Why do some relief valves, after installation, either cause system pressure spikes that damage the seals, or result in unstable pressure fluctuations? To ensure relief valves effectively act as “safety gatekeepers” in hydraulic systems, focus on three key aspects: selection, calibration, and maintenance.
When choosing a relief valve, don’t just look at the pressure rating; consider the operating conditions. For fixed displacement pump systems, prioritize direct-acting relief valves—they offer fast response, low cost, and are suitable for low-pressure, low-flow scenarios. For variable displacement pump systems or high-pressure, high-flow conditions, use pilot-operated relief valves for high pressure stabilization accuracy and minimal pressure fluctuations. SPASSUN Hyraulics Technology（Ningbo）Co. ,LTD can also customize valve core damping structures according to your system parameters, improving pressure stabilization accuracy by 20% compared to general-purpose models and providing stronger shock resistance.
The calibration process is crucial and cannot be taken lightly; it’s the core of pressure stabilization. First, adjust the relief valve’s opening pressure under no-load conditions by slowly turning the adjusting screw, monitoring the pressure gauge until the system pressure stabilizes at the set value. When running under load, further fine-tuning is necessary to prevent pressure drift due to load changes. Additionally, ensure the relief valve’s return port is not pressurized and the return pipe diameter is matched; otherwise, the pressure will inexplicably rise, unnecessarily increasing system energy consumption.
Don’t neglect routine maintenance; small details determine overall stability. Regularly check the valve core for blockages, especially in systems with poor oil cleanliness; clean the valve core and seat promptly. Aging seals can cause pressure leakage; replace them immediately if leaks are detected. Also, monitor the fatigue of the pressure regulating spring; a softened spring will lower the set pressure, directly impacting system safety.
Our company also provides dedicated relief valve support services, from selection guidance and on-site calibration to remote fault diagnosis—a complete solution. With this robust support, the relief valve can reliably maintain system pressure, ensuring safe and efficient equipment operation.
Post time: Jan-09-2026