Cracking Pressure

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Classification

Definition

The pressure at which the relief valve begins to open and bypass liquid. Calculating: This value can be given by the customer or established at 10-15% above the maximum differential pressure for pumps with internal relief valves or the maximum discharge pressure for pumps with return-to-tank valves or in-line system valves.

What is cracking pressure?

Cracking pressure is the pressure level at which a pump relief valve begins to open and bypass liquid.

Animation showing what the cracking pressure of a relief valve looks like on a gear pump

How to calculate the appropriate relief valve cracking pressure

This value can be given by the user or established at 10-15% above the maximum differential pressure for pumps with internal relief valves or the maximum discharge pressure for pumps with return-to-tank valves or in-line system valves.