Hydraulic relief valves are important components of hydraulic systems that are designed to protect the system from overpressure conditions. They help regulate the pressure of hydraulic fluid and prevent damage to the system and its components. Here is a brief overview of how hydraulic relief valves work and their functions:

Table of Contents

Working of hydraulic relief valves

Hydraulic relief valves work by opening and diverting the flow of hydraulic fluid to the tank when the system pressure exceeds a set pressure. The valve has an adjustable spring-loaded pressure relief valve that opens when the system pressure exceeds the valve’s set pressure. As the pressure relief valve opens, it diverts the excess fluid flow to the tank, thus preventing damage to the system and its components due to overpressure.

Functions of hydraulic relief valves

a. Overpressure protection : The primary function of hydraulic relief valves is to protect the system from overpressure conditions. If the system pressure exceeds the valve’s set pressure, the relief valve opens and diverts the excess fluid flow to the tank, preventing damage to the system and its components.

b. Pressure regulation : Hydraulic relief valves can also be used to regulate the pressure of hydraulic fluid in the system. By adjusting the valve’s set pressure, the pressure of the system can be regulated to a safe level.

c. Circuit isolation: Some hydraulic relief valves can also isolate different sections of the hydraulic circuit to control the pressure in each section independently. This is particularly useful in complex hydraulic systems where different sections may require different pressure levels.

d. Energy conservation: Hydraulic relief valves can also help conserve energy by reducing the pressure in the system when it is not required. This can be achieved through the use of pressure-reducing valves that reduce the pressure of the hydraulic fluid when the system demand is low.

Overall, hydraulic relief valves play an essential role in ensuring the safe and effective operation of hydraulic systems. They provide reliable overpressure protection, pressure regulation, circuit isolation, and energy conservation.