When should a protective pressure relief vent be replaced

Pressure Relief Vent Replacement Guidelines

• Expired service life: Replace if the vent has reached or exceeded its manufacturer-recommended service life (typically 5-10 years), as internal components degrade over time.
• Visible damage: Cracks in the housing, structural corrosion, or bent/missing parts that impair performance require immediate replacement.
• Leakage: Even minor leakage signals worn seals or valve seat damage, necessitating replacement to prevent pressure-related hazards.
• Improper activation: Frequent opening below rated pressure or failure to reseal properly indicates calibration issues or internal damage.
• System changes: Upgrades to higher pressure/temperature operations or media changes (e.g., to corrosive gas) may require compatible vents.
• Post-incident replacement: After overpressure events, fires, or mechanical shocks, replace vents even if they appear intact, as hidden damage may exist.