Thrust Balancing Exhaust Fitting for Safety and Relief Valves

Abstract

A description is given of the stress distribution in an elastically strained standard safety valve installation, followed by a discussion of the problem introduced by settlement and vertical expansion in finding a means of support for rapid and extensive changes of load. Given is a method for absorbing today’s greater design thrusts safely and economically, while meeting the need to accommodate varying positions in space. Basically, a greater thrust has meant reinforcement of the valve, piping and supports. However, the use of readily available standard valve, flange and other high pressure components to the fullest extent possible consistent with safety is much preferred. After considerable experience with the application of these principles, they are now presented for general consideration along with illustrations of practical designs that have evolved in their use.