Best Relief Valve Options for Control Devices and Vacuum Systems
Relief valves and vacuum relief valves protect tanks, piping, and equipment by releasing excess pressure or vacuum. This guide highlights five reliable control devices and safety valves from reputable brands, focusing on brass construction, set pressures, and NPT connections. Each selection offers precise relief or vacuum protection for industrial and HVAC applications, with durability and corrosion resistance in mind.
| Product | Brand | Inlet / Outlet | Set Pressure / Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| VR38-100 VR Series Brass Vacuum Relief Valve | Control Devices | 3/8″ Male NPT | 0-30″ Hg |
| VR25-100 VR Series Brass Vacuum Relief Valve | Generic | 1/4″ Male NPT | 0-30″ Hg |
| STS ST25-1A250 ST Series Brass Soft Seat ASME Safety Valve | Control Devices | 1/4″ Male NPT | 0-250 psi |
| SB75-0A150 SB Series Brass Soft Seat ASME Safety Valve | Control Devices | 3/4″ Male NPT | 0-150 psi |
| SCB Series Brass ASME Safety Valve | Control Devices | 1″ Female NPT x 3/4″ Male NPT | 0-150 psi |
Control Devices VR38-100 Brass Vacuum Relief Valve

The VR38-100 is a brass vacuum relief valve designed to protect systems from excessive vacuum within a 0-30″ Hg range. It features a 3/8″ male NPT inlet connection and a stainless steel spring for corrosion resistance, making it suitable for vacuum-sensitive tanks and piping networks. The adjustable relief pressure allows fine-tuning to maintain safe operating conditions in various process setups.
Blower Pressure Relief Valve for Regenerative Blowers

This valve provides 0-300 mbar vacuum relief with precision adjustments. It is designed to maximize blower efficiency, minimize downtime, and safeguard air rings, vacuums, or related equipment. The compact design and straightforward adjustment make it adaptable across various regenerative blower applications. Safety-focused labeling supports reliable operation in industrial environments.
Control Devices ST25-1A250 Brass Soft Seat ASME Valve

Set at 250 psi with a high flow rate of 220 CFM, the ST25-1A250 uses a Vibra-Seal thread lock and brass construction for corrosion resistance. The music wire spring contributes to dependable performance under varying loads, with a robust 1/4″ NPT inlet connection. This valve suits process systems requiring reliable overpressure protection and durable materials.
Control Devices SB75-0A150 Brass Safety Valve

The SB75-0A150 offers a 150 psi relief setting with a high flow rate of 595 CFM. It uses a 3/4″ NPT threaded inlet and brass construction with a stainless steel spring for corrosion resistance. This combination supports demanding industrial applications needing swift relief at a specified pressure point.
Control Devices SCB Series ASME Safety Valve

The SCB Series provides ASME-certified safety with a 150 psi set pressure and a 3/4″ male NPT outlet along with a 1″ female NPT inlet. Brass construction and a stainless steel spring ensure corrosion resistance and durable performance in boiler, air compressor, or fluid handling systems requiring dependable overpressure protection.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Choosing Relief And Vacuum Valves
- Pressure and vacuum ranges: Match the valve’s set pressure or vacuum range to your system’s maximum allowable limits. Ensure a safe margin to prevent nuisance relief or under-protection.
- Connection size and type: Verify inlet/outlet threads (NPT sizes) and whether adapters are needed for compatibility with existing piping.
- Material and corrosion resistance: Brass bodies with stainless steel springs provide robust corrosion resistance, suitable for many industrial fluids and air systems.
- Soft seat vs. hard seat: Soft-seat valves handle tight shutoff and precise relief, while hard-seat designs may offer longer life under higher cycle rates.
- Valve type suitability: Vacuum relief valves protect against excessive negative pressure; pressure relief valves protect against overpressure. Confirm the valve is intended for the intended direction of protection in the system.
- Certification and standards: ASME-rated valves ensure compliance with recognized safety standards for certain industrial applications.
- Maintenance and accessibility: Consider ease of inspection, replacement seals, and the availability of replacement parts to minimize downtime.
- Operating environment: Temperature tolerance and exposure to contaminants (dust, moisture, corrosive vapors) can influence material choice and performance.
- Application context: HVAC, blower systems, pumps, boilers, and process lines have different reliability and response requirements; choose a model that aligns with the specific use case.
- Safety considerations: Use valves with reliable spring materials and secure locking provisions to prevent unintended relief events.