three valves tested. The capacity accumulation pressure: given size shall be set at a different
for each set of three valves shall fall pressure.
within a range of ±5% of the average rated slope = 0.90 x average slope
capacity. Failure to meet this require- stamped capacity ≤ rated slope (1.10 x 2. Tests shall be made on each pres-
set pressure + 14.7) sure or relief valve to determine its
ment shall be cause to refuse certification
capacity-lift, popping and blowdown
of that particular safety valve design. or (set pressure + 3 psi + 14.7),
pressures, and actual capacity in terms
whichever is greater
2. If a Manufacturer wishes to apply the of the fluid used in the test. A coefficient
Code Symbol to a design of pressure For valves certified in accordance with KD shall be established for each test run
relief valves, four valves of each combi- (C)(2) above, as follows:
nation of pipe size and orifice size shall stamped capacity ≤ rated slope (1.20 x Actual flow
be tested. These four valves shall be KD = coefficient
set pressure + 14.7) = of discharge
set at pressures which cover the ap- Theoretical flow
or (set pressure + 3 psi + 14.7),
proximate range of pressures for which whichever is greater
the valve will be used or covering the
(b) For incompressible fluids, the ca-
range available at the certified test facil-
pacities shall be plotted on log-log
ity that shall conduct the tests. The
paper against the differential (inlet mi-

Technical Manual
where actual flow is determined quanti- not be greater than 0.878 (the product review and acceptance.23 Where
tatively by test, and theoretical flow is of 0.9 x 0.975).22 changes are made in the design, ca-
calculated by the appropriate formula To convert lb/hr of water to gal/min of pacity certification tests shall be
which follows: water, multiply the capacity in lb/hr by repeated.
For tests with dry saturated steam,21 1/500. H. For absolute pressures up to 1500
WT = 51.5 AP 3. The official relieving capacity of all psia, it is permissible to rate safety
sizes and pressures of given design, for valves under PG-69.1.2 of Section I
For tests with air, which K has been established under with capacity ratings at a flow pressure
–––––
√
the provisions of (E)(2) above, that are of 103% of the set pressure, for use on
M
WT = 356 AP ––– manufactured subsequently shall not pressure vessels, without further test.
T exceed the value calculated by the ap- In such instances, the capacity rating of
For tests with natural gas, propriate formula in (E)(2) above the valve may be increased to allow for
––––– multiplied by the coefficient K (see the flow pressure permitted in (C)(1)
√
M Appendix 11). and (C)(3) above, namely, 110% of the
WT = CAP –––
ZT set pressure, by the multiplier:
4. The coefficient shall not be applied to
For tests with water, valves whose beta ratio (ratio of valve 1.10p + 14.7
–––––––––
WT = 2407A √ (P-Pd)w throat to inlet diameter) lies outside the 1.03p + 14.7
range of 0.15 to 0.75, unless tests have where:
where: demonstrated that the individual coeffi- p = set pressure, psi
WT = theoretical flow, lb/hr cient of discharge KD for valves at the
extreme ends of a larger range is within Such valves shall be marked in accor-
A = actual discharge area through
±5% of the average coefficient K. For dance with UG-129. This multiplier shall
the valve at developed lift, in2
designs where the lift is used to deter- not be used as a divisor to transform
P = (set pressure x 1.10) plus mine the flow area, all valves shall have test ratings from a higher to a lower
atmosphere, psia, or set pres- the same nominal lift-to-seat diameter flow.
sure plus atmospheric pressure ratio (L/D). For steam pressures above 1500 psi,
plus 3 psi, whichever is greater
F. Tests shall be conducted at a place the above multiplier is not acceptable.
Pd = pressure at discharge from where the testing facilities, methods, For steam valves with relieving pres-
valve, psia procedures, and person supervising sures between 1500 psi and 3200 psi,
M = molecular weight the tests (Authorized Observer) meet the capacity shall be determined by us-
the applicable requirements of ing the equation for steam and the
T = absolute temperature at inlet,
ASME/ANSI PTC 25.3. The tests shall correction factor for high pressure
°F + 460°F
be made under the supervision of and steam in (E)(2) above with the permit-
C = constant for gas or vapor based certified by an Authorized Observer. ted absolute relieving pressure (1.10p +
on the ratio of specific heats 14.7) and the coefficient K for that valve
The testing facilities, methods, proce-
k = Cp /Cv (see Fig.11-1, pg.99) dures, and qualifications of the design.
Z = compressibility factor corre- Authorized Observer shall be subject to I. Rating of nozzle type pressure relief
sponding to P and T the acceptance of the ASME on recom- valves, i.e., coefficient KD, greater than
mendation of an ASME Designee. 0.90 and nozzle construction, for satu-
w = specific weight of water at valve
Acceptance of the testing facility is sub- rated water shall be according to 11-2.
inlet conditions
ject to review within each 5 year period.
The average of the coefficients KD of J. When changes are made in the design
the nine tests required shall be multi- G. Capacity test data reports for each of a pressure relief valve in such a man-
plied by 0.90, and this product shall be valve model, type, and size, signed by ner as to affect the flow path, lift, or
taken as the coefficient K of that de- the manufacturer and the Authorized performance characteristics of the
sign. The coefficient of the design shall Observer witnessing the tests shall be valve, new tests in accordance with this
submitted to the ASME Designee for Division shall be performed.
Notes
21. For dry saturated steam pressures over 22. All experimentally determined coefficients 23. Valve capacities are published in ‘Pressure
1500 psig and up to 3200 psig, the KD shall fall within a range of ±5% of the Relief Device Certification.’ This publication
value of WT, calculated by the above equa- average KD found. Failure to meet this may be obtained from the National Board of
tion, shall be corrected by being multiplied requirement shall be cause to refuse certifi- Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors, 1055
by the following factors: cation of that particular valve design. Crupper Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43229.
( 0.1906P –1000
0.2292P –1061 )
Technical Manual
UG-132 Certification of Capacity of relief valve and the disk burst to oper- sizes of the combination, but shall not
Safety Relief Valves in Combination ate the valve. The capacity test shall be be greater than one.
with Nonreclosing Pressure Relief performed on the combination at 10%
2. If desired, additional tests may be
Devices above the valve set pressure duplicat-
conducted at higher pressures in accor-
ing the individual safety or safety relief
A. Capacity of Safety or Safety Relief dance with (A)(4)(c) and (A)(4)(d)
valve capacity test.
Valves in Combination With a Rupture above to establish a maximum
Disk Device at the Inlet (c) Tests shall be repeated with two Combination Capacity Factor to be
additional rupture disks of the same used at all pressures higher than the
1. For each combination of safety or
nominal rating for a total of three rup- highest tested, but shall not be greater
safety relief valve design and rupture
ture disks to be tested with the single than one.
disk device design, the safety valve
valve. The results of the test capacity
manufacturer or the rupture disk device C. Capacity of Breaking Pin Devices in
shall fall within a range of 10% of the
manufacturer may have the capacity of Combination With Safety Relief Valves
average capacity of the three tests.
the combination certified as prescribed
Failure to meet this requirement shall 1. Breaking pin devices in combination
in (3) and (4) below.
be cause to require retest for determi- with safety relief valves shall be capaci-
2. Capacity certification tests shall be nation of cause of the discrepancies. ty tested in compliance with UG-131(D)
conducted on saturated steam, air or or UG-131(E) as a combination.
(d) From the results of the tests, a
natural gas. When saturated steam is
Combination Capacity Factor shall be 2. Capacity certification and Code
used, corrections for moisture content
determined. The Combination Capacity Symbol stamping shall be based on the
of the steam shall be made.
Factor is the ratio of the average capac- capacity established in accordance with
3. The valve manufacturer or the rup- ity determined by the combination tests these paragraphs.
ture disk device manufacturer may to the capacity determined on the indi-
submit for tests the smallest rupture vidual valve.
disk device size with the equivalent size UG-133 Determination of Pressure
The Combination Capacity Factor shall
of safety or safety relief valve that is in- Relieving Requirements
be used as a multiplier to make appro-
tended to be used as a combination A. Except as permitted in (B) below, the
priate changes in the ASME rated
device. The safety or safety relief valve aggregate capacity of the pressure re-
relieving capacity of the safety or safety
to be tested shall have the largest ori- lieving devices connected to any vessel
relief valve in all sizes of the design.
fice used in the particular inlet size. or system of vessels for the release of
The value of the Combination Capacity
Factor shall not be greater than one. a liquid, air, steam, or other vapor shall
4. Tests may be performed in accor-
The Combination Capacity Factor shall be sufficient to carry off the maximum
dance with the following subparagraphs.
apply only to combinations of the same quantity that can be generated or sup-
The rupture disk device and safety or
design of safety or safety relief valve plied to the attached equipment without
safety relief valve combination to be
and the same design of rupture disk de- permitting a rise in pressure within the
tested shall be arranged to duplicate
vice as those tested. vessel of more than 16% above the
the combination assembly design.
maximum allowable working pressure
(a) The test shall embody the mini- (e) The test laboratory shall submit the when the pressure relieving devices
mum burst pressure of the rupture disk test results to the ASME Designee for are blowing.
device design which is to be used in acceptance of the Combination
Capacity Factor. B. Protective devices as permitted in UG-
combination with safety or safety relief
125(C)(2), as protection against
valve design. The stamped bursting
B. Optional Testing of Rupture Disk excessive pressure caused by expo-
pressure shall be between 90% and
Devices and Safety or Safety Relief sure to fire or other sources of external
100% of the stamped set pressure of
Valves heat, shall have a relieving capacity
the valve.
sufficient to prevent the pressure from
1. If desired, a valve manufacturer or a
(b) The test procedure to be used rising more than 21% above the maxi-
rupture disk manufacturer may conduct
shall be as follows. mum allowable working pressure of the
tests in the same manner as outlined in
vessel when all pressure relieving de-
The safety or safety relief valve (one (A)(4)(c) and (A)(4)(d) above using the
vices are blowing.
valve) shall be tested for capacity as an next two larger sizes of the design of
individual valve, without the rupture disk rupture disk device and safety or safety C. Vessels connected together by a sys-
device at a pressure 10% above the relief valve to determine a Combination tem of adequate piping not containing
valve set pressure. Capacity Factor applicable to larger valves which can isolate any vessel
sizes. If a greater Combination may be considered as one unit in figur-
The rupture disk device shall then be Capacity Factor is established and can ing the required relieving capacity of
installed ahead of the safety or safety be certified, it may be used for all larger

Technical Manual
pressure relieving safety devices to be working pressure, and the additional and its pressure relieving device. (See
furnished. devices may be set to open at higher Appendix M.)
pressures but in no case at a pressure
D. Heat exchangers and similar vessels C. When two or more required pressure
higher than 105% of the maximum al-
shall be protected with a relieving device relieving devices are placed on one
lowable working pressure, except as
of sufficient capacity to avoid overpres- connection, the inlet internal cross-sec-
provided in (B) below.
sure in case of an internal failure. tional area of this connection shall be
B. Protective devices permitted in UG- either sized to avoid restricting flow to
E. The official rated capacity of a pressure
125(C)(2) as protection against the pressure relief devices or made at
relieving safety device shall be that
excessive pressure caused by expo- least equal to the combined inlet areas
which is stamped on the device and
sure to fire or other sources of external of the safety devices connected to it.
guaranteed by the manufacturer.
heat shall be set to operate at a pres- The flow characteristics of the up-
F. The rated pressure relieving capacity of sure not in excess of 110% of the stream system shall satisfy the
a pressure relief valve for other than maximum allowable working pressure requirements of (B) above. (See
steam or air shall be determined by the of the vessel. If such a device is used Appendix M.)
method of conversion given in Appendix to meet the requirements of both UG-
D. Pressure relief devices for liquid ser-
11. 125(C) and UG-125(C)(2), it shall be
vice applications shall be connected
set to operate at not over the maximum
G. To prorate the relieving capacity at any below the normal liquid level.
allowable working pressure.
relieving pressure greater than 1.10p,
E. There shall be no intervening stop
as permitted under UG-125, a multiplier C. The pressure at which any device is set
valves between the vessel and its pro-
may be applied to the official relieving to operate shall include the effects of
tective device or devices, or between
capacity of a pressure relieving device static head and constant back pressure.
the protective device or devices and the
as follows:
D. 1. The set pressure tolerance for pres- point of discharge, except:
P + 14.7 sure relief valves shall not exceed
1. when these stop valves are so con-
1.10p + 14.7 ±2 psi for pressures up to and including
structed or positively controlled that the
70 psi and ±3% for pressures above 70
where: closing of the maximum number of
psi, except as covered in (D)(2) below.
P = relieving pressure, psi block valves possible at one time will
p = set pressure, psi 2.The set pressure tolerance of pressure not reduce the pressure relieving ca-
relief valves which comply with UG- pacity provided by the unaffected
125(C)(3) shall be within -0%, +10%. relieving devices below the required re-
For steam pressures above 1500 psi,
lieving capacity; or
the above multiplier is not acceptable.
For steam valves with relieving pres- UG-135 Installation 2. under conditions set forth in Appen-
sures greater than 1500 psi and less dix M.
A. Pressure relief devices for vapor appli-
than or equal to 3200 psi, the capacity
cation shall be connected to the vessel F. The safety devices on all vessels shall
at relieving pressures greater than
in the vapor space above any contained be so installed that their proper func-
1.10p shall be determined using the
liquid or to piping connected to the va- tioning will not be hindered by the
equation for steam and the correction
por space in the vessel which is to be nature of the vessel’s contents.
factor for high pressure steam in UG-
protected.
131 (E)(2) with the permitted absolute G. Discharge lines from pressure relieving
relieving pressure and the coefficient K B. The opening through all pipe and fit- safety devices shall be designed to fa-
for that valve design. tings between a pressure vessel and its cilitate drainage or shall be fitted with
pressure relieving device shall have at drains to prevent liquid from lodging in
UG-134 Pressure Setting of least the area of the pressure relieving the discharge side of the safety device,
Pressure Relief Devices device inlet, and the flow characteristics and such lines shall lead to a safe place
A. When a single pressure relieving de- of this upstream system shall be such of discharge. The size of the discharge
vice is used, it shall be set to operate 24 that the pressure drop will not reduce lines shall be such that any pressure
at a pressure not exceeding the maxi- the relieving capacity below that re- that may exist or develop will not re-
mum allowable working pressure of the quired or adversely affect the proper duce the relieving capacity of the
vessel. When the required capacity is operation of the pressure relieving de-
provided in more than one pressure re- vice. The opening in the vessel wall
lieving device, only one device need be shall be designed to provide direct and Notes
set at or below the maximum allowable unobstructed flow between the vessel 24. Set to operate means the set pressure of a
pressure relief valve or a spring loaded non-
reclosing device; the bursting pressure of a
rupture disc device; or, the breaking pres-
sure of a breaking pin device.

Technical Manual
relieving devices below that required to connections shall be provided with fluid to be contained.25
properly protect the vessel. [See UG- wrenching surfaces to allow for normal
3. Materials used in bodies and bonnets
136(A)(8) and Appendix M.] installation without damaging operating
or yokes shall be listed in Section Il and
parts.
UG-136 Minimum Requirements this Division. Carbon and low alloy steel
for Pressure Relief Valves 7. Means shall be provided in the bodies, bonnets, yokes and bolting
design of all valves for use under this (UG-20) subject to in-service tempera-
A. Mechanical Requirements
Division for sealing all initial adjust- tures colder than -20°F shall meet the
1. The design shall incorporate guiding ments which can be made without requirements of UCS-66, unless ex-
arrangements necessary to ensure con- disassembly of the valve. Seals shall be empted by the following.
sistent operation and tightness. installed by the manufacturer or assem-
(a) The coincident Ratio defined in
bler at the time of initial adjustment.
2. The spring shall be designed so that Fig. UCS-66.1 is 0.4 or less
Seals shall be installed in a manner to
the full lift spring compression shall be prevent changing the adjustment with- (b) The material(s) is exempted from
no greater than 80% of the nominal sol- out breaking the seal. For valves larger impact testing per Fig. UCS-66.
id deflection. The permanent set of the than NPS 1/2, the seal shall serve as a
spring (defined as the difference be- means of identifying the manufacturer 4. Materials used in nozzles, disks, and
tween the free height and height or assembler making the initial adjust- other parts contained within the exter-
measured 10 min after the spring has ment. nal structure of the pressure relief
been compressed solid three additional valves shall be one of the following cat-
times after presetting at room tempera- 8. If the design of a pressure relief egories:
ture) shall not exceed 0.5% of the free valve is such that liquid can collect on
height. the discharge side of the disk, the valve (a) listed in Section II;
shall be equipped with a drain at the (b) listed in ASTM Specifications;
3. Each pressure relief valve on air, wa- lowest point where liquid can collect (for
ter over 140°F, or steam service shall installation, see UG-135). (c) controlled by the manufacturer of
have a substantial lifting device which the pressure relief valve by a specifica-
when activated will release the seating 9. For pressure relief valves of the dition insuring control of chemical and
force on the disk when the valve is sub- aphragm type, the space above the physical properties and quality at least
jected to a pressure of at least 75% of diaphragm shall be vented to prevent a equivalent to ASTM Standards.
the set pressure of the valve. Pilot oper- buildup of pressure above the di-
ated pressure relief valves used on aphragm. Pressure relief valves of the C. Inspection of Manufacturing and/or
these services shall be provided with ei- diaphragm type shall be designed so Assembly of Pressure Relief Valves
ther a lifting device as described above that failure or deterioration of the di-
1. A Manufacturer or assembler shall
or means for connecting and applying aphragm material will not impair the
demonstrate to the satisfaction of a
pressure to the pilot adequate to verify ability of the valve to relieve at the rated
designated representative of the ASME
that the moving parts critical to proper capacity.
that his manufacturing, production, and
operation are free to move.
B. Material Selections testing facilities and quality control pro-
4. The seat of a pressure relief valve cedures will insure close agreement
1. Cast iron seats and disks are not between the performance of random
shall be fastened to the body of the
permitted. production samples and the perfor-
valve in such a way that there is no
possibility of the seat lifting. 2. Adjacent sliding surfaces such as mance of those valves submitted for
guides and disks or disk holders shall Capacity Certification.
5. In the design of the body of the
both be of corrosion resistant material. 2. Manufacturing, assembly, inspection,
valve, consideration shall be given to
Springs of corrosion resistant material and test operations including capacity
minimizing the effects of deposits.
or having a corrosion resistant coating are subject to inspections at any time
are required. The seats and disks of by an ASME designee.
pressure relief valves shall be of suit-
6. Valves having screwed inlet or outlet able material to resist corrosion by the 3. The following schedule of tests ap-
Notes
25. The degree of corrosion resistance, appro-
priate to the intended service, shall be a
matter of agreement between the manufac-
turer and the purchaser.

Technical Manual
plies to production pressure relief ing for operation but prior to flow testing (b) Thereafter, within each 5-year peri-
valves certified under this Division, pro- so that the blowdown does not exceed od of time, two valves of each type or
duced, assembled, tested, sealed, and 7% of the set pressure or 3 psi, whichev- series shall be selected by a designat-
shipped by the Manufacturer and hav- er is greater. This adjustment may be ed representative of the ASME and
ing a normal scope of size and capacity made on the flow test facility. These tested for operation and stamped ca-
within the capability of ASME accepted valves shall be furnished by the manu- pacity verification. The assembler shall
laboratories. Production valves for ca- facturer or assembler. Failure of any of be notified of the time of the test and
pacity and operational testing shall be these valves to meet the stamped ca- may have a witness present during the
selected by a designated representative pacity or the performance requirements test. Should any valve fail to relieve at
of the ASME and the testing shall be of this Division shall be cause for revoca- or above its stamped capacity or should
carried out in the presence of a repre- tion within 60 days of the authorization to it fail to meet performance requirements
sentative of the same organization at use the Code Symbol on that particular of this Division, the test shall be repeat-
an ASME accepted laboratory in accor- type of valve. During this period, the ed at the rate of two valves for each
dance with the following. manufacturer shall demonstrate the valve that failed. Valves having an ad-
cause of such deficiency and the action justable blowdown construction shall be
(a) Initial capacity certification shall be
taken to guard against future occur- adjusted by the manufacturer following
valid for 1-year during which time two
rence, and the requirements of (C)(3)(a) successful testing for operation but pri-
production valves shall be tested for
above shall apply. or to flow testing so that the blowdown
|operation and stamped capacity verifi-
does not exceed 7% of the set pressure
cation. Should any of these valves fail 4. An assembler may be granted per-
or 3 psi, whichever is greater. This ad-
to relieve at or above its stamped mission to use a Code Symbol Stamp
justment may be made on the flow test
capacity, or should it fail to meet perfor- after demonstrating to the satisfaction
facility. These valves shall be furnished
mance requirements, the test shall be of a designated representative of the
by the assembler. Failure of any valve
repeated at the rate of two valves for ASME that his quality control proce-
to meet the performance requirements
each valve that failed. Initial capacity dures will insure that the assembled
of this Division shall be cause for revo-
verification may be extended for 1-year valves meet the requirements of this
cation within 60 days of the assembler’s
intervals until the valve is in production. Division, including the following.
authorization to use the Code Symbol
Valves having an adjustable blowdown
(a) Initially, two valves of each type or on that particular type or series of
construction shall be adjusted by the
series to which the Code stamp is to be valve. During this period, the assembler
Manufacturer following successful test-
applied and which have been assem- shall demonstrate the cause of such
ing for operation but prior to flow testing
bled, tested, and sealed by the deficiency and the action taken to guard
so that the blowdown does not exceed
assembler shall be selected by a desig- against future occurrence.
7% of the set pressure or 3 psi,
nated representative of the ASME and
whichever is greater. This adjustment (c) All tests shall be carried out in the
tested for operation and stamped ca-
may be made on the flow test facility. presence of a designated representa-
pacity verification. Should any valve fail
tive of the ASME at an ASME accepted
(b) Thereafter, two valves shall be to relieve at or above its stamped ca-
laboratory.
tested within each 5-year period of pacity, or should it fail to meet
time. The valve manufacturer shall be performance requirements, the test (d) Use of the Code Symbol Stamp
notified of the time of the test and may shall be repeated at the rate of two by an assembler indicates the use of
have a witness present during the test. valves for each valve that failed. Valves original, unmodified parts in strict accor-
Should any of these valves fail to re- having an adjustable blowdown con- dance with the instructions of the
lieve at or above its stamped capacity struction shall be adjusted by the manufacturer of the valve.
or should it fail to meet performance re- assembler following successful testing
(e) In addition to the requirements of
quirements of this Division, the test for operation but prior to flow testing so
UG-129, the nameplate marking shall
shall be repeated at the rate of two that the blowdown does not exceed 7%
include the name of the manufacturer
valves for each valve that failed. Valves of the set pressure or 3 psi, whichever
and the assembler. The Code Symbol
having an adjustable blowdown con- is greater. This adjustment may be
Stamp shall be that of the assembler.26
struction shall be adjusted by the made on the flow test facility.
manufacturer following successful test-
Notes
26. Within the requirements of UG-136(C) and certified under this Division. An assembler is other than and using facilities other than
UG-136(D): A manufacturer is defined as a defined as a person or organization who those used by the manufacturer. An assem-
person or organization who is completely purchases or receives from a manufacturer bler may be organizationally independent of
responsible for design material selection the necessary component parts or valves a manufacturer or may be wholly or partly
capacity certification, manufacture of all and assembles, adjusts, tests, seals, and owned by a manufacturer.
component parts, assembly, testing, seal- ships pressure relief valves certified under
ing, and shipping of pressure relief valves this Division, at a geographical location

Technical Manual
D. Production Testing by Manufacturers tested with air. Valves marked for liquid
and Assemblers service shall be tested with water or oth-
1. Each pressure relief valve to which er suitable liquid. Test fixtures and test
the Code Symbol Stamp is to be applied drums where applicable shall be of ade-
shall be subjected to the following tests quate size and capacity to ensure that
by the manufacturer or assembler. A valve action is consistent with the
manufacturer or assembler shall have a stamped set pressure within the toler-
documented program for the application, ances required by UG-134(E).
calibration, and maintenance of gauges
5. A seat tightness test shall be conduct-
and instruments used during these
ed at a maximum expected operating
tests.
pressure, but at a pressure not exceed-
2. The primary pressure parts of each ing the reseating pressure of the valve.
valve exceeding NPS 1 inlet size or 300 When testing with either water or steam,
psig set pressure where the materials a valve exhibiting no visible signs of
used are either cast or welded shall be leakage shall be considered adequately
tested at a pressure of at least 1.5 times tight. Leakage tests conducted with air
the design pressure of the parts. These shall be in accordance with industry ac-
tests shall be conducted after all ma- cepted standards.
chining operations on the parts have
6. Testing time on steam valves shall be
been completed. There shall be no visi-
sufficient, depending on size and de-
ble sign of leakage.
sign, to insure that test results are
3. The secondary pressure zone of each repeatable and representative of field
closed bonnet valve exceeding NPS 1 performance.
inlet size when such valves are de-
E. Design Requirements. At the time of
signed for discharge to a closed system
the submission of valves for capacity
shall be tested with air or other gas at a
certification, or testing in accordance
pressure of at least 30 psig. There shall
with (C)(3) above, the ASME Designee
be no visible sign of leakage.
has the authority to review the design
4. Each valve shall be tested to demon- for conformity with the requirements of
strate its popping or set pressure. Valves UG-136(A) and UG-136(B) and to re-
marked for steam service or having spe- ject or require modification of designs
cial internal parts for steam service shall which do not conform, prior to capacity
be tested with steam, except that valves testing.
beyond the capability of the production
F. Welding and Other Requirements. All
steam test facility either because of size
welding, brazing, heat treatment, and
or set pressure may be tested on air.
nondestructive examination used in the
Necessary corrections for differentials in
construction of bodies, bonnets, and
popping pressure between steam and air
yokes shall be performed in accordance
shall be established by the manufacturer
with the applicable requirements of this
and applied to the popping point on air.
Division.
Valves marked for gas or vapor may be

Technical Manual

Capacity Conversions For Safety Valves
11.1 These formulas may also be used when For air,
The capacity of a safety or relief valve in the required flow of any gas or vapor is
–––––
√
terms of a gas or vapor other than the known and it is necessary to compute the M
rated capacity of steam or air. Wa = CKAP –––
medium for which the valve was officially T
rated shall be determined by application of –––––––––
√
Molecular weights of some of the common
the following formulas:1 28.97
gases and vapors are given in Table 11-1. = 356 KAP ––––––––
For steam, 460 + 100
For hydrocarbon vapors, where the actual –––––––
√
Ws = 51.5KAP value of k is not known, the conservative 28.97
= (356) (58.5) ––––––
For air, value, k = 1.001 has been commonly used 560
––––– and the formula becomes
√
M = 4750 lb/hr
Wa = CKAP ––– –––––
√
T M Example 2
C = 356 W = 315 KAP ––– Given: It is required to relieve 5000 lb/hr
T
M = 28.97 of propane from a pressure vessel
When desired, as in the case of light hy-
through a safety valve set to relieve at a
T = 520 when Wa is the rated capacity drocarbons, the compressibility factor Z
pressure of Ps, psi, and with an inlet tem-
may be included in the formulas for gases
For any gas or vapor, perature of 125°F.
and vapors as follows:
–––––
√
M ––––– Problem: What total capacity in pounds of
√
W = CKAP ––– M steam per hour in safety valves must be
T W = CKAP –––
ZT furnished?
where:
Ws = rated capacity, lb/hr of steam Example 1 Solution:
Wa = rated capacity, converted to lb/hr Given: A safety valve bears a certified ca-
For propane,
of air at 60°F, inlet temperature pacity rating of 3020 lb/hr of steam for a
pressure setting of 200 psi. –––––
√
W = flow of any gas or vapor, lb/hr M
Problem: What is the relieving capacity of W = CKAP –––
C = constant for gas or vapor which T
is a function of the ratio of specific that valve in terms of air at 100°F for the
heats, k = Cp /Cv (see Fig. 11-1) same pressure setting? The value of C is not definitely known.
K = coefficient of discharge Solution: Use the conservative value, C = 315.
––––––––––––
√
[see UG-131(D) and (E)] 44.09
For steam,
A = actual discharge area of the safety 5000 = 315AP ––––––––
460 + 125
valve, in2 Ws = 51.5KAP
KAP = 57.7
P = (set pressure x 1.10) plus atmos- 3020 = 51.5KAP
pheric pressure, psia For steam,
M = molecular weight 3020
KAP = = 58.5 Ws = 51.5 KAP = (51.5)(57.7)
51.5
T = absolute temperature at inlet
= 2970 lb/hr set to relieve at Ps, psi
(°F + 460)
Notes
1. Knowing the official rating capacity of a Official Rating in Air:
safety valve which is stamped on the valve, –––––
√
it is possible to determine the overall value Wa T
of KA in either of the following formulas in KA = –––– –––
CP M
cases where the value of these individual
terms is not known:
This value for KA is then substituted in the
Official Rating in Steam:
above formulas to determine the capacity of the
Ws safety valve in terms of the new gas or vapor.
KA =
51.5P

Technical Manual

Capacity Conversions For Safety Valves
k Constant k Constant Figure 11-1
C C
1.00 315 1.38 354 Constant C for Gas or Vapor Related to Ratio of
Specific Heats (k = Cp/Cv)
1.02 318 1.40 356
1.04 320 1.42 358
400
1.06 322 1.44 359
1.08 324 1.46 361 390
1.10 327 1.48 363
1.12 329 1.50 364 380
1.14 331 1.52 366
370
1.16 333 1.54 368
Constant, C
1.18 335 1.56 369
360
1.20 337 1.58 371
1.22 339 1.60 372 350
1.24 341 1.62 374 Flow Formula Calculations
1.26 343 1.64 376 340
W = K (CAP M/T)
1.28 345 1.66 377
k+1
330
1.30 347 1.68 379 C = 520 k
( k +2 1 ( k-1
1.32 349 1.70 380

320
1.34 351 2.00 400
▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲
1.36 352 2.20 412 1.0 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2.0
k
Notes Example 3 Example 4

Given: It is required to relieve 1000 lb/hr of Given: A safety valve bearing a certified
2. Before converting the capacity of a safety
ammonia from a pressure vessel at 150°F. rating of 10,000 cu ft/min of air at 60°F
valve from any gas to steam, the require-
ments of UG-131(B) must be met.
and 14.7 psia (atmospheric pressure).
Problem: What is the required total capac-
ity in pounds of steam per hour at the Problem: What is the flow capacity of this
same pressure setting? safety valve in pounds of saturated steam
per hour for the same pressure setting?
Solution:
Solution:
For ammonia,
––––– For air: Weight of dry air at 60°F and
W = CKAP
√ M
–––
T
14.7 psia is 0.0766 lb/cu ft.
Wa = 10,000 x 0.0766 x 60 = 45,960 lb/hr

Manufacturer and user agree to use ––––––––
k = 1.33; from Fig. 11-1, C = 350.
––––––––––
45,960 = 356 KAP
√ 28.97
–––––––
√
460 + 60
17.03 KAP = 546
1000 = 350 CKAP –––––––––
460 + 150
For steam,2
KAP = 17.10
Ws = 51.5 KAP = (51.5)(546)
For steam,
= 28,200 lb/hr
Ws = 51.5 KAP = 51.5 x 17.10
= 880 lb/hr

Technical Manual
Table 11-1 11.2

Molecular Weights of Gases and Vapors A. Since it is realized that the saturated
water capacity is configuration sensi-
Air 28.97 Freon 22 86.48 tive, the following applies only to those
Acetylene 26.04 Freon 114 170.90 safety valves that have a nozzle type
construction (throat to inlet diameter ra-
Ammonia 17.03 Hydrogen 2.02
tio of 0.25
Butane 58.12 Hydrogen Sulfide 34.08 to 0.80 with a continuously contoured
Carbon Dioxide 44.01 Methane 16.04 change and have exhibited a coefficient
KD in excess of 0.90). No saturated wa-
Chlorine 70.91 Methyl Chloride 50.48
ter rating shall apply to other types of
Ethane 30.07 Nitrogen 28.02 construction.3
Ethylene 28.05 Oxygen 32.00 B. To determine the saturated water
Freon 11 137.371 Propane 44.09 capacity of a valve currently rated
under UG-131 and meeting the require-
Freon 12 120.9 Sulfur Dioxide 64.06
ments of (A) above, refer to Fig. 11-2.
Enter the graph at the set pressure of
the valve, move vertically upward to the
saturated water line and read horizontal-
ly the relieving capacity. This capacity is
the theoretical, isentropic value arrived
at by assuming equilibrium flow and
calculated values for the critical pres-
Figure 11-2 sure ratio.
Flow Capacity Curve for Rating Nozzle Type Safety Valves on Saturated
Water (Based on 10% Overpressure) Notes
3. The manufacturer, user, and inspector are
all cautioned that for the following rating to
apply, the valve shall be continuously sub-
24
jected to saturated water. If, after initial relief
the flow media changes to quality steam,
the valve shall be rated as per dry saturated
Flow capacity x 10-4 (lb/hr/in2)
20 steam. Valves installed on vessels or lines

containing steam-water mixture shall be
rated on dry saturated steam.
16
Saturated water
12
0
▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲
0 400 800 1200 1600 2000 2400 2800 3200
Set pressure, psig

Technical Manual
Appendix M Installation and Operation – ASME VIII Division I - (1995 Addenda)
M-1 sure relief devices which are sometimes lines from other pressure relieving devices
Introduction necessary to the continuous operation of on nearby vessels that are in operation,
processing equipment of such a complex so that this stop valve when closed will
A. The rules in this Appendix are for gener-
nature that the shutdown of any part of it prevent a discharge from any connected
al information only, because they pertain
is not feasible. There are also rules with operating vessels from backing up beyond
to the installation and operation of pres-
regard to the design of inlet and discharge the valve so closed. Such a stop valve
sure vessels, which are the prerogative
piping to and from safety and relief valves, shall be so arranged that it can be locked
and responsibility of the law enforce-
which can only be general in nature be- or sealed in either the open or closed po-
ment authorities in those states and
cause the design engineer must fit the sition, and it shall be locked or sealed in
municipalities which have made provi-
arrangement and proportions of such a either position only by an authorized per-
sion for the enforcement of Section VIII.
system to the particular requirements in son. When it is to be closed while the
B. It is permissible to use any departures the operation of the equipment involved. vessel is in operation, an authorized per-
suggested herein from provisions in the son shall be present, and he shall remain
mandatory parts of this Division when M-5 stationed there; he shall again lock or seal
granted by the authority having legal Stop Valves Between Pressure the stop valve in the open position before
jurisdiction over the installation of pres- Relieving Device and Vessel leaving the station. Under no condition
sure vessels. A. A vessel, in which pressure can be should this valve be closed while the ves-
generated because of service condi- sel is in operation except when a stop
M-2 valve on the inlet side of the safety reliev-
tions, may have a full-area stop valve
Corrosion between it and its pressure relieving ing device is installed and is first closed.
A. Vessels subject to external corrosion device for inspection and repair purpos-
shall be so installed that there is suffi- M-7
es only. When such a stop valve is
cient access to all parts of the exterior provided, it shall be so arranged that it Inlet Pressure Drop for High Lift,
to permit proper inspection of the exte- can be locked or sealed open, and it Top Guided Safety, Safety Relief,
rior, unless adequate protection against shall not be closed except by an autho- and Pilot Operated Pressure Relief
corrosion is provided or unless the ves- rized person who shall remain stationed Valves in Compressible Fluid
sel is of such size and is so connected there during that period of the vessel’s Service
that it may readily be removed from its operation within which the valve re- A. The nominal pipe size of all piping,
permanent location for inspection. mains closed, and who shall again lock valves and fittings, and vessel compo-
or seal the stop valve in the open posi- nents between a pressure vessel and
B. Vessels having manholes, handholes,
tion before leaving the station. its safety, safety relief, or pilot operated
or cover plates to permit inspection of
the interior shall be so installed that B. A vessel or system [see UG-133(C)] for pressure relief valves shall be at least
these openings are accessible. which the pressure originates from an as large as the nominal size of the de-
outside source exclusively may have vice inlet, and the flow characteristics
C. In vertical cylindrical vessels subject to of the upstream system shall be such
individual pressure relieving devices on
corrosion, to insure complete drainage, that the cumulative total of all nonre-
each vessel, or connected to any point
the bottom head, if dished, should coverable inlet losses shall not exceed
on the connecting piping, or on any one
preferably be concave to pressure. 3% of the valve set pressure. The inlet
of the vessels to be protected. Under
such an arrangement, there may be a pressure losses will be based on the
M-3
stop valve between any vessel and the valve nameplate capacity corrected for
Marking on the Vessel the characteristics of the flowing fluid.
pressure relieving devices, and this
The marking required by this Division shall
stop valve need not be locked open, B. When two or more required safety, safe-
be so located that it will be accessible after
provided it also closes off that vessel ty relief, or pilot operated pressure relief
installation and when installed shall not be
from the source of pressure. valves are placed on one connection,
covered with insulation or other material that
is not readily removable [see UG-116(J)]. the inlet internal cross-sectional area of
M-6
this connection shall be either sized to
Stop Valves on the Discharge Side
M-4 avoid restricting flow to the pressure re-
of a Pressure Relieving Device lief valves or made at least equal to the
Pressure Relieving Safety Devices
[See UG-135(E)] combined inlet areas of the safety
The general provisions for the installation
A full-area stop valve may be placed on valves connected to it. The flow charac-
of pressure relieving devices are fully cov-
the discharge side of a pressure relieving teristics of the upstream system shall
ered in UG-135. The following paragraphs
device when its discharge is connected to meet the requirements of (A) above with
contain details in arrangement of stop
a common header with other discharge all valves relieving simultaneously.
valves for shutoff control of safety pres-

Technical Manual
M-8 tolerance to back pressure and the manu- relative to its performance under the con-
Discharge Lines from Safety Devices facturer’s recommendation should be ditions anticipated.
followed.
A. Where it is feasible, the use of a short M-11
discharge pipe or vertical riser, connect- D. All discharge lines shall be run as di- Pressure Differentials for Pressure
ed through long-radius elbows from each rect as is practicable to the point of Relief Valves
individual device, blowing directly to the final release for disposal. For the
atmosphere, is recommended. Such dis- Due to the variety of service conditions
longer lines, due consideration shall be
charge pipes shall be at least of the and the various designs of safety and
given to the advantage of long-radius
same size as the valve outlet. Where the safety relief valves, only general guidance
elbows, avoidance of closeup fittings,
nature of the discharge permits, tele- can be given regarding the differential be-
and the minimizing of excessive line
scopic (sometimes called ‘broken’) tween the set pressure of the valve (see
strains by expansion joints and well-
discharge lines, whereby condensed va- UG-134) and the operating pressure of
known means of support to minimize
por in the discharge line, or rain, is the vessel. Operating difficulty will be min-
line-sway and vibration under operating
collected in a drip pan and piped to a imized by providing an adequate
conditions.
drain, are recommended.1 differential for the application. The follow-
E. Provisions should be made in all ing is general advisory information on the
B. When discharge lines are long, or cases for adequate drainage of dis- characteristics of the intended service and
where outlets of two or more valves charge lines.2 of the safety or safety relief valves that
having set pressures within a compara- may bear on the proper pressure differen-
ble range are connected into a M-9 tial selection for a given application.
common line, the effect of the back Pressure Drop, Nonreclosing These considerations should be reviewed
pressure that may be developed there- Pressure Relief Devices early in the system design since they may
in when certain valves operate must Piping, valves and fittings, and vessel dictate the MAWP of the system.
be considered [see UG-135(G)]. The components comprising part of a non-
sizing of any section of a common-dis- A. Consideration of the Process
reclosing device pressure relieving sys-
charge header downstream from each Characteristics in the Establishment of
tem shall be sized to prevent the vessel
of the two or more pressure relieving the Operating Margin to Be Provided.
pressure from rising above the allowable
devices that may reasonably be ex- To minimize operational problems, it is
overpressure.
pected to discharge simultaneously imperative that the user consider not
shall be based on the total of their out- M-10 only normal operating conditions of flu-
let areas, with due allowance for the ids, pressures, and temperatures, but
General Advisory Information on
pressure drop in all downstream sec- also start-up and shutdown conditions,
the Characteristics of Safety Relief
tions. Use of specially designed valves process upsets, anticipated ambient
Valves Discharging into a Common conditions, instrument response times,
suitable for use on high or variable
Header pressure surges due to quick closing
back pressure service should be
considered. Because of the wide variety of types and valves, etc. When such conditions are
kinds of safety relief valves, it is not con- not considered, the pressure relieving
C. The flow characteristics of the discharge sidered advisable to attempt a description device may become, in effect, a pres-
system of high lift, top guided safety, safe- in this Appendix of the effects produced sure controller, a duty for which it is not
ty relief, or pilot operated pressure relief by discharging them into a common designed. Additional consideration
valves in compressible fluid service shall header. Several different types of valves should be given to hazard and pollution
be such that the static pressure devel- may conceivably be connected into the associated with the release of the fluid.
oped at the discharge flange of a same discharge header and the effect of Larger differentials may be appropriate
conventional direct spring loaded valve back pressure on each type may be radi- for fluids which are toxic, corrosive, or
will not exceed 10% of the set pressure cally different. Data compiled by the exceptionally valuable.
when flowing at stamp capacity. Other manufacturers of each type of valve
valve types exhibit various degrees of used should be consulted for information
Notes
1. This construction has the further advantage 2. It is recognized that no simple rule can be
of not transmitting discharge-pipe strains to applied generally to fit the many installation
the valve. In these types of installation, the requirements, which vary from simple short
back pressure effect will be negligible, and lines that discharge directly to the atmos-
no undue influence upon normal valve oper- phere to the extensive manifold discharge
ation can result. piping systems where the quantity and rate
of the product to be disposed of requires
piping to a distant safe place.

Technical Manual
B. Consideration of Safety Relief Valve parts can occur, or where freezing or ferential to the leak test pressure is 10%.
Characteristics. The blowdown charac- condensation of the lading fluid at ambi-
A minimum differential of 7% is recom-
teristic and capability is the first ent temperatures is possible. For all
mended for set pressures above 1000
consideration in selecting a compatible applications, the valve Manufacturer
psi. In this category, the set pressure
valve and operating margin. After a should be consulted prior to selecting a
tolerance is ±3% and the differential to
self-actuated release of pressure, the valve of this type.
the leak test pressure should be 5%.
valve must be capable of reclosing
Tightness capability is another factor af- Valves having small seat sizes will re-
above the normal operating pressure.
fecting valve selection, whether spring quire additional maintenance when the
For example, if the valve is set at 100
loaded or pilot operated. It varies pressure differential approaches these
psig with a 7% blowdown, it will close
somewhat depending on whether metal recommendations.
at 93 psig. The operating pressure
or resilient seats are specified, and
must be maintained below 93 psig in M-12
also on such factors as corrosion or
order to prevent leakage or flow from a
temperature. The required tightness Installation of Safety and Safety
partially open valve. Users should exer-
and test method should be specified to Relief Valves
cise caution regarding the blowdown
comply at a pressure no lower than the Spring loaded safety and safety relief
adjustment of large spring-loaded
normal operating pressure of the valves normally should be installed in the
valves. Test facilities, whether owned
process. A recommended procedure upright position with the spindle vertical.
by Manufacturers, repair houses, or
and acceptance standard is given in Where space or piping configuration pre-
users, may not have sufficient capacity
ANSI B146.1. It should also be remem- clude such an installation, the valve may
to accurately verify the blowdown set-
bered that any degree of tightness be installed in other than the vertical posi-
ting. The settings cannot be considered
obtained should not be considered per- tion provided that:
accurate unless made in the field on
manent. Service operation of a valve
the actual installation. A. the valve design is satisfactory for such
almost invariably reduces the degree of
Pilot-operated valves represent a spe- tightness. position;
cial case from the standpoints of both B. the media is such that material will not
Application of special designs such as
blowdown and tightness. The pilot por- accumulate at the inlet of the valve; and
O-rings or resilient seats should be re-
tion of some pilot-operating valves can
viewed with the valve Manufacturer. C. drainage of the discharge side of the
be set at blowdowns as short as 2%.
This characteristic is not, however, re- The anticipated behavior of the valves valve body and discharge piping is ad-
flected in the operation of the main includes allowance for a plus-or-minus equate.
valve in all cases. The main valve can tolerance on set pressure which varies
vary considerably from the pilot de- M-13
with the pressure level. Installation
pending on the location of the two conditions, such as back pressure,
Reaction Forces and Externally
components in the system. If the pilot is variations, and vibrations, influence Applied Loads
installed remotely from the main valve, selection of special types and an in- A. Reaction Thrust. The discharge of a
significant time and pressure lags can crease in differential pressure. pressure relief valve imposes reactive
occur, but reseating of the pilot assures flow forces on the valve and associated
reseating of the main valve. The pres- C. General Recommendations. The piping. The design of the installation
sure drop in the connecting piping following pressure differentials are rec- may require computation of the bend-
between the pilot and the main valve ommended unless the safety or safety ing moments and stresses in the piping
must not be excessive; otherwise, the relief valve has been designed or test- and vessel nozzle. There are momen-
operation of the main valve will be ad- ed in a specific or similar service and a tum effects and pressure effects at
versely affected. smaller differential has been recom- steady state flow as well as transient
mended by the Manufacturer. dynamic loads caused by opening.
The tightness of the main valve portion
of these combinations is considerably A minimum difference of 5 psi is recom- B. External Loads. Mechanical forces may
improved above that of conventional mended for set pressures to 70 psi. In be applied to the valve by discharge
valves by pressure loading the main this category, the set pressure toler- piping as a result of thermal expansion,
disk or by the use of soft seats or both. ance is ±2 psi [UG-134(D)(1)], and the movement away from anchors, and
differential to the leak test pressure is weight of any unsupported piping. The
Despite the apparent advantages of pi- 10% or 5 psi, whichever is greater. resultant bending moments on a closed
lot-operated valves, users should be
A minimum differential of 10% is recom- pressure relief valve may cause valve
aware that they should not be em-
mended for set pressures from 71 psi leakage and excessive stress in inlet
ployed in abrasive or dirty service, in
to 1000 psi. In this category, the set piping. The design of the installation
applications, where coking, polymeriza-
pressure tolerance is ±3% and the dif- should consider these possibilities.
tion, or corrosion of the wetted pilot

Technical Manual
M-14 tion. When fire conditions are a consid- National Academy of Sciences,
Sizing of Pressure Relief Devices eration in the design of a pressure Washington, DC
for Fire Conditions vessel, the following references which
Bulletin E-2, How to Size Safety Relief
provide recommendations for specific
A. Excessive pressure may develop in Devices, Phillips Petroleum Company,
installations may be used:
pressure vessels by vaporization of the Bartlesville, OK
liquid contents and/or expansion of va- API RP 520, Recommended Practice
por content due to heat influx from the A Study of Available Fire Test Data as
for the Design and Installation of
surroundings, particularly from a fire. Related to Tank Car Safety Device
Pressure-Relieving Systems in
Pressure relief systems for fire condi- Relieving Capacity Formulas, 1971,
Refineries, Part I– Design, 1976,
tions are usually intended to release Phillips Petroleum Company,
American Petroleum Institute,
only the quantity of product necessary Bartlesville, OK
Washington, DC
to lower the pressure to a predeter-
API Standard 2000, Venting Atmos- M-15
mined safe level, without releasing an
pheric and Low Pressure Storage Tanks Pressure Indicating Device
excessive quantity. This control is espe-
cially important in situations where (nonrefrigerated and refrigerated), If a pressure indicating device is provided
release of the contents generates a 1973, American Petroleum Institute, to determine the vessel pressure at or
hazard because of flammability or toxi- Washington, DC near the set pressure of the relief device,
city. Under fire conditions, one should be selected that spans the set
AAR Standard M-1002, Specifications
consideration must also be given to the pressure of the relief device and is gradu-
for Tank Cars, 1978, Association of
possibility that the safe pressure level ated with an upper limit that is neither less
American Railroads, Washington, DC
for the vessel will be reduced due to than 1.25 times the set pressure of the re-
heating of the vessel material, with a Safety Relief Device Standards: S-1.1, lief device nor more than twice the
corresponding loss of strength. Cylinders for Compressed Gases; S-1.2, maximum allowable working pressure of
Cargo and Portable Tanks; and S-1.3, the vessel. Additional devices may be in-
B. Several formulas have evolved over the Compressed Gas Storage Containers. stalled if desired.
years for calculating the pressure relief Compressed Gas Association, New York
capacity required under fire conditions.
The major differences involve heat flux NFPA Code Nos. 30, 59, and 59A, National
rates. There is no single formula yet Fire Protection Association, Boston, MA
developed which takes into account all
Pressure-Relieving Systems for Marine
of the many factors which could be
Cargo Bulk Liquid Containers, 1973,
considered in making this determina-

Technical Manual
Following is an Excerpt from API - RP 520

Technical Manual
API - RP 520 Part I (July 1991) - Sizing, Selection

Excerpts from API - 520 Part I Sizing, Selection, and Installation of Pressure Relieving Devices in Refineries
Section 2 – Pressure Relief Devices 2.2.4 Pressure Relief Valves the valve set pressure. The capacity curve
2.2.4.1 Conventional Pressure is the result of the balance of forces acting
2.1 General
Relief Valves on the disk. As long as the built-up back
This section describes the basic princi- pressure is less than the overpressure af-
Conventional pressure relief valves are
ples, operational characteristics, ter the valve opens, the valve will remain
used when the discharge is through a
applications, and selection of pressure open and perform satisfactorily under
short tail pipe that vents to the atmosphere
relief devices used independently or in flowing conditions, and it will have flow
or through a low-pressure manifold system
combination. These devices include characteristics that are basically similar to
that carries the discharged fluid of one or
spring-loaded and pilot-operated pressure those in a theoretical nozzle performance.
more valves to a remote location for dis-
relief valves, rupture disk devices, and If, however, the built-up back pressure is
posal. Normally, the spring force is the
other pressure relief devices. These de- increased at a greater rate than the over-
differential between the set pressure and
vices are described in the text and pressure, the balance of forces will tend to
atmospheric pressure. The set pressure
illustrated in Figures 2-17. close the valve, which can become unsta-
will therefore be increased by superim-
posed back pressure unless the spring ble and cause the flow to fall off rapidly.
force is adjusted accordingly. Built-up This instability is caused by a dynamic
2.2 Spring-Loaded Pressure Relief
back pressure may also affect valve pressure imbalance or a harmonic reso-
Valves nance. The valve may start to flutter or
performance; therefore, the impact of
2.2.1 Safety Valves downstream pressure when one or more chatter.
Safety valves are spring-loaded pressure valves discharge into a common manifold Flutter refers to the abnormally rapid
relief devices designed to provide full should be determined by referring to the reciprocating motion of the movable parts
opening with minimum overpressure. Static appropriate manufacturer’s catalog. of a pressure relief valve in which the disk
pressure retained in the huddling chamber does not contact the seat. Chatter refers
The interaction of the forces within the
and the kinetic energy of the gas or vapor to the motion that causes the disk to con-
valve and the effects of back pressure on
are utilized to overcome the spring force on tact the seat and damage the valve and
the opening are illustrated in Figure 18.
the disc as it lifts, resulting in pop action. associated piping. The allowable built-up
Available conventional pressure relief
The closing pressure will be at a point be- back pressure must therefore be consid-
valves have disks that have a greater disk
low the set pressure and will be reached ered for each amount of overpressure
area, AD, than the nozzle seat area, AN.
after the blowdown phase is completed. used.
If the spring bonnet is vented to the at-
2.2.2 Relief Valves mosphere, the back pressure acts with Conventional pressure relief valves
the vessel pressure to overcome the should typically not be used when the
Relief valves are spring-loaded pressure
spring force. This condition makes the built-up back pressure is greater than
relief devices designed for use in liquid
opening pressure less than it is when the 10% of the set pressure at 10% overpres-
service. At set pressure, the inlet pressure
valve is set with atmospheric pressure on sure. A higher maximum allowable built-up
force overcomes the spring force and the
its discharge; however, if the spring bon- back pressure may be used for overpres-
disc begins to lift off the seat. As inlet
net is vented to the valve discharge sure greater than 10%. The combined
pressure increases, the disk lift increases
instead of to the atmosphere, the back effect of the superimposed and built-up
to allow an increase in the flow. The clos-
pressure acts with the spring force to in- back pressures on the performance char-
ing pressure will be at a point below the
crease the opening pressure. Variation in acteristics of the valves must be
set pressure and will be reached after the
the superimposed back pressure will di- considered when more than one pressure
blowdown phase is completed. Relief
rectly affect the opening pressure and relief valve discharges into a common
valve capacities are usually rated at 10
should be evaluated in system design. manifold at the same time.
or 25% overpressure, depending on the
application. Conventional pressure relief valves, as The theoretical performance for a nozzle
normally installed, show unsatisfactory is plotted in Figure 20. The curve repre-
2.2.3 Safety Relief Valves
performance when excessive built-up sents the maximum theoretical flow
Safety relief valves are spring-loaded pres- back pressure develops from the flow attainable for any ideal gas that has the
sure relief devices that provide the through valve and piping as a result of the specific heat ratio of K = 1.3. The theoreti-
characteristics of a safety valve when used same unbalanced forces that affect the cal nozzle maintains flow capacity up to
in gas or vapor service and the character- set pressure. Performance data observed the critical flow pressure and then gradu-
istics of a relief valve when used in liquid during the investigation of the built-up ally diminishes to zero.
service. Safety relief valves are generally back pressure problem are shown in
provided with bonnets that enclose the Figure 19. The information is plotted as The theoretical rate of flow through the
spring and provide a pressure-tight hous- the ratio of the valve capacity at any given nozzle depends on the absolute upstream
ing for use in conventional or balanced built-up back pressure to the valve capaci- pressure and is independent of the down-
types, depending on the effect of back ty without built-up back pressure versus stream pressure when the back pressure
pressure on their performance. the ratio of the built-up back pressure to is less than the critical flow pressure;

Technical Manual

Excerpts from API - 520 Part I Sizing, Selection, and Installation of
Pressure Relieving Devices in Refineries
Notes Figure 1 – Pressure-Level Relationships for Pressure Relief Valves

1. This figure conforms with the requirements
of Section VIII of the ASME Boiler and Vessel Typical Characteristics of
Pressure Vessel Requirements
Pressure Vessel Code. Pressure Pressure Relief Valves
2. The pressure conditions shown are for
Maximum allowable 121 Maximum relieving
pressure relief valves installed on a pres-
accumulated pressure for fire sizing
sure vessel. 120
pressure (fire
3. Allowable set-pressure tolerances will be exposure only)
in accordance with the applicable codes.
4. The maximum allowable working pressure
Maximum allowable Multiple valves maximum
116
is equal to or greater than the design pres- accumulated pressure for relieving pressure for
115 process sizing
sure for a coincident design temperature. multiple-valve installation
(other than fire exposure)
5. The operating pressure may be higher or Single valve maximum relieving
lower than 90. pressure for process sizing
6. Section VIII, Division 1, Appendix M, of the
ASME Code should be referred to for guid- 110 Maximum allowable set pressure
Maximum allowable
Percent of maximum allowable working pressure (gauge)

ance on blowdown and pressure for supplemental valves (fire
accumulated pressure for exposure)
differentials. single-valve installation
(other than fire exposure) Overpressure (maximum)
105 Maximum allowable set

pressure for additional
valves (process)
Maximum allowable 100

Maximum allowable set
accumulated Simmer pressure for single valve
pressure for (typical)
design pressure Start to open
Blowdown (typical)
95 (see Note 6)
Closing pressure
for a single valve
Maximum expected 90 Leak test pressure

operating pressure (typical)
(See Notes 5 and 6)
85

Technical Manual

Cap Cap Note

Stem Stem
(spindle) (spindle) 1. For corrosion isolation, an unbalanced-
Adjusting Adjusting bellows safety relief valve is available.
Screw Screw
Spring Spring
Vent
Bonnet Bonnet
Bellows
Seating Seating
Surface Surface
Disk Disk
Adjusting Adjusting
Ring Ring
Body Body
Nozzle Nozzle
Figure 2 – Conventional Safety Figure 3 – Balanced-Bellows Safety

Relief Valve With a Single Adjust- Relief Valve1
ing Ring for Blowdown Control
Cap
Cap Adjusting
Screw
Stem
(spindle) Stem
(spindle)
Adjusting Bonnet
Screw
Spring
Spring
Vent
Bonnet
Balanced
Piston
Bellows
Seating
Seating Surface
Surface Disk
Disk
Adjusting
Ring
Base,
Body Body
Nozzle
Figure 4 – Balanced-Bellows Figure 5 – Thermal Relief

Safety Relief Valve With an (Liquid Relief Valve)
Auxiliary Balanced Piston

Technical Manual

however, when the back pressure is in- Figure 6 – Pop Action Pilot Operated Valve (Flowing Type)
creased beyond the critical flow pressure,
the flow is reduced. (See 4.3 for informa- Spindle
tion about the sizing of pressure relief Relief Seat
valves for critical and subcritical flow.)
Pilot Spacer Rod
2.2.4.2 Balanced Pressure Relief Valves Exhaust
Pilot-to-Dome Connection
The design of balanced pressure relief
valves incorporates means for reducing Optional Pilot Piston
Filter
the effect of back pressure on the set Reseat Seat
pressure and for minimizing the effect of Backflow Preventor
Piston
built-up back pressure on performance
characteristics such as opening and clos-
ing pressure, lift, and relieving capacity
(see Section 4). Balanced valves are of
two basic types: the piston and the bel- Seat
Outlet
lows (see Figure 21).
Several variations of the piston valve are

manufactured. The guide on the piston is Remote Pressure
Pickup (optional)
vented so that the back pressure on
opposing faces of the valve disk is can-
celled. The top face of the piston has an
area, Ap, the same as the nozzle seat Main Valve
area, AN, and is subjected to atmospheric
Inlet
pressure by venting the spring bonnet.
The vented gas from the bonnets of bal-
anced piston valves should be disposed of
safely and with minimum restrictions.
Figure 7 – Pop Action Pilot Operated Valve (Nonflowing Type)
The effective bellows area, AB, of bellows
valves is the same as the nozzle seat Set Pressure
area, AN. The arrangement of the bellows Adjusting Screw
in the valve prevents the back pressure Seating
from acting on the top side of the disk Surface Spindle
within the effective bellows area, AB. The Pilot Pilot Supply
disk area, AD, extending beyond the bel- Exhaust Line
lows and the opposing nozzle seat area
cancel the effect of the back pressure on
the valve disk so that there are no unbal- External
anced forces under any downstream Blowdown
Adjustment
pressure variations. The bellows addition-
ally serves to isolate the disk guide,
spring, and other top works parts from the
Optional
lading fluid. This feature may be important Pilot
if the lading fluid is corrosive or may foul
the pressure relief valve. Because of
physical size limitations, balanced bellows Outlet Piston
are not available in certain valve designs Seat
and sizes. If balanced bellows are not
available, unbalanced bellows valves may
be specified when corrosion isolation
alone is intended.
Internal
Pressure
The balanced pressure relief valve makes Pickup
Main
possible higher pressures in the relief dis- Valve
charge manifolds. Both balanced valves
shown in Figure 21 should have bonnet Inlet
vents large enough to ensure that no

Technical Manual

Figure 8 – Modulating Pilot Operated Valve (Flowing Type) appreciable back pressure exists during
flow conditions. If the valve is located
Sense Diaphragm where atmospheric venting (usually not a
Sensitivity Adjustment large amount) would present a hazard,
Sense Chamber
the vent should be piped to a safe location
Spindle Pilot Supply Line that is independent of the valve discharge
system.
2.2.4.3 Valve Characteristics

Figure 22 shows the disk travel from the
Piston Seat
set pressure, A, to the maximum relieving
pressure, B, during the overpressure inci-
dent and to the closing pressure, C,
Optional Pilot Filter
during the blowdown.
Outlet
2.3 Pilot Operated Pressure Relief
Valves
The two basic types of pilot operated
Seat pressure relief valves are the piston type
Internal Pressure Pickup and the diaphragm type.
Main Valve
Inlet
The piston type valve consists of the main
valve, which encloses a floating piston,
and an external pilot valve (see Figures 6-
9). The piston is designed to have a larger
effective area on the top than on the bot-
tom. Up to the set pressure, the top and
bottom areas are exposed to the same in-
Figure 9 – Pilot Operated Relief Valve With A Non-flowing Modulating
let operating pressure. Because of the
Pilot Valve
larger effective area on the top of the pis-
Vent Valve ton, the net force holds the piston tightly to
the main valve seat. As the operating pres-
Filter
sure increases, the net seating force
Test Connection
increases and tends to make the valve
tighter. At the set point, the pilot vents the
pressure from the top of the piston; the re-
sulting net force unseats the piston, and
Inlet Valve
process flow is established through the
Seat main valve. After the overpressure inci-
dent, the pilot will close the vent from the
top of the piston, thereby re-establishing
Piston
pressure, and the net force will cause the
piston to reseat.
Outlet
The diaphragm type pilot operated relief
valve is similar to the piston type except
that the piston is replaced by a flexible
diaphragm and disk. The diaphragm pro-
Internal Pressure Pickup
vides the unbalance function of the piston.
Main Valve Inlet The disk, which normally closes the main
valve inlet, is integral with a flexible di-
aphragm (see Figure 10). The external
pilot valve serves the same function to
sense process pressure, vent the top of

Technical Manual

the diaphragm at set pressure, and reload Figure 10 – Low-Pressure Pilot Operated Valve (Diaphragm Type)
the diaphragm once the process pressure
Set Spring
returns to normal. As with the piston valve, Adjustment Spring Sense Diaphragm
the seating force increases proportionally
with the operating pressure because of Boost Diaphragm Sense Cavity
the differential exposed area of the Spindle Seat Diaphragm Boost Cavity
diaphragm.
The pilot valve that operates the main

valve can be either a pop action or modu- Pilot Exhaust
lating action pilot. Figure 23 shows the
action of the pop pilot; it shows that pilot
operation causes the main valve to lift ful-
ly. Figure 24 shows the action of the
Optional Pilot Filter
modulating pilot; it shows that pilot opera-
tion opens the main valve only enough to Variable Orifice
satisfy the required relieving capacity. Main Valve Diaphragm Outlet
The pilots may be either a flowing or non- Main Valve Seat

flowing type. The flowing type allows
Dome
process fluid to flow through the pilot
Internal Pressure Pickup Inlet
when the main valve is open; the nonflow-
ing type does not. The user should consult
the manufacturer to determine the advan-
tages and disadvantages of either type.
Figure 18 – Typical Effects of Superimposed Back Pressure on the
A backflow preventor is required when the
Opening Pressure of Conventional Pressure Relief Valves
possibility exists of developing a pressure
on the discharge side of the valve that ex-
ceeds the inlet pressure of the valve. The Spring Bonnet Vented To Atmosphere Spring Bonnet Vented To Valve
differential area will cause the piston to lift, Discharge
and flow in the valve will be reversed (see
Vented Spring-
Figure 7). Bonnet
Spring-Bonnet
Spring Fs
Pilot-operated relief valves are available
Spring Fs
Piston Vent
for use in liquid and vapor services. Since Disk
the main valve and pilot contain nonmetal- Guide
lic components, process temperature and
fluid compatibility can limit their use. In ad- PB PB
PB
dition, fluid characteristics such as
PB
susceptibility to polymerization or fouling, Disk Disk
viscosity, the presence of solids, and cor-
PB PB PB PB
rosiveness may affect pilot reliability. The
manufacturer should be consulted to en-
sure that the proposed application is PV PV
Ap = AN
compatible with available valves.
Back Pressure Decreases Set Pressure Back Pressure Increases Set Pressure
2.4 Rupture Disk Devices

PVAN = FS-PB (AD-AN) PVAN = FS+PBAN
The remainder of Section 2 provides defi-
nitions, descriptions, and operational AD>AN
AD = disk area.
characteristics of rupture disk devices.
AN = nozzle seat area.
Specific terms and uses are covered with-
FS = spring force.
in the applicable sections of text and PV = vessel pressure in pounds per square inch gauge.
accompanying illustrations (see Figures PB = superimposed back pressure, in pounds per square in gauge.
11-17).

Technical Manual

Figure 20 – Theoretical Performance for a Nozzle Discharging a Gas That Figure 19 – Typical Effects of Built-
Has a Specific Heat Ratio of 1.3 up Back Pressure on the Capacity
100
of Conventional Pressure Relief
Valves
90
C1 = capacity with back Conventional pressure relief valve with spring bon-
80 pressure net vented to valve discharge
C2 = capacity with zero
70 Valve Valve
back pressure
Theoretical nozzle flow (stable) (flutter chatter)
Percent (C1/C2) x 100
60 PB = back pressure, in
pounds per square
50 inch absolute
100
PS = set pressure, in
40 pounds per square 90
inch absolute
Percent (C1/C2) x 100

30 PO = overpressure, in 80
pounds per square 70
20 inch
60
10
50
0 40
▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 30
PB P´
Percent = x 100 PS
PS + PO
P´ less than P´greater than
overpressure overpressure
C1 = capacity with back pressure

C2 = capacity with zero back pressure
Figure 21 – Typical Effects of Back Pressure on the Set Pressure of P´ = built-up back pressure
PS = set pressure
Balanced Pressure Relief Valves
Balanced Disk and Vented Piston Type Balanced Disk and Vented
Bellows Type
Spring-
Bonnet Vent
Spring-
Bonnet Vent
Fs
Fs
Bellows Vent
Piston Vent
Piston
PB
PB PB PB
Disk
Disk
PB PB Vent
Vented
Bellows
PV
Ap = AN
PV AB = AN
AB = effective bellows area PB = superimposed back pressure in pounds

AD = disk area per square inch gauge
AN = nozzle seat area PS = set pressure, in pounds per square inch
AP = piston area (top) gauge
FS = spring force Note: In this figure, P V = PS; (P V)(AN) = FS
PV = vessel gauge pressure (typical); and PS = FS/AN.

Technical Manual

Figure 22 – Typical Relationship Figure 23 – Typical Relationship

Between Lift of Disk in a Pressure Between Lift of Disk in a Pop-
Relief Valve and Vessel Pressure Action Pilot Operated Relief Valve
and Vessel Pressure
100 100
B
Lift of disk, percent

Lift of disk, percent Closing
0 0
Blowdown Overpressure Blowdown Overpressure
Closing Set Maximum Set Maximum
pressure relieving pressure relieving
pressure pressure
Figure 24 – Typical Relationship

Between Lift of Disk in a
Modulating-Action Pilot Operated
Relief Valve and Vessel Pressure
100 Lift of disk, percent
Closing
0
Blowdown Overpressure
Set Maximum
pressure relieving
pressure

Technical Manual

4.1 Determination of Relief calculate the effective nozzle area neces- The allowable overpressure is established
Requirements sary to achieve a required flow rate from the accumulation permitted by the
through the valve. A valve is then chosen applicable code. The allowable overpres-
To establish the size of a pressure relief
for the application that has an effective sure may vary for different applications
device for any application, the designer
area equal to or greater than the calculat- depending on the relationship of the set
must first determine the conditions for
ed required effective area. pressure to the maximum allowable work-
which overpressure protection may be
ing pressure of the vessel or system that
required. Reasonable care should be The effective areas and assumed dis-
is protected. Allowable overpressure is the
exercised in establishing the various charge coefficient, Kd = 0.975, are
same as allowable accumulation only
contingencies that could result in over- generally different from actual orifice
when the set pressure is equal to the
pressure. areas and discharge coefficients that are
maximum allowable working pressure.1
used to determine certified valve capaci-
The contingencies that may cause over-
ties. However, effective areas calculated Sections 4.2.2 through 4.2.4 discuss meth-
pressure must be evaluated in terms of
using the equations in 4.3 through 4.5 will ods of determining the relieving pressure
the pressures generated and the rates at
result in the selection of valves with certi- for pressure relief valves in gas and vapor
which fluids must be relieved. The
fied capacities that equal or exceed the service. Standard atmospheric pressure
process flow diagram, material balance,
required capacities. (14.7 pounds per square inch absolute) is
piping and instrument diagrams, equip-
used for gauge/absolute pressure conver-
ment specification sheets, and design The effective-area concept allows for the
sion in these sections. For design,
basis for the facility are needed to calcu- selection of valve size independent of the
barometric pressure corresponding to site
late the individual relieving rates for each manufacturer. Standard effective orifice
elevation should be used.
pressure relieving device. Process equip- areas and corresponding letter designa-
ment vendor data is also helpful if tions may be found in API Standard 526. Relieving pressure for pressure relief
available. valves in liquid service is determined in a
manner similar to that used for vapor ser-
Appendix D provides relieving flow rates
4.2 Relieving Pressure vice except that the relieving pressure is
for fire conditions. Table 1 lists a number
4.2.1 General expressed in gauge rather than absolute
of common operational conditions for
units. In the case of ASME-application
which overpressure protection may be re- Relieving pressure, shown in P1 in the
liquid service valves (that is, for the pro-
quired. This list is by no means complete; various sizing equations, is the inlet pres-
tection of a liquid-full vessel), maximum
each plant may have unique features that sure of the relief device at relieving
accumulated pressure is limited to 110%
must be considered in addition to those conditions. The relieving pressure is the
of the maximum allowable working pres-
listed in Table 1. (See API Recommended total of set pressure plus overpressure
sure for operating contingencies – the
Practice 521 for a detailed discussion of plus atmospheric pressure. The examples
same constraint as for vapor service. In
relief requirements.) cited in this section for the determination
the case of non-ASME-application liquid
of relieving pressure refer to pressure re-
Pressure relief valves may be sized using service valves (that is, for protection of
lief valves; however, they are also
the equations presented in 4.3 through 4.5 piping without vessels included), 25%
applicable to rupture disk devices. (See
as appropriate for vapors, gases, or liq- overpressure is generally specified.
Figures 1 and 25 for pressure-level rela-
uids. These equations are used to
tionships for these types of devices.)
Notes
1. The discussion in this section generally
cites the ASME Code as the applicable
code. Unless stated otherwise, citations
refer only to Section VIII of the ASME
Code.The designer should be aware of
revisions to the ASME Code. If pertinent
revisions occur, the discussion in this sec-
tion should be adjusted accordingly by
the designer. Adjustments may also be re-
quired by the designer if other (non-ASME)
codes apply.

Technical Manual

Table 2 summarizes the maximum accu- Table 4 shows an example determination 4.2.3.3 Multiple-Valve Installation
mulation and set pressure for pressure of relieving pressure for a multiple-valve A multiple-valve installation requires the
relief valves specified in accordance with installation in which the set pressure of combined capacity of two or more valves
the ASME Code. the first valve is equal to the maximum al- to alleviate overpressure from a fire. The
lowable working pressure of the vessel, set pressure of the first valve to open shall
4.2.2 Operating Contingencies and the set pressure of the additional not exceed the maximum allowable work-
4.2.2.1 Single-Valve Installation valve is 105% of the vessel’s maximum al- ing pressure. The set pressure of the last
In accordance with the requirements of lowable working pressure. valve to open shall not exceed 105% of
the ASME Code, accumulated pressure the maximum allowable working pressure.
shall be limited to 110% of the maximum 4.2.3 Fire Contingencies
Table 6 shows an example determination
allowable working pressure in vessels that 4.2.3.1 General
of relieving pressure for a multiple-valve
are protected by a single pressure relief In accordance with the requirements of the
installation in which the set pressure of
valve sized for operating (nonfire) contin- ASME Code, accumulated pressure shall
the first valve is equal to the vessel’s
gencies. The set pressure of the valve be limited to 121% of the maximum allow-
maximum allowable working pressure,
shall not exceed the maximum allowable able working pressure in vessels that are
and the set pressure of the additional
working pressure.2 protected by valves sized for fire contin-
valve is 105% of the vessel’s maximum
gencies. This applies to single-, multiple-,
Table 3 shows an example determination allowable working pressure.
and supplemental-valve installations.
of relieving pressure for a single valve
4.2.3.4 Supplemental-Valve Installation
whose set pressure is less than or equal Single or multiple valves sized for fire may
A supplemental-valve installation provides
to the vessel’s maximum allowable work- also be utilized for relieving requirements
relieving capacity for an additional hazard
ing pressure. attributed to secondary operating (nonfire)
created by exposure to fire or other unex-
contingencies, if applicable, provided that
4.2.2.2 Multiple-Valve Installation pected sources of external heat. The set
the constraint of 110% (of the maximum
A multiple-valve installation requires the pressure of a supplemental valve for fire
allowable working pressure) accumulated
combined capacity of two or more pres- shall not exceed 110% of the maximum al-
pressure for nonfire contingencies is ob-
sure relief valves to alleviate a given lowable working pressure.
served.
overpressure contingency.
Supplemental valves are used only in
4.2.3.2 Single-Valve Installation
In accordance with the requirements of addition to valves sized for operating
Where a vessel is protected by a single
the ASME Code, accumulated pressure (nonfire) contingencies.
valve sized for fire, the set pressure shall
shall be limited to 116% of the maximum
not exceed the maximum allowable work- Table 7 shows an example determination of
allowable working pressure in vessels that
ing pressure. relieving pressure for a supplemental-valve
are protected by multiple valves sized for
installation in which the set pressure of the
operating (nonfire) contingencies. The set Table 5 shows an example determination
first (nonfire) valve does not exceed the
pressure of the first valve shall not exceed of relieving pressure for a single valve
vessel’s maximum allowable working pres-
the maximum allowable working pressure. whose set pressure is less than or equal
sure (see 4.2.1 for determination of
The set pressure of the additional valve or to the vessel’s maximum allowable work-
relieving pressure), and the set pressure of
valves shall not exceed 105% of the maxi- ing pressure.
the supplemental valve in 110% of the ves-
mum allowable working pressure.3
sel’s maximum allowable working pressure.
Table 2
Set Pressure and Accumulation Limits for Pressure Relief Valves4 Notes
2. Allowable accumulation is 3 pounds per
Contingency Single-Valve Installations Multiple-Valve Installations
square inch when the maximum allowable
Set Maximum Set Maximum working pressure is between 15 and 30
pounds per square inch gauge.
Pressure Accumulated Pressure Accumulated
(percent) Pressure (percent) Pressure 3. Allowable accumulation is 4 pounds per
(percent) (percent) square inch when the maximum allowable
working pressure is between 15 and 25
Nonfire only pounds per square inch gauge.
First Valve 100 110 100 116 4. All values are percentages of the maximum
allowable working pressure.
Additional Valve(s) – – 105 116
Fire only
First Valve 100 121 100 121
Additional valve(s) – – 105 121
Supplemental valve – – 110 121

Technical Manual

Table 3 Table 4 Table 5

Example Determination of Example Determination of Example Determination of
Relieving Pressure for a Single Relieving Pressure for a Multiple- Relieving Pressure for a Single
Valve (Operating Contingencies) Valve Installation (Operating Valve (Fire Contingencies)
Contingencies)
Characteristic Value Characteristic Value
Characteristic Value
Valve Set Pressure Less Than MAWP Valve Set Pressure Less Than MAWP
Protected vessel MAWP, psig 100 First Valve (Set Pressure Equal to MAWP) Protected vessel MAWP, psig 100
Maximum accumulated pressure, psig 110 Protected vessel MAWP, psig 100 Maximum accumulated pressure, psig 121
Valve set pressure, psig 90 Maximum accumulated pressure, psig 116 Valve set pressure, psig 90
Allowable overpressure, psig 20 Valve set pressure, psig 100 Allowable overpressure, psi 31
Relieving pressure, P1, psia 124.7 Allowable overpressure, psi 16 Relieving pressure, P1, psia 135.7
Valve Set Equal to MAWP Relieving pressure, P1, psia 130.7 Valve Set Pressure Equal to MAWP
Protected vessel MAWP, psig 100 Additional Valve (Set Pressure Equal to Protected vessel MAWP, psig 100
105% of MAWP)
Maximum accumulated pressure, psig 110 Maximum accumulated pressure, psig 116
Protected vessel MAWP, psig 100
Valve set pressure, psig 100 Valve set pressure, psig 100
Maximum accumulated pressure, psig 116
Allowable overpressure, psi 10 Allowable overpressure, psi 21
Valve set pressure, psig 105
Relieving pressure, P1, psia 124.7 Relieving pressure, P1, psia 135.7
Allowable overpressure, psi 11
Relieving pressure, P1, psia 130.7
Table 6 Table 7
Example Determination of Example Determination of
Relieving Pressure for a Multiple- Relieving Pressure for a
Valve Installation (Fire Supplemental Valve (Fire
Contingencies) Contingencies)
Characteristic Value Characteristic Value

First Valve (Set Pressure Equal to MAWP) Supplemental Valve (Set Pressure Equal to
Protected vessel MAWP, psig 100 110% of MAWP)
Valve set pressure, psig 100 Maximum accumulated pressure, psig 121
Allowable overpressure, psig 21
Relieving pressure, P1, psia 135.7 Allowable overpressure, psig 11
Additional Valve (Set Pressure Equal to
105% of MAWP)
Allowable overpressure, psig 16

Technical Manual

4.2.4 Steam Service Where: Where:

Valves for pressure vessels in steam ser- Pcf = critical flow throat pressure, in A = required effective discharge area of
vice, excluding boilers designed in pounds per square inch absolute. the valve, in square inches (see
accordance with Section I of the ASME P1 = upstream relieving pressure, in 1.2.2).
Code, should be specified as discussed pounds per square inch absolute. W = required flow through the valve, in
above, depending on the contingency.
k= ratio of specific heats for any ideal pounds per hour.
gas.
4.3 Sizing for Gas or Vapor Relief C = coefficient determined from an ex-
The sizing equations for pressure relief pression of the ratio of the specific
4.3.1 Critical Flow Behavior heats of the gas or vapor at standard
valves in vapor or gas service fall into two
If a compressible gas is expanded across general categories depending on whether conditions. This can be obtained from
a nozzle, an orifice, or the end of a pipe, the flow is critical or subcritical. If the pres- Figure 26 or Table 9.
its velocity and specific volume increase sure downstream of the throat is less than Kd = effective coefficient of discharge =
with decreasing downstream pressure. or equal to the critical flow pressure, Pcf, 0.975 for use in Equations 2 – 4.
For a given set of upstream conditions then critical flow will occur, and the proce-
(using the example of a nozzle), the mass P1 = upstream relieving pressure, in
dures in 4.3.2 should be applied. If the
rate of flow through the nozzle will in- pounds per square inch absolute.
downstream pressure exceeds the critical
crease until a limiting velocity is reached This is the set pressure plus the al-
flow pressure, Pcf, then subcritical flow will
in the throat. It can be shown that the lim- lowable overpressure (see 4.2) plus
occur, and the procedures in 4.3.3 should
iting velocity is the velocity of sound in the atmospheric pressure.
be applied. (See Table 8 for typical critical
flowing media at that location. The flow flow pressure ratio values.) Kb = capacity correction factor due to back
rate that corresponds to the limiting veloci- pressure. This can be obtained from
ty is known as the critical flow rate. 4.3.2 Sizing for Critical Flow the manufacturer’s literature or
4.3.2.1 General estimated from Figure 27. The back-
The absolute pressure ratio of the pres-
Pressure relief valves in gas or vapor pressure correction factor applies to
sure in the throat at sonic velocity (Pcf) to
service that operate under critical flow balanced-bellows valves only.5
the inlet pressure (P1) is called the critical
pressure ratio. Pcf is known as the critical conditions (see 4.3.1) may be sized using T = relieving temperature of the inlet gas
flow pressure. Equations 2 – 4. Each of the equations or vapor, in degrees Rankine (de-
may be used to calculate the effective grees Fahrenheit + 460).
Under critical flow conditions, the actual discharge area, A, required to achieve
pressure in the throat cannot fall below
Z = compressibility factor for the deviation
a required flow rate through a pressure
of the actual gas from a perfect gas, a
the critical flow pressure even if a much relief valve. A valve that has an effective
ratio evaluated at inlet conditions.
lower pressure exists downstream. At criti- discharge area equal to or greater than
cal flow, the expansion from throat the calculated value of A is then chosen M = molecular weight of the gas or vapor.
pressure to downstream pressure takes for the application. Various handbooks carry tables of
place irreversibly with the energy dissipat- molecular weights of materials, but
––––––
√
ed in turbulence into the surrounding fluid. the composition of flowing gas or va-
W TZ
A = –––––––– ––– (2) por is seldom the same as that listed
The critical flow pressure in absolute units CKdP1Kb M
in tables. This value should be ob-
may be estimated using the ideal gas rela- tained from the process data. Table 8
tionship in Equation 1: –––––
V √ TZM lists values for some common fluids.
k A = –––––––––––– (3)
Pcf
––– =
P1 [ ]2
––––
k+1
(k - 1) (1) 6.32 CKdP1Kb
–––––
V = required flow through the valve, in
standard cubic feet per minute at
14.7 pounds per square inch ab-
V √ TZG
A = ––––––––––––– (4) solute and 60°F.
1.175 CKdP1Kb
G = specific gravity of gas referred to air
= 1.00 for air at 14.7 pounds per
square inch absolute and 60°F.
Notes
5. See 4.3.3 for applications that involve su-
perimposed back pressure of a magnitude
that will cause subcritical flow.

Technical Manual

The value of the coefficient C can be eval- Figure 26 - Curve for Evaluating Coefficient C in the Flow Equation From
uated from the expression of the ratio of the Specific Heat Ratio Assuming Ideal Gas Behavior
the specific heats of the gas or vapor as
shown in Figure 26.
400
The ratio of specific heats of any ideal gas
and possibly the ratio of specific heats of
a diatomic actual gas can be found in any
acceptable reference work. 380
Table 9 complements Figure 26 where
Coefficient, C
k = Cp/Cv. When k cannot be determined,
it is suggested that C = 315. 360
k+1
While ideal gas law behavior is generally
acceptable for the majority of refinery ap-
C = 520 k
( (
2
k+1
k+2
plications, Appendix E should be referred 340

to for unusual situations in which deviation
from ideal behavior is significant.
4.3.2.2 Example 320

In this example, the following relief
requirements are given:
▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲
a. Required hydrocarbon vapor flow, W, 1.0 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2.0
caused by an operational upset, of Specific heat ratio, k = CP/CV
53,500 pounds per hour.
b. Molecular weight of hydrocarbon
vapor [a mixture of butane (C4) and
pentane (C5)], M, of 65.
c. Relief temperature, T, of 627°R
(167°F). c. Calculated compressibility, Z, of 0.84. The size of a single pressure relief valve
d. Relief valve set at 75 pounds per (If a calculated compressibility is not is derived from Equation 2 as follows:
square inch gauge, the design pressure available, Z = 1.0 should be used.)
––––––––––
√
of the equipment. d. Critical back pressure (from Table 8) of 53,500 627 x 0.84
A = ––––––––––––––– –––––––––
e. Back pressure of 0 pounds per square 97.2 x 0.59 = 57.3 pounds per square 326 x 0.975 x 97.2 65
inch gauge. inch absolute (42.6 pounds per square
inch gauge).6 = 4.93 in2
In this example, the following data are
e. Cp/Cv = k (from Table 8) of 1.09. From
derived:
Table 9, C = 326. See API Standard 526, which also pro-
a. Permitted accumulation of 10%. vides a purchase specification sheet for
f. Capacity correction due to back pres-
b. Relieving pressure, P1, of 75 x 1.1 + sure, Kb, of 1.0. flanged steel safety relief valves (see
14.7 = 97.2 pounds per square inch Figure 28).
absolute.
Select a ‘P’ letter orifice size (6.38 in2).
Notes
6. Since the back pressure (0 pounds per
square inch gauge) is less than the critical
back pressure (42.6 pounds per square
inch gauge), the relief valve setting is based
on the critical flow equation (see Equation 2
and 4.3.1 and 4.3.2).

Technical Manual

Table 8
Properties of Gases
Gas Molecular Specific Critical Flow Specific Critical Constants Condensation Flammability References
Weight Heat Ratio Pressure Gravity at Pressure Temperature Temperature Limits
(k = Cp/Cv) Ratio at at 60°F (psia) (°F) 1 Atmosphere (volume
at 60°F at 60°F and 1 (°F) percent
and 1 and 1 Atmosphere in air
Atmosphere Atmosphere mixture)
Methane 16.04 1.31 0.54 0.300 667 -117 -259 5.0-15.0 1
Ethane 30.07 1.19 0.57 0.356 708 90 -127 2.9-13.0 1
Ethylene 28.05 1.25 0.56 0.139 731 49 -155 2.7-36.0 1
Propane 44.10 1.13 0.58 0.507 615 206 -44 2.0-9.5 1
Proylene 42.08 1.15 0.57 0.518 672 198 -54 2.0-10.6 2, 3
Isobutane 58.12 1.10 0.59 0.563 528 274 11 1.8-8.5 1
n-Butane 58.12 1.09 0.59 0.584 549 306 31 1.5-9.0 1
1-Butane 56.11 1.11 0.58 0.600 586 296 21 1.6-9.3 2, 3
Isopentane 72.15 – – 0.625 490 369 82 1.3-8.0 1
n-Pentane 72.15 – – 0.631 488 386 97 1.4-8.3 1
1-Pentane 70.13 – – 0.646 510 377 86 1.5-8.7 1
n-Hexane 86.18 – – 0.664 437 454 156 1.1-7.7 1
Benzene 78.11 – – 0.882 710 552 176 1.4-7.1 2, 3
n-Heptane 100.20 – – 0.688 397 513 209 1.0-7.0 1
Toluene 92.14 – – 0.874 596 606 231 1.2-7.1 2, 3
n-Octane 114.23 – – 0.707 361 564 258 0.8-6.5 1
n-Nonane 128.26 – – 0.722 332 611 303 0.7-5.6 1
n-Decane 142.28 – – 0.734 305 653 345 0.7-5.4 1
Air 28.96 1.40 0.53 0.875 547 -221 -318 – 2, 3
Ammonia 17.03 1.31 0.54 0.616 1636 271 -28 16.0-25.0 2, 3
Carbon dioxide 44.01 1.29 0.55 0.818 1071 88 -109 – 2, 3
Hydrogen 2.02 1.41 0.53 – 190 -400 -423 4.0-75.0 2, 3
Hydrogen sulfide 34.08 1.32 0.54 0.801 1300 213 -77 4.3-45.5 2, 3
Sulfur dioxide 64.06 1.27 0.55 1.394 1143 316 14 – 2, 3
Steam 18.02 – – 1.000 3199 705 212 – 2, 3
Estimated
References
1. “Physical Constants of Hydrocarbons C1 to
C10,” ASTM Special Technical Publication
No. 109A, Philadelphia, Pa., 1963.
2. “International – Critical Tables,” McGraw-Hill
Book Co., Inc., New York.
3. “Engineering Data Book,” Gas Processors
Suppliers Association, 1977.
4. API Technical Data Book–Petroleum
Refining, Fifth edition.

Technical Manual

–––––––––––––
√
4.3.3 Sizing for Subcritical Flow: Where:
W ZT
Gas or Vapor Other Than Steam A = –––––––– –––––––––––– (5) A = required effective discharge area of
735 F2Kd MP1 (P1 - P2)
4.3.3.1 General the valve, in square inches (see 1.2.2).
When the ratio of back pressure to inlet W = required flow through the valve, in
–––––––––––
√
pressure exceeds the critical pressure pounds per hour.
V ZTM
ratio Pcf/P1, the flow through the pressure A = ––––––––––– –––––––––– (6)
4645.2 F2Kd P1 (P1 - P2) F2 = coefficient of subcritical flow (see
relief valve is subcritical (see 4.3.1).
Figure 28 for values)
Equations 5 – 7 may be used to calculate
–––––––––––
√
the required effective discharge area for a –––––––––––––––––––––––
√(
V ZTG
conventional relief valve that has its spring
setting adjusted to compensate for super-
imposed back pressure and for sizing a
A = –––––––––––
863.63 F2Kd
––––––––––
P1 (P1 - P2)
(7)
=
k
) [
1 - r (k-1)k
–––– (r)2/k –––––––
k-1 1-r ]
pilot-operated relief valve.7 k = ratio of the specific heats.
r = ratio of back pressure to upstream
Table 9 relieving pressure, P2/P1.
Values of Coefficient C Kd = effective coefficient of discharge
= 0.975 for use in Equations 5 –7.
k C k C k C k C
Z = compressibility factor for the devia-
1.01 317a 1.31 348 1.61 373 1.91 395 tion of the actual gas from a perfect
gas, a factor evaluated at relieving in-
1.02 318 1.32 349 1.62 374 1.92 395
let conditions.
1.03 319 1.33 350 1.63 375 1.93 396
T = relieving temperature of the inlet gas
1.04 320 1.34 351 1.64 376 1.94 397 or vapor, in degrees Rankine (de-
1.05 321 1.35 352 1.65 376 1.95 397 grees Fahrenheit + 460).
1.06 322 1.36 353 1.66 377 1.96 398 M = molecular weight of the gas or vapor.
Various handbooks carry tables of
1.07 323 1.37 353 1.67 378 1.97 398
molecular weights of materials, but
1.08 325 1.38 354 1.68 379 1.98 399 the composition of the flowing gas or
1.09 326 1.39 355 1.69 379 1.99 400 vapor is seldom the same as that list-
ed in the tables. This value should be
1.10 327 1.40 356 1.70 380 2.00 400
obtained from the process data. Table
1.11 328 1.41 357 1.71 381 – – 8 lists values for some common fluids.
1.12 329 1.42 358 1.72 382 – – P1 = upstream relieving pressure, in
1.13 330 1.43 359 1.73 382 – – pounds per square inch absolute.
This is the set pressure plus the al-
1.14 331 1.44 360 1.74 383 – –
lowable overpressure (see 4.2) plus
1.15 332 1.45 360 1.75 384 – – atmospheric pressure, in pounds per
1.16 333 1.46 361 1.76 384 – – square inch absolute.
1.17 334 1.47 362 1.77 385 – – P2 = back pressure, in pounds per square
inch absolute.
1.18 335 1.48 363 1.78 386 – –
V = required flow through the valve, in
1.19 336 1.49 364 1.79 386 – – standard cubic feet per minute at
1.20 337 1.50 365 1.80 387 – – 14.7 pounds per square inch ab-
solute and 60°F.
1.21 338 1.51 365 1.81 388 – –
1.22 339 1.52 366 1.82 389 – –
G = specific gravity of gas referred to air
= 1.00 for air at 14.7 pounds per
1.24 341 1.54 368 1.84 390 – – square inch absolute and 60°F.
1.25 342 1.55 369 1.85 391 – –
1.26 343 1.56 369 1.86 391 – –
Note
1.27 344 1.57 370 1.87 392 – –
7. Balanced-bellows relief valves that operate
1.28 345 1.58 371 1.88 393 – – in the subcritical region should be sized us-
1.29 346 1.59 372 1.89 393 – – ing Equations 2-4. The back pressure
correction factor for this application should
130 347 1.60 373 1.90 394 – – be obtained from the valve manufacturer.
a Interpolated value, since C becomes indeterminate as k approaches 1.00.

Technical Manual

Figure 27 – Back Pressure Sizing Factor, Kb, for Balanced-Bellows Pressure Relief Valves (Vapors and Gases)
1.00
20%
overp
ressu
0.90 re C1 = capacity with back
pressure.
10 C2 = rated capacity with
Kb = C1/C2
0.80 %
ov zero back pressure.
er
pr PB = back pressure, in
es
su
0.70 re pounds per square
inch gauge.
PS = set pressure, in
0.60 pounds per square
inch gauge.
0.50
▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50
Percent of gauge back pressure = PB/PS x 100
Note
The curves above represent a compromise of the make is known, the manufacturer should be con- pressure. For subcritical flow back pressures
values recommended by a number of relief valve sulted for the correction factor. These curves are below 50 pounds per square inch gauge, the
manufacturers and may be used when the make for set pressures of 50 pounds per square inch manufacturer must be consulted for values of Kb.
of the valve or the actual critical flow pressure gauge and above. They are limited to back pres-
point for the vapor or gas is unknown. When the sure below critical flow pressure for a given set
Figure 28 – Values of F2 for Subcritical Flow
1.0
0.9
F2
0.8
0.7 1.8
k= 1.6
k= 1.4
k= 1.2
k= 1.0 Critical flow line
k=
0.6
▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲
0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1.0
r = P2/P1

Technical Manual

See API standard 526, which also pro- e. Constant back pressure of 55 pounds 4.4 Sizing for Steam Relief
vides a purchase specification sheet for per square inch gauge. The spring set-
4.4.1 General
flanged steel safety relief valves. ting of the valve should be adjusted
according to the amount of constant Pressure relief valves in steam service
Select a ‘P’ letter orifice size (6.38 in2). may be sized using Equation 8.
back pressure obtained.
4.3.4 Alternate Sizing Procedure In this example, the following data are
for Subcritical Flow W
derived: A = –––––––––––––– (8)
51.5 P1KdKNKSH
4.3.4.1 General a. Permitted accumulation of 10 percent.
Critical flow Equations may be used to
b. Relieving pressure, P1, of 75 x 1.1 + 14.7 Where:
calculate the required discharge area of a
= 97.2 pounds per square inch absolute.
pressure relief valve used in subcritical A = required effective discharge area,
service. The area obtained using this siz- c. Calculated compressibility, Z, of 0.84. (If in square inches.
ing procedure is identical to the area a calculated compressibility is not avail-
W = required flow rate, in pounds per
obtained using the subcritical flow equa- able, Z = 1.0 should be used.)
hour.
tions. (The capacity correction factor due d. Critical back pressure (from Table 8) of
to back pressure is derived by setting the P1 = upstream relieving pressure, in
97.2 x 0.59 = 57.3 pounds per square
subcritical flow equation equal to the criti- pounds per square inch absolute.
inch absolute (42.6 pounds per square
cal flow equation and algebraically solving This is the set pressure plus the
inch gauge).8
for Kb.) This alternate sizing procedure al- allowable overpressure plus atmos-
e. Built-up back pressure of 0.10 x 75 = pheric pressure, in pounds per
lows the designer to use the familiar
7.5 pounds per square inch. square inch absolute.
critical flow equation to calculate the same
area obtained with the subcritical flow f. Total back pressure of 55 + 7.5 + 14.7 = Kd = effective coefficient of discharge
equation. A graphical presentation of the 77.2 pounds per square inch absolute. = 0.975 for use in Equation 8.
capacity correction factor, Kb, is given in g. Cp/Cv = k of 1.09. KN = correction factor for Napier equation
Figure 30 on page 129. It should be noted
h. P2/P1 = 77.2 / 97.2 = 0.794. (see Reference 1)
that this correction factor is used only for
the sizing of conventional (nonbalanced) i. Back pressure correction factor, Kb, of = 1 where P1 ≤ 1515 pounds per
relief valves that have their spring settings 0.88 (from Figure 30 on page 129). square inch absolute
adjusted to compensate for the superim- j. Coefficient determined from an expres- = (0.1906P1 – 1000) /(0.2292P1 – 1061)
posed back pressure. The correction factor sion of the ratio of the specific heats of where P1 > 1515 pounds per square
should not be used to size balanced-type the gas or vapor at standard conditions, inch absolute and ≤ 3215 pounds
valves. C, of 326. per square inch absolute.
4.3.4.2 Example The size of the relief valve is derived from KSH = superheat steam correction factor.
In this example, the following relief re- Equation 2 as follows: 9 This can be obtained from Table 10
quirements are given: on page 127. For saturated steam
–––––––––
√
at any pressure, KSH = 1.0.
a. Required hydrocarbon vapor flow, W, 53,500 627(0.84)
caused by an operational upset, of A = –––––––––––––––––– ––––––––
326(0.975)(97.2)(0.88) 65 4.4.2 Example
53,500 pounds per hour.
= 5.60 in2 In this example, the following relief re-
b. Molecular weight of hydrocarbon vapor quirements are given:
[a mixture of butane (C4) and pentane
(C5), M, of 65. W = saturated steam at 153,500 pounds
per hour at 1600 pounds per square
c. Relief temperature, T, of 627°R (167°F).
inch gauge set pressure with 10%
d. Relief valve set at 75 pounds per accumulation.
square inch gauge, the design pressure
of the equipment.
Notes
8. Since the back pressure (55 pounds per 9. This area requirement is the same as that ob-
square inch gauge) is greater than the critical tained using the subcritical flow equation (see
back pressure (42.6 pounds per square inch Equation 5).
gauge), the sizing of the relief valve is based
on subcritical flow. The back pressure correc-
tion factor, Kb, should be determined using
the critical flow formulas (see Equations 2–4).

Technical Manual

Table 10
Superheat Correction Factors, KSH
Set Pressure Temperature (degrees Fahrenheit)

(pounds per
in2 gauge) 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000 1100 1200
15 1.00 0.98 0.93 0.88 0.84 0.80 0.77 0.74 0.72 0.70
20 1.00 0.98 0.93 0.88 0.84 0.80 0.77 0.74 0.72 0.70
40 1.00 0.99 0.93 0.88 0.84 0.81 0.77 0.74 0.72 0.70
60 1.00 0.99 0.93 0.88 0.84 0.81 0.77 0.75 0.72 0.70
80 1.00 0.99 0.93 0.88 0.84 0.81 0.77 0.75 0.72 0.70
100 1.00 0.99 0.94 0.89 0.84 0.81 0.77 0.75 0.72 0.70
120 1.00 0.99 0.94 0.89 0.84 0.81 0.78 0.75 0.72 0.70
140 1.00 0.99 0.94 0.89 0.85 0.81 0.78 0.75 0.72 0.70
160 1.00 0.99 0.94 0.89 0.85 0.81 0.78 0.75 0.72 0.70
180 1.00 0.99 0.94 0.89 0.85 0.81 0.78 0.75 0.72 0.70
200 1.00 0.99 0.95 0.89 0.85 0.81 0.78 0.75 0.72 0.70
220 1.00 0.99 0.95 0.89 0.85 0.81 0.78 0.75 0.72 0.70
240 – 1.00 0.95 0.90 0.85 0.81 0.78 0.75 0.72 0.70
260 – 1.00 0.95 0.90 0.85 0.81 0.78 0.75 0.72 0.70
280 – 1.00 0.96 0.90 0.85 0.81 0.78 0.75 0.72 0.70
300 – 1.00 0.96 0.90 0.85 0.81 0.78 0.75 0.72 0.70
350 – 1.00 0.96 0.90 0.86 0.82 0.78 0.75 0.72 0.70
400 – 1.00 0.96 0.91 0.86 0.82 0.78 0.75 0.72 0.70
500 – 1.00 0.96 0.92 0.86 0.82 0.78 0.75 0.73 0.70
600 – 1.00 0.97 0.92 0.87 0.82 0.79 0.75 0.73 0.70
800 – – 1.00 0.95 0.88 0.83 0.79 0.76 0.73 0.70
1000 – – 1.00 0.96 0.89 0.84 0.78 0.76 0.73 0.71
1250 – – 1.00 0.97 0.91 0.85 0.80 0.77 0.74 0.71
1500 – – – 1.00 0.93 0.86 0.81 0.77 0.74 0.71
1750 – – – 1.00 0.94 0.86 0.81 0.77 0.73 0.70
2000 – – – 1.00 0.95 0.86 0.80 0.76 0.72 0.69
2500 – – – 1.00 0.95 0.85 0.78 0.73 0.69 0.66
3000 – – – – 1.00 0.82 0.74 0.69 0.65 0.62

Technical Manual

Figure 29 - Constant Back Pressure Sizing Factor, Kb, For Conventional

Safety Relief Valves (Vapors and Gases Only)
100
90
C1 = capacity with back pressure.
80
C2 = rated capacity with zero back pressure.
735F2 l - r
70
P8 = back pressure, in pounds per square inch
k = 1.1
60 absolute.
C
k = 1.3
50 PS = set pressure, in pounds per square inch
k = 1.5 absolute.
Kb = C1/C2 =
40
Exchange
k = 1.7
PO = overpressure, in pounds per square inch.
30
20
10
0
▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
PB
Percent of absolute back pressure = x 100 = r x 100
PS + PO
Set overpressure (MAWP)

= 100 pounds per square inch gauge.
Note
Overpressure This chart is typical and suitable for use only
= 10 pounds per square inch. when the make of the valve or the actual critical
Superimposed back pressure flow pressure point for the vapor or gas is un-
(constant) known; otherwise, the valve manufacturer
= 70 pounds per square inch gauge. should be consulted for specific data. This cor-
Spring set rection factor should be used only in the sizing
= 30 pounds per square inch. of conventional (nonbalanced) pressure relief
valves that have their spring setting adjusted
Built-up back pressure
= 10 pounds per square inch to compensate for the superimposed back
pressure. It should not be used to size bal-
Percent absolute back pressure anced-type valves.
(70 + 10 + 14.7)
= x 100 = 76
(100 + 10 + 17.7)
Kb (follow dotted line)
= 0.89 (from the curve).
= 0.89 (rated capacity without back
pressure).

Technical Manual

In this example, the following data are Figure 30 – Capacity Correction Factor, Kw, Due to Back Pressure on
derived: Balanced-Bellows Pressure Relief Valves in Liquid Service
a. Relieving pressure, P1, of 1600 x 1.1 +
1.00
14.7 = 1774.7 pounds per square inch
absolute.
0.90 KW = correction factor due
b. Effective coefficient of discharge, Kd, of to back pressure.
0.975.
0.80 PB = back pressure, in
c. Correction factor for Napier equation, pounds per square inch
KW
KN, of [0.1906(1774.7) - 1000] / 0.70 gauge.
[0.2293(1774.7) - 1061] = 1.01.
PS = set pressure, in pounds
d. Superheat steam correction factor, KSH, 0.60 per square inch gauge.
of 1.0.
The size of the relief valve is derived from 0.50

▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲
equation 8 as follows: 0 10 20 30 40 50
153,500 Percent of gauge = (P /P ) x 100

A = –––––––––––––––––––––––– back pressure B S
51.5(1774.7)(0.975)(1.01)(1)
= 1.705 in2
Note
See API Standard 526, which also pro- The curve above represents values recom-
vides a purchase specification sheet for mended by various manufacturers. This curve
flanged steel safety relief valves. may be used when the manufacturer is not
known. Otherwise, the manufacturer should be
Select a ‘K’ orifice valve (1.838 in2), that consulted for the applicable correction factor.
is, a 3K6 safety valve.
4.5 Sizing for Liquid Relief: Relief

Valves Requiring Liquid Capacity
Certification
4.5.1 General Figure 31 – Capacity Correction Factor, Kv, Due to Viscosity
Section VIII, Division I, of the ASME Code
requires that capacity certification be ob- 1.0
tained for pressure relief valves designed
for liquid service. The procedure for ob-
0.9
taining capacity certification includes
KV = viscosity correction factor
determining the coefficient of discharge for

the design of liquid relief valves at 10% 0.8
overpressure. Valves that require a capac-
ity in accordance with the ASME Code
0.7
may be sized using Equation 9.
––––––––
√
Q G 0.6
A = ––––––––– ––––––– (9)
38KdKwKv P1 - P2
0.5
Where:
A = required effective discharge area, in
0.4
square inches.
Q = flow rate, in U.S. gallons per minute.
0.3
Kd = effective coefficient of discharge that ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲
should be obtained from the valve 10 20 40 50 100 200 400 1000 2000 20,000 100,000
manufacturer. For a preliminary
R = Reynolds number
sizing estimation, a discharge
coefficient of 0.65 can be used.

Technical Manual

––––––––
√
Kw = correction factor due to back A = effective discharge area, in square
pressure. If the back pressure is inches (from manufacturers’ standard 1800 0.90
A = ––––––––––––––––––– –––––––
atmospheric, Kw = 1. Balanced- orifice areas). 38.0 x 0.75 x 0.97 x 1.0 (275-50)
bellows valves in back pressure ser- U = viscosity at the flowing temperature, in = 4.118 in2
vice will require the correction factor Saybolt Universal seconds.
determined in Figure 31 on page See Equation 11. An area of 4.34 in2
129. Conventional valves require no After the value of R is determined, the fac- (‘N’ orifice) should be used.
special correction. tor Kv is obtained from page 28. Kv is
applied to correct the preliminary required 12,700 x 1800
Kv = correction factor due to viscosity as R = ––––––––––––
–––– = 5487
2000 √ 4.34
discharge area. If the corrected area ex-
determined from page 28.
ceeds the standard chosen orifice area,
G = specific gravity of the liquid at the the above calculations should be repeated
flowing temperature referred to From page 28, Kv = 0.965.
using the next larger standard orifice size.
water = 1.0 at 70°F.
AR
A = –––– = 4.118
4.5.2 Example ––––––
P1 = upstream relieving pressure, in Kv 0.965
pounds per square inch gauge. This In this example, the following relief
is the set pressure plus allowable requirements are given: = 4.267 in2
overpressure. a. Required crude-oil flow caused by Where:
P2 = total back pressure, in pounds per blocked discharge, Q, of 1800 gallons per
square inch gauge. minute. AR = required area without viscosity
correction.
When a relief valve is sized for viscous liq- b. Specific gravity, G, of 0.90 (viscosity at
uid service, it should first be sized as it the flowing temperature is 2000 Saybolt See API Standard 526, which also pro-
was for nonviscous-type application so Universal seconds.) vides a purchase specification sheet for
that a preliminary required discharge area, c. Relief valve set at 250 pounds per flanged steel safety relief valves.
A, can be obtained. From manufacturers’ square inch gauge, the design pressure of Select an ‘N’ orifice pressure relief valve
standard orifice sizes, the next larger ori- the equipment. (4.34 square inches), that is, a 4N6 pres-
fice size should be used in determining d. Back pressure variable from 0 to 50 sure relief valve.
the Reynold’s number, R, from either of pounds per square inch gauge.
the following relationships:
In this example, the following data are 4.6 Sizing for Liquid Relief: Relief
Q(2800G) derived:
R = ––––––––– (10) Valves Not Requiring Capacity
µ √––
A a. Overpressure of 10%. Certification
b. Relieving pressure, P1, of 1.10 x 250 = Before the ASME Code made provisions
or 275 pounds per square inch gauge. for capacity certification, valves were
12,700Q c. Back pressure of (50/250) x 100 = 20%. generally sized for liquid service using
R = ––––––––
–– (11)10
Equation 12. This method assumes a
U √A A balanced-bellows valve is indicated, coefficient of discharge, Kd = 0.62, and
since back pressure is variable. (From 25 percent overpressure. An additional ca-
Where: Figure 31, Kw = 0.97.) pacity correction factor, KP, was obtained
Q = flow rate at the flowing temperature, from Figure 33 for relieving pressures oth-
The manufacturer’s effective coefficient of
in U.S. gallons per minute. er than 25 percent overpressure. This
discharge K = 0.75.
G = specific gravity of the liquid at flowing sizing method may be used where capaci-
temperature referred to water Sizing first for no viscosity correction, (Kv ty certification is not required.
= 1.00 at 70°F. = 1.0), the size of the relief valve is de-
rived from Equation 9 as follows:
µ = absolute viscosity at the flowing tem-
perature, in centipoises.
Notes
10. Equation 11 is not recommended for
viscosities less than 100 Saybolt Universal
seconds.

Technical Manual

––––––––––
√
For information about saturated water, see 4.8 Sizing for Rupture Disk Devices
Q G specifically Section VIII, Appendix 11, of
A = –––––––––––– –––––––– (12) 4.8.1 Rupture Disk Devices Used
38 KdKwKvKp 125p - pb the ASME Code.
Independently
A reasonable, conservative method of Rupture disk devices may be used alone
Where:
sizing for two-phase liquid/vapor relief is or in combination with a pressure relief
A = required effective discharge area, in as follows: valve in gas or vapor service or in liquid
square inches. service. The sizing of a rupture disk de-
a. Determine the amount of liquid that
Q = flow rate, in U.S. gallons per minute. flashes by an isenthalpic (adiabatic) vice used alone is based on the equations
Kd = effective coefficient of discharge that expansion from the relieving condition applicable for pressure relief valves using
should be obtained from the valve either to the critical downstream pres- for all fluids an effective coefficient of dis-
manufacturer. For a preliminary sure for the flashed vapor or to the back charge Kd = 0.62.
sizing estimation, a discharge coeffi- pressure, whichever is greater. The required discharge area, A in square
cient of 0.62 can be used. b. Calculate individually the orifice area inches, is calculated using the appropriate
Kw = correction factor due to back required to pass the flashed vapor equation for the flowing medium (see
pressure. If back pressure is component, using Equations 2 – 7 as Equations 2– 7 for gas or vapor, Equation
atmospheric, Kw = 1. Balanced- appropriate, according to service, type 8 for steam, and Equation 9 for liquid).
bellows valves in back-pressure of valve, and whether the back pres- The rupture disk device selected should
service will require the correction sure is greater or less than the critical be the nominal pipe size whose area is
factor determined from Figure 31. downstream pressure. equal to or greater than the required dis-
Conventional valves require no charge area calculated by the appropriate
c. Calculate individually the orifice area
special correction. equation.
required to pass the unflashed liquid
Kv = correction factor due to viscosity as component using Equation 9. The pres- For rupture disk devices that have a struc-
determined from page 28. sure drop (P1 – P2) is the inlet relieving tural member (for example, a knife blade
Kp = correction factor due to overpres- pressure minus the back pressure. or vacuum support) that reduces the ef-
sure. At 25% overpressure, Kp = 1.0. d. Add the individual areas calculated for fective discharge area after bursting, the
For overpressures other than 25%, the vapor and liquid components to projected area of the structural member is
Kp is determined from Figure 32. obtain the total orifice area, A, that is deducted from the flow area of the pipe to
required. determine the net discharge area of the
G = specific gravity of the liquid at the
burst rupture disk.
flowing temperature referred to water. e. Select a pressure relief valve that has
= 1.0 at 70°F. an effective discharge area equal to or Users should be aware of the following
p = set pressure, in pounds per square greater than the total calculated orifice limitations in using Kd = 0.62 to determine
inch gauge. area. The designer should recheck the the capacity of a given size of rupture
back pressure that will exist for the disk, or conversely, the required area for
p b = total back pressure, in pounds per specific relief valve selected, with its a given flow quantity:
square inch gauge. particular discharge installation, by
examining the vapor generation down- a. The rupture disk device is used in a
stream of the pressure relief valve size and pressure range that the manu-
4.7 Sizing for Two-Phase facturer has determined will give a
nozzle. Where appropriate, corrections
Liquid/Vapor Relief satisfactory opening for the style of rup-
can be applied to the particular orifice
A pressure relief valve handling a liquid at areas previously calculated. Further- ture disk in the particular fluid service.
vapor-liquid equilibrium or a homoge- more, selecting a balanced pressure b. The rupture disk device is installed in a
neous mixed-phase fluid will produce relief valve is often desirable to mini- short piping system that does not add
flashing with vapor generation as the fluid mize the effect of flashed vapor on the significantly to the flow resistance of the
moves through the valve. The vapor gen- valve capacity. burst rupture disk device.
eration must be taken into account, since
it may reduce the effective mass flow ca- The designer should also investigate the If a rupture disk device discharges into a
pacity of the valve. effect of any auto-refrigeration that may vent system or a closed relief system, it
arise from the flashing of liquid. Materials will usually not contribute significantly to
Calculations for determining properties of construction must be adequate for the the pressure loss obtained in the dis-
and handling liquid/vapor phases are outlet temperatures involved; in addition, charge piping. The sizing of the inlet and
available; see Section 5 for emerging the installation must preclude the possibili- discharge piping becomes a line sizing
technical literature that can be used to ty of flow blockage occurring from hydrate problem that uses the relieving rate and
size relieving devices. or possibly solid formation. the maximum allowable inlet pressure de-
fined by the code. In general, a pressure

Technical Manual

Figure 32 – Capacity Correction Factors Due to Overpressure for Relief Notes

and Safety-Relief Valves in Liquid Service
The curve in Fig. 32 shows that up to and in-
cluding 25 percent overpressure, capacity is
affected by the change in lift, the change in ori-
1.10
fice discharge coefficient, and the change in
overpressure. Above 25 percent, capacity is af-
fected only by the change in overpressure.
Valves operating at low overpressures tend to
0.90
chatter; therefore, overpressures of less than 10
percent should be avoided.
0.70
Correction factor, Kp
0.50
0.30
0.10
▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲
10 20 30 40 50
Percent overpressure
loss through the rupture disk device of ap- alone is then multiplied by the combina-
proximately 75 pipe diameters may be tion capacity factor, K c, to determine the
used. The manufacturer should be con- capacity of that combination. (See 2.6.2
sulted if more accurate values are for further information on the combination
required. This problem is similar to the line capacity factor.)
sizing of a process line except that the ef-
The nominal size of the rupture disk de-
fect of volumetric expansion on the
vice installed at the inlet of the pressure
pressure loss must be considered. This
relief valve must be equal to or greater
will include an acceleration effect (the
than the nominal size of the inlet connec-
vapor is exiting the discharge piping at a
tion of the valve to permit sufficient flow
higher velocity) as well as the effect of
capacity and valve performance.
changing density. If the vent line subse-
quently discharges into headers of varying The design of the piping from the protect-
sizes, critical flow restrictions must be ed vessel to the inlet of the pressure relief
considered. valve is crucial to the proper functioning of
the valve. Users should consult applicable
4.8.2 Rupture Disk Devices Used in
engineering codes for guidance on inlet
Combination With Pressure Relief piping design. Unless the pressure relief
Valves device is installed directly on the vessel, a
An important application of a rupture disk good practice is to analyze the frictional
device is at the inlet of a pressure relief pressure loss from the vessel to the valve
valve. The sizing of the pressure relief inlet at the rated relieving capacity to com-
valve/rupture disk device combination re- ply with recommended limits. An inlet pipe
quires that the pressure relief valve first sized larger than necessary for the inlet to
be sized to meet the required relieving ca- the pressure relief valve is often required;
pacity. The certified and published this may dictate a rupture disk device to
capacity of the pressure relief valve used match the pipe size.

Technical Manual

References 9. H.K. Fauske and J.C. Leung, “New

1. N.E. Sylvander and D.L. Katz, Experimental Technique for
“Investigation of Pressure Relieving Characterizing Runaway Chemical
Systems,” Engineering Research Reactions,” Chemical Engineering
Bulletin No. 31, University of Michigan, Progress, August 1985, pp. 39-46.
Ann Arbor, April 1948. 10. M.A. Grolmes and J.C. Leung, “Code
2. Recommended Practice for the Design Method for Evaluating Integrated
and Construction of Pressure Relief Phenomena,” Chemical
Relieving Systems for Process Engineering Progress, August 1985,
Equipment and Pressure Storage in pp. 47-52.
Refineries (tentative), American 11. H.K. Fauske, “Emergency Relief
Petroleum Institute, August 1954. System Design,” Chemical
3. F.J. Heller, “Safety Relief Valve Sizing: Engineering Progress, August 1985,
API Versus CGA Requirements Plus a pp. 53-56.
New Concept for Tank Cars,” 1983 12. M.A. Grolmes, J.C. Leung, and H.K.
Proceedings–Refining Department, Fauske, “Large-Scale Experiments of
Volume 62, American Petroleum Emergency Relief Systems,” Chemical
Institute, Washington, D.C., pp. 123-135. Engineering Progress, August 1985,
4. H.R. Wharton, “Digest of Steels for pp. 57-62.
High Temperature Service,” Timken 13. Publication 999 (English Edition),
Steel, 1946. Technical Data Book–Petroleum
5. J.J. Duggan, C.H. Gilmour, and P.F. Refining, American Petroleum
Fisher, “Requirements for Relief of Institute, Washington, D.C.
Overpressure in Vessels Exposed to 14. O. Cox, Jr. and M.L. Weirick, “Sizing
Fire,” Transactions of the ASME, 1944, Safety Valve Inlet Lines,” Chemical
Volume 66, pp. 1-53. Engineering Progress, November
6. I. Heitner, T. Trautmauis and M. 1980.
Morrissey, “Relieving Requirements for 15. B.A. Van Boskirk, “Sensitivity of Relief
Gas Filled Vessels Exposed to Fire,” Valves to Inlet and Outlet Line
1983 Proceedings–Refining Lengths,” Chemical Engineering,
Department, Volume 62, American August 1982.
Petroleum Institute, Washington, D.C.,
pp. 112-122. 16. C.E. Lapple, “Isothermal and Adiabatic
Flow of Compressible Fluids,”
7. J. O. Francis and W.E. Shackelton, “A Transactions of the American Institute
Calculation of Relieving Requirements of Chemical Engineers, 1943, Volume
of the Critical Region,” 1985 39, pp. 385-432.
Proceedings–Refining Department,
Volume 64, American Petroleum 17. H.Y. Mak, “New Method Speeds
Institute, Washington D.C., pp. 179-182. Pressure-Relief Manifold Design,” Oil
and Gas Journal, November 20, 1978.
8. H.G. Fisher, “DIERS Research
Program on Emergency Relief 18. P. Kandell, “Program Sizes Pipe and
Systems,” Chemical Engineering Flare Manifolds for Compressible
Progress, August 1985, pp. 33-36. Flow,” Chemical Engineering, June 29,
1981.

Technical Manual

D.1 Background (b) measuring the amount of liquid con- This kind of fire differs from the fire in the
The problem of estimating fire-relief tents evaporated in a given time. The unit firebox of a boiler or still, where the fuel
requirements for storage tanks was first heat absorption rates in Table D-1 are and air are mixed by means other than the
recognized in 1928 when the National Fire average rates on the wetted surface. convection currents caused by the heated
Protection Association (NFPA) requested gases. The flame will accordingly have a
Examinations of detailed reports on these
API to recommend that a table of mini- core of flammable vapor, either unmixed
tests indicate that the setup for Tests 4, 5,
mum emergency relief capacities for a with air or insufficiently mixed to burn.
and 8 was arranged to provide continuous
series of tank capacities be included in the Combustion occurs on the exterior enve-
and complete flame envelopment of the
NFPA Suggested Ordinance Regulating lope of this core. Because the actual
small vessels; under these conditions,
the Use, Handling, Storage and Sale of combustion zone is on the rich side, a
maximum average heat input rates of 30,
Flammable Liquids and the Products considerable amount of black smoke is
400-32, 500 British thermal units per hour
Thereof. generated. This envelope of soot may
per square foot were realized. The envi-
serve to mask a considerable portion of
It was later recognized that tank capaci- ronmental conditions set up for tests 1, 3,
the flame.
ties did not provide the best basis for 6, 7, 9, and 10 allowed the flame to be
estimating the amount of vapor to be subjected to air currents and wind. All oth- Hot gases from the combustion rise, and
handled. Since the heat was absorbed er factors were conducive to maintaining the air that supports the combustion flows
almost entirely by radiation, the area maximum heat input, a condition that in at the bottom. The flame mass is quite
exposed — not the volume of the tank con- should not exist in a refinery. Under these turbulent; as masses of the burning vapor
tents — seemed to be the important factor. conditions, the maximum average heat in- tumble and billow, the smoky mantle is
Many of the tanks were large and could put rates varied greatly. Test 2 differed displaced and the bright flame can be
never be expected to be entirely surround- from Test 1 in that drainage away from the seen intermittently. This flame is not a
ed by fire; the assumption was therefore equipment was provided. The maximum blazing white, as it would be in a furnace;
made that the larger the area of the con- heat input rate is reduced by 60% when it is red or orange, indicating a lower tem-
tainer, the less the likelihood that the tank drainage is provided; this fact was incor- perature than that of a furnace flame.
would be fully exposed to radiation. In oth- porated in the development of Equations
Flames of this type tend to rise because of
er words, the larger the surface area of D-1 and D-2. Test 11 gives an indication of
their temperature; however, they can also
the tank shells, the lower the average unit the effect of a large area on average heat
be blown aside by the wind and may be
heat absorption rate from a fire. input during an actual fire.
blown so far from a vessel that the heating
By 1948 several different equations [1]1 The test reports mentioned in some cases effect on the vessel is small.
were in general use, prompting the API that the tests were delayed until the arrival
Subcommittee on Pressure-Relieving of a calm day so that the wind would not
blow the flames away from the vessel. D.3 Effect of Fire on the Unwetted
Systems to develop an equation for deter-
mining the heat absorbed from open fires Copious supplies of fuel were available. In Surface of a Vessel
using the test data available at the time. most cases, the fuel was maintained by D.3.1 General
The resultant equation has remained in dikes in a pool beneath the vessel and
Unwetted wall vessels are those in which
general use since its publication in 1954 was not allowed to drain away as it nor-
the internal walls are exposed to a single
[2], and its development is documented in mally would. In the Rubber Reserve
fluid, vapor, or gas or are internally insu-
a paper presented by F.J. Heller in 1983 Corporation tests, a 2-inch gasoline line,
lated regardless of the contained fluids.
[3]. running full, was required to keep the fuel
These include vessels that contain sepa-
supplied during the test. Without these
Table D-1 contains data from 16 fire tests rate liquid and vapor phases under normal
special adverse conditions, the maximum
and one actual fire. Data from these tests conditions but become single phase
heat absorption values obtained in these
were considered in the development of (above the critical) at relieving conditions.
tests are extremely unlikely to occur in an
Equations D-1 and D-2. actual refinery fire. Vessels may be designed to have internal
These data result from tests in which insulation. A vessel should be considered
means were provided to measure the internally insulated when the internal wall
D.2 Nature of an Open Fire can become insulated by the deposition of
total heat absorbed by a vessel by (a)
The nature of an open fire of flammable coke or other materials as a result of the
computing the heat required to bring the
fluid, as related to test data, is important. contained fluids.
liquid contents to the boiling range and
Note
1. Numbers in brackets correspond to refer-
ences in Section 5.

Technical Manual

Table D-1
Comparison of Heat-Absorption Rates in Fire Tests
Test Source Type Fuel Vessel Total Wetted Total Temperature BTU/Hr/Ft2 Refer.
of Exposure Capacity Area Area Heat Input of Wetted
(barrel) (ft2) (ft2) (BTU/Hr) Surface (°F)
Hottell, average 6-inch thick Conning
1 Gasoline 296 123 3,760,000 30,500 1
of 36 tests metal stack Tower
Hottell, average 6-inch thick Conning
2 Gasoline 296 123 2,139,000 17,400 2
of 13 tests metal stack Tower
Standard Oil Co. Heating water
3 Naphtha 2.6 26 416,000 16,000 3
of California in drum
Standard Oil Co. Heating water
4 Naphtha 33 206 105 3,370,000 70-212 32,000 3
of California in tank
Underwriters Water flowing
5 Gasoline 24 24 780,000 76 32,500 4
Laboratories, Inc. over plate
Rubber Reserve Heating water
6 Gasoline 119 568 400 9,280,000 300 23,200 5
Corp.Test No.17 in tank
Rubber Reserve Generating
7 Gasoline 199 568 400 8,400,000 21,000 5
Corp.Test No.17 steam in tank
Rubber Reserve Water flowing in
8 3/4-inch
Gasoline 9.0 9.0 274,000 30,400 5
Corp.Test No.17 standard pipe
API Project Heating water
9 Kerosene 0.88 16.2 6.1 95,800 300 15,700 6
Test No.1 in tank
API Project Heating water
10 Kerosene 0.88 16.2 6.1 102,500 320 16,800 6
Test No. 2 in tank
Report to API on 38 ft.
11a Plant fire Butane 5,000 4,363 4,363 23,560,000 5,400 7
butane sphere
12 Lauderback Chemical waste 100 100 3,210,000 32,100 8
13 NFPA (Tulsa) Cutback jet fuel 238 773 303 8,736,000 23,000 9
14 Union Carbide (1938) Propane 71.4 242 132 2,300,000 17,400 10
15 Union Carbide (1938) Propane 71.4 242 176 4,993,000 28,400 10
Liquefied petroleum Wood saturated
16 Fetterly 7.7 83 57.8 1,350,000 23,300 11
gas container with kerosene
aThis represents an actual fire
References
1. H.C. Hottell, Private communication to API 5. Safety Memorandum 89, Rubber Reserve 9. “Large Scale Fire Exposure Tests to
Subcommittee on Pressure-Relieving Corporation, Washington, D.C., May 1944. Evaluate ‘Unox’ Foam for Fire Exposure
Systems, January 1948. 6. University of Michigan, Unpublished tests Protection,” Fire Research Laboratory
2. H.C. Hottell, Private communication to API made for API Subcommittee on Pressure- Report No. FRL-62, Process Safety
Subcommittee on Pressure-Relieving Relieving Systems, June 1947. Department, Carbide and Carbon
Systems, December 1950. Chemicals Co., a Division of Union Carbide
7. Anonymous report to API Subcommittee on and Carbon Corporation, Dec. 8, 1954.
3. F.L. Maker Private communication to API Pressure-Relieving Systems regarding a fire
Subcommittee on Pressure-Relieving (not a test), June 1941. 10. Lauderback.
Systems regarding 1925 tests, December 8. J.J. Duggan, C.H. Gilmour, and P.F. Fisher, 11. National Fire Protection Association.
22,1950. “Requirements for Relief of Overpressure
4. “Opacity of Water to Radiant Heat Energy,” on Vessels Exposed to Fire,” Transactions
Research Bulletin 3, Underwriters of the ASME, 1944, Volume 66, pp. 1-53.
Laboratory, Inc., 1938.

Technical Manual

D.3.2 Characteristics gree to which the vessel is enveloped by Where:

A characteristic of a vessel with an unwet- the flames (a function of vessel size and A = effective discharge area of the valve,
ted internal wall is that heat flow from the shape), and fireproofing measures. The in square inches.
wall to the contained fluid is low as a re- following equivalent formulas are used to
evaluate these conditions where there are A´ = exposed surface area of the vessel,
sult of the resistance of the contained fluid in square feet.
or any internal insulating material. Heat in- prompt fire-fighting efforts and drainage of
put from an open fire to the bare outside flammable materials away from the vessel: P1 = upstream relieving pressure, in
surface of an unwetted vessel may, in pounds per square inch absolute.
q = 21,000FA-0.18 (D-1)
This is the set pressure plus the
time, be sufficient to heat the vessel wall
to a temperature high enough to rupture Q= 21,000FA0.82 (D-2) allowable overpressure plus the
the vessel. Figures D-1 and D-2 indicate atmospheric pressure.
Where adequate drainage and fire-fighting
how quickly an unwetted vessel wall might C = coefficient determined by the ratio of
equipment do not exist, Equation D-2 be-
be heated to rupture conditions. Figure the specific heats of the gas at stan-
comes the following [3]:
D-1 illustrates the rise in temperature that dard conditions. This can be obtained
occurs with time in the unwetted plates of Q = 34,500FA0.82 (D-1) from Figure 26 or Table 9.
various thicknesses exposed to open fire; KD = coefficient of discharge (obtainable
for example, an unwetted steel plate Where:
from the valve manufacturer). The
1-inch thick would take about 12 minutes q = average unit heat absorption, in British maximum allowable KD established
to reach approximately 1100°F and about thermal units per hour per square foot by ASME is 0.975.
17 minutes to reach 1300°F when the of wetted surface.
plate is exposed to an open fire. Tω = vessel wall temperature, in degrees
Q = total heat absorption (input) to the Rankine.
Figure D-2 shows the effect of overheat- wetted surface, in British thermal units
per hour. T1 = gas temperature, absolute, in de-
ing ASTM A 515, Grade 70 steel [4]. The grees Rankine, at the upstream
figure indicates that at a stress of 15,000 F = environment factor. (Values for various pressure, determined from the follow-
pounds per square inch, an unwetted types of insulation are shown in Table ing relationship:
steel vessel would rupture in about 7 D-3.)
hours at 1100°F and about 21/2 minutes A = total wetted surface, in square feet P1
at 1300°F.
T1 = ––– Tη
(see D.4). (The expression A-0.18, or Pη
1/A0.18, is the area exposure factor or
Where:
ratio. This ratio recognizes the fact
D.4 Effect of Fire on the Wetted Pη = normal operating gas pressure, in
that large vessels are less likely than
Surface of a Vessel pounds per square inch absolute.
small ones to be completely exposed
The surface area wetted by a vessel’s to the flame of an open fire.) Tη = normal operating gas temperature, in
internal liquid contents is effective in gen-
degrees Rankine.
erating vapor when the area is exposed to D.5.2 Heat Absorption Across the
fire. To determine vapor generation, only Unwetted Surface of a Vessel The recommended maximum vessel wall
that portion of the vessel that is wetted by D.5.2.1 Simple Equations temperature for the usual carbon steel
its internal liquid and is equal to or less See D.3 for a discussion of the effect of plate materials is 1100°F. Where vessels
than 25 feet above the source of flame fire on the unwetted surface of a vessel. are fabricated from alloy metals, the value
needs to be recognized. The term source for Tω should be changed to a more ap-
of flame usually refers to ground grade but The discharge areas for pressure relief propriate recommended maximum.
could be at any level at which a substan- valves on gas-containing vessels exposed
to open fires can be determined using the D.5.2.2 Rearrangement of Simple
tial spill or pool fire could be sustained.
following formula: Equations
Various classes of vessels are operated
The relief load can be calculated directly
only partially full. Table D-2 gives recom-
F´A´ in pounds per hour by rearranging Equation
mended portions of liquid inventory for A = ––––– (D-3)
––– 2 and substituting Equations D-3 and D-4,
use in calculations. Portions higher than √P1 which results in the following equation:
25 feet are normally excluded.
F´ can be determined from the following T –T )
(A´ (––––––––––
1.25
relationship. The recommended minimum W = 0.1406 √MP1

ω
T
1
)(D-5)
1.1506
D-5 Heat Absorption Equations value of F´ is 0.01; when the minimum
1
D.5.1 Heat Absorption Across the value is unknown, F´ = 0.045 should be Where:
Wetted Surface of a Vessel used. M = molecular weight of the gas.
The amount of heat absorbed by a vessel 0.1406 (Tω – T1)1.25 Z and Kb in Equation 2 are assumed to
exposed to open fire is markedly affected F´ = –––––– ––––––––––– (D-4)
CKD T10.6506 equal 1.
by the type of fuel feeding the fire, the de-

Technical Manual

Figure D-1 – Average Rate of Heating Steel Plates Exposed to Open
Gasoline Fire on One Side
Plate 1/8-inch thick (as computed)

1600
Plate temperature, degrees Fahrenheit (averaged over 24 square feet)

Plate 1/8-inch thick
1400 (as observed)
1200
1000
800
600
400
200
0
▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲
0 4 8 12 16 20 24
Minutes after start of fire

Technical Manual

Figure D-2 – Effect of Overheating Steel (ASTM A 515, Grade 70)
100
Rupture stress (pounds per square inch x 1000)
900°F
1000°F
1100°F
1200°F
10 1300°F
1400°
F
Oxida
tion e
ffect
1.0
0.1
▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲
0.01 0.1 1.0 10 100 1000
Time for rupture (hours at indicated temperature)
D.5.2.3 Discussion of Simple Equations relief valve will open at the set pressure, Where calculations indicate that rupture
The derivation of Equations D-3 and D-5 or if the pressure is set too high, the ves- would not occur prior to relief, a rupture
[5] is based on the physical properties of sel will rupture. With the loss of fluid on disk device could also be considered.
air and the perfect gas laws. The deriva- relief, the temperatures will further in-
The design should allow sufficient time for
tion assumes that the vessel is uninsulated crease at the relief pressure. If the fire is
operator action and initiation of fire-fight-
and has no mass, that the vessel wall of sufficient duration, the temperature will
ing procedures before possible vessel
temperature will not reach rupture stress, increase until vessel rupture occurs.
rupture. Operator action may include de-
and that there is no change in fluid tem- Procedures are available for estimating
pressuring, using water sprays, and
perature. These assumptions should be the changes in average vessel wall and
employing firewater monitors.
reviewed to ensure that they are appropri- contained fluid temperatures that occur
ate for any particular situation. with time and the maximum relieving rate D.6 Fluids To Be Relieved
at the set pressure [6, 7]. The procedures
D.5.2.4 More Rigorous Calculations A vessel may contain liquids or vapors or
require successive iteration.
When the assumptions in D.5.2.3 are not fluids of both phases. The liquid phase
appropriate, more rigorous methods of D.5.2.5 Additional Protective Measures may be subcritical at operating tempera-
calculation may be warranted. In such The determination may be made that a ture and pressure and may pass into the
cases, the necessary physical properties pressure relief valve will not provide suffi- critical or supercritical range during the
of the containing fluid may need to be ob- cient protection for an unwetted wall duration of a fire as the temperature and
tained from the actual data or estimated vessel, and vessel rupture could occur be- pressure in the vessel increase.
from equations of state. The effects of fore or too soon after initial relief. Where a
The quantity and composition of the fluid
vessel mass and insulation may need to pressure relief valve alone is not ade-
to be relieved during a fire depend on the
be considered. The pressure-relieving rate quate, additional protective measures
total heat input rate to the vessel under
is based on an unsteady state. As the fire should be considered, including insulation
this contingency and on the duration of
continues, the vessel wall temperature (D.8.3.1), water sprays (D.8.3.3), and de-
the fire.
and the contained gas temperature and pressuring (D.8.2) to avoid vessel rupture.
pressure increase with time. The pressure

Technical Manual

Table D-2
Wetted Surface Area of A Vessel Based on Fire Heat Absorbed
Class of Vessel Portion of Liquid Inventory Remarks

Liquid-full, such as treaters All up to the height of 25 feet —
Surge drums, knockout drums, process vessels Normal operating level up to the height of 25 feet —
Normal level in bottom plus liquid holdup from Level in reboiler is to be
Fractionating columns all trays; total wetted surface up to included if the reboiler is
the height of 25 feet an integral part of the column
Average inventory level up to For tanks of 15 psig operating pressure
Working storage
the height of 25 feet or less; see API Standard 2000
Up to the maximum horizontal diameter
Spheres and spheroids or up to the height of 25 feet, —
whichever is greater
The total heat input rate to the vessel may The latent-heat and molecular-weight the vessel and from the latent heat of liq-
be computed by means of one of the values used in calculating the rate of va- uid contained in the vessel becomes
formulas in Section D.5 using the appro- porization should pertain to the conditions invalid near the critical point of the fluid,
priate values for wetted or exposed that are capable of generating the maxi- where the latent heat approaches zero
surfaces and for the environment factor. mum vapor rate. and the sensible heat dominates.
Once the total heat input rate to the vessel The vapor and liquid composition may When no accurate latent-heat value is
is known, the quantity and composition of change as vapors are released from the available for these hydrocarbons near the
the fluid to be relieved can be calculated, system. As a result, temperature and la- critical point, a minimum value of 50
provided that enough information is avail- tent-heat values could change, thus British thermal units per pound is some-
able on the composition of the fluid affecting the required size of the pressure times acceptable as an approximation.
contained in the vessel. relief device. On occasion, a multicompo-
When pressure-relieving conditions are
nent liquid may be heated at a pressure
If the fluid contained in the vessel is not above the critical point, the rate of vapor
and temperature that exceed the criticals
completely specified, assumptions must discharge depends only on the rate at
for one or more of the individual compo-
be made to obtain a realistic relief flow which the fluid will expand as a result of
nents. For example, vapors that are
rate for the relief device. These assump- the heat input.
physically or chemically bound in solution
tions may include the following:
may be liberated from the liquid upon heat- D.6.2 Liquid
a. An estimation of the latent heat of ing. This is not a standard latent-heating
The hydraulic expansion formula given in
boiling liquid and the appropriate mole- effect but is more properly termed de-
Appendix C may be used to compute the
cular weight of the fraction vaporized. gassing or dissolution. Vapor generation is
initial liquid-relieving rate in a liquid-filled
determined by the rate of change in equi-
b. An estimation of the thermal expansion system when the liquid is still below its
librium caused by increasing temperature.
coefficient if the relieving fluid is a liquid boiling point. However, this rate is valid for
below its boiling temperature, a gas, or For these and other multicomponent mix- a very limited time, after which vapor gen-
a supercritical fluid. tures that have a wide boiling range, a eration will become the determining
time-dependent model may have to be de- contributor in the sizing of the pressure
D.6.1 Vapor veloped where the total heat input to the relief device.
For pressure and temperature conditions vessel not only causes vaporization but
There is an interim time period between
below the critical point, the rate of vapor also raises the temperature of the remain-
the liquid expansion and the boiling vapor
formation—a measure of the rate of vapor ing liquid, keeping it at its boiling point.
relief in which mixtures of both phases
relief required—is equal to the total rate
Reference 7 gives an example of a time- need to be relieved simultaneously, either
of heat absorption divided by the latent
dependent model used to calculate relief as flashing, bubble, slug, froth, or mist
heat of vaporization. The vapor to be re-
requirements for a vessel exposed to fire flow until sufficient vapor space is available
lieved is the vapor that is in equilibrium
that contains fluids near the critical range inside the vessel for phase separation.
with the liquid under conditions that exist
or above. This mixed-phase condition is usually ne-
when the valve is relieving at its accumu-
glected, but for some vessels, particularly
lated pressure. The recommended practice of finding a
overfilled steam drums or polymerization
relief vapor flow rate from the heat input to

Technical Manual

reactors, the limiting relieving contingency D.7 Data on Latent Heat of molecular-weight relationship as shown by
may be the factor that would determine Vaporization of Hydrocarbons the chart is not to be used in such cases;
the size of the relieving device. (See D.6.3 the molecular weight of the vapor should
for information about mixed-phase flow.) Different hydrocarbon liquids have differ- be determined from the vapor-liquid equi-
ent latent heats of vaporization even librium calculation.
Should a pressure relief device be located though hydrocarbons as a group behave
in the liquid zone of a vessel exposed to similarly to one another. The latent heat of For cases that involve mixtures of compo-
fire conditions, the pressure relief device vaporization of a pure single-component nents that have a wide boiling range or
must be able to pass a volume of liquid liquid decreases as the temperature at va- widely divergent molecular weights, a rig-
equivalent to the displacement caused by porization increases and the latent heat orous series of equilibrium calculations
vapor generated by the fire. becomes zero at the critical temperature may be required to estimate vapor gener-
and pressure for that liquid. ation rates, as discussed in D.6.1.
D.6.3 Mixed Phase
Figure D-3 shows the vapor pressures Other recognized sources [13] of latent-
As stated in D.6.2, mixed-phase flow may
and latent heats of the pure single-compo- heat data or methods of calculating latent
sometimes be the limiting relieving contin-
nent paraffin-hydrocarbon liquids. This heat of vaporization should be used where
gency and thus will determine the size of
chart is directly applicable to such liquids Figure D-3 does not apply.
the pressure relief device. This is particu-
larly true for reactors during runaway and applies as an approximation to paraf-
fin-hydrocarbon mixtures composed of D.8 Protecting Vessels Against Fire
reactions that may be caused by lack of
two components whose molecular weights Exposure
cooling or excess heat input (for example,
under fire). vary no more than propane to butane and The measures described in D.8.1 through
butane to pentane. D.8.3 for protecting vessels against fire
The Design Institute for Emergency Relief exposure are contingent on proper
Systems recently concluded an intensive The chart may also be applicable to isomer
drainage away from the vessel so that
research program to develop methods for hydrocarbons, aromatic or cyclic com-
pools of fuel cannot accumulate beneath
the design of emergency relief systems to pounds, or paraffin-hydrocarbon mixtures
them.
handle runaway reactions. The interested of components that have slightly divergent
reader is advised to study some introduc- molecular weights. The equilibrium temper- Improper drainage under fire conditions
tory publications [8-12] on this subject in ature should be calculated. Using the will limit the effectiveness of any of these
Chemical Engineering Progress, August relationship for the calculated temperature measures in reducing the intensity of heat
1985. versus vapor pressure, the latent heat can absorption by the vessels.
then be obtained from Figure D-3. The
Table D-3
Environment Factor Notes
1. These are suggested values for the condi-
Type of Equipment Factor F1 tions assumed in D.5.1. When these conditions
Bare vessel 1.0 do not exist, engineering judgment should be
exercised either in selecting a higher factor or in
Insulated vessel2 (These arbitrary insulation conductance providing means of protecting vessels from fire
values are shown as examples and are in British thermal exposure as suggested in D.8.
units per hour per square foot per degree Fahrenheit):
2. Insulation shall resist dislodgement by fire-
4 0.3 hose streams. For the examples, a temperature
difference of 1600°F was used. These conduc-
2 0.15
tance values are based on insulation having
1 0.075 thermal conductivity of 4 BTU/hr-Ft2-°F per inch
at 1600°F and correspond to various thickness-
0.67 0.05
es of insulation between 1 and 12 inches.
0.5 0.0376
3. See D.8.3.3.
0.4 0.03 4. See D.8.2.
0.33 0.026
Water-application facilities, on bare vessel3 1.0
Depressurizing and emptying facilities4 1.0

Technical Manual

D.8.1 Effectiveness of Pressure D.8.3 Methods of Limiting Heat D.8.3.2 Earth-Covered Storage
Relief Devices as Related to Fire Input From Fire Covering a pressure vessel with earth is
Exposure another effective method of limiting heat
D.8.3.1 External Insulation
input. The reduction of heat absorption
The effect of fire exposure on the unwet- Limiting the heat input from fires by exter-
due to the earth cover can be calculated
ted surface of vessels is described in nal insulation reduces both the rise of the
as suggested in D.8.3.1.
D.3. A pressure relief device does not vessel wall temperature and the genera-
prevent weakening and failure of a ves- tion of vapor inside the vessel. Insulation D.8.3.3 Cooling the Surface of a
sel that becomes locally overheated and may also reduce the problem of disposing Vessel With Water
overstressed at an unwetted surface. It of the vapors and the expense of providing Under ideal conditions, water films cover-
will only prevent the internal pressure an exceptionally large relieving system to ing the metal surface can absorb most
from rising beyond the allowable accu- conduct the effluent to a point of disposal. incident radiation. The reliability of water
mulation pressure. A vessel may be application depends on many factors.
The insulation must be fire resistant and
protected against such failure by (a) de- Freezing weather, high winds, clogged
protected from dislodgement by fire-hose
pressurizing the vessel and (b) limiting systems, undependable water supply, and
streams (see API Recommended Practice
the heat input. vessel surface conditions can prevent uni-
521).
form water coverage. Because of these
D.8.2 Depressuring Systems Where insulation or fireproofing is applied, uncertainties, no reduction in environment
Controlled depressuring of the vessel re- the heat absorption can be computed by factor (see Table D-3) is recommended;
duces internal pressure and stress in the assuming that the outside temperature of however, as stated previously, properly
vessel walls. It also guards against the po- the insulation jacket or other outer covering applied water can be very effective.
tential addition of fuel to the fire should the has reached an equilibrium temperature of
vessel rupture. The design of depressur- D.8.3.4 Limiting Fire Areas With
1660°F. With this temperature and the op-
ing systems should recognize the Diversion Walls
erating temperature for the inside of the
following factors: Diversion walls can be provided to deflect
vessel, together with the thickness and
vessel spills from other vessels.
a. Manual controls near the vessel may be conductivity of the fire-protection coating,
inaccessible during an emergency. the average heat transfer rate to the con-
tents can be computed. It must be kept in
b. Unless anticipated, automatic controls
mind that the thermal conductivity of the
could fail in a direction that would pre-
insulation increases with the temperature,
vent depressuring (for example, valves
and a mean value should be used.
that fail closed).
c. Early initiation of depressuring is desir- For insulated vessels, the environment
able to limit vessel stress to acceptable factor for insulation becomes the following:
levels commensurate with the vessel k (1660 – Tf)
wall temperature that results from a fire. F = ––––––––––––
21,000t
d. Safe disposal of vented streams must
be provided. Where:
e. No credit is recommended when k = thermal conductivity of insulation, in
safety valves are being sized for fire British thermal units per hour per
exposure. square foot per degree Fahrenheit per
inch at mean temperature.
Further information on depressuring is pro-
vided in API Recommended Practice 521. Tf = temperature of vessel contents at
relieving conditions, in degrees
Fahrenheit.
t = thickness of insulation, in inches.

Technical Manual
API - RP 520 Part II (July 1991) - Valve Installation

Excerpts from API - 520 Part II Installation
Section 1 – General or both. Vibration in inlet piping to a rup- Figure 1 – Typical Pressure Relief
ture disk may adversely affect the burst Valve Installation: Atmospheric
1.1 Scope
pressure and life of the rupture disk. (Open) Discharge
This recommended practice is intended to
cover methods of installation for pressure Detrimental effects of vibrations on the Weather cap may be required
relief devices for equipment that has a pressure relief device can be reduced by
maximum allowable working pressure minimizing the cause of vibrations, by ad-
ditional piping support, by use of either Long-radius elbow
(MAWP) of 15 pounds per square inch
gauge (psig) (1.03 barg) or greater. pilot-operated relief valves or soft-seated Pressure
Pressure relief valves or rupture disks may pressure relief valves, or by providing relief valve
be used independently or in combination greater pressure differentials between the Body drain
with each other to provide the required operating pressure and the set pressure. (See Note 1)
protection against excessive pressure ac-
cumulation. As used in this recommended
2.2 Pressure-Drop Limitations and
Nonrecoverable Support to
practice, the term pressure relief valve in- Piping Configurations losses resist weight
not more and reaction
cludes safety relief valves used in either For pressure-drop limitations and piping than 3 forces
compressible or incompressible fluid ser- configurations, see Figures 1-4. percent
of set
vice, and relief valves used in pressure
2.2.1 Pressure Loss at the Valve Inlet Vessel
incompressible fluid service. This recom-
Excessive pressure loss at the inlet of a
mended practice covers gas, vapor,
pressure relief valve can cause rapid
steam, and incompressible service; it does
opening and closing of the valve, or chat-
not cover special applications that require
tering. Chattering will result in lowered Normal pipe
unusual installation considerations. Low-point drain
capacity and damage to the seating sur- diameter no less
than valve inlet size (See Note 2)
1.2 Definition of Terms faces. The pressure loss that affects valve
performance is caused by non-recover-
The terminology for pressure relief de- Notes
able entrance losses (turbulent
vices that is used in this recommended
dissipation) and by friction within the inlet 1. See Section 6.
practice is in general agreement with the
piping to the pressure relief valve. 2. Orient low-point drain – or weep hole –
definitions given in ASME PTC 25.
away from relief valve, structural steel, and
Chattering has sometimes occurred due
operating area.
to acceleration of liquids in long inlet lines.
Section 2 – Inlet Piping
2.1 General Requirements 2.2.2 Size and Length of Inlet Piping
When a pressure relief valve is installed
For general requirements for inlet piping, Figure 2 – Typical Pressure Relief
on a line directly connected to a vessel,
see Figures 1 and 2.
the total non-recoverable pressure loss
Valve Installation: Closed System
between the protected equipment and the Discharge
2.1.1 Flow and Stress Considerations
Inlet piping to the pressure relief device pressure relief valve should not exceed 3 Bonnet vent
piping for
should provide for proper system perfor- percent of the set pressure of the valve bellows type
except as permitted in 2.2.3.1 for pilot-op- To closed system pressure relief
mance. This requires design consideration (self-draining) valves, if
of the flow-induced pressure drop in the erated pressure relief valves. When a required
pressure relief valve is installed on a (See Note 1)
inlet piping. Excessive pressure losses in
the piping system between the protected process line, the 3 percent limit should be Flanged spool
applied to the sum of the loss in the nor- piece, if
vessel and a pressure relief device will ad- required to
versely affect the system-relieving mally non-flowing pressure relief valve elevate PRV
capacity and can cause valve instability. In inlet pipe and the incremental pressure Nonrecoverable Nominal pipe
addition, the effect of stresses derived loss in the process line caused by the flow pressure losses diameter no
not more than 3 less than
from both pressure relief device operation through the pressure relief valve. The percent of set valve inlet
pressure loss should be calculated using pressure size
and externally applied loads must be con-
sidered. For more complete piping design the rated capacity of the pressure relief
valve. Pressure losses can be reduced Vessel
guidelines, see ASME B31.3.
materially by rounding the entrance to the
2.1.2 Vibration Considerations inlet piping, by reducing the inlet line
Most vibrations that occur in inlet piping length, or by enlarging the inlet piping.
systems are random and complex. These Keeping the pressure loss below 3 per-
vibrations may cause leakage at the seat cent becomes progressively more difficult
of a pressure relief valve, premature as the orifice size of a pressure relief Note
opening, or premature fatigue failure of valve increases.
certain valve parts, inlet and outlet piping, 1. See Section 5.

Technical Manual

Figure 3 – Typical Pressure Relief The nominal size of the inlet piping must 2.2.3.2 Installation Guidelines
Valve Mounted on Process Line be the same as or larger than the nominal Remote sensing lines should measure
size of the pressure relief valve inlet static pressure where the velocity is low.
See 2.2.2 for flange connection as shown in Figure 2. Otherwise, the pilot will sense an artificial-
pressure-loss ly low pressure due to the effect of
limitation An engineering analysis of the valve per-
velocity.
formance at higher inlet losses may permit
increasing the allowable pressure loss Ensure that the pilot sensing point is with-
above 3 percent. in the system protected by the main valve.
When a rupture disk device is used in For flowing pilots, remote sensing lines
combination with a pressure relief valve, shall be sized to limit the pressure loss to
the pressure-drop calculation must include 3 percent of the set pressure based on
the additional pressure drop developed by the maximum flow rate of the pilot at 110
the disk (see 2.6 for additional information percent of set pressure. Consult the man-
Pressure
Relief on rupture disk devices). ufacturer for recommendations.
Vessel Valve
2.2.3 Remote Sensing for Pilot For non-flowing pilots, remote sensing
Operated Pressure Relief Valves lines with a flow area of 0.070 square
Remote sensing for pilot-operated pres- inches (45 square millimeters) is sufficient
sure relief valves can be utilized when since no system medium flows through
there is excessive inlet pipe pressure loss this type of pilot when the main valve is
or when the main valve must be located at open and relieving.
a pressure source different from the pilot
Note Consider using pipe for remote sensing
sensing point because of service limita-
lines to ensure mechanical integrity.
1. See 2.2.2 for pressure-loss limitation.
tions of the main valve (see Figure 5).
If a block valve is installed in the remote
2.2.3.1 Inlet Pipe Loss
sensing line, the guidelines in Section 4
Remote sensing permits the pilot to sense
should be followed. A closed block valve in
the true system pressure upstream of the
a remote sense line renders the pressure
piping loss. Remote sensing may elimi-
relief valve inoperative.
Figure 4 – Typical Pressure Relief nate uncontrolled valve cycling or
chattering for a pop action pressure relief 2.2.4 Configuration of Inlet Piping for
Valve Mounted on Long Inlet Pipe
valve and will permit a modulating action Pressure Relief Valves
pressure relief valve to achieve full lift at Avoid the installation of a pressure relief
Pressure Relief
Valve the required overpressure. However, high valve at the end of a long horizontal inlet
Discharge inlet pressure losses may induce pressure pipe through which there is normally no
Piping pulsations in the inlet piping that can flow. Foreign matter may accumulate, or
cause uncontrolled main valve cycling. liquid may be trapped, creating interfer-
Some valves incorporate design features ence with the valve’s operation or requiring
to prevent uncontrolled cycling more frequent valve maintenance.
Inlet piping sized Although remote sensing may eliminate The inlet piping system to relief valves
so that pressure
drop from vessel valve chatter or permit a modulating valve should be free-draining from the pressure
to pressure relief to achieve full lift at the required overpres- relief device to prevent accumulation of
valve inlet flange
does not exceed sure, the relieving capacity will be reduced liquid or foreign matter in the piping.
3% of valve set by any pressure drop in the inlet pipe.
pressure
Vessel
Note
1. Inlet piping sized so that nonrecoverable
pressure losses form vessel to pressure
relief valve inlet flange do not exceed 3 per-
cent of valve set pressure.

Technical Manual

2.3 Inlet Stresses That Originate ing moments will cause excessive stress- Figure 5 – Typical Pilot-Operated
From Static Loads in the Discharge es on any of the components in the Pressure Relief Valve Installation
Piping system.
Improper design or construction of the dis- The magnitude of the reaction force will Main Valve
charge piping from a pressure relief differ substantially depending on whether Pilot
device can set up stresses that will be the installation is open or closed dis- Integral
transferred to the pressure relief device charge. When an elbow is installed in the pressure
and its inlet piping. These stresses may sensing
discharge system to direct the fluid up into
cause a pressure relief valve to leak or a vent pipe, the location of the elbow and
malfunction or may change the burst pres- any supports is an important consideration Optional
sure of a rupture disk. The pressure relief in the analysis of the bending moments. remote
pressure
device manufacturer should be consulted sensing
about permissible loads and moments. 2.4.1 Determining Reaction Forces in
an Open Discharge System
2.3.1 Thermal Stresses The following formula is based on a condi- Vessel
Fluid flowing from the discharge of a pres- tion of critical steady-state flow of a
sure-relieving device may cause a change compressible fluid that discharges to the
in the temperature of the discharge piping. atmosphere through an elbow and a verti-
A change in temperature may also be cal discharge pipe. The reaction force (F)
caused by prolonged exposure to the sun includes the effects of both momentum
or to heat radiated from nearby equip- and static pressure; thus, for any gas, va-
ment. Any change in the temperature of por, or steam, Note
the discharge piping will cause a change
English Units 1. See 2.2.3.
in the length of the piping and may cause
--------------------
√
stresses that will be transmitted to the W kT
pressure relief device and its inlet piping. F = –––– ––––––– + (AP)
The pressure relief device should be iso- 366 (k + 1)M
lated from piping stresses through proper Figure 6 – Typical Pressure Relief
support, anchoring, or flexibility of the dis- [Metric Units]
-------------------- Valve Installation With Vent Pipe
√
charge piping. kT
F = 129 W ––––––– + 0.1 (AP)
(k + 1)M F
2.3.2 Mechanical Stresses Vent Pipe Ao
Discharge piping should be independently (cross-
Where: Long-radius section
supported and carefully aligned. Elbow area)
F = reaction force at the point of dis-
Discharge piping that is supported by only
charge to the atmosphere, in pounds
the pressure relief device will induce
[newtons]. Pressure
stresses in the pressure relief device and Relief
the inlet piping. Forced alignment of the W = flow of any gas or vapor, in pounds Valve
discharge piping will also induce such per hour [kilograms per second].
stresses. k = ratio of specific heats (Cp/Cv).
Free support
2.4 Inlet Stresses That Originate Cp = specific heat at constant pressure. to resist weight
and reaction
From Discharge Reaction Forces Cv = specific heat at constant volume. forces.
The discharge of a pressure relief device T = temperature at inlet, in degrees Vessel

will impose a reaction force as a result of Rankine [in degrees Kelvin].
the flowing fluid (see Figure 6). This force
M = molecular weight of the process
will be transmitted into the pressure relief
fluid.
device and also into the mounting nozzle
and adjacent supporting vessel shell un- A = area of the outlet at the point of dis-
less designed otherwise. The precise charge, in square inches [square
magnitude of the loading and resulting millimeters]. Notes
stresses will depend on the reaction force P = static pressure within the outlet at 1. The support should be located as close as
and the configuration of the piping system. the point of discharge, in pounds per possible to the centerline of the vent pipe.
The designer is responsible for analyzing square inch gauge [bar gauge]. 2. F = reaction force
the discharge system to determine if the A = cross-sectional area.
reaction forces and the associated bend-

Technical Manual

Figure 7 – Typical Rupture Disk 2.4.2 Determining Reaction Forces in a Rupture disks are not available in all sizes
Assembly Installed in Combination Closed-Discharge System at lower pressures; therefore, for these
With a Pressure Relief Valve Pressure relief devices that relieve under low-pressure applications the available
steady-state flow conditions into a closed rupture disk may have to be larger than
system usually do not create large forces the nominal size of the inlet piping and
and bending moments on the exhaust sys- pressure relief valve.
tem. Only at points of sudden expansion
Refer to API Recommended Practice 520,
will there be any significant reaction forces
Part I, paragraphs 2.5 (Rupture Disks-
to be calculated. Closed-discharge sys-
General) and 2.6 (Rupture Disks in
tems, however, do not lend themselves to
Combination with Pressure Relief Valves)
simplified analytic techniques. A complex
for additional information.
time-history analysis of the piping system
may be required to obtain the true values 2.7 Process Laterals Connected to
of the reaction forces and associated mo-
Inlet Piping of Pressure Relief
ments.
Valves
2.5 Isolation Valves in Inlet Piping Process laterals should generally not be
Isolation valves located in the inlet piping connected to the inlet piping of pressure
to pressure relief devices shall be in ac- relief valves. Exceptions should be ana-
cordance with the guidelines in Section 4. lyzed carefully to ensure that the allowable
Pressure
Gauge pressure drop at the inlet of the pressure
2.6 Rupture Disk Devices in relief valve is not exceeded under simulta-
Combination with Pressure Relief neous conditions of rated flow through the
Valves pressure relief valve and maximum possi-
ble flow through the process lateral (see
A rupture disk device may be used as the
Figure 8).
sole pressure relief device, or it may be in-
stalled between a pressure relief valve 2.8 Turbulence in Pressure Relief
and the vessel or on the downstream side
Device Inlets
of a pressure relief valve (see Figure 7).
See 7.3 for information regarding the ef-
Bleed Valve For ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel fects of turbulence on pressure relief
Rupture disk
(See Note 1) Code applications, the capacity of a pres- valves.
Excess Flow Valve (optional) sure relief valve used in combination with
a rupture disk mounted as shown in Section 3 – Discharge Piping From
Figure 7 must be derated by 10 percent Pressure Relief Devices
Figure 8 – Installation Avoiding unless that particular combination has a 3.1 General Requirements
Process Laterals Connected to capacity factor derived from testing as list-
For general requirements for discharge
ed in the National Board of Boiler and
Pressure Relief Valve Inlet Piping piping, see Figures 1, 2, 6, and 9.
Pressure Vessel Inspectors’ publication,
Aviod process laterals Pressure Relief Device Certifications.
(See Note 1) The discharge piping installation must pro-
Pressure Relief vide for proper pressure relief device
When a rupture disk device is used be-
Valve performance and adequate drainage (free-
tween the pressure relief valve and the
draining systems are preferred - see
protected vessel, a pressure indicator,
Section 6). Consideration should be given
bleed valve, free vent, or suitable telltale
to the type of discharge system used, the
indicator should be provided to permit de-
back pressure on the pressure relief de-
tection of disk rupture or leakage. The
vice, and the set-pressure relationship of
user is cautioned that any pressure
the pressure relief devices in the system.
buildup between the rupture disk and the
pressure relief valve will increase the ves- Auto-refrigeration during discharge can
Vessel
sel pressure at which the rupture disk will cool the outlet of the pressure relief device
burst. and the discharge piping to the point that
brittle fracture can occur. Materials must
Only non-fragmenting rupture disk devices
be selected which are compatible with the
may be used beneath a pressure relief
expected temperature.
valve.
Note
1. See 2.7.

Technical Manual

3.2 Safe Disposal of Relieving 3.6 Isolation Valves in the Figure 9 – Typical Pressure Relief
Fluids Discharge Piping Valve Installation with an Isolation
For a comprehensive source of informa- Isolation valves located in the discharge Valve
tion about the safe disposal of various piping system shall be in accordance with
relieving fluids, see API Recommended the guidelines in Section 4. Isolation valve with
Practice 521. provision for car sealing or
locking open (not required
for atmosheric discharge)
3.3 Back Pressure Limitations and Section 4 – Isolation (stop) Valves (See Note 1) Bonnet vent piping
in Pressure Relief Piping for bellows type
Sizing of Pipe To closed pressure relief
system or valves, if required
When discharge piping for pressure relief 4.1 General atmoshperic (See Note 2)
valves is designed, consider the combined Block valves may be used to isolate a piping
effect of superimposed and built-up back pressure relief device from the equipment Typical
pressure on the operating characteristics blinding
it protects or from its downstream disposal points
of the pressure relief valves. The dis- system. Since improper use of block valve
charge piping system should be designed Bleed valve
may render a pressure relief device inop- installed on
so that the back pressure does not ex- valve body Bleed valve
erative, the design, installation, and
ceed an acceptable value for any (See Note 3)
management of these isolation block Isolation valve
pressure relief valve in the system. with provision
valves should be carefully evaluated to Nonrecoverable for car sealing
ensure that plant safety is not compro- pressure or locking open
When rupture disks are used as the sole losses not mor
relieving device and discharge into a mised. than 3 percent Flanged spool
of set pressure piece, if
closed system, the effect of the superim- required to
4.2 Application elevate PRV
posed back pressure on the bursting
pressure for the disk must be considered. If a pressure relief device has a service
history of leakage, plugging, or other Vessel
The rated capacity of the pressure relief severe problems which affect its perfor-
valve shall be used to size the discharge mance, isolation and sparing of the relief
line from the pressure relief valve to the device may be provided. This design strat-
relief header. Additional information on egy permits the pressure relief device to
sizing of discharge piping systems for va- be inspected, maintained, or repaired
por or gas service is covered in API without shutting down the process unit.
Recommended Practice 521. However, there are potential hazards as- d. When gate valves are used, they
sociated with the use of isolation valves. should be installed with stems oriented
3.4 Considerations for Pilot- The ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel horizontally or, if this is not feasible, the
Operated Pressure Relief Valves Code, Section VIII, Appendix M, discusses stem could be oriented downward to a
Superimposed back pressure that ex- proper application of these valves and the maximum of 45° from the horizontal to
ceeds the inlet pressure of a administrative controls which must be in keep the gate from falling off and block-
pilot-operated pressure relief valve can place when isolation block valves are ing the flow.
cause the main valve to open, allowing used. Local jurisdictions may have other
Consider painting the isolation valves a
reverse flow through the main valve. For requirements.
special color or providing other identifica-
example, backflow can occur if several
Additional examples of isolation valve in- tion.
pressure relief valves have their outlets
stallations are given in 4.4.
manifolded into a common discharge When isolation valves are installed in
header, and one or more of these valves 4.3 Isolation Valve Requirements pressure relief valve discharge piping, a
is discharging while another is connected means to prevent pressure buildup be-
In addition to previously noted inlet and
to a system with a lower inlet pressure. An tween the pressure relief valve and the
outlet pressure drop restrictions, all isola-
accessory should be specified that will isolation valve should be provided (for ex-
tion valves located in relief system piping
prevent such backflow. ample, a bleeder valve). Also, the
shall meet the following requirements:
installation of bleed valves should be con-
3.5 Stresses that Originate from sidered to enable the system to be
a. Valves shall be full bore.
Discharge Piping depressured prior to performing mainte-
The effects of stresses that originate from b. Valves shall be suitable for the line ser- nance on the system as shown in Figures
discharge piping are discussed in 2.3.1 vice classification. 9 through 12.
and 2.3.2. c. Valves shall have the capability of being
locked or carsealed open.

Technical Manual

Figure 10 – Typical Pressure Relief 4.4 Examples of Isolation Valve 5.2 Balanced Bellows Valves
Valve Installation Arrangement for Installations Balanced bellows valves are utilized in ap-
100 Percent Spare Relieving An isolation valve downstream of a pres- plications where it is necessary to
Capacity sure relief device may be installed at minimize the effect of back pressure on
battery limits of process units. This is illus- the set pressure and relieving capacity.
To closed (isolation valving trated in Figure 12. The purpose of battery This is done by balancing the effect of the
required) or atmosheric
discharge system limit isolation valves is to allow process back pressure on the top and bottom
units to be removed from service for main- sides of the disk. This requires the spring
tenance while other process units to operate at atmospheric pressure.
discharging into the main plant flare head-
The bonnets of bellows valves must al-
er remain in service.
ways be vented to ensure proper
Similarly, relief system isolation valves functioning of the valve and to provide a
may be used for equipment such as com- tell tale in the even of a bellows failure.
Nonrecoverable pressors, salt dryers, or coalescers, which The vent must designed to avoid plugging
pressure
losses not are spared and need to be shut down for caused by ice, insects, or other obstruc-
more than 3 maintenance while spare equipment re- tions. When the fluid is flammable, toxic,
percent of set
pressure mains online (see Figure 13). or corrosive, the bonnet vent may need to
be piped to a safe location.
4.5 Management Procedures 5.3 Balanced Piston Valves

Typical Related to Isolation Valves Balanced piston valves are utilized in ap-
bleed plications to minimize the effect of back
valve Strict management procedures should be
in place that will prohibit the inadvertent pressure, similar to the balanced bellows
closing of isolation valves in relief piping. valve. Proper operation depends on can-
Vessel cellation of the back pressure effect on
These procedures should require that the
opening and closing of the valves be done opposing faces of the valve disk and bal-
by an authorized person. ance piston. Since the piston area is equal
to the nozzle seat area, the spring must
An updated list should be kept of all isola- operate at atmospheric pressure.
tion valve located in relief piping which
Consider the installation of an additional could isolate relief valves. Documentation Because of the flow of system media past
relief device, so that 100 percent design of the required position and reason for the the piston, the bonnets of balanced piston
relieving capacity is available while any lock or seal should be provided. valves should always be vented to atmos-
relief device is out of service. Examples of phere at a safe location. The amount of
Periodic inspections of isolation valves lo- flow past the piston into the bonnet de-
this type of installation are shown in
cated in relief piping should be made pends on the pressure differential
Figures 10 and 11. Consider storing the
which verify the position of valves and the between the valve outlet and bonnet. In
spare valve until needed to preserve its in-
condition of the locking or sealing device. an installation where superimposed back
tegrity and allow bench testing just prior to
installation. pressure of built-up back pressure is high,
Section 5 – Bonnet or Pilot Vent the flow past the piston could be substan-
When spare relief devices are provided, a Piping tial. This factor must be considered in the
mechanical interlock or interlocking proce- design of the bonnet venting.
dure shall be provided which manages 5.1 Conventional Valves
proper opening and closing sequences of The two types of conventional valves are: 5.4 Pilot-Operated Valves
the isolation valves to ensure that over- The pilot is often vented to the atmosphere
pressure protection of the vessel or a. Open spring, often used in steam ser- under operating conditions, since the dis-
equipment is not compromised. Typically vice. charge during operation is small. When
the inlet isolation valves for spare relief vent discharge to the atmosphere is not
b. Closed spring, where the bonnet en-
valves are closed. permissible, the pilot should be vented ei-
closing the spring is vented internally to
Three-way isolation valves are acceptable the pressure relief valve discharge. The ther to the discharge piping or through a
provided the installation meets the size bonnet normally has a tapped vent that supplementary piping system to a safe lo-
and inlet pressure drop requirements. is closed off with a threaded plug. cation. When vent piping is designed, avoid
the possibility of back pressure on the pilot
unless the pilot is a balanced design.

Technical Manual

Section 6 – Drain Piping the set pressure of the pressure relief Figure 12 – Typical Flare Header
valve or burst pressure of a rupture disk, Block Valves
6.1 Installation Conditions that
the pressure relief device should be locat-
Require Drain Piping ed farther from the source and in a more Battery Process unit flare header
Drain piping is normally not required on limit block valve (See Note 1)
stable pressure region. (See Section 2 for
pressure relief valves at the valve body Process unit relief header
information related to this subject.) (self draining)
connection provided for this purpose. The Isolation blind point
outlet piping to closed systems should be 7.3 Proximity to Other Equipment (See Note 2)
self-draining to a liquid disposal point, Pressure relief devices should not be lo-
thereby eliminating the need for a drain cated where unstable flow patterns are
from the valve. Drainage must be provid- present (see Figure 14). The branch en- To main
ed when the discharge is not self-draining flare header
trance where the relief device inlet piping
and the valve is located where liquids joins the main piping run should have a
Pressure relief
could accumulate at the valve outlet. well-rounded, smooth corner that mini- valve installation
mizes turbulence and resistance to flow. (See Note 4)
6.2 Safe Practice for Installation of
Drain Piping When pressure relief branch connections
Since drain piping becomes part of the en- are mounted near equipment that can
tire venting system, precautions that apply cause unstable flow patterns, the branch
to the discharge system apply similarly to connection should be mounted down-
the drain piping. The drain-piping installa- stream at a distance sufficient to avoid the
tion must not adversely affect the valve unstable flow. Examples of devices that
cause unstable flow are discussed in 7.3.1 Pressure Pressure
performance, and flammable, toxic, or cor- vessel A vessel B
rosive fluids must be piped to a safe through 7.3.3.
location. 7.3.1 Reducing Stations Pressure relief valve
Pressure relief devices are often used to installation (See Note 3)
Section 7 – Pressure Relief Device protect piping downstream from pressure

reducing valves, where unstable flow usu- Notes
Location and Position
ally occurs. Other valves and 1. See 4.4.
7.1 Inspection and Maintenance appurtenances in the system may also 2. See Figure 8.
For optimum performance, pressure relief disturb the flow. This condition cannot be 3. See Figures 10 and 11.
devices must be serviced and maintained evaluated readily, but unstable flow at 4. See Figures 2 and 9.
regularly. Details for the care and servic- valve inlets tends to generate instability.
ing of specific pressure relief devices are
7.3.2 Orifice Plates and Flow Nozzles Additionally, another position may permit
provided in the manufacturer's mainte-
Proximity to orifice plates and flow nozzles liquids to collect in the spring bonnet.
nance bulletins and in API Recommended
may cause adverse operation of the pres- Solidification of these liquids around the
Practice 576. Pressure relief devices
sure relief devices. spring may interfere with the valve opera-
should be located for easy access, re-
moval, and replacement so that servicing tion.
7.3.3 Other Valves and Fittings
can be properly handled. Sufficient work- Proximity to other fittings, such as elbows, 7.5 Test or Lifting Levers
ing space should be provided around the may create turbulent areas that could re-
pressure relief device. Test or lifting levers should be provided on
sult in adverse performance of pressure
pressure relief valves as required by the
relief devices.
7.2 Proximity to Pressure Source applicable code. Where simple levers are
The pressure relief device should normally 7.4 Mounting Position provided, they should hang downward,
be placed close to the protected equip- and the lifting fork must not contact the lift-
Pressure relief valves should be mounted
ment so that the inlet pressure losses to ing nuts on the valve spindle. Uploads
in a vertical upright position. Installation of
the device are within the allowable limits. caused by the lifting-mechanism bearing
a pressure relief valve in other than a ver-
For example, where protection of a pres- on the spindle will cause the valve to open
tical upright position may adversely affect
sure vessel is involved, mounting the below the set pressure. The lifting mecha-
its operation. The valve manufacturer
pressure relief device directly on a nozzle nism should be checked to ensure that it
should be consulted about any other
on top of the vessel may be necessary. does not bind on the valve spindle.
mounting position, since mounting a pres-
However, on installations that have pressure relief valve in other positions may Where it is necessary to have the test
sure fluctuations at the pressure source cause a shift in the set pressure and a re- lever in other than a vertical position, or
(as with valves on a positive displacement duction in the degree of seat tightness. where the test lever is arranged fro remote
compressor discharge) that peak close to

Technical Manual

Figure 13 – Typical Isolation Block Valves for Spare Compressor Section 9 – Multiple Pressure
Relief Valves with Staggered
Pulsation dampners Settings
Isolation block valves (See Note 1)
Normal practice is to size a single pres-

From spare sure relief valve to handle the maximum
compressor Compressor relief headers Isolation blind points relief from a piece of equipment. However,
for some systems, only a fraction of that
amount must be relieved through the
Bleed valve
pressure relief valve during mild upsets. If
the fluid volume under a pressure relief
valve is insufficient to sustain the flow, the
valve operation will be cyclic and will re-
Process unit sult in poor performance. The valve's
1 2 3 flare header ability to reseat tightly may be affected.
When capacity variations are frequently

encountered in normal operation, one al-
ternate is the use of multiple, smaller
pressure relief valves with staggered set-
tings. With this arrangement, the pressure
First stage Second stage Third stage
relief valve with the lowest setting will be
capable of handling minor upsets, and ad-
ditional pressure relief valves will be put in
Note operation as the capacity requirement in-
1. See 4.4.
creases.
zle should be thoroughly cleaned to re-
move any foreign material that may cause For inlet piping to multiple relief valves,
manual operation, the lever should be leakage. Where pressure relief devices the piping which is common to multiple
counterbalanced so that the lifting mecha- are too heavy to be readily lifted by hand, valves must have a flow area which is at
nism, unless actuated, does not exert any the use of proper handling devices will least equal to the combined inlet areas of
force on the valve spindle lifting nut. avoid damage to the flange gasket facing. the multiple pressure relief valves con-
Ring joint and tongue-and-groove facings nected to it.
In lieu of lifting levers for pilot-operated should be handled with extreme care so
pressure relief valves, means may be Refer to API Recommended Practice 520,
that the mating sections are not damaged.
specified for connecting and applying ade- Part I, to determine set pressure of the
quate pressure to the pilot to verify that 8.2 Proper Gasketing and Bolting pressure relief valves based on maximum
the moving parts critical to proper opera- for Service Requirements allowable pressure accumulation for multi-
tion are free to move. ple valve installations.
The gasket used must be dimensionally
correct for the specific flanges; they must An alternate to the use of multiple pres-
7.6 Heating Tracing and Insulation
fully clear the pressure relief device inlet sure relief valves with staggered settings
For materials which are highly viscous, and outlet openings. is the use of a modulating pilot-operated
could result in corrosion upon cooling,
relief valve.
or could potentially solidify in pressure Gaskets, flange facings, and bolting
relief valves, adequate heat tracing or in- should meet the service requirements for
sulation should be provided for both inlet the pressure and temperature involved. Section 10 – Preinstallation
and outlet piping. Ensure that the valve This information can be obtained by refer- Handling and Inspection
nameplate and any discharge vent port are ring to other national standards and to
manufacturers’ technical catalogs. 10.1 Storage and Handling of
not covered when the valve is insulated.
Pressure Relief Devices
When a rupture disk device is installed in Because cleanliness is essential to the
Section 8 – Bolting and Gasketing the pressure relief system, the flange gas- satisfactory operation and tightness of a
ket material and bolting loads may be pressure relief valve, take precautions to
8.1 Care in Installation
critical. The disk manufacturer’s instruc- keep out all foreign materials. Valves
Before a pressure relief device is installed, tions should be followed for proper should be closed off properly at both inlet
the flanges on the pressure relief valve or performance. and outlet flanges. Take particular care to
rupture disk holder and the mounting noz-
keep the valve inlet absolutely clean.

Technical Manual

Pressure relief valves should, when possi- Rupture disks should be checked for Figure 14 – Typical Installation
ble, be stored indoors on pallets away physical damage to the seating surfaces Avoiding Unstable Flow Patterns at
from dirt and other forms of contamination. or the prebulged disk area. Damaged or Pressure Relief Valve Inlet
dented disk should not be used. Apply the
Pressure relief devices should be handled
proper installation and torquing procedure
carefully and should not be subjected to
as recommended by the rupture disk de-
shocks, which can result in considerable
vice manufacturer.
internal damage or misalignment. For
valves seat tightness may be adversely On reverse-buckling disk that have knife-
affected. Ruptured disks should be stored blade assemblies, the knife blades must
in the original shipping container. be checked for physical damage and
sharpness. Nicked or dull blades must not
10.2 Inspection and Testing of be used. Damaged rupture disk holders
Pressure Relief Valves must be replaced.
The condition of all pressure relief valves
should be visually inspected before instal- 10.4 Inspection and Cleaning of Inlet
Systems Before Installation flanges
lation. Consult the manufacturer’s
instruction manuals for details relating to Because foreign materials that pass into Inlet pipe
the specific valve. Ensure that all protec- and through pressure relief valves can
tive material on the valve flanges and any damage the valve, the systems on which Rounded
extraneous materials inside the valve the valves are tested and finally installed entry branch
connection
body and nozzle are completely removed. must also be inspected and cleaned. New
Bonnet shipping plugs must be removed systems in particular are prone to contain
from balanced pressure relief valves. The welding beads, pipe scale, and other for-
inlet surface must be cleaned, since foreign objects that inadvertently get trapped
eign materials clinging to the inside of the during construction and will destroy the Flow Run Pipe
nozzle will be blown across the seats seating surface when the valve opens.
when the valve is operated. Some of The system should be thoroughly cleaned
these materials may damage the seats or before the pressure relief valve is in-
get trapped between the seats in such a stalled. D
way that they cause leakage. Valves
Pressure relief devices should be re-
should be tested before installation to con-
moved or isolated before hydrotesting or
firm set pressure.
pneumatic pressure testing of the system,
either by blanking or closing an isolation Note
10.3 Inspection of Rupture Disk
Devices valve. If an isolation valve is used, the 1. D is typically not less than 10 pipe diameters
flange at the pressure relief device should from any device that causes unstable flow.
All rupture disk devices should be thor-
be wedged open or a bleed valve provid-
oughly inspected before installation,
ed so that inadvertent leaking through the
according to the manufacturer’s instruc-
isolation valve does not damage the pres-
tion manuals. The seating surfaces of the
sure relief device.
rupture disk holder must be clean,
smooth, and undamaged.

Technical Manual
Following is an Excerpt from NACE MR0175-95,

API - RP 521, and API - RP 527

Technical Manual
NACE MR0175-95 Excerpts on Valve Materials
Section 3: Ferrous Metals as described in NACE Standard TM0177 pipe is acceptable only where permitted in
Ferrous metals shall meet the require- are accepted test specimens. Any of these API specifications. Cold-worked line pipe
ments of this section if they are to be specimens may be used. fittings of ASTM A 53 Grade B, ASTM A
exposed to sour environments (defined in 106 Grade B, API 5L Grade X-42, or
(2) A minimum of three specimens from
Paragraph 1.3). lower-strength grades with similar chemi-
each of three different commercially pre-
cal compositions are acceptable with cold
pared heats must be tested in the
3.1 General strain equivalent to 15% or less, provided
(heat-treated) condition balloted for
The susceptibility to SSC of most ferrous the hardness in the strained area does not
MR0175 inclusion. The composition of
metals can be strongly affected by heat exceed 190 HB.
each heat and the heat treatment(s) used
treatment, cold work, or both. The follow- shall be furnished as part of the ballot. 3.2.3 Tubulars and tubular components
ing paragraphs describe heat treatments The candidate material’s composition made of low-alloy steels in the Cr, Mo se-
for specific materials that have been found range and/or UNS number and its heat- ries (AISI 41XX and its modifications) are
to provide acceptable resistance to SSC. treated condition requested for inclusion in acceptable at a 26 HRC maximum hard-
MR0175 must be included with the ballot. ness, provided they are in the quenched
3.2 Carbon and Low-Alloy Steels
and tempered condition.
3.2.1 All carbon and low-alloy steels are (3) The Rockwell hardness of each speci-
acceptable at 22 HRC maximum hardness men must be determined and reported as 3.2.3.1 Careful attention to chemical com-
provided they (1) contain less than 1% part of the ballot. The average hardness of position and heat treatment is required to
nickel, (2) meet the criteria of Paragraphs each specimen shall be the hardness of ensure SSC resistance of these alloys at
3.2.2, 3.3, and Section 5, and (3) are used that specimen. The minimum specimen greater than 22 HRC. Accordingly, it is
in one of the following heat-treat conditions: hardness obtained for a given heat/condi- common practice, when using these alloys
tion shall be the hardness of that heat/ at above 22 HRC, for the user to conduct
(a) hot-rolled (carbon steels only); condition for the purpose of balloting. The SSC tests (in accordance with Paragraph
(b) annealed; maximum hardness requested for inclu- 1.6) to determine that the material is
sion of the candidate material in MR0175 equivalent in SSC performance to similar
(c) normalized;
must be specified in the ballot and should materials that have given satisfactory ser-
(d) normalized and tempered; be supported by the data provided. vice in sour environments.
(e) normalized, austenitized, quenched,
(4) Further, in order for the material/ condi- 3.2.3.2 If tubulars and tubular components
and tempered; or
tion to be considered for acceptance, it is are cold straightened at or below 510°C
(f) austenitized, quenched, and required that, for each of the commercial (950°F), they shall be stress relieved at a
tempered. heats tested, stress intensity values, etc. minimum of 480°C (900°F).
3.2.1.1 Forgings produced in accordance (as applicable to the test method used), of
all tests shall also be reported as part of 3.3 Free Machining Steels
with the requirements of ASTM A 105 are
acceptable, provided the hardness does the ballot item when submitted. 3.3.1. Free-machining steels shall not be
not exceed 187 HB maximum. used.
3.2.2 The metal must be thermally stress
3.2.1.2 Acceptance criteria: Wrought car- relieved following any cold deforming by 3.4 Cast Iron
bon and low-alloy steels with a hardness rolling, cold forging, or another manufactur-
3.4.1 Gray, austenitic, and white cast irons
greater than HRC 22 that are not other- ing process that results in a permanent,
are not acceptable for use as a pressure-
wise covered by this materials outer fiber deformation greater than 5%.
containing member. These materials may
requirement standard must meet the fol- Thermal stress relief shall be performed in
be used in internal components related to
lowing minimum criteria for balloting prior accordance with the ASME Code, Section
API and other appropriate standards, pro-
to inclusion in this document. These crite- VIII, Division I, except that the minimum
vided their use has been approved by the
ria are necessary but may not be sufficient stress relief temperature shall be 595°C
purchaser.
conditions for inclusion in all cases. (1100°F). The component shall have a
hardness of 22 HRC maximum. 3.4.2 Ferritic ductile iron ASTM A 395
(1) The candidate steel must be tested in is acceptable for equipment when API,
accordance with the test procedures es- 3.2.2.1 This requirement does not apply to
ANSI, and/or other industry standards
tablished in NACE Standard TM0177 pipe grades listed in Table 3 or cold work
approve its use.
(latest revision). The tensile bar, O-ring, imparted by pressure testing per the ap-
bent beam, and double cantilever beam plicable code. Cold-rotary straightened

Technical Manual
3.5 Austenitic Stainless Steels1 3.5.5 Wrought austenitic stainless steel 3.7.1.2 Subsequent to cold deformation
3.5.1 Austenitic stainless steels with UNS S31254 is acceptable in the an- (see Paragraph 3.2.2) the material shall
chemical compositions as specified in nealed or cold-worked condition at a be furnace stress relieved at 620°C
accordance with the standards listed in hardness level of 35 HRC maximum. (1150°F) minimum to 22 HRC maximum
Table 1, either cast or wrought, are ac- hardness.
3.5.6 Austenitic stainless steel UNS
ceptable at a hardness of 22 HRC N08367 is acceptable in the absence of 3.7.2 Low-Carbon Martensitic Stainless
maximum in the annealed condition pro- free elemental sulfur at 22 HRC or less at Steels
vided they are free of cold work designed temperatures below 150°C (302°F) when
to enhance their mechanical properties. 3.7.2.1 Cast and wrought low-carbon
the salinity does not exceed 5,000 mg/L
martensitic stainless steels meeting the
3.5.2 Austenitic stainless steel UNS and the H2S partial pressure does not ex-
chemistry requirements of ASTM A 487
S20910 is acceptable at 35 HRC maximum ceed 0.31 MPa (45 psia).
Grade CA6NM and UNS S42400 are ac-
hardness in the annealed or hot-rolled ceptable to HRC 23 maximum provided
3.6 Ferritic Stainless Steels
(hot/cold-worked) condition, provided it is they are heat treated per Paragraph
free of subsequent cold work designed to 3.6.1 Ferritic stainless steels are accept-
3.7.2.1.1.3
enhance its mechanical properties. able at a 22 HRC maximum hardness,
provided they are in the annealed condi- 3.7.2.1.1 Heat-Treat Procedure (Three-
3.5.3 Austenitic stainless steel alloy UNS tion and meet the criteria of Section 5. Step Process)
N08020 is acceptable in the annealed or Acceptable ferritic stainless steels are list-
cold-worked condition at a hardness level ed in Table 1. (1) Austenitize at 1010°C (1850°F) mini-
of 32 HRC maximum. mum and air or oil quench to ambient
3.7 Martensitic Stainless Steels 2 temperature;
3.5.4 Cast CN7M meeting ASTM A 351, A
3.7.1 Martensitic stainless steels, as listed (2) Temper at 648° to 690°C (1200° to
743, or A 744 is acceptable for nondown-
in Table 1, either cast or wrought, are ac- 1275°F) and air cool to ambient tempera-
hole applications in the following
ceptable at 22 HRC maximum hardness ture;
conditions (there are no industry stan-
provided they are heat treated per
dards that address these melting and
Paragraph 3.7.1.1 and meet the criteria of (3) Temper at 593° to 620°C (1100° to
casting requirements):
Section 5. Martensitic stainless steels that 1150°F) and air cool to ambient tempera-
(1) solution-annealed at 1121°C (2050°F) are in accordance with this standard have ture.
minimum or solution-annealed at 1121°C provided satisfactory field service in some
(2050°F) minimum and welded with AWS sour environments. These materials may, 3.8 Precipitation-Gardening
E320LR or ER320LR; however, exhibit threshold stress levels in Stainless Steels 1
NACE Standard TM0177 that are lower 3.8.1 Wrought UNS S17400 martensitic
(2) the castings must be produced from than those for other materials included in precipitation-hardening stainless steel is
argon-oxygen decarburization (AOD) re- this standard. acceptable at 33 HRC maximum hardness
fined heats or remelted AOD refined provided it has been heat treated in
heats. The use of scraps, such as turnings, 3.7.1.1 Heat-Treat Procedure (Three-Step
accordance with Paragraph 3.8.1.1 or
chips, and returned materials is prohibited Process)
Paragraph 3.8.1.2. Precipitation-hardening
unless melting is followed by AOD refining; martensitic stainless steels that are in ac-
(1) Normalize or austenitize and quench.
(3) the CN7M composition listed in ASTM cordance with this standard have provided
(2) Temper at 620°C (1150°F) minimum; satisfactory field service in some sour
A 351, A 743, or A 744 shall be further re-
then cool to ambient temperature. environments. These materials may, how-
stricted to 0.03 percent maximum carbon,
1.00% maximum silicon, 3.0 to 3.5% cop- (3) Temper at 620°C (1150°F) minimum, ever, exhibit threshold stress levels in
per, 0.015% maximum sulfur, 0.030% but lower than the first tempering temper- NACE Standard TM0177 that are lower
maximum phosphorous, and 0.05 percent ature, then cool to ambient temperature. than those of other materials included in
maximum aluminum; and this standard.
(4) at a hardness level of 22 HRC

maximum.
Notes
1. These materials may be subject to chloride 3. The hardness correlation tabulated in ASTM
SCC in certain environments. E 140 does not apply to CA6NM or UNS
2. Valve manufacturers generally do not use S42400. When hardness is measured in
these material for valve stems or other high- Brinell units, the permissible BHN limit is
ly stressed components in sour service. 255 maximum, which has been empirically
determined to be equivalent to HR 23 for
these alloys.

Technical Manual
3.8.1.1 Double Age at 620°C (1150°F). (1) Solution anneal; Section 4: Nonferrous Metal 4–6
(1) Solution anneal at 1040°C ± 14°C (2) Precipitation harden at 620°C (1150°F) 4.1 General.
(1900°F ± 25°F) and air cool, or suitable minimum for 4 hours. Nonferrous metal referenced in this sec-
liquid quench, to below 32°C (90°F). tion and meeting the stated requirements
3.9 Duplex Stainless Steels1 for both condition and hardness are accept-
(2) Harden at 620°C ± 14°C (1150°F ±
3.9.1 The wrought duplex (austenitic/ferrit- able for use in sour environments (defined
25°F) for 4 hours minimum and cool in air.
ic) stainless steels listed in Table 1 are in Paragraph 1.3). See also Table 2.
(3) Cool material to below 32°C (90°F) be- acceptable 28 HRC maximum in the solu-
tion-annealed condition. 4.1.1 Nickel-Copper Alloys
fore the second precipitation-hardening
step. 4.1.1.1 UNS N04400, ASTM A 494 Grades
3.9.2 The cast duplex (austenitic/ferritic)
stainless steel Z6CNDU20.08M, NF A M-35-1 and M-35-2, and UNS N04405 are
(4) Harden at 620°C ± 14°C (1150°F ±
320-55 French National Standard is ac- acceptable to 35 HRC maximum.
25°F) for 4 hours minimum at temperature
and cool in air. ceptable at hardness levels of 17 HRC 4.1.1.2 UNS N05500 is acceptable to 35
maximum in the annealed and quenched HRC maximum in each of the three follow-
3.8.1.2 Heat-Treat Procedure (Three-Step condition provided the ferrite content is ing conditions: (1) hot-worked and
Process) 25 to 40%. The annealing shall be at a age-hardened; (2) solution-annealed; and
(1) Solution anneal at 1040°C ± 14°C temperature of 1150°C ± 10°C (2100°F (3) solution-annealed and age-hardened.
(1900°F ± 25°F) and air cool, or suitable ± 20°F) and shall be followed by a rapid
quench to avoid the precipitation of sigma 4.1.2 Nickel-lron Chromium Alloys
liquid quench, to below 32°C (90°F).
phase.
4.1.2.1 UNS N08800 is acceptable to 35
(2) Harden at 760°C ± 14°C (1400°F ±
3.9.3 Wrought duplex stainless steel UNS HRC maximum.
25°F) for 2 hours minimum at temperature
and cool in air to below 32°C (90°F) be- S32404 (0.1% to 0.2% nitrogen) is accept-
4.1.3 Nickel-lron-Chromium-Molybdenum
fore second precipitation-hardening step. able at 20 HRC maximum in the
Alloys
solution-annealed condition.
(3) Precipitation harden at 620°C ± 14°C 4.1.3.1 UNS N08825, UNS N06007, and
(1150°F ± 25°F) for 4 hours minimum at 3.9.4 Solution-annealed and cold-worked
wrought UNS N06975 are acceptable to
temperature and cool in air. UNS S31803 is acceptable for use at any
35 HRC maximum; UNS N06950 is ac-
temperature up to 232°C (450°F) in sour
ceptable to 38 HRC maximum; and UNS
3.8.2 Austenitic precipitation-hardening environments if the partial pressure of hy-
N06985 is acceptable to HRC 39 maximum.
stainless steel with chemical composition drogen sulfide does not exceed 0.002
in accordance with UNS S66286 is ac- MPa (0.3 psia), the yield strength 4.1.3.2 UNS N09925 is acceptable in
ceptable at 35 HRC maximum hardness of the materials is not greater than 1100 each of the five following conditions: (1)
provided it is in either the solution-an- MPa (160 ksi) and its hardness is not cold-worked to 35 HRC maximum; (2) so-
nealed and aged or solution annealed and greater than 36 HRC. lution-annealed to 35 HRC maximum; (3)
double-aged condition. solution-annealed and aged to 38 HRC
3.9.5 Wrought duplex stainless steel UNS
maximum; (4) cold-worked and aged to 40
3.8.3 Wrought UNS S45000 martensitic S32750 is acceptable at 32 maximum in
HRC maximum; and (5) hot-finished and
precipitation-hardening stainless steel is the solution-annealed condition in sour
aged to 40 HRC maximum.
acceptable at 31 HRC maximum hardness environments up to 232°C (450°F) if the
provided it has been heat treated per H2S partial pressure does not exceed 4.1.3.3 UNS N08024 to 32 HRC maximum.
Paragraph 3.8.3.1 0.010 MPa (1.5 psia).
3.8.3.1 Heat-Treat Procedure (Two-Step
Process)
Notes
4. These materials may be subject to SCC fail- hydrogen embattlement when strengthened
ure when highly stressed and exposed to by cold work and stressed in the transverse
sour environments or some well-stimulating direction.
acids either with or without inhibitors. 6. Plastic deformation in service may increase
5. Some of the materials in the wrought condi- the SSC susceptibility of these alloys.
tion may be susceptible to failure by

Technical Manual
4.1.3.4 UNS N08028 in the solution-an- N06022 is acceptable in the solution- dress these melting and casting require-
nealed and cold-worked condition to 33 annealed or solution-annealed plus cold- ments):
HRC maximum. worked conditions to 40 HRC maximum.
(1) solution-annealed at 1232 ± 14°C
4.1.3.5 Nickel-iron-chromium-molybde- 4.1.5.2.1 Alloy UNS N10276 is also ac- (2250°F ± 25°F) or solution-annealed at
num-tungsten alloy UNS N06030 is ceptable in the cold-worked and unaged 1232°C ± 14 °C (2250°F ± 25°F) and
acceptable in the solution-annealed or condition at 45 HRC maximum when used welded with AWS ENiCrMo-7, ERNiCrMo-
solution-annealed plus cold-worked condi- at a minimum temperature of 121°C 7, ENiCrMo-10, or ERNiCrMo-10;
tion to a maximum hardness of HRC 41. (250°F).
(2) the castings must be produced by ar-
4.1.3.6 UNS N07048 is acceptable in the 4.1.5.3 Wrought UNS N07718 is accept- gon-oxygen decarburization (AOD)
solution annealed, solution-annealed and able in each of the five following refined heats, remelted AOD refined
aged, or direct-aged condition to HRC 4O conditions: (1 ) solution-annealed to 35 heats, or virgin remelt stock. The use of
maximum. HRC maximum; (2) hot-worked to 35 HRC scrap, such as turnings, chips, and re-
maximum; (3) hot-worked and aged to 35 turned material is prohibited unless
4.1.3.7 UNS N08535 is acceptable in the
HRC maximum; (4) solution-annealed and followed by AOD refining;
solution-annealed and cold-worked condi-
aged to 40 HRC maximum; and (5) cast,
tion to 35 HRC maximum. (3) the CW2M composition listed in ASTM
solution-annealed, and aged condition to
A 494 shall be further restricted to 0.015%
4.1.3.8 Wrought UNS N08042 is accept- 40 HRC maximum.
maximum sulfur and 0.05% maximum alu-
able in the solution-annealed or
4.1.5.4 UNS N07031 is acceptable in minum; and
solution-annealed plus cold-worked condi-
each of the two following conditions: (1)
tions to HRC 31 maximum when the (4) at a hardness level of 22 HRC maxi-
solution-annealed condition to 35 HRC
service environment does not contain ele- mum.
maximum; and (2) solution-annealed and
mental sulfur.
aged at 760° to 870°C (1400° to 1600°F) 4.1.6 Cobalt-Nickel-Chromium-
4.1.3.9 UNS N06952 is acceptable in the for a maximum of 4 hours to 40 HRC Molybdenum Alloys
solution-annealed or solution-annealed maximum.
4.1.6.1 Alloys UNS R30003, UNS
plus cold-worked conditions to 35 HRC
4.1.5.5 UNS N06110 and wrought UNS R30004, UNS R30035, and British
maximum when the service environment
N06060 are acceptable in the annealed or Standard, Aerospace Series HR3 are
does not contain elemental sulfur.
cold-worked conditions to 40 HRC maxi- acceptable at 35 HRC maximum except
4.1.4 Nickel-Chromium Alloys mum. when otherwise noted.
4.1.4.1 UNS N06600 is acceptable to 35 4.1.5.6 UNS N07716 and wrought UNS 4.1.6.2 In addition, UNS R30035 is ac-
HRC maximum. N07725 are acceptable to 40 HRC maxi- ceptable at 51 HRC maximum in the
mum in the solution annealed and aged cold-reduced and high-temperature aged
4.1.4.2 UNS NO7750 is acceptable to 35 condition. heat-treated condition in accordance with
HRC maximum in each of the four follow-
one of the following aging treatments:
ing conditions: (1) solution-annealed and 4.1.5.7 UNS N07626, totally dense hot
aged; (2) solution-annealed; (3) hot- compacted by a powder metallurgy
worked; and (4) hot-worked and aged. process, is acceptable in the solution-an- Minimum Time (hours) Temperature
nealed (925°C [11700°F] minimum) plus
4.1.5 Nickel-Chromium-Molybdenum 4 704°C (1300°F)
aged condition (525°C to 825°C [1000°F
Alloys to 1500°F]) or the direct-aged (525°C to 4 732°C (1350°F)
4.1.5.1 UNS N06002 and UNS N06625 825°C [1000°F to 1500°F]) condition to a 6 774°C (1425°F)
are acceptable to 35 HRC maximum. maximum hardness of HRC 40 and a
4 788°C (1450°F)
maximum tensile strength of 1380 MPa
4.1.5.2 UNS N10002, UNS N10276, and (200 ksi). 2 802°C (1475°F)
ASTM A494 Grade CW-12 MW are ac- 1 816°C (1500°F)
ceptable in the solution-annealed or 4.1.5.8 Cast CW2M meeting ASTM A 494
solution-annealed plus cold-worked condi- is acceptable for nondownhole applica-
tions to 35 HRC maximum (except as tions in the following conditions (there are
noted in Paragraph 4.1.5.2.1). Alloy UNS no industry standards that currently ad-

Technical Manual
4.1.6.3 Wrought UNS R31233 is 4.2.1.4.5 Wrought UNS L56403 is accept- codes. Welders using this procedure shall
acceptable in the solution-annealed condi- able in the annealed condition to 36 HRC be familiar with the procedure and shall
tion to 22 HRC maximum. maximum. be capable of making welds that comply
with the procedure.
4.1.7 Cobalt- Nickel-Chromium-Tungsten
Alloy Section 5: Fabrication 5.3.1.1 Tubular products listed in Table 3
with specified minimum yield strength of
4.1.7.1 UNS R30605 to 35 HRC 5.1 General 360 MPa (52 ksi) or less and pressure
maximum. Materials and fabrication processes shall vessel steels classified as P-No 1, Group
meet the requirements of this section if 1 or 2, in Section 9 of the ASME Code
4 .2 Other Alloys
the material is to be exposed to sour envi- and listed in Table 3 meet the require-
4.2.1 Materials described in this section ronments (defined in Paragraph 1.3). ments of Paragraph 5.3.1 in the
and listed in Table 2 are acceptable.
as-welded condition. Welding procedure
5.2 Overlays qualifications, per AWS, API, ASME, or
4.2.1.1 Aluminum-base alloys
5.2.1 Overlays applied to carbon and low- other appropriate specifications shall be
4.2.1.2 Copper alloys 7 alloy steel or to martensitic stainless performed on any welding procedure that
steels by thermal processes such as weld- is used.
4.2.1.3 Commercially pure tantalum. UNS
ing, silver brazing, or spray metallizing
R05200 is acceptable in the annealed and 5.3.1.2 Welding procedure qualifications
systems are satisfactory for use in sour en-
gas tungsten arc-welded annealed condi- on carbon steels that use controls other
vironments, provided the substrate does not
tions to 55 HRB maximum. than thermal stress relieving to control the
exceed the lower critical temperature during
4.2.1.4 Titanium alloys. Specific guide- application. In those cases in which the hardness of the weldment shall also in-
lines must be followed for successful lower critical temperatures are exceeded, clude a hardness traverse across the
applications of each titanium alloy speci- the component must be heat treated or weld, HAZ and base metal to ensure that
fied in this standard. For example, thermally stress relieved according to pro- the procedure is capable of producing a
hydrogen embrittlement of titanium alloys cedures that have been shown to return the hardness of 22 HRC maximum in the con-
may occur if galvanically coupled to cer- base metal to 22 HRC maximum. dition in which it is used.
tain active metals (i.e., carbon steel) in 5.3.1.3 Low-alloy steel and martensitic
5.2.2 Tungsten-carbide alloys and ceram-
H2S-containing aqueous media at temper- stainless steel weldments shall be stress
ics are satisfactory, subject to the
atures greater than 80°C (176°F). Some relieved at a minimum temperature of
conditions of Paragraph 5.2.1.8
titanium alloys may be susceptible to 620°C (1150°F) to produce a hardness of
crevice corrosion and/or SCC in chloride 5.2.3 Joining of dissimilar materials, such 22 HRC maximum.
environments. Hardness has not been as cemented to alloy steels by silver braz-
shown to correlate with susceptibility to ing, is acceptable. The base metal after 5.3.2 Welding rods, electrodes, fluxes,
SSC. However, hardness has been in- brazing shall meet the requirements of filler metals, and carbon and low-alloy
cluded for alloys with high strength to Paragraph 5.2.1. steel welding consumables with more
indicate the maximum testing levels than 1% nickel are not allowed for welding
where failure has not occurred. 5.2.4 The materials listed in Sections 3 carbon and low-alloy steels as indicated in
and 4 are acceptable as weld overlays, Paragraph 3.2.1.
4.2.1.4.1 UNS R53400 is acceptable in the provided they meet the provisions of
annealed condition. Heat treatment shall Paragraph 5.2.1. 5.4 Identification Stamping
be annealing at 774°C ± 14°C (1425°F ± 5.4.1 Identification stamping using low-
25°F) for 2 hours followed by air cool. 5.2.5 Overlays of cobalt-chromium-tung-
stress (dot, vibratory, and round V)
Maximum hardness to be 92 HRB. sten alloys or nickel-chromium-boron
stamps is acceptable.
hardfacing alloys are acceptable, subject
4.2.1.4.2 UNS R58640 is acceptable to 42 to the conditions of Paragraph 5.2.1.8 5.5.2 Conventional sharp V stamping is
HRC maximum. acceptable in low-stress areas, such as
5.3 Welding the outside diameter of flanges. Sharp V
4.2.1.4.3 UNS R50400 is acceptable to
5.3.1 Welding procedures shall be used to stamping is not permitted in high-stress
100 HRB maximum.
produce weldments that comply with the areas unless subsequently stress relieved
4.2.1.4.4 UNS R56260 is acceptable to 45 hardness requirements specified for the at 595°C (1100°F) minimum.
HRC maximum in each of the three following base metal in Sections 3 and 4. Welding
conditions: (1) annealed; (2) solution-an- procedures shall be qualified per AWS,
nealed; and (3) solution-annealed and aged. API, ASME, or other appropriate industry
Notes
7. Copper-base alloys may undergo weight 8. Denotes editorial revision.
loss corrosion in sour oilfield environments,
particularly if oxygen is present.

Technical Manual
5.5 Threading 6.2.1.1 Class I and Class II Nuts and Bolts Section 8: Special Components
5.5.1 Machine-Cut Threads 6.2.1.1.1 Acceptable nuts and bolting ma- 8.1 General.
5.5.1.1 Machine-cut threading processes terials shall meet the requirements of Materials for special components includ-
are acceptable. Sections 3 and 4. ing instrumentation, control devices,
seals, bearings, and springs shall meet
5.5.2 Cold-Formed (Rolled) Threads 6.2.1.1.2 Bolting materials that meet the
the requirements of this section if they are
specifications of ASTM A 193 Grade B7M,
5.5.2.1 Subsequent to cold forming directly exposed to sour environments
550 MPa (80,000 psi) minimum yield
threads, the threaded component shall during normal operation of the device.
strength, and 22 HRC maximum are ac-
meet the heat-treat conditions and hard- Paragraph 1.3 provides guidelines to de-
ceptable.
ness requirements given in either Section termine the applicability of this standard to
3 or 4 for the parent alloy from which the 6.2.1.1.3 Nuts shall meet the specifica- specific applications.
threaded component was fabricated. tions of ASTM A 194 Grade 2HM (22 HRC
maximum) or Paragraph 6.2.1.1.1. 8.2 Bearings
5.6 Cold-Deformation Processes 8.2.1 Bearings directly exposed to sour
6.3 Nonexposed Bolting environments shall be made from materi-
5.6.1 Cold-deformation processes such as
burnishing that do not impart cold work 6.3.1 Class III Bolting als in Sections 3 and 4.
exceeding that incidental to normal ma- 6.3.1.1 Bolting that is not directly exposed 8.2.2 Nickel-chromium-molybdenum-tung-
chining operations, such as turning or to sour environments and is not to be sten alloy UNS N10276 bearing pins, i.e.
boring, rolling, threading, drilling, etc., are buried, insulated, equipped with flange core roll pins, are acceptable in the cold-
acceptable. protectors, or otherwise denied direct at- worked condition to 45 HRC maximum.
5.6.2 Cold deformation by controlled shot mospheric exposure may be furnished to
8.2.3 Bearings made from other materials
peening is permitted when applied to base applicable standards such as ASTM A 193
must be isolated from the sour environ-
materials that meet the requirements of Grade B7.
ment in order to function properly, except
this document and when limited to the use as noted in Paragraph 8.2.2.
of a maximum shot size of 230 (0.584 mm
Section 7: Platings and Coatings
nominal diameter) and a maximum of 8.3 Springs
0.356 mm A Almen intensity. The process 7.1 General 8.3.1 Springs directly exposed to the sour
shall be controlled in accordance with 7.1.1. Materials shall meet the require- environment shall be made from materials
Military Specification MIL-S-13165-B, ments of this section if they are to be described in Sections 3 and 4.
latest revision. exposed to sour environments (defined in
Paragraph 1.3). 8.3.2 Cobalt-nickel-chromium-molybde-
num alloy UNS R30003 may be used for
Section 6: Bolting 7.1.2 Metallic coatings (electroplated or springs in the cold-worked and age-hard-
electroless), conversion coatings, and ened condition to 60 HRC maximum. UNS
6.1. General.
plastic coatings or linings are not accept- R30035 may be used for springs in the
Materials shall meet the requirements of able for preventing SSC of base metals. cold-worked and age-hardened condition
this section if they are to be exposed to The use of such coatings for other purpos- of 55 HRC maximum when aged for a
sour environments (defined in Paragraph es is outside the scope of this standard. minimum of 4 hours at a temperature no
1.3). lower than 648°C (1200°F).
7.2 Nitriding
6.2 Exposed Bolting 8.3.3 Nickel-chromium alloy UNS N07750
7.2.1 Nitriding with a maximum case
6.2.1 Bolting that will be exposed directly depth of 0.15 mm (0.006 inch) is an springs are acceptable in the cold-worked
to sour environment or that will be buried, acceptable surface treatment when con- and age-hardened condition to 50 HRC
insulated, equipped with flange protectors, ducted at a temperature below the lower maximum.
or otherwise denied direct atmospheric critical temperature of the alloy system 8.3.4 UNS N07090 may be used for springs
exposure must be of either a Class I or being treated. Its use as a means of pre- for compressor valves in the cold-worked
Class II material (see Paragraph 6.2.1.1).9 venting SSC is not acceptable. and age-hardened condition to 50 HRC
maximum.
Notes
9. Designers and users should be aware that
it may be necessary to derate the pressure
rating in some cases when using low-
strength bolts. For API 6A flanges using
Class II bolting, see API Standard 6A.

Technical Manual
8.4 Instrumentation and Control the as-cast or solution-annealed condition stainless steel with a given ferrite content
Devices to 160 HB (83 HRB) maximum. for each application.
8.4.1 Instrumentation and control device 8.6 Snap Rings 8.9 Special Process Parts 11
components directly exposed to sour envi-
8.6.1 Snap rings directly exposed to a 8.9.1 Cobalt-chromium-tungsten alloys,
ronments shall be made from materials in
sour environment shall be made from ap- whether cast, powder-metallurgy
Sections 3 through 8.
plicable materials in Sections 3 and 4, processed, or thermomechanically
8.4.1.1 Paragraph 3.5.1 is not intended to except as noted in Paragraph 8.6.2. processed, are acceptable.
preclude the use of AISI Type 316 stain-
8.6.2 Precipitation-hardening stainless 8.9.2 Tungsten carbide alloys, whether
less steel compression fittings and
steel alloy UNS S15700 snap rings origi- cast or cemented, are acceptable.
instrument tubing even though they won’t
nally in the RH950 solution-annealed and
satisfy the requirements stated in
aged condition are acceptable when fur-
Paragraph 3.5.1. 1
ther heat treated to a hardness of 30 to 32 Section 9: Valves and Chokes
8.4.2 Diaphragms, Pressure-Measuring HRC as follows: 9.1 General
Devices, and Pressure Seals.4–6
8.6.2.1 Heat-Treatment Procedure (3-Step 9.1.1 Materials shall meet the require-
8.4.2.1 Diaphragms, pressure-measuring Process) ments of this section if they are to be
devices, and pressure seals directly ex- exposed to sour environments (defined in
(1) Temper at 620°C (1150°F) for 4 hours, Paragraph 1.3).
posed to a sour environment shall be
15 minutes. Cool to room temperature in
made from materials in Sections 3 and 4.
still air. 9.1.2 Valves and chokes shall be manu-
8.4.2.2 Cobalt-nickel-chromium-molybde- factured from materials in accordance with
(2) Retemper at 620°C (1150°F) for 4 Sections 3 through 8.
num alloys UNS R30003 and UNS
hours, 15 minutes. Cool to room tempera-
R30004 for diaphragms, pressure-mea-
suring devices, and pressure seals are
ture in still air. 9.2 Shafts, Stems, and Pins
acceptable to 60 HRC maximum. (3) Temper at 560°C (1050°F) for 4 hours, 9.2.1 Shafts, stems, and pins shall be
15 minutes. Cool to room temperature in manufactured from materials in accor-
8.4.2.3 Cobalt-nickel-chromium-molybde- dance with Sections 3 through 8.
still air.
num-tungsten alloy UNS R30260
diaphragms, pressure-measuring devices, 9.2.2 Austenitic stainless steel UNS
8.7 Bearing Pins
and pressure seals are acceptable to 52 S20910 is acceptable for valve shafts,
8.7.1 Bearing pins, e.g., core roll pins, stems, and pins at a maximum hardness
HRC maximum.
made from UNS N10276 in the cold- level of 35 HRC in the cold-worked condi-
8.4.2.4 Pressure seals shall comply with worked condition with a maximum tion, provided this cold working is
the requirements of Sections 3 and 4 and hardness of 45 HRC, may be used. preceded by an anneal.
Tables 1 and 2 or may be manufactured of
wrought cobalt-chromium-nickel-molybde- 8.8 Duplex Stainless Steel for 9.3 Internal Valve and Pressure
num alloy UNS R30159 to 53 HRC Wellhead Components10 Regulator Components
maximum with the primary load-bearing or 8.8.1 Cast duplex (austenitic/ferritic) stain- 9.3.1 Cast CB7Cu-1 in the H1150 DBL
pressure-containing direction parallel to less steel UNS J93345 is acceptable in condition per ASTM A 747 is acceptable
the longitudinal or rolling direction of the solution-treated condition provided for non-pressure-containing, internal
wrought products. that the hardness does not exceeded 223 valve, and pressure regulator components
HB. The material must be restricted to the at 310 HB maximum (30 HRC maximum)
8.5 Seal Rings following products: valve components, providing it complies with Paragraph 1.2.
8.5.1 Seal rings directly exposed to a sour compressor components, casting and tub- Precipitation-hardening martensitic stain-
environment shall be made from materials ing heads (excluding mandrel hangers), less steels that are in accordance with this
in Sections 3 and 4. spools, side entry caps, tail pieces, ham- standard have provided satisfactory field
mer caps, and spider caps. Laboratory service in some sour environments. These
8.5.2 Austenitic stainless steel API com-
tests have shown that duplex stainless materials may, however, exhibit threshold
pression seal rings made of centrifugally
steels’ susceptibility to SSC is a function stress levels in NACE Standard TM0177
cast ASTM A 351 Grade CF8 or CF8M
of the percentage of ferrite. The user may that are lower than other materials includ-
chemical compositions are acceptable in
determine the acceptability of a duplex ed in this standard.
Notes
10. Aging over 260°C (500°F) may reduce tem- 11. Some of these materials may be used in
perature toughness and reduce resistance wear-resistant applications and can be
to environmental cracking. brittle. Environmental cracking may occur
if these materials are subject to tension.

Technical Manual
Materials listed in this table should be used only under conditions noted in the text of this standard.
Table 1
Stainless Steels Acceptable for Direct Exposure to Sour Environments (see Paragraph 1.3)
Ferritic Martensitic Precipitation- Austenitic Duplex

Hardening (Austenitic /Ferritic)3
(Wrought Condition Only)
AISI AISI ASTM AISI UNS S31803
1
405 410 A 453 Gr. 660 302 UNS S32550
430 501 A 638 Gr. 6601 304 UNS S32404
304L
305
308
309
310
316
316L
317
321
347
ASTM ASTM UNS S17400 ASTM Cast Duplex
A 268 A 217 Gr. CA 15 UNS S45000 A 182 (Austenitic/Ferritic)
TP 405, TP 430, A 268 Gr. TP 410 UNS S66286 A 193 2 Stainless steel
TP XM 27, TP XM 33 A 743 Gr. CA 15M Gr. B8R, B8RA, B8, Z6CNDU20.08M, NF A
A 487 CI CA 15M B8M, B8MA 320-55 French National
A 487 CI CA 6NM A 194 2 Standard
UNS S42400 Gr. 8R, 8RA, 8A, 8MA
A 320 2
Gr. B8, B8M
A 351
Gr. CF3, CF8, CF3M,
CF8M
B463
B473
UNS S20910
UNS N08020
UNS S31254
Notes
1. See Paragraph 3.8.2.
2. Carbide solution-treated.
3. Aging over 260°C (500°F) may reduce
low-temperature toughness and reduce
resistance to environmental cracking.

Technical Manual
Materials listed in this table should be used only under conditions noted in the text of this standard.
Mechanical properties described in the specifications noted below are not necessarily in accordance with MR0175.
Table 2
Nonferrous Materials Acceptable for Direct Exposure to Sour Environments (see Paragraph 1.3)
Nickel-Copper Alloys Nickel-Iron- Nickel-Iron-Chromium- Nickel-Chromium Alloys Coatings, Overlays, and

Chromium Alloys Molybdenum Alloys Special Process Parts
UNS1 UNS UNS UNS UNS UNS UNS
N05500 N04400 N08800 N06007 N08825 N06600 N07750
SAE/AMS ASTM SAE/AMS ASTM SAE/AMS ASTM ASTM ASTM SAE/ ASTM SAE/AMS Co-Cr-W Alloys as in AWS
4676 B 127 4544 B 163 5766 B 366 B 163 B 163 AMS B 637 5542 A5.13-80
B 163 4574 B 366 5871 B 581 B 366 B 166 5540 5582 Ni-Cr-B Alloys as in AWS
B 164 4575 B 407 B 582 B 423 B 167 5580 5598 A5.13-80
B 366 4730 B 408 B 619 B 424 B 366 5665 5667 Tungsten Carbide Alloys
B 564 4731 B 409 B 622 B 425 B 516 7232 5668 Ni-B Alloys as in AMS 4779
7233 B 514 B 626 B 704 B 517 5669 Ceramics
B 515 B 705 B 564 5670
B 564 5671
5698
5699
A 494 UNS N09925
Gr. M-35-1 UNS N08024
Gr. M-35-2 UNS N08028
UNS N07048
UNS N08535
UNS N08042
UNS N06952
UNS N04405
Note
1. Unified Numbering System for Metals and
alloys: ASTM E527 or SAE J1086.

Technical Manual
Table 2 – continued…Nickel-Chromium-Molybdenum
UNS N006625 UNS 10002 UNS N10276 UNS N07718 UNS N06002
ASTM SAE/ ASTM SAE/ ASTM ASTM SAE/ ASTM SAE/ UNS N06030
B 336 AMS A 597 Gr. 4 AMS B 366 B 637 AMS A 567 AMS UNS N06975
B 443 5581 5388 B 574 B 670 5383 Gr. 5 5390 UNS N07725
B 444 5599 A 494 5389 B 575 5589 B 366 5536 UNS N06985
B 446 5666 Gr. Cw-12MW 5530 B 619 5590 B 435 5587 UNS N06110
B 564 5837 5750 B 622 5596 B 572 5788 UNS N07031
B 704 B 626 5597 B 619 5754 UNS N07716
B 705 5662 B 622 5798 UNS N06022
5663 B 626 5799 UNS N06060
5664 7237
5832
Table 2 – continued…
Cobalt-Nickel-Chromium- Cobalt-Nickel-Chromium- Cobalt-Nickel-Chromium- Other Alloys

Molybdenum Alloys Tungsten Alloys Tungsten Alloys
UNS R30035 UNS R30003 UNS R30605 UNS R30260 Aluminum Tantalum Titanium
Base UNS R05200 Alloys
Alloys
UNS R03004 UNS R30159 UNS R50400
Copper UNS R53400
UNS R31233 Alloys UNS R58640
UNS R56260
UNS L56403

Technical Manual
API - RP 521 Noise

Excerpts from API - RP 521 Guide for Pressure-Relieving and Depressuring Systems
5.4.4.3 Noise Figure 12 – Noise Intensity at 100 Feet (30 Meters) From the Stack Tip
The noise level at 100 feet (30 meters) from
70
the point of discharge to the atmosphere can
be approximated by equation (9):
60
L100 (30) = L (from Fig. 12) + 10 log10 (1/2MC 2 ) (9)
Figure 12 illustrates the noise intensity mea- Sound Pressure Level at
50
sured as the sound pressure level at 100 100 feet [30 meters]
feet (30 meters) from the stack tip versus the from stack tip minus
pressure ratio across the safety valve. 10 log [1/2 MC2] 40
The following symbols are used in the

30
procedure for calculating the noise level:
M = mass flow through the valve, in slugs 20

per second (kilograms per second). ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲
1.5 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
C = speed of sound in the gas at the valve,
Pressure Ratio (PR)
in feet per second (meters per second).
Note: In feet per second, T = 560 degrees Rankine 2. 10 log10(1/2MC 2 ) = 60

PR = 48/16 = 3 3. From Figure 12, at PR = 3, the ordinate
kT 0.5
C = 223 ( ––––––––––––––
Molecular weight
) 0.5
= 54.
4. L30 at 30 meters = 54 + 60 = 114 decibels.
In meters per second,

[
(1.4) (560)
C = 223 –––––––––––––
29 ] Note: These calculations are based on
spherical spreading of the sound. If dis-
kT 0.5 = 1159 feet per second tances much larger than the height of the
C = 9.12 ( ––––––––––––––
Molecular weight
) 1. 1/2MC 2 = (1/2)(1)(1159)2(1.36) = (9.1)(105). vent above ground are of concern, add 3
decibels to the calculated result to correct
2. 10 log10 ( 1/2MC 2 ) = 60
for hemispherical diffusion.
Where:
3. From Figure 12, at PR = 3, the ordinate
By applying equation (10), the noise level
k = ratio of the specific heats in the gas. = 54.
can be adjusted for distances that differ
r = gas temperature, in degrees 4. L100 at 100 feet = 54 + 60 = 114 decibels from the 100-foot (30-meter) reference
Rankine (Kelvin). An example of calculating, in metric units, boundary:
the noise level at 30 meters from the point
PR = ratio of the upstream to the down-
stream pressure across the safety of discharge to the atmosphere is present- ( )
Lp = L100 - 20 log10 –––r–––-
100
(10)
valve (absolute). ed below:

An example of calculating, in English 1. Calculate 1/2MC 2 in watts. In metric units, this translates to:
units, the noise level at 100 feet from the
2. Calculate 10 log10(1/2MC 2).
point of discharge to the atmosphere is
presented below: 3. In Figure 12, enter PR as the abscissa ( )
Lp = L30 - 20 log10 –––r––
30
(10A)
and read the ordinate.
1. Calculate 1/2MC 2 in watts. Divide the
weight flow (pounds per second) by 32 to 4. Add Items 2 and 3 to obtain the aver- Where:
obtain M. Multiply 1/2MC 2 (foot-pounds per age sound pressure level at 30 meters, Lp = sound pressure level at
second) by 1.36 to obtain 1/2MC 2 in watts. L30, in decibels. Assume the following: distance r, in decibels.
2. Calculate 10 log10(1/2MC 2) M = 14.6 kilograms per second L100(30) = sound pressure level at 100 feet
k = 1.4 (30 meters), in decibels.
3. In Figure 12, enter PR as the abscissa
and read the ordinate. Molecular weight= 29 r = distance from the sound source
(stack tip), in feet (meters).
4. Add Items 2 and 3 to obtain the aver- T = 311 kelvins
age sound pressure level at 100 feet, For distances greater than 1000 feet (305
PR = 48/16 = 3
L100, in decibels. Assume the following: meters), some credit may be taken for
0.5
M = 1 slug per second
= 32 pounds per second
[
(1.4) (311)
C = 91.2 –––––––––––––
29 ] molecular noise absorption. When safety
valves prove to be excessively noisy dur-
ing operation, the sound can be deadened
k = 1.4 = 353 meters per second
by the application of insulation around the
1. 1/2MC 2 = (1/2)(14.6)(353)2 = (9.1)(105).
Molecular weight = 29 valve body and the downstream pipe up to
approximately five pipe diameters from the
valve.

Technical Manual
API - RP 527 Seat Tightness

Excerpts from API - RP 527 (July 1991) Seat Tightness of Pressure Relief Valves
Figure 1 – Apparatus to Test Seat 1.0 Scope 2.2.3 Test Pressure

Tightness With Air This standard describes methods of deter- For a valve whose set pressure is greater
mining seat tightness of metal and soft than 50 pounds per square inch gauge
Flanged or threaded outlet (345 kilopascals gauge), the leakage rate
adapter for pressure relief seated pressure relief valves, including
valve those of conventional, bellows and pilot in bubbles per minute shall be determined
operated designs. with the test pressure at the valve inlet
Tube with outside
held at 90 percent of the set pressure. For
diameter of 5/16 inch The maximum acceptable leakage rates a valve set at 50 pounds per square inch
[7.9mm] and wall are defined for pressure relief valves with gauge (345 kilopascals gauge) or less, the
thickness of 0.035
inch [0.89mm] set pressures from 15 psig (103 kPag) to test pressure shall be held at 5 pounds
6,000 psig (41,379 kPag). If greater seat per square inch (34.5 kilopascals) less
1/2 inch [12.7mm] tightness is required, the purchaser shall than the set pressure.
specify it in the purchase order.
2.2.4 Leakage Test
The test medium for determining the seat Before the leakage test, the set pressure
tightness – air, steam or water – shall be shall be demonstrated, and all valve body
Water the same as that used for determining the joints and fittings should be checked with
set pressure of the valve. a suitable solution to ensure that all joints
Note
are tight.
For dual-service valves, the test medium –
1. See Figure 2 for an example of a device to
air, steam, or water – shall be the same as Before the bubble count, the test pressure
relieve body pressure in case the valve ac-
cidentally pops. the primary relieving medium. shall be applied for at least 1 minute for a
valve whose nominal pipe size is 2 inches
To ensure safety, the procedures outlined
(50 millimeters) or smaller; 2 minutes for a
Figure 2 - Devise to Relieve Body in this standard shall be performed by per-
valve whose nominal pipe size is 21/2, 3,
Pressure Caused by Accidental sons experienced in the use and functions
or 4 inches (65, 80, or 100 millimeters);
Popping of the Valve of pressure relief valves.
and 5 minutes for a valve whose nominal
Soft Rubber Gasket pipe size is 6 inches (150 millimeters) or
Attached To Face Of larger. The valve shall then be observed
Detector To Prevent 2.0 Testing with Air
Leakage
for leakage for a least 1 minute.
2.1 Test Apparatus
A test arrangement for determining seat 2.3 Acceptance Criteria
tightness with air is shown in Figure 1. For a valve with a metal seat, the leakage
Leakage shall be measured using a tube rate in bubbles per minute shall not ex-
with an outside diameter of 5/16 inch (7.9 ceed the appropriate value in Table 1. For
millimeters) and a wall thickness of 0.035 a soft-seated valve, there shall be no leak-
Cup-weld to inch (0.89 millimeter). The tube end shall age for 1 minute (0 bubbles per minute).
detector
be cut square and smooth. The tube open-
ing shall be 1/2 inch (12.7 millimeters)
C Clamp
below the surface of the water. The tube 3.0 Testing with Steam
Air Pressure shall be perpendicular to the surface of 3.1 Procedure
the water.
3.1.1 Test Medium
Outlet tube -
cut end Arrangement shall be made to safely re- The test medium shall be saturated steam.
smooth and
Safety Valve
lieve or contain body pressure in case the
square 3.1.2 Test Configuration
valve accidentally pops (see Figure 2).
Water level The valve shall be vertically mounted on
control hole
2.2 Procedure the steam test stand.
maintain 1/2 inch
[12.7mm] from 2.2.1 Test Medium
bottom of tube
3.1.3 Test Pressure
to bottom of The test medium shall be air (or nitrogen) For a valve whose set pressure is greater
hole near ambient temperature. than 50 pounds per square inch gauge
1/2 inch (345 kilopascals gauge), the seat tightness
2.2.2 Test Configuration
shall be determined with the test pressure
The valve shall be vertically mounted on
at the valve inlet held at 90 percent of the
the test stand, and the test apparatus shall
Membrane - set pressure. For a valve set at 50 pounds
seals during be attached to the valve outlet, as shown
test and bursts
per square inch gauge (345 kilopascals
in Figure 1. All openings–including but not
if valve gauge) or less, the test pressure shall be
accidentally limited to caps, drain holes, vents, and
opens
held at 5 pounds per square inch (34.5
outlets–shall be closed.
kilopascals) less than the set pressure.

Technical Manual

Excerpts from API - RP 527 (July 1991) Seat Tightness of Pressure Relief Valves
Table 1
Maximum Seat Leakage Rate for Metal Seated Pressure Relief Valves in Bubbles Per Minute
Set Pressure Effective Orifice Sizes Effective Orifice Sizes

(psig) 0.307 inch and Smaller Larger than 0.307 inch
at
(60°F) [15.6°C] Approximate Approximate
Leakage Rate Leakage Rate
Bubbles per 24 Hours Bubbles per 24 Hours
Per Per
Standard Standard Standard Standard
Minute Minute
Cubic Cubic Cubic Cubic
Feet Meters Feet Meters
15-1000 [.103-6.896 MPA] 40 0.60 0.017 20 0.30 0.0085
1500 [10.5 MPA] 60 0.90 0.026 30 0.45 0.013
2000 [13.0 MPA] 80 1.20 0.034 40 0.60 0.017
2500 [17.2 MPA] 100 1.50 0.043 50 0.75 0.021
3000 [20.7 MPA] 100 1.50 0.043 60 0.90 0.026
4000 [27.6 MPA] 100 1.50 0.043 80 1.20 0.034
5000 [38.5 MPA] 100 1.50 0.043 100 1.50 0.043
6000 [41.4 MPA] 100 1.50 0.043 100 1.50 0.043
3.1.4 Leakage Test 4.0 Testing with Water 4.1.4 Leakage Test
Before starting the seat tightness test, the Before starting the seat tightness test, the
4.1 Procedure
set pressure shall be demonstrated, and set pressure shall be demonstrated and
the test pressure shall be held for least 4.1.1 Test Medium the outlet body bowl shall be filled with
three minutes. Any condensate in the The test medium shall be water near am- water, which shall be allowed to stabilize
body bowl shall be removed before the bient temperature. with no visible flow from the valve outlet.
seat tightness test. Air (or nitrogen) may 4.1.2 Test Configuration The inlet pressure shall then be increased
be used to dry condensate. The valve shall be vertically mounted on to the test pressure. The valve shall then
the water test stand. be observed for 1 minute at the test pres-
After any condensate has been removed,
sure.
the inlet pressure shall be increased to the 4.1.3 Test Pressure
test pressure. Tightness shall then be For a valve whose set pressure is greater 4.2 Acceptance Criteria
checked visually using a black back- than 50 pounds per square inch gauge (345 For a metal-seated valve whose inlet has
ground. The valve shall then be observed kilopascals gauge) the seat tightness shall a nominal pipe size of 1 inch or larger, the
for leakage for at least one minute. be determined with the test pressure at the leakage rate shall not exceed 10 cubic
valve inlet held at 90% of the set pressure. centimeters per hour per inch of nominal
3.2 Acceptance Criteria
For a valve set at 50 pounds per square inlet size. For a metal-seated valve whose
For both metal- and soft-seated valves, inch gauge (345 kilopascals gauge) or less, inlet has a nominal pipe size of less than 1
there shall be no audible or visible leak- the test pressure shall be held at 5 pounds inch, the leakage rate shall not exceed 10
age for one minute. per square inch (34.5 kilopascals) less than cubic centimeters per hour. For soft-seat-
the set pressure. ed valves, there shall be no leakage for 1
minute.

Technical Manual

Excerpts from API - RP 527 (July 1991) Seat Tightness of Pressure Relief
5.0 Testing with Air—Alternate 5.2.4 Leakage Test

Method Before starting the seat tightness test, the
set pressure shall be demonstrated, and
5.1 Type of Valve to be Tested the outlet body bowl shall be filled with
Valves with open bonnets–bonnets which water to the level of the partial seal. The
cannot be readily sealed, as specified in inlet pressure shall then be increased to
2.2.2–may be tested in accordance with the test pressure and held at this pressure
this section instead of Section 2. for one minute before the bubble count.
The valve shall then be observed for leak-
This alternative method shall not be used
age for at least one minute.
to test valves in which air bubbles can
travel to the open bonnet through any Caution: When looking for leakage, the
passageway inside the valve guide with- observer shall use a mirror or some other
out being observed at the valve outlet. indirect means of observations so that the
observer’s face is not in line with the outlet
5.2 Procedure of the valve, in case the valve accidentally
5.2.1 Test Medium pops.
The test medium shall be air (or nitrogen)
near ambient temperature. 5.3 Acceptance Criteria
For a valve with a metal seat, the leakage
5.2.2 Test Configuration
rate in bubbles per minute shall not ex-
The valve shall be vertically mounted on
ceed 50 percent of the appropriate value
the air test stand. The valve outlet shall
in Table 1. For a soft-seated valve, there
be partially sealed with water to about
1/2-inch [12.7 mm] above the nozzle’s shall be no leakage for 1 minute (0 bub-
bles per minute).
seating surface.
5.2.3 Test Procedure

For a valve whose set pressure is greater
than 50 pounds per square inch gauge
[345 kPag], the leakage rate in bubbles
per minute shall be determined with the
test pressure at the valve inlet held at
90% of the set pressure. For a valve set
at 50 pounds per square inch gauge [345
kilopascals gauge] or less, the test pres-
sure shall be held at 5 pounds per square
inch gauge [34.5 kilopascals] less than the
set pressure.

Technical Manual
Section 16 – Chemical Resistance Guide for Metals
The following table should be used only erations) cannot be realistically duplicated C = Fair Resistance
as a guide for selecting materials for vari- in a controlled laboratory environment.
N = Not Recommended
ous applications. This table does not imply
a guarantee of corrosion resistance due to Symbol Guide:
Blank spaces indicate insufficient data
the fact the complicating factors, (ie; agita- A = Excellent Resistance
tion, impurities, aeration and velocity of
B = Good Resistance
corrosives encountered in commercial op-
Chemical Resistance Guide For Metals

Corrosive Media Material Used
Conditions Gray Iron CS 304 316 416 17-4 PH Stellite Inconel® Brass Bronze Copper Monel® Hastelloy® C
Ductile Iron SS SS SS
Acetaldehyde C B B A N B A N N N A A
Acetate Solvents (Crude) N N A A B A A C B B A A
Acetate Solvents (Pure) N C A A A A A A B A A
Acetic Acid (Crude) N N B N B B N N N A B
Acetic Acid (Pure) N N A A N A B A N N N A A
Acetic Acid (30%) N A N B N N N A A
Acetic Acid (Vapors) N B N B N N B B N N N A A
Acetic Anhydride C N B A N B A N N A B A
Acetone A B A A A A A N N A A A
Acetylene A A A A A A C N N A B
Air A A A A A A A A A A A A
Alcohols C B A A B A A B B B A A
Amines B A A C A A B A A
Ammonia (Anhydrous) B B A A B A A N A A B B
Ammonia Solution A B A A B A N N N B C
Ammonium Oxalate N C B A B B C C B
Ammonium Persulphate N N A A B A A N N N N B
Ammonium Phosphate (Mono) N N A A B A A N N N
Ammonium Phosphate (Di) B B A A B A C C C B B
Ammonium Phosphate (Tri) A A B A B B C C C B B
Ammonium Sulphate N C N B B N B N N N B
Ammonium Sulfite C N C B C C N N N N C A
Amyl Acetate C C A A B A C N N A B
Amyl Alcohol C B B A B B N N N
Aniline C C B A B B B N N N B B
Aniline Dyes C C A A B A N N N A
Aniline Hydrochloride N N N C N B N N N B N
Animal Oil (Lard) A A A A A B B B
Arsenic Acid N N B A B B N N N C B
Asphalt A B A A A A A B B B A
Barium Carbonate B B A A A B B B B B
Barium Chloride C C C B C C C C A A

Technical Manual

Barium Cyanide B A C C C
Barium Hydroxide C C A A A A A C C C A B
Barium Nitrate C C A A A B N N N C B
Barium Sulphate C C B A B N N N A
Barium Sulphide C C B A A B N N N
Battery Acid A A
Beer (Food) N N A A N A A A B B B A
Beet Sugar Liquor B B A A A A A A C C C A C
Black Sulphate Liquor A A A A B A N N N A
Blast Furnace Gas A A A A A A A A A
Borax (Sodium Borate) B B A A A A A C C C A
Bordeaux Mixture A A A A A A A A B
Boric Acid N N B B C B A C C C A
Bromine (Dry) N N N N N N B B B B A A
Bromine (Wet) N N N N N N B N N N C B
Butane B B A A A A N N N A B
Butanol A A A A B A A A A A A
Buttermilk C N A A A A N N N A B
Butyl Acetate C C B A A B A A A A A
Calcium Bisulphite N N C B N C N N B B N B
Calcium Carbonate N N A A A B B B B B
Calcium Chlorate C C C C B C N N N B A
Calcium Chloride C C C B B C A B B B A A
Calcium Hydroxide C C A A A A A C C C A A
Calcium Hypochlorite N N N N N N C C C C C A
Calcium Sulphate B B B A A B B B B A B
Cane Sugar Liquors A A A A A A B A A
Carbolic Acid N N A A A A C C C B A
Carbon Dioxide (Dry) B B A A A A A A A A A A
Carbon Dioxide (Wet) C C A A A A A C C C C B
Carbon Disulphide B B A A B A A C N N B B
Carbon Monoxide A B A A A B B B
Carbon Tetrachloride N C C C B C A A A B
Carbonated Beverages N N A A A N N N
Carbonic Acid N N A A B A A C C C A
Casein B B B
Castor Oil A A A A B A A A A
Caustic Soda B C A B N N N

Technical Manual

Caustic Solutions B A B A N N N
Caustic Potash B C
Cellulose Acetate C B B B A A A B
Cellulose Nitrate B B B B B B B B B
China Wood Oil C C A A A B B B
Chloracetic Acid N N N C N N N N A
Chlorbenzol B B C C C A A A A
Chloramine
Chlorex A A N N A A A
Chloric Acid N N N C N N N N C
Chlorinated Solvents C C A A A C N N N
Chlorinated Water N N N C N C N N N
Chlorine (Dry) C B B B B B A B B B A B
Chlorine (Wet) N N N C N N N N N N C A
Chlorosulfonic Acid N N B N B N N N B A
Citric Acid N N B A C B C B B B A
Coconut Oil A A A A N A N N N
Cod Liver Oil A A
Coffee A A N A N N N A
Coke Oven Gas A A A A A A C C C B
Corn Oil B B A A A N N N A
Cottonseed Oil B B A A A A N N N A
Creisike B B A A A A A C B B A
Cresylic Acid N C A A B A N N N A
Crude Oil A A A A B A A C C C A
Diethylamine A A A A A A A A A
Dowtherm A or E N N A A A A B B B
Ethylene Dichloride N C C C C B B B A B
Ethylene Glycol B A A A A A A B A A A A
Ethylene Oxide B C A A B A C C C A A
Fatty Acids N N B A B A N N N A A
Ferric Chloride N N N N N N N N N N N C
Ferric Nitrate N N B A B C N N N N C
Ferric Sulphate N N B A A B N C C C B
Ferrous Chloride N N N N N B N N C B
Ferrous Sulphate N N B A B B C C C B
Fish Oils B B A A A A
Flourine Gas N A C B C C C C C A A

Technical Manual

Foamite (Acid) N N C C N N N
Foamite (Alkaline) A A A A A N N N
Formaldehyde N C A A B A A A A A A B
Formic Acid N N C A N C N B N N N B A
Freon N C C C A C B B B B A B
Fruit Juices N N A A C A N N N A B
Fuel Oil B A A A A A A B B B A B
Gallic Acid N N A A A B B B A B
Gasoline (Natural) A A A A A A N N N A A
Gasoline (Refined) A A A A A A A A A A A
Gelatin N N A A N A N N N A
Glucose B B A A A A A A A A
Glycerine or Glycerol A A A A A A A B A A A B
Hydraulic Oil (Petro.) B B A A B A A A A
Hydraulic Oil (Synthetic) A A A A B A A A A
Hydrazine A
Hydrobromic Acid N N N N N N N C A
Hydrochloric Acid N N N N N N N N N N N A
Hydrocyanic Acid N C A A A N N N B B
Hydroflouric Acid N N N N N N N N N B B
Hydrofluosilic Acid N N N C B N B N N N A B
Hydrogen (Gas) A A A A B A A A A A A
Hydrogen Chloride (Dry) B N C A C A C C C A A
Hydrogen Chloride (Wet) N N N N N N N N C A
Hydrogen Fluoride (Dry) C N C C N A C B B A B
Hydrogen Peroxide N N B B A B B N C C B A
Hydrogen Sulphide (Dry) B C B A B B A C N N A B
Hydrogen Sulphide (Wet) B C B A C B A C N N B A
Kerosene B A A A A A A A A A A B
Ketchup N N A A A C
Ketones A A A A A A A
Lacquers and Solvents C C A A A A B A A A A
Lactic Acid N N B B C B A C C C C B
Lactose A
Lard A A A A A N A
Lead Acetate N N B B B A N N C B B
Lime-Sulfur A A A A B A N C C
Linseed Oil A A A A A A C C C B

Technical Manual

Lubricating Oil (Petro.) A A A A A A A A A B

Lubricating Oil (Synth.) A A A A A A A A A B
Magnesium Chloride N C C B C C A B A A A A
Magnesium Hydroxide N B A A A A B A A A A
Magnesium Nitrate N N A N N N B
Magnesium Sulphate N C A A A A B B A A A B
Magnesium Sulphite N N A C C C
Maleic Acid N C C A C B B B A B
Mercaptans A A A A A N N N
Mercuric Chloride N N N N N N N N N N N B
Mercuric Cyanide N N B B B B N N N N B
Methane B A A A A A A A B A
Methanol B B B B B B B B B A A
Methyl Chloride C C B B B B A B B B B B
Naphtha B A A A A A A A A A A B
Naphthalene B A A A A A B B B B B
Nickel Chloride N N N C N N B N C C B A
Nickel Nitrate N N B B B C C C B B
Nickel Sulphate N N B A C B C B B A B
Nitrating Acid N N C C N N N
Nitric Acid (Crude) N N C B B C N N N N N B
Nitric Acid (Pure) N N N A B A N N N N N C
Nitrobenzene B A A A A B B B B B
Oxalic Acid N N B A C B C B B A B
Oxygen A A A A A A A A A A
Palmitic Acid C C B A B B C B B B B
Paraffin Oils B B A A A B B B A B
Petroleum (Sour Crude) B B A A B A A C N N A A
Petroleum (Sweet Crude) A A A A A C N N A A
Petroleum Oils (Refined) A A A A A A A A A A A
Phenol N N B B B A A A A B
Phosphoric Acid N N B A C B N B N N N B B
Potassium Bromide N N C A C A C C C B A
Potassium Carbonate B C A A A A C C C A B
Potassium Chlorate B B A A A A B B B B B
Potassium Chloride C N B B C B A N N N A B
Potassium Cyanide N B B B B B B C B B B B

Technical Manual

Potassium Dichromate C C A A A B N N N B B
Potassium Hydroxide C C C C B C N N N A B
Potassium Hypochlorite N N C B C N N N N B
Potassium Nitrate B A B B B B A A A B B
Potassium Sulphate N N B A B B B A A A A
Producer Gas A A A A A C C C
Propane A B A A A A A A A A A B
Rosin B B B B A B A B B B A
Salicylic Acid N N B A B B B B B B A
Sea (Salt) Water N N A A C A A B C B B A B
Sewage C A B B B B A B
Shellac N N A A A A B A A A
Silver Bromide N N C B C C N B
Silver Chloride N N N N N C N N N B B
Silver Nitrate N N A A A A N N N N A
Sludge, Acid C C C N N N
Soap Solutions (Liquid) B A A A C A C C C A
Sodium Acetate N N A A C A A B B B B B
Sodium Aluminate A A A A A A B B B B B
Sodium Bicarbonate B A B B A B A A A A A
Sodium Bisulphate N N B A A B B N N N A A
Sodium Bisulphite N N B A B N N N B B
Sodium Carbonate A A B B A B B B B A A B
Sodium Chlorate B A B B B C C C B B
Sodium Chloride C C C B C C N C B B A A
Sodium Cyanide C C C B A C B N N N A A
Sodium Fluoride N N C A C C C C A B
Sodium Hydroxide C C C C A C N N C C B B
Sodium Hypochlorite N N C B N C C N C C C A
Sodium Nitrate C B B A A B A C B B B B
Sodium Nitrite B A B B B B B B B B
Sodium Perborate C C A A A A A C B B B B
Sodium Peroxide C C A A A A A C B B B B
Sodium Phosphate (Mono) N N A A B A C C C A B
Sodium Phosphate (Di) N N A A B A A A A B B
Sodium Phosphate (Tri) C C A A B A A C C C B B
Sodium Silicate B B A A B A A C B B B

Technical Manual

Sodium Sulphate B B B A B B B B A A A B
Sodium Sulphide B B C A B C A N N N A B
Sodium Sulphite N C A A A C B B B B B
Sodium Thiosulphate N N A B A B B B B B B
Stannic Chloride N N N N N N N N N C B
Stannous Chloride N N N A N B N N N B B
Steam, 212°F A A A A B A A A B B B A A
Steam, 600° F C C A A B A B A N N N A A
Sulfur C C A A A A A C C C C A
Sulfur Chloride N N N C N N B N N N B B
Sulfur Dioxide (Dry) B B A A A A B C A A B
Sulfur Dioxide (Wet) N N B A N B N N B B C
Sulfur Trioxide B B B B B B B B B B B
Sulfuric Acid, 2% and Less N N C B N C N B N N N B A
Sulfuric Acid, 2-40% N N N N N N N B N N N B B
Sulfuric Acid, 40% N N N N N N N B N N N B B
Sulfuric Acid, 93-100% B B B B B B N B N N N N B
Sulfurous Acid N N B B N B C N N N N A
Tannic Acid C B A A C A B B B B
Tar A B A A B A A B A A A A
Tartaric Acid N N B A C B A C B B
Tung Oil C C A A N A C C C A
Turpentine B B A A B A A C B B C B
Varnish C C A A A A A B B B A
Vegetable Oil B A A A A B B B B B
Water (Acid Mine) N N B B A B B A N N N A
Water (Boiler Feed) B B A A A A A A C C C A
Water (Distilled) N N A A A A A A N N N A B
Water (Fresh) A A A A A A A A C B B A A
Water (Salt) N N N C N N A B C B B A
Wine and Whiskey N N A A N A A A B B B C A
Xylene (Xylol) B B A A A A A A A A A A
Zinc Chloride N N N C N N B N B B B B
Zinc Sulphate N N A A B A B C B B A B

Technical Manual
Section 17 – Chemical Resistance Guide for Elastomers and Thermoplastics
Chemical Resistance Guide For Elastomers and Thermoplastics
Fluid BUNA-N EPR Viton® Silicone Kalrez® Chemraz® Teflon® PEEK Kel-F® Vespel Urethane
Acetaldehyde X X X X X X X X
Acetamide X X X X X X X X X X
Acetic Acid X X X X X
Acetic Anhydride X X X X X
Acetone X X X X X X X
Acetophenone X X X X X X X
Acetyl Acetone X X X X X X X
Acetyl Chloride X X X X X X X
Acetylene X X X X X X X X X X
Acetylene Tetrabromide X X X X X X X X
Acrylonitrile X X X X
Adipic Acid X X X X X
Air X X X X X X X X X X X
Alkazene X X X X X X X
Alkyl Alcohol X X X X X X
Alkyl Amine X X X X X X
Alum Solution X X X X X X
Aluminum Acetate X X X X X X X X
Aluminum Chloride X X X X X X X X X X
Aluminum Fluoride X X X X X X X X X X
Aluminum Hydroxide X X X X X X
Aluminum Nitrate X X X X X X X X
Aluminum Phosphate X X X X X X X X X X
Aluminum Potassium 10% X X X X X X X X
Aluminum Sulfate X X X X X X X X X X
Alum-NH3-Cr-K X X X X X X X X X
Amines - Mixed X X X X X X X
Ammonia Anhydrous X X X X X X X X
Ammonia Aqueous Liquid X X X X X X X X X
Ammonia Gas X X X X X X X X X
Ammonium Bifluoride X X X X X X
Ammonium Carbonate X X X X X X X
Ammonium Chloride X X X X X X X X
Ammonium Hydroxide X X X X X X X X X
Note
X = General acceptability
Blank = Not acceptable or no available data

Technical Manual
Ammonium Nitrate X X X X X X X X X
Ammonium Nitrite X X X X X X X X
Ammonium Persulphate X X X X X X X
Ammonium Phosphate Dibasic X X X X X X X X
Ammonium Phosphate Tribasic X X X X X X X X
Ammonium Sulfate X X X X X X X X
Ammonium Sulfite X X X X X X X
Amyl Acetate X X X X X X X
Amyl Alcohol X X X X X X X X X
Amyl Borate X X X X X X X X
Amyl Chloride X X X X X X X
Amyl Chloro Naphthalene X X X X X X X
Amyl Naphthalene X X X X X X X
Aniline X X X X X X X
Aniline Dyes X X X X X X X X
Aniline Hydrochloride X X X X X X X X X
Animal Fats X X X X X X X X X X X
Ansul Ether X X X X X X X
Antimony Trichloride X X X X
Apple Juice X X X X X X X X
Aqua Regia X X X X X X X
Argon X X X X X X X X X X X
Arochlor(s) X X X X X X X X
Aromatic Fuels X X X X X X
Arsenic Acid X X X X X X X X X
Arsenic Trichloride X X X X X X X
Arsenous Acid X X X
Askarel X X X X X X X X X
Asphalt X X X X X X X X
Astm Oil X X X X X X X X
Automatic Transmission Fluid X X X X X X X X
Barium Carbonate X X X X X X X X
Barium Chloride X X X X X X X X X X X
Barium Hydroxide X X X X X X X X X X X
Note

Technical Manual
Barium Nitrate X X X X X X
Barium Sulfate X X X X X X X X X X X
Barium Sulfide X X X X X X X X X X X
Beer X X X X X X X X X X
Beet Juice X X X X X
Beet Pulp X X X X X
Beet Sugar Liquors X X X X X X X X X
Bentonite X X X X X
Benzaldehyde X X X X X X X
Benzene X X X X X X X
Benzochloride X X X X X X X X
Benzoic Acid X X X X X X X
Benzophenone X X X X X X X X
Benzyl Alcohol X X X X X X X X X
Benzyl Benzoate X X X X X X X
Benzyl Chloride X X X X X X X
Beryllium Sulfate X X X X
Bichloride of Mercury X X X X X X
Bittern X X X X X X
Black Liquor X X X X X X
Blast Furnace Gas X X X X X X X X
Bleach Liquor X X X X X X X X X
Bleach Solutions X X X X X X
Blood X X X X X X
Boiler Feed Water X X X X X X
Borax X X X X X X X X X X
Bordeaux Mixture X X X X X X X X X
Boric Acid X X X X X X X X X X
Brake Fluid (Non Petroleum) X X X X X X X
Brine X X X X X X X X
Brine, Calcium X X X X X X
Brine, Cal. and Sodium Chloride X X X X X X
Brine, Cal. and Mag. Chloride X X X X X X
Brine, Seawater X X X X X X
Note

Technical Manual
Bromine X X X X X X X
Bromine Anhydrous X X X X X X X
Bromine Trifluoride X X X X X X X
Bromine Water X X X X X X X
Bromobenzene X X X X X X X
Bromochloro Trifluoroethan X X X X X X X
Bunker Oil X X X X X X X X X
Butadiene Monomer X X X X X X X X X
Butane X X X X X X X X
Butane, 2,2-Dimethyl X X X X X X X X
Butane, 2,3-Dimethyl X X X X X X X X
Butanol (Butyl Alcohol) X X X X X X X X X X X
Butene, 2-Ethyl X X X X X X X X
Butter X X X X X X X X
Buttermilk X X X X X X X X
Butyl Acetate X X X
Butyl Acetyl Ricinoleate X X X X X X X X
Butyl Acid X X X X X X
Butyl Acrylate X X X X
Butyl Alcohol X X X X X X X X X X X
Butyl Amine or N-Butyl Amine X X X X X X
Butyl Carbitol X X X X X X X X X
Butyl Cellosolve X X X X X X X
Butyl Chloride X X X X
Butyl Oleate X X X X X X X X
Butyl Stearate X X X X X X X X X
Butylene X X X X X X X X
Butyraldehyde X X X X X X X
Butyric Acid X X X X X X X
Calcium Acetate X X X X X X X X
Calcium Bisulfide X X X X X X
Calcium Bisulfite X X X X X X X X X
Calcium Carbonate X X X X X X X X X X
Calcium Chlorate X X X X X X
Note

Technical Manual
Calcium Chloride X X X X X X X X X X X
Calcium Cyanide X X X X X X X X X X
Calcium Hydroxide X X X X X X X X X X
Calcium Hypochloride X X X X X
Calcium Hypochlorite X X X X X X X X X X
Calcium Nitrate X X X X X X X X X X X
Calcium Phosphate X X X X X X X X X X X
Calcium Silicate X X X X X
Calcium Sulfate X X X X X X X X
Calcium Sulfide X X X X X X X X X X
Calgon X X X X
Caliche Liquor X X X X
Camphor X X X X X
Cane Juice X X X X X
Cane Sugar Liquors X X X X X X X X X X
Carbamate X X X X X X X X
Carbitol X X X X X X X X X X
Carbolic Acid Phenol X X X X X X X X
Carbon Bisulfide X X X X X X X
Carbon Dioxide Dry X X X X X X X X X X X
Carbon Dioxide Wet X X X X X X X X X X
Carbon Disulfide X X X X X X X
Carbon Monoxide X X X X X X X X X X X
Carbon Tetrachloride Dry X X X X X X X
Carbon Tetrachloride Wet X X X X X X
Carbonate of Soda X X X X X X
Carbonic Acid X X X X X X X X X X
Casein X X X X X
Castor Oil X X X X X X X X X X X
Catsup X X X X X
Caustic Manganese X X X X X X
Caustic Potash (Aqueous) X X X X X X
Caustic Soda (Aqueous) X X X X X X
Caustic Sulphide X X X X X X
Note

Technical Manual
Caustic (Chloride of Sodium) X X X X X X
Cellosolve X X X X X X X
Cellosolve Acetate X X X X X X X
Cellulube X X X X X X X
Cetene (Hexadecane) X X X X X X X X
Chloric Acid X X X X X
Chloride of Lime X X X X X
Chloride of Zinc (Aqueous) X X X X X
Chlorinated Salt Brine X X X X X X
Chlorine, Dry X X X X X X X
Chlorine, Wet X X X X X X X
Chlorine Dioxide X X X X X X X
Chlorine Trifluoride X X X X X X X
Chloro 1-Nitro Ethane X X X X X X
Chloroacetic Acid X X X X X X
Chloroacetone X X X X X X X
Chlorobenzene X X X X X X X
Chorobromo Methane X X X X X X X X
Chlorobutadiene X X X X X X X
Chlorododecane X X X X X X X
Chloroform X X X X X X X
Chlorosulfonic Acid X X X X X
Chlorosulfuric Acid X X X
Chlorotoluene X X X X X X X
Chlorox X X X X X X X X X X
Chrome Alum X X X X X X
Chrome Plating Solutions X X X X X X X X X
Chromic Acid X X X X X X
Chromic Oxide (Aqueous) X X X X X X
Citric Acid X X X X X X X X X X
Cobalt Chloride X X X X X X X X
Coca Cola Syrup X X X X X
Cocoa Butter X X X X
Coconut Oil X X X X X X X X X
Note

Technical Manual
Cod Liver Oil X X X X X X X X X X
Coffee Extracts Hot X X X X
Coke Oven Gas X X X X X X X X
Cooking Oil X X X X X X
Copper Acetate X X X X X X X X
Copper Chloride X X X X X X X X X X X
Copper Cyanide X X X X X X X X X X X
Copper Nitrate X X X X X X
Copper Sulfate X X X X X X X X X X X
Corn Oil X X X X X X X X
Cottonseed Oil X X X X X X X X X X X
Creosote X X X X X X X X X
Cresol X X X X X X X
Cresylic Acid X X X X X X
Crude Oil Sour X X X X X X
Crude Oil Sweet X X X X X X X
Cumene X X X X X X X
Cupric Chloride X X X X X X
Cutting Oil X X X X X X
Cyclohexane X X X X X X X X
Cyclohexanol X X X X X X X X
Cyclohexanone X X X X X X X
Decalin X X X X X X X
Decane X X X X X X X X X
Denatured Alcohol X X X X X X X X X X X
Detergent, Watered Solution X X X X X X X X X X
Developing Solutions X X X X X X X X X X
Dexron X X X X X X X X
Dextrin X X X X X
Diacetone X X X X X X X
Diacetone Alcohol X X X X X X X
Dibenzyl Ether X X X X X X X
Dibenzyl Sebacate X X X X X X X X
Dibromoethyl Benzene X X X X X X X
Note

Technical Manual
Dibutyl Amine X X X X X X
Dibutyl Ether X X X X X X X
Dibutyl Phthalate X X X X X X X
Dibutyl Sebacate X X X X X X X X
Dichloroethane X X X
Dichloro-Butane X X X X X X X X
Dichloro-Difluromethane X X X
Dichloro-Ethyl Ether X X X
Dichloro-Isopropyl Ether X X X X X X X
Dichloro-Pentane X X X
Dicylohexylamine X X X X X X
Diesel Oil X X X X X X X X
Diester Synthetic Lubricants X X X X X X X X
Diethanol-Amine X X X X X
Diethyl Amine (DEA) X X X X X X X
Diethyl Benzene X X X X X X X
Diethyl Carbonate X X X X X X
Diethyl Ether X X X X X X X
Diethyl Sebacate X X X X X X X X X X X
Diethylene Glycol X X X X X X X X X X X
Diethylene Triamine X X X X X X
Diisobutylene X X X X X X X X
Diisopropyl Benzene X X X X X X X
Diisopropyl Ketone X X X X X X X
Dimethyl Aniline X X X X X X X
Dimethyl Formomide (DMF) X X X X X X X X X
Dimethyl Phthalate X X X X X X X X
Dimethyl Terephthalate X X X X X X
Dinitrotoluene X X X X X X
Dioctyl Amine X X X X X X
Dioctyl Phthalate X X X X X X X X
Dioctyl Sebacate X X X X X X X X
Dioxane X X X X X X X
Dioxolane X X X X X X X
Note

Technical Manual
Dipentane X X X X
Dipentene X X X X X X X X
Diphenyl X X X X X X X
Diphenyl Oxides X X X X X X X X X X X
Dish Water X X X X X X
Disodium Phosphate X X X X X
Dowtherm A X X X X X X X
Dowtherm E X X X X X X X
Dry Cleaning Fluids X X X X X X X
Drying Oil X X X X
Dye Wood Liquor X X X X X X
Enamel X X X X X X
Epichlorohydrin X X X X X X X
Epsom Salt X X X X X X
Essential Oils X X X X X
Ethan (Methylmethane) X X X X X X
Ethane (Ethylene) X X X X X X X X
Ethanol X X X X X X X X
Ethanol Amine X X X X X X X X
Ethone X X X X X
Ethyl Acetate-Organic Ester X X X X X X X X
Ethyl Acetoacetate X X X X X X X X
Ethyl Acrylate X X X X X X X X
Ethyl Alcohol X X X X X X X X X X
Ethyl Benzene X X X X X X
Ethyl Benzoate X X X X X X X
Ethyl Bromide X X X X X X X X
Ethyl Cellosolve X X X X X X X
Ethyl Cellulose X X X X X X X X X
Ethyl Chloride X X X X X X X X
Ethyl Chlorocarbonate X X X X X X X X
Ethyl Chroroformate X X X X X X X
Ethyl Cyclopentane X X X X X X X X
Ethyl Ether X X X X X X X
Note

Technical Manual
Ethyl Formate X X X X X X X X
Ethyl Hexanol X X X X X X X X X X X
Ethyl Mercaptan X X X X X X X
Ethyl Oxalate X X X X X X X X
Ethyl Pentachlorobenzene X X X X X X X
Ethyl Silicate X X X X X X X X X
Ethyl Sulfate X X X X X X X X
Ethylene Chloride X X X X X X X
Ethylene Chlorohydrin X X X X X X X X
Ethylene Diamine X X X X X X X X
Ethylene Dibromide X X X X X X X
Ethylene Dichloride X X X X X X X
Ethylene Glycol X X X X X X X X X X X
Ethylene Oxide X X X X X X
Ethylene Trichloride X X X X X X X
Fatty Acids X X X X X X X
Ferric Chloride X X X X X X X X X X X
Ferric Chloride Boiling X X X X X X
Ferric Nitrate X X X X X X X X X X X
Ferric Sulfate X X X X X X X X X X X
Ferrous Chloride X X X X
Ferrous Sulfate X X X X
Fish Oil X X X X X X X X X
Florine Gas X X X X X X
Flue Gases X X X X X
Fluorinated Cyclic Ethers X X X X X X X
Fluorine Gas Dry X X
Fluorine (Liquid) X X X X X
Fluorobenzene X X X X X X X
Fluoroboric Acid X X X X X X X
Fluorocarbon Oils X X X X X X X
Fluorolube X X X X X X X X X
Fluorosilic Acid X X X X X X
Formaldehyde X X X X X X X
Note

Technical Manual
Formic Acid X X X X X X X X
Freon 11 X X X X X X X X
Freon 114 X X X X X X X X X
Freon 114B2 X X X X X X
Freon 115 X X X X X X X
Freon 121 X X X X
Freon 13B1 X X X X X X X X X
Freon 142b X X X X X X
Freon 152a X X X X X X
Freon 21 X X X X X X
Freon 502 X X X X X X
Freon BF X X X X X X
Freon C316 X X X X X X
Freon C318 X X X X X X X
Freon MF X X X X X X
Freon TA X X X X X X X
Freon TC X X X X X X X
Freon TF X X X X X X
Freon TMC X X X X X X X
Freon T-P35 X X X X X X X X
Freon T-WD602 X X X X X X X
Fruit Juices X X X X
Fuel Oil X X X X X X X X
Fuel Oil Acidic X X X X X X X X
Fuel Oil #6 X X X X X X X X X
Note

Technical Manual
Fumaric Acid X X X X X X X X X X
Furan X X X X X X
Furfural X X X X X X X
Furfuraldehyde X X X X X X X
Furfuran X X X X X X
Furfuryl Alcohol X X X X X X X
Furyl Carbinol X X X X X X X
Gallic Acid X X X X X X X X
Gas, Natural X X X X X X X X
Gas, Sour X X X X X X X
Gas Odorizers X X X X X
Gas Oil X X X X X X
Gasoline Aviation X X X X X X
Gasoline Leaded X X X X X X
Gasoline Refined X X X X X
Gasoline Sour X X X X X
Gasoline Unleaded X X X X X
Gelatin X X X X X X X X X X
Glauber’s Salt X X X X X X X X
Glucose X X X X X X X X X X X
Glue X X X X X X X X X X X
Glue Sizing X X X X X X
Glycerine-Glycerol X X X X X X X X X X X
Glycol Amine X X X
Glycols X X X X X X X X X X X
Glyoxal X X X
Grape Juice X X X X X
Graphite X X X X X
Grease X X X X X X
Green Sulfate Liquor X X X X X X X X X X X
Halothane X X X X X X X
Halowax Oil X X X X X X X
Helium X X X X X X X X X X X
Heptane X X X X X X X
Note

Technical Manual
Hexamine X X X X
Hexanol Tertiary X X X X X
Hexyl Alcohol X X X X X X X X
Hops X X X X X
Hydraulic Oil, Petroleum Base X X X X X X X X X
Hydraulic Oil, Synthetic Base X X X
Hydrazine X X X X X X X X
Hydrazine Anhydrous X X X X X X
Hydrobromic Acid X X X X X X X
Hydrocarbons X X X X X X X X
Hydrochloric Acid over 158°F X X X X
Hydrochloric Acid to 158°F X X X X X X X
Hydrocyanic Acid X X X X X X X X
Hydrofluoric Acid Cold X X X X X X X
Hydrofluoric Acid Hot X X X X X X
Hydrofluoric Acid-Anhydrous X X X X X X
Hydrofluosilicic Acid X X X X X X X X
Hydrogen Gas X X X X X X X X X
Hydrogen Peroxide X X X X X X X
Hydrogen Sulfide Dry X X X X X
Hydrogen Sulfide (Wet) Cold X X X X X X X X
Hydrogen Sulfide (Wet) Hot X X X X X X X
Hydroquinone X X X X X X
Hydyne X X X X X X X X
Hypochlorous Acid X X X X X X X
Illuminating Gas X X X X X
Ink, Newspaper X X X X X X
Iodine X X X X X X X X X
Iodine Pentafluoride X X X X X X
Iodoform X X X X X X X X
Isobutane X X X X X X
Isobutyl Alcohol X X X X X X X X X X X
Isobutyl N-Butyrate X X X X X X X X
Isododecane X X X X X X X X
Note

Technical Manual
Isooctane X X X X X X X X
Isophorone (Ketone) X X X X X X X
Isopropanol X X X X X X X X X X X
Isopropyl Acetate X X X X X X X
Isopropyl Alcohol X X X X X X X X X X X
Isopropyl Chloride X X X X X X X
Isopropyl Ether X X X X X X X
JP-3 to JP-10 X X X X X X X
Kerosene X X X X X X X X
Ketchup X X X X X X
Ketones X X X X X X
Lacquer solvents X X X X X X
Lacquers X X X X X X
Lactic Acid X X X X X X
Lactones X X X X X X X
Lard X X X X X X X X X
Latex X X X X X X
Lavender Oil X X X X X X X X
Lead Acetate X X X X X X X X
Lead Nitrate X X X X X X X X X
Lead Sulfamate X X X X X X X X X X
Lime Bleach X X X X X X X X X X
Lime Liquor X X X X X X
Lime Sulfur X X X X X X X X X
Lime Water X X X X X X
Lindol X X X X X X X X
Linoleic Acid X X X X X X X X
Linseed Oil X X X X X X X X X
Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) X X X X X X X X X
Lithium Bromide X X X X X X
Lithium Chloride X X X X X X
Lubricating Oils X X X X X X X X
Ludox X X X X X
Lye Solutions X X X X X X X X X X X
Magnesium Bisulfate X X X X X
Magnesium Bisulfide X X X X X
Note

Technical Manual
Magnesium Carbonate X X X X X
Magnesium Chloride X X X X X X X X X X X
Magnesium Hydroxide X X X X X X X X X
Magnesium Nitrate X X X X X X
Magnesium Sulfate X X X X X X X X X X
Majamie Resins X X X X
Malathion X X X X X X X X
Maleic Acid X X X X X X
Maleic Anhydride X X X X X X
Malic Acid X X X X X X X X X X
Manganese Carbonate X X X X X
Manganese Chloride X X X X X X
Manganese Sulfate X X X X X X
Mayonnaise X X X X X X
Mea with Copper Sulfate X X X X X
Mea (Mono Ethanol Amine) X X X X X X X
Meat Juices X X X X
Menthol X X X X X
Mercuric Chloride X X X X X X X X X
Mercuric Cyanide X X X X X X
Mercurous Nitrate X X X X
Mercury X X X X X X X X X X X
Mercury Salts X X X X X X
Mercury Vapors X X X X X X
Mesityl Oxide (Ketone) X X X X X X X
Methane X X X X X X X X X
Methanol X X X X X X X X
Methyl Acetate X X X X X X X
Methyl Acetoacetate X X X X X X X X
Methyl Acetone X X X
Methyl Acrylate X X X X X X X
Methyl Alcohol X X X X X X X X X
Methyl Amine X X X
Methyl Benzoate X X X X X X X
Methyl Bromide X X X X X X X X
Methyl Butyl Ketone X X X X X X X
Note

Technical Manual
Methyl Carbonate X X X X X X X
Methyl Cellosolve X X X X X X X
Methyl Cellulose X X X
Methyl Chloride X X X X X X X
Methyl Chloroformate X X X X X X X
Methyl Chlorosilanes X X X X X X
Methyl Cyclopentane X X X X X X X
Methyl Ether X X X X X X X X X
Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK) X X X X X X X
Methyl Formate X X X X X X X
Methyl Isobutyl Ketone X X X X X X
Methyl Isopropyl Ketone X X X X X X X
Methyl Mercaptan X X X X X X X
Methyl Methacrylate X X X X X X
Methyl Oleate X X X X X X X
Methyl Salicylate X X X X X X X
Methylacrylic Acid X X X X X X
Methylene Chloride X X X X X X X
Milk X X X X X X X X X X
Milk of Lime X X X X X X
Mine Water X X X X X X
Mineral Oils X X X X X X X X X X
Molasses X X X X X
Molybdic Acid X X X
Mono Bromobenzene X X X X X X X
Mono Chlorobenzene X X X X X X X
Mono Ethyl Ether X X X X X X X X
Mono Methyl Aniline X X X X X X X X
Mono Methyl Hydrazine (Hypergol) X X X X X X X
Mono Vinyl Acetylene X X X X X X X X X X X
Mopholine X X X X
Muriatic Acid X X X X X
Mustard X X X X X
Mustard Gas X X X X X X X X
Naphtha X X X X X X X X
Naphtha Crude X X X X X X
Note

Technical Manual
Naphthalene X X X X X X X
Naphthenic Acid X X X X X X X
Natural Gas X X X X X X X X
Neatsfoot Oil X X X X X X X X X X
Neon X X X X X X X X X X X
Neville Acid X X X X X X X
Nickel Acetate X X X X X X X X X
Nickel Ammonium Sulfate X X X X X X
Nickel Chloride X X X X X X X X X X X
Nickel Cobalt Sulfate X X X X X X X X X X
Nickel Nitrate X X X X X
Nickel Salts X X X X X X X X X X X
Nickel Sulfate X X X X X X X X X X X
Nicotine Sulfate X X X X X X
Nicotinic Acid X X X X
Niter Cake X X X X X X X X X X
Nitric Acid-Concentrated X X X X X
Nitric Acid-Dilute X X X X X X
Nitric Acid-Red Fuming X X X
Nitrobenzene X X X X X X X X
Nitrobenzine X X X X X X X
Nitroethane X X X X X X X
Nitrogen X X X X X X X X X X X
Nitrogen Tetroxide X
Nitromethane X X X X X X X
Nitropropane X X X X X X X
Nitrous Acid X X X X X
Nitrous Gases X X X X
Nitrous Oxide X X X X X X
N-Butyl Acetate X X X X X X X
N-Butyl Benzoate X X X X X X X X
N-Butyl Butyrate X X X X X X X X
N-Heptane X X X X X X X X
N-Hexaldehyde X X X X X X X X
N-Hexane X X X X X X X X
N-Hexane-1 X X X X X X X X
Note

Technical Manual
N-Methyl-2-Pyprolldone X X X X X X X
N-Octane X X X X X X X
N-Pentane X X X X X X X X
N-Propyl Acetone X X X X X X X
Octadecane X X X X X X X X X
Octadene X X X X X X X
Octochloro Toluene X X X X X X X
Octyl Alcohol X X X X X X X X
Olefin, Crude X X X X X X
Oleic Acid X X X X X
Oleum X X X
Oleum Spirits X X X X X X X X
Olive Oil X X X X X X X X
Orthochloro Ethylbenzene X X X X X X
Ortho-Dichlorobenzene X X X X
Oxalic Acid X X X X X X X X X X
Oxygen Cold X X X X X X X X X X X
Oxygen (-200°F to +400°F) X X X X X X X X
Ozone X X X X X X X X X X
O-Chloronaphthalene X X X X X X X
O-Chlorphenol X X X X X X X
O-Dlchlorobenzene X X X X X X X
Paint Thinner, Duco X X X X X X X
Palm Oil X X X X X
Palmitic Acid X X X X X X X X
Paraffin Liquid X X X X X X
Paraformaldehyde X X X X
Para-dichlorobenzene X X X X X X
Peanut Oil X X X X X X X X X
Pectin Liquor X X X X X X
Pentachloro Phenol X X X X X X
Pentane X X X X X X X X
Perchloric Acid X X X X X X X
Perchloroethylene X X X X X X X X
Petrolatum X X X X X X X X
Petroleum Oil above 250° F X X X X X X X
Note

Technical Manual
Petroleum Oil below 250° F X X X X X X X X X X
Phenol X X X X X X X
Phenyl Benzene X X X X X X X
Phenyl Ethyl Ether X X X X X X
Phenyl Hydrazine X X X X X X X
Phorone X X X X X X
Phosphate Esters X X X X X X
Phosphoric Acid to 158°F X X X X X X X X
Phosphoric Anhydride X X X X
Phosphorous Trichloride X X X X X X X X
Phosphorus Pentoxide X X X
Phosphorus Trichloride X X X
Photographic Solutions X X X X
Phthalic Acid X X X X
Phthalic Anhydride X X X X
Pickling Solution X X X X X X X
Picric Acid X X X X X X X X X
Pine Oil X X X X X X X X
Pineapple Juice X X X X X X
Pinene X X X X X X X X
Piperidine X X X X X X
Plating Solutions - Chrome X X X X X X X X
Plating Solutions - Other X X X X X X X X X
Poly Glycols X X X X X X
Polysulfide Liquor X X X X X X
Potash X X X X X X
Potash Alum X X X X X X
Potash Sulfide X X X X X X
Potassium Acetate X X X X X X X X
Potassium Bicarbonate X X X X X X
Potassium Bichromate X X X X X X
Potassium Bisulfite X X X X X X
Potassium Bromide X X X X X X
Potassium Carbonate X X X X X X
Potassium Chlorate X X X X X X
Potassium Chloride X X X X X X X X X
Note

Technical Manual
Potassium Cupro Cyanide X X X X X X X X X X
Potassium Cyanide X X X X X X X X X X
Potassium Dichromate X X X X X X X X X X
Potassium Diphosphate X X X X X X X X
Potassium Ferricyanide X X X X X X X
Potassium Ferrocyanide X X X X X X X
Potassium Hydroxide X X X X X X X X X X
Potassium Hypochlorite X X X X X X
Potassium Iodide X X X X X
Potassium Nitrate X X X X X X X X X
Potassium Oxalate X X X
Potassium Permanganate X X X X X
Potassium Phosphate X X X X X
Potassium Salts X X X X X X X X X X
Potassium Sulphate X X X X X X X X X
Potassium Sulphite X X X X X X X X X
Potassium (Molten) X X X
Prestone X X X X X
Producer Gas X X X X X X X X X X
Propane X X X X X X X X
Propane Propionitrile X X X X X X X X
Propyl Acetate X X X X X X X
Propyl Alcohol X X X X X X X X X X
Propyl Bromide X X X X X
Propyl Nitrate X X X X X X X
Propylene X X X X X X X
Propylene Glycol X X X X X X
Propylene Oxide X X X X X X X
Pulp Stock X X X X X X
Pydrauls X X X X X X X X X
Pyranol X X X X X X X X X X
Pyridine X X X X X X X
Pyrogallic Acid X X X X X X X X
Pyroligneous Acid X X X X X
Pyrrole X X X X X X X
P-Cymene X X X X X X X
Note

Technical Manual
P-Dichlorobenzene X X X X X X X
P-Tertiary Butyl Catechol X X X X X X X X
Quench Oil X X X X X X
Radiation X X X X X X
Rapeseed Oil X X X X X X X X
Red Oil X X X X X X X X X
Rosin X X X X X X
RP-1 Fuel X X X X X X
Rubber Solvents X X X X
Sal Ammoniac X X X X X X X X X X X
Salad Oil X X X X X
Salicylic Acid X X X X X X X X X
Salt Cake X X X X X
Seawater, Saltwater X X X X X X X X X
Sewage X X X X X X X X X X
Shellac X X X X X
Silicate Ethers X X X X X X X X X
Silicic Acid X X X X X X X X
Silicone Greases X X X X X X X X X X
Silicone Oils X X X X X X X X X
Silver Bromide X X X X X X
Silver Chloride X X X X X X X
Silver Cyanide X X X X X
Silver Nitrate X X X X X X X X X X
Skydrol 500 X X X X X X X
Skydrol 7000 X X X X X X X X X
Soap Liquors X X X X X X
Soap Solutions X X X X X X X X X X
Soda Ash X X X X X X X X X X
Sodium X X X
Sodium Acetate X X X X X X X X
Sodium Aluminate X X X X X X
Sodium Bicarbonate X X X X X X X X X X
Sodium Bichromate X X X
Sodium Bisulfate X X X X X X X X X X
Sodium Bisulfite X X X X X X X X X X
Note

Technical Manual
Sodium Borate X X X X X X X X X X
Sodium Bromide X X X X X X X
Sodium Carbonate (Caustic) X X X X X X X X X X
Sodium Chlorate X X X X X X
Sodium Chloride X X X X X X X X X X
Sodium Chromate X X X X X X X X
Sodium Citrate X X X
Sodium Cyanamide X X X X X X
Sodium Cyanide X X X X X X X X X
Sodium Fluoride X X X X X X X
Sodium Hydrosulfite X X X X X X
Sodium Hydroxide X X X X X X X X
Sodium Hypochlorate X X X X X X X X X X
Sodium Hypochlorite X X X X X X X X X X
Sodium Hyposulfite X X X X X X X
Sodium Lactate X X X
Sodium Metaphosphate X X X X X X X X X
Sodium Metasilicate X X X X X
Sodium Nitrate X X X X X X X X
Sodium Perborate X X X X X X X X X X
Sodium Peroxide X X X X X X X X X
Sodium Phosphate X X X X X X X X X
Sodium Plumbite X X X X X X
Sodium Silicate X X X X X X X X X
Sodium Sulfate X X X X X X X X X X
Sodium Sulfide X X X X X X X X X X
Sodium Sulfite X X X X X X X
Sodium Sulfite X X X X X X X X X X
Sodium Tetraborate X X X X X X
Sodium Thiosulfate X X X X X X X X X X
Sodium Trisulfate X X X X X X X X X X
Sorbitol X X X X X X
Soybean Oil X X X X X X X X X
Stannic Chloride X X X X X X X X X X
Stannous Chloride X X X X X X
Starch X X X X X X
Note

Technical Manual
Steam over 300°F X X X X X X
Steam under 300°F X X X X X X
Stearic Acid X X X X X X X X X
Stoddard Solvent X X X X X X X
Styrene X X X X X X X
Sucrose Solutions X X X X X X X X X X
Sulfate Liquors X X X X X X
Sulfate of Hydrogen X X X X X X
Sulfate of Lime X X X X X X
Sulfate of Sodium X X X X X X
Sulfite Liquors X X X X X X X X X
Sulfite Pulp X X X X X X
Sulfur X X X X X X X
Sulfur Chloride X X X X X X X
Sulfur Dioxide X X X X X X X X
Sulfur Hexafluoride X X X X X X X X X X
Sulfur Trioxide X X X X X X X X X
Sulfur Trioxide, Dry X X X X X X X X X
Sulfuric Acid (20% Oleum) X X X X
Sulfuric Acid (Concentrated) X X X X X
Sulfuric Acid (Dilute) X X X X X X
Sulfurous Acid X X X X X X X X
Sulphonated Fatty Alcohol X X X X X X
Sulphonated Vegetable Oils X X X X X X
Syrup X X X X X
Tall Oil X X X X X X
Tallow X X X X X X
Tannic Acid X X X X X X X X X X
Tar, Bituminous X X X X X X X X X X
Tar, Pine X X X X X X
Tartaric Acid X X X X X X X X X
Terpineol X X X X X X X X
Tertahydrofuran X X X X X X X
Tertiary Butyl Alcohol X X X X X X X X X X
Tertiary Butyl Mercaptan X X X X X X X
Tetrabromoethane X X X X X X X
Note

Technical Manual
Tetrabromomethane X X X X X X X
Tetrabutyl Titanate X X X X X X X X X
Tetrachloroethane X X X X X X X
Tetrachloroethylene X X X X X X X
Tetraethyl Lead X X X X X X X X
Tetralin X X X X X X
Tetraphenyl X X X X X X
Therminol VP-1,44,55,60,66 X X X X X X X
Thionyl Chloride X X X X X X
Titanium Tetrachloride X X X X X X
Toluene X X X X X X X
Toluene Diisocyanate X X X X X X X
Tomato Pulp X X X X X
Transformer Oil X X X X X X X X X
Transmission Fluid Type A X X X X X X X X X
Triacetin X X X X X X X X
Triaryl Phosphate X X X X X X X X
Triaryl Phosphate X X X X X X X X X
Tributoxyl Ethyl Phosphate X X X X X X X X
Tributyl Mercaptan X X X X X X X
Tributyl Phosphate X X X X X X X
Trichloroacetic Acid X X X X X X X
Trichloroethane X X X X X X
Trichloroethylene X X X X X X X
Tricresyl Phosphate X X X X X X X
Triethanol Amine X X X X X X
Triethyl Aluminum X X X X
Triethyl Borane X X X X
Trifluoroethane X X X X X X X
Trinitrotoluene (TNT) X X X X
Trioctyl Phosphate X X X X X X X
Tripoly Phosphate X X X X X X X
Trisodium Phosphate X X X X X
Tung Oil (Chine Wood Oil) X X X X X X X X
Turbine Oil X X X X X X X X X
Turpentine X X X X X X X X
Note

Technical Manual
Unsym. Dimethyl Hydrazine X X X X X X X X
Urea and Phenolic Resins X X X X X X
Uric Acid X X X
Varnish X X X X X X X X
Vegetable Oil X X X X X X X
Versilube X X X X X X X X X
Vinegar X X X X X X X
Vinyl Chloride X X X X X X X X
Vinyl Chloride Monomer (VCM) X X X X X X X
Vinylidine Chloride X X X X X X
Wagner 21B Fluid X X X X X X X
Water X X X X X X X X X
Waxes X X X X X X
Whiskey and Wines X X X X X X X X X
White Liquor X X X X X X
White Oil X X X X X X X X
White Pine Oil X X X X X X X X
White Water, Paper Mill X X X X X X
Wood Oil X X X X X X X X
Wood Pulp X X X X X X
Wood Vinegar X X X X X X
Xenon X X X X X X X X X X
Xylene X X X X X X X
Xylidenes X X X
Xylol X X X X X X X
Yeast X X X X X
Zeolites X X X X X X X X X
Zinc Acetate X X X X X X X X
Zinc Bromide X X X X X
Zinc Chloride X X X X X X X X X
Zinc Hydrosulfite X X X X X
Zinc Nitrate X X X X X X
Zinc Phosphate X X X X X X
Zinc Salts X X X X X X X X X X
Zinc Sulfate X X X X X X X X X X
Note

Pressure Relief Valve
Technical Manual
Revised May 1998
Catalog: PRVTM-US.97
Anderson Greenwood Anderson Greenwood

P.O. Box 944 Corrie Way, Bredbury Industrial Estate,
Stafford, Texas 77497, USA Stockport, Cheshire SK6 2ST, UK
Tel: (281) 274-4400 Tel: 0161 494 5363
Fax: (281) 240-1800 Fax: 0161 494 5672
International Tel: +1 281 274-4400 Telex: 668379
International Fax: +1 281 240-1800 International Tel: +44 161 494 5363
International Fax: +44 161 494 5672
© 1997 Anderson Greenwood Printed in USA

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Pressure

Pressure Relief Valves

General Information ........................................................................... 1, 2

ANSI Flange Standards

Valve Installations - Handling Procedures

ASME Code Section I1

ASME Code Section IV1

ASME Code Section VIII1

API RP 520 Part I1

API RP 520 Part II1

© 1997 Anderson Greenwood reserves the right to change product

© 1997 Anderson Greenwood reserves the right to change product

O-ring Seat Seals Seat Tightness Steam Jacketed Valves

Accumulation is the pressure increase Design Gauge Pressure refers to at least

Actual Discharge Area is the measured Effective Discharge Area or Equivalent

© 1997 Anderson Greenwood reserves the right to change product

Opening Pressure is the value of in- Rupture Disc Device is a nonreclosing

Pressure Relief Device is actuated by Simmer is the audible or visible escape of

Relieving Conditions is the term used to

© 1997 Anderson Greenwood reserves the right to change product

Valve Sizing – Nomenclature

Gas and Steam Flow

Symbol Description Inch Metric

A Orifice area or equivalent flow area. square inch square centimeter

© 1997 Anderson Greenwood reserves the right to change product

Valve Sizing – Nomenclature

Gas and Steam Flow Note

© 1997 Anderson Greenwood reserves the right to change product

Valve Sizing – Nomenclature

Notes Liquid Flow

© 1997 Anderson Greenwood reserves the right to change product

Valve Sizing – Nozzle Coefficients

ASME Nozzle Coefficients – Direct Spring PRVs

Valve ASME I ASME III ASME IV ASME VIII

API Nozzle Coefficients – Direct Spring PRVs

Valve ASME I ASME III ASME IV ASME VIII

© 1997 Anderson Greenwood reserves the right to change product

Valve Sizing – Nozzle Coefficients

ASME Nozzle Coefficients – Pilot Operated PRVs

Valve ASME VIII

API Nozzle Coefficients – Pilot Operated PRVs

Valve ASME VIII

© 1997 Anderson Greenwood reserves the right to change product

Valve Sizing – Orifice Areas

Orifice Areas – Direct Spring PRVs

Valve Orifice ASME Area API Area

D Series D .1219 .786 .110 .710

© 1997 Anderson Greenwood reserves the right to change product

Valve Sizing – Orifice Areas

Orifice Areas – Direct Spring PRVs

Valve Orifice ASME Area API Area

Model 61 .110 .710 .110 .710

© 1997 Anderson Greenwood reserves the right to change product

Valve Sizing – Orifice Areas

ASME Orifice Areas – Pilot Operated PRVs

Valve Size Orifice Area, in2 [cm2]

© 1997 Anderson Greenwood reserves the right to change product

Valve Sizing – Orifice Areas

API Orifice Areas – Pilot Operated PRVs

Valve Size Orifice Area, in2 [cm2]

© 1997 Anderson Greenwood reserves the right to change product

Valve Sizing – Orifice Areas

Orifice Areas - Types 93/93T Orifice Areas - Types 91/94