Relieving Pressure Reducing Regulators
Relieving Pressure Reducing Regulators can bleed or vent pressure when the downstream pressure exceeds the setpoint, even in a no-flow condition. Typically, this happens via a relief valve (or hole) in the center of the diaphragm and pintle assembly. A relieving regulator stops the flow of pressure and opens a vent, which allows the pressure to escape. The relief valve or vent will then stay open until the pressure levels are back to normal and return to safe levels. Overall, it allows downstream pressure to be released without the need to add a standalone relief valve to your gas system. A self-relieving regulator releases the pressure on its own.
There are several pressure regulator applications that are suitable for a pressure relieving regulator. A relieving pressure reducing regulator should only be used in instances where the excess pressure can be safely released into the atmosphere. A non-relieving regulator would be more critical to have in hazardous applications, so that excess gases or air are not released.