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Types of Pressure-Reducing Valves: Direct-acting & Pilot-operated

Choosing the right types of PRV is essential for efficiency and safety. This guide explores direct-acting and pilot-operated PRVs, their functions, pros and cons, and best uses—helping you make an informed decision for optimal pressure regulation. Let’s dive in!

Pressure-Reducing Valve Types

Pressure-reducing valves (PRVs) are essential components in fluid systems, designed to maintain a consistent downstream pressure regardless of fluctuations in upstream pressure or flow demand. They are commonly used in various applications, including water distribution, steam systems, and industrial processes, to ensure system safety and efficiency.

 

There are primarily two types of PRVs: Direct-Acting PRVs and Pilot-Operated PRVs.

  • Direct-acting PRVs

Direct-acting PRVs help control fluid pressure by keeping downstream pressure stable, even when upstream pressure changes. These valves work with a simple spring-loaded diaphragm or piston that directly adjusts the valve opening. If downstream pressure rises, it pushes against the spring, closing the valve to reduce flow. If downstream pressure drops, the spring pushes the valve open, allowing more flow. This quick-response mechanism makes direct-acting PRVs efficient and easy to use.

 

Notable features of direct-acting PRVs include their compact size, cost-effectiveness, and ease of installation. However, they exhibit a higher droop—variation from the set pressure—compared to pilot-operated PRVs, which can result in less precise pressure control.

 

Due to these characteristics, direct-acting PRVs are ideal for applications with relatively stable pressure requirements and lower flow rates, such as residential water systems and small-scale industrial processes.

A picture shows a sample of direct-operated PRVs.jpg
A diagram of a direct-operated PRV..PNG

  • Pilot-operated PRVs

Pilot-operated PRVs provide more precise pressure control in systems where flow rates and pressures constantly change. These valves use a small pilot valve to control a larger main valve. When downstream pressure rises too high, the pilot valve releases pressure from the control chamber, opening the main valve to reduce pressure. When downstream pressure drops too low, the pilot valve adds pressure to the control chamber, closing the main valve to increase pressure.

 

This setup allows higher flow capacity and more accurate pressure control than direct-acting PRVs However, pilot-operated PRVs are more complex and may require more maintenance than direct-acting PRVs as they have more parts. Naturally, they come with a higher price. They are commonly used in industrial applications such as steam systems, oil and gas pipelines, and chemical processing plants, where accurate pressure regulation is critical.

A picture shows a sample of pilot-operated PRVs.
A diagram of a pilot-operated PRV.

  • Other Types of PRVs

Apart from the two main types mentioned above, there are also other types of PRVs, each designed with unique features to meet specific application needs.

 

  • Low-pressure PRVs: Designed to decrease incoming water or steam pressure to a safer, constant, predetermined downstream level. These valves are commonly used in residential and commercial applications to protect plumbing systems by reducing high inlet pressure to a lower, stable outlet pressure.

 

  • High-flow PRVs: Engineered to manage substantial fluid volumes while maintaining consistent downstream pressure. These valves are crucial in applications such as industrial water lines and commercial systems, where high flow rates are common.

 

  • Diaphragm-type PRVs: Utilize a flexible diaphragm to regulate downstream pressure. As downstream pressure increases, it acts upon the diaphragm, causing the valve to close and reduce flow; conversely, when downstream pressure decreases, the diaphragm allows the valve to open, increasing flow. This design ensures precise pressure control and is commonly used in water distribution and industrial processes.

Optimize Your System with a Trusted Pressure-Reducing Valve Distributor - KUHNWAY

Knowing the difference between different types of PRVs helps you pick the right valve for your system. Direct-acting PRVs are simple, compact, and great for low-flow systems like residential water lines. Pilot-operated PRVs provide more precise control and handle higher flow rates, making them ideal for industries like steam, oil, and large-scale water systems. Both play a key role in keeping pressure stable and protecting equipment.

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At KUHNWAY, we specialize in high-quality PRV solutions tailored to diverse system needs. Our Direct-Acting PRVs ensure stable pressure control, making them ideal for potable water and industrial systems. Meanwhile, our Piston-Type PRVs offer a lightweight, compact design with versatile pressure regulation, excelling in construction, fire protection, and beyond.

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With KUHNWAY, you get precision engineering, durability, and expert support for all your pressure management needs. Contact us today to find the perfect PRV or other high-quality valve solutions for your system and enhance your operational efficiency!

Types of Pressure-Reducing Valves: Direct-acting & Pilot-operated

Learn about all the types of pressure-reducing valves, their features, functions, and applications for efficient pressure control in fluid systems.

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