Red Seal Gasfitter — Class B Practice Exam

What is the purpose of a pressure relief valve?

1. To increase system pressure for better performance

2. To release excess pressure to prevent system failure or explosion

3. To monitor the gas flow rate

4. To filter out impurities from the gas

The correct answer is: To release excess pressure to prevent system failure or explosion

The purpose of a pressure relief valve is to release excess pressure to prevent system failure or explosion. Pressure relief valves are crucial safety devices installed in gas and fluid systems. They are designed to open automatically when the pressure reaches a predetermined level, allowing fluid or gas to escape and thus reducing pressure in the system. Excess pressure can lead to a variety of hazardous situations, including the risk of equipment failure, leaks, or catastrophic explosions. By automatically relieving pressure, these valves help to maintain safe operating conditions and protect both the infrastructure and personnel involved in the system. The other options relate to functions that do not align with the primary function of a pressure relief valve. Increasing system pressure, monitoring flow rates, or filtering impurities would not contribute to safety in the same way that pressure relief does. The effectiveness of a pressure relief valve in mitigating potentially dangerous excess pressure is essential in gasfitting and overall system management.