Oversizing PSV for HEX tube rupture case
Oversizing PSV for HEX tube rupture case
(OP)
Dear all
I sized a pressure relief valve for an Heat Exchanger and for tube rupture case.
The problem is that I considered 3 tubes to be ruptured and as result I oversized the relief. I have 2 questions:
1) Is forbidden from API to consider 3 tubes ruptured and you have to consider only one ?
2) Were is the problem if I oversized the relief and it can handles more mass flow than the minimum required ?
Because my client complained about the above problem I really appreciate a quick response
Best Regards
I sized a pressure relief valve for an Heat Exchanger and for tube rupture case.
The problem is that I considered 3 tubes to be ruptured and as result I oversized the relief. I have 2 questions:
1) Is forbidden from API to consider 3 tubes ruptured and you have to consider only one ?
2) Were is the problem if I oversized the relief and it can handles more mass flow than the minimum required ?
Because my client complained about the above problem I really appreciate a quick response
Best Regards





RE: Oversizing PSV for HEX tube rupture case
The biggest problem with oversizing relief valves, is the cost. API recommends less than 3% inlet loss at capacity for all overpressure scenarios. If your valve is really large for tube rupture, the inlet piping may have to be quite large.