Pressure reducing valve diaphragm rupture

A Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) diaphragm failure occurs when the internal flexible diaphragm tears or cracks, resulting in a loss of control over outlet pressure, an abnormal pressure surge, or fluid leakage through the vent or valve bonnet. Common causes include mechanical fatigue, sudden pressure surges, or chemical corrosion.

Signs of a ruptured valve diaphragm:

Unstable outlet pressure: The valve's outlet pressure rises above or falls below the set pressure.

External leakage: Saturated steam, water, or gas escapes from the spring chamber through the vent in the valve bonnet.

Noisy operation: Hissing, noise, or loud banging sounds emanating from the valve body.

Common causes of pressure-reducing valve diaphragm failure:

Excessive inlet pressure: A sudden pressure surge exceeding the valve's design limits, causing hydraulic shock or water hammer that damages internal components.

Material fatigue: Continuous expansion and contraction of the rubber or elastomeric material during years of normal operation.

Chemical or thermal damage: Exposure to incompatible chemicals or temperatures exceeding permissible limits.

Remedial measures:

Isolation and depressurization: Close the supply valve, then bleed off all pressure from the pipeline before working on the valve.

Diaphragm replacement or repair: Remove the upper valve cover to inspect the internal components.

💡 Reference products:

  Pressure reducing type O, Watson Mcdaniel USA                  Pressure reducing type HD, Watson Mcdaniel USA

If you are experiencing any of the pressure regulating valve problems listed below, please contact us for advice on solutions.

TL Plus specializes in consulting on system and equipment improvements, and calculating energy recovery for saturated steam systems.

If you need to improve your saturated steam pressure reducing valve system, please contact us via email sales(at)tlplus-engineering.com.

TL Plus Company is the authorized distributor of Watson McDaniel products in Vietnam and other Asian countries.