When installing multiple pressure relief valves, how should they be arranged?

When installing multiple pressure relief valves, they should be arranged in parallel. This arrangement allows for each valve to operate independently, providing redundancy and reliability in pressure management. If one valve were to operate or malfunction, the others can still provide relief, ensuring that the system remains safe and can effectively manage excess pressure.

Parallel connections also offer the advantage of distributing the pressure load across multiple valves, which can enhance the system's overall efficiency. Additionally, this configuration allows for maintenance on one valve without taking the entire system offline, thereby improving operational continuity.

Arranging valves in series would not be advisable because it could lead to higher pressure at the inlet of the second valve as the first valve would need to open to relieve pressure before the second could function. This could result in a failure to relieve excess pressure adequately, potentially endangering system integrity. Random arrangements would not provide the systematic assurance needed for effective pressure relief management. Thus, the parallel arrangement is the accepted method in industry standards for ensuring safety and functionality in pressure relief applications.