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API

API 520 Part I

Sizing, Selection, and Installation of Pressure-relieving Devices — Sizing and Selection

Issuing body
API
Latest edition
10th Edition (2020)
Region
USA, Global
Equipment items
2

Scope

Sizing methodology and device selection for pressure-relieving devices.

Key requirements (7)

  • PRV sizing for gas, vapor, liquid, two-phase relief.
  • Effective discharge coefficient Kd: 0.975 (gas, certified), 0.65 (liquid certified).
  • Backpressure correction Kb (conventional vs balanced bellows).
  • Two-phase via Omega method (HEM) or DIERS.
  • Set pressure: ≤ MAWP. Allowable accumulation: 10% (single PRV), 16% (multiple), 21% (fire case).
  • Inlet line: max 3% loss at rated flow (rule of thumb to prevent chatter).
  • Outlet line: backpressure ≤ 10% set (conventional) or ≤ 50% (balanced bellows).

Related standards (3)

Applied to 2 equipment items