What do you do when there is high pressure build-up within the plumbing systems? Pressure reducing valve (PRV) is the answer to it. They are in great demand specifically in plumbing systems served by large water utilities or in and around metropolitan areas.

The main pressure reducing valve function is to convert high pressure of water to safe pressure levels and operate within the set plumbing systems requirements. Water pressure tests are usually conducted to determine whether the plumbing system requires PRV installation or not.

Using a water pressure test gauge, the pressure is calculated. If the pressure test results go over 70 PSI then PRV needs to be installed on the incoming water supply. Then again, water pressure tends to fluctuate depending on the time of the day. Using a pressure reducing valve is a safety precaution that can save the plumbing systems in times of need.

Let’s learn more about these safety devices that have a valuable role to play in plumbing systems.

 

What Is A Pressure Reducing Valve?

 

It is a type of mechanical valve that has been designed to automatically convert higher, often regarded as unsafe, input water pressure into manageable output or downstream pressure.

Regardless of the fluctuations in upstream water pressure, this device works effectively to reduce high pressure to a constant, reduced downstream pressure. They are expertly crafted to deliver self-acting performance. This means they do not require an external power source to operate. 

It makes them an efficient and budget-friendly choice for pressure control. PRV has the power to significantly lessen the potential damage to different components within a plumbing system caused by high pressure. They also have a simple design and high reliability, making them an ideal solution.

 

Key Components of A Pressure Reducing Valve

 

For maintaining optimised water pressure regulation, there are multitude components in a pressure reducing valve working together. The key parts of the valve includes —

 

The Valve Body:

It is the crucial part of the valve that stabilises the return flow while regulating pressure efficiently. The internal part of the valve body has a V port throttling plug that is responsible for offering precise and stable response for flow and pressure regulation. It also helps in reducing noise and vibration.

 

The Adjustment Spring and Screw:

These parts work alongside with the diaphragm to control the valve position.

 

The Diaphragm:

 This component controls the valve’s position against a spring pressure.

 

Pilot Valve:

This is used in the pilot-operated pressure-reducing valve to load a piston or diaphragm. It helps in increasing the downward force that serves the purpose of opening a larger primary valve.

 

Working Principle of A Pressure Reducing Valve

 

To fulfill pressure reducing valve purpose of controlling high-pressure, its working principle is based on adjusting the inlet pressure to a specific required outlet pressure.

This also depends on the medium’s energy to maintain the outlet pressure stable. It is achievable with the action of throttling and adjusting the opening and closing parts. The action results in reducing pressure to medium level which automatically meets the requirements of predetermined downstream pressure.

Upon detection of pressure increase, the pressure sensor in the valve signals for reducing the valve opening. The valve opening increases when the pressure decreases. This dynamic allows the pressure regulator to constantly adjust and manage the control requirements. 

The pressure reducing valve works on the principle of equalizing the force between the adjustment spring and the reduced pressure effectively. Therefore, coming in handy to set pressure.

If you are interested in getting your hands on products that offer optimal pressure reducing valve function then connect with us. At Dutco Tennant, we supply industry’s best quality PRV solutions.