At what pressure is a relief valve expected to start functioning?

The relief valve is designed to function at the design pressure. This pressure is specified by the manufacturer and represents the maximum pressure the system is intended to operate under safely. The relief valve's role is to open at or just above this designated pressure to prevent the system from exceeding safe operating limits, thereby mitigating the risk of equipment failure or catastrophic incidents.

Choosing the design pressure is essential as it ensures that the system is protected and maintains safety and operational effectiveness. By venting excess pressure when the design threshold is reached, the relief valve prevents damage or failure, which could result from pressures exceeding what the system was built to handle. Understanding the role of the relief valve in maintaining pressure conditions reinforces the importance of adhering to design specifications in engineering and safety practices.