Knowledge Centre

What Is a Valve?


  • Definition: "A valve is a mechanical device that regulates, directs, or controls the flow of fluids (liquids, gases, or slurries) in a system by opening, closing, or partially obstructing a passageway. In industrial settings like oil and gas and mining, valves keep operations running smoothly and safely."



  • Why It Matters: "In oil and gas, valves control crude flow and prevent blowouts. In mining, they manage slurry pipelines and dust suppression systems. Without proper valve management, downtime and disasters loom large."


PSV vs PRV (as per API-576)

01 Media

PSVs are used for gas systems where rapid pressure relief is necessary to prevent overpressure incidents. PRVs are used for liquid systems where a gradual release helps maintain system stability. A PSRV (Pressure Safety Relief Valve) is primarily used for liquid services, acting similarly to a PSV in its function to release pressure safely.

02 Response to Pressure

PSVs open suddenly and fully when the set pressure is exceeded, providing an immediate release of pressure1. PRVs, on the other hand, open gradually and proportionally to the increase in pressure, allowing a controlled release

03 Discharge

PSVs: Release pressure to the atmosphere or through a flare system, ensuring quick and direct relief.


PRVs: Release pressure to a lower-pressure area, such as a tank, to manage pressure control in a contained manner.

4 Pillars of Failure Investigation

The four pillars of failure investigation are:


  1. Problem Definition: Clearly defining the problem to understand what has failed and the scope of the issue.
  2. Observation and Data Collection: Gathering all relevant data and observations to build a comprehensive picture of the failure.
  3. Data Analysis: Analyzing the collected data to identify root causes and contributing factors.
  4. Final Solutions: Developing and implementing solutions to address the root causes and prevent future failures.