Is it true that a broken spring is a common problem with a relief valve?

A broken spring is indeed a common problem with relief valves. Relief valves are designed to open at a predetermined pressure to allow excess fluid to escape from a system, which helps prevent damage from overpressure conditions. The spring within the relief valve is a crucial component that maintains the set pressure level.

When the spring becomes broken or weakened, it can lead to improper functioning of the valve. This may cause the valve to either fail to open at the correct pressure, leading to unsafe conditions, or to continuously leak, resulting in fluid loss and reduced efficiency of the system.

Understanding how the spring operates within the context of the relief valve is vital for identifying potential failures and ensuring that the system operates safely and efficiently. Regular maintenance and inspection of the spring condition are critical components in the upkeep of any system that utilizes relief valves.