WaterWar.net

Posted: **Sat Mar 17, 2007 12:11 pm**

Part of me is getting a little confused over these terms: check valve vs pressure release valve.

When I go a Google Image search for Check Valve, I get pictures of valves that I have in mind that open if pressure exceeds a certain limit. Doing a search for Pressure Release Valve yields rather different imagery. However, my knowledge of proper terminology in this area is limited. Insight would be most welcome.

As an aside, I found a neat page on different spray nozzles that might be useful for some.

Further research:
check valve: (Mech.) a valve in the feed pipe of a boiler, or other conduit, to prevent the return of the feed water or other fluid.
- Knight.

pressure release valve:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pressure_release_valve

Hmm... seems like the proper term really is pressure-release valve. "Safety valve" may also be an appropriate term. Guess that answers that.

Edit:
Info on Safety Valves:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Safety_valve

Posted: **Sat Mar 17, 2007 12:25 pm**

Water guns have two valves: a check valve and a pressure release valve. When you pump, water flows through the check valve and doesn't go back [a check valve is just a one-way valve]. When the pressure becomes too high, the pressure release valve opens and vents some water back. At least that's how I've understood it.

Posted: **Sat Mar 17, 2007 12:39 pm**

There was some discussion about the proper term at SSC some months ago.

Check valve--one-way valve. They usually use a spring, and even the slightest pressure will push the spring, open a plunger, and let the water through. Pressure on the other side only tightens the seal.

Pressure release valve--opens at a certain pressure and above. They probably use a spring, and a certain pressure applies enough force to push a plunger and open the valve. I'm not sure.

The difference--a pressure release valve is designed to open at a certain medium or high pressure. A check valve is designed to open at as low a pressure as possible, and the application is for one-way flow. The application for a PRV is for safety or flow regulation.

Apparently, early soaker modders called the pressure release valve a "check valve" because of location in the store (?). They also called the mod "freezing." Neither is correct, so "pressure release valve disabling" is preferred.

I'm hoping Ben will include the name change in the big SSC site update. Looking at my description above, the two are actually very similar.

EDIT: What if the Orca's pressure release valve led to a tiny nozzle on top? Like a whale's blowhole? Alright, nevermind...

Edited By SilentGuy on 1174153564

Posted: **Sat Mar 17, 2007 2:25 pm**

That makes a lot more sense. Thanks for the additional clarifications, guys!

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Check Valve vs Pressure Release Valve - ^