Relief valves must be...

Relief valves are crucial safety devices in hydronic and process piping systems, designed to protect equipment from excessive pressure by releasing fluid when necessary. The statement that relief valves must be spring-loaded without disk guides on the pressure side is accurate because this design helps ensure that the valve can react promptly and efficiently to pressure changes.

Spring-loaded relief valves utilize a spring that is tensioned against a disk; when the system pressure exceeds a predetermined limit, the force of the pressure overcomes the spring tension, allowing the disk to lift and fluid to escape. This design is highly effective for maintaining system safety, as it provides a quick response to overpressure conditions.

The specification of "without disk guides on the pressure side" emphasizes the importance of unobstructed movement for the disk. In many designs, disk guides could introduce friction or bind the disk, potentially delaying its action or causing it to fail to open under high pressure. A valve without such guides can achieve quicker and more reliable operation, enhancing the overall safety of the system.

In contrast, electric and pneumatic relief valves may not provide the rapid mechanical response crucial for immediate pressure release in some situations. Manual relief valves require human intervention, which can be impractical during emergency conditions. Hence, spring-loaded relief