What Is a Breather Valve?
A breather valve(pressure/vacuum relief valve) is designed to protect storage tanks, process systems, and equipment from excessive pressure and vacuum conditions. These valves allow for the controlled venting of gases or vapors and help to maintain a safe working environment by preventing tank damage and minimizing product loss due to evaporation.
How Do Breather Valves Work?
Breather valves work by using weight-loaded or spring-loaded pallets to control the flow through the valve. When the internal pressure or vacuum reaches a set point, the pallet lifts off the seat to allow flow. This prevents emission losses until very close to the set pressure and prevents air intake until very close to the set vacuum.
What Are The Benefits of Using Breather Valve?
- High flow capacity from a compact valve size.
- Wide range of pressure and vacuum settings for maximum tank protection.
- Minimization of gas loss and evaporation, resulting in economic savings.
- Compliance with stringent emission control regulations.
- Modular design allows for customization to specific requirements.
What Materials Are Breather Valves Made From?
Breather valves can be constructed from various materials, including aluminum, stainless steel, carbon steel, ductile iron, and alloys such as C276. The choice of material depends on the specific application and the type of media being handled.
What Are Common Applications of Breather Valves?
Common applications include protecting storage tanks in industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, chemical processing, and petrochemical industries. They are also used in systems where vapors need to be piped away or vented to the atmosphere.
Welchen Standards entsprechen Entlüftungsventile?
Entlüftungsventile werden gemäß Standards wie API 2000:2014 und EN ISO 28300:2016 entwickelt und getestet. Sie erfüllen außerdem die europäische Richtlinie 2014/34/EU für Geräte zur Verwendung in explosionsgefährdeten Bereichen (ATEX).
How Do I Select the Right Breather Valve For My Application?
Selecting the right breather valve involves considering factors such as tank size, media characteristics (flash point, boiling point, latent heat of vaporization, molecular mass), location, maximum filling and emptying rates, and the required set pressure and vacuum settings. Consulting with a Yee Valve expert and using a valve sizing service can help ensure optimal performance and cost-effectiveness.
What Maintenance Is Required for Breather Valves?
Regular inspection and maintenance are necessary to ensure breather valves operate correctly. This includes checking for any blockages, ensuring the pallets and seats are clean and free of debris, and verifying that the set pressures and vacuums are accurate. Maintenance procedures should follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to maintain safety and efficiency.