Knowledge Gaps This Course Closes
01
Scenario Identification
Knowing all API 521 overpressure scenarios but not knowing which one is the design-governing case — and why it matters for your equipment.
02
Sizing Methodology Selection
Vapor, liquid, two-phase — picking the wrong method leads to undersized PSVs. Understand the decision logic before touching API 520.
03
Back Pressure & PSV Type
When do you specify a conventional vs. balanced vs. pilot-operated valve? Most engineers get this wrong in their first 3 years.
04
Relief Rate Calculation
How to correctly calculate the required relief rate for each credible scenario — the foundation of every accurate PSV sizing.
05
From PSV to Flare Header
How individual PSV loads connect to the flare network — the missing link between relief system design and flare engineering.
Session Agenda — 60 Minutes
00–08
min
min
The Relief System Ecosystem
What is a relief system, why it matters, and how PSVs, flare headers, and knockout drums fit together.
08–20
min
min
Overpressure Scenario Identification & Relief Rate
Systematic walkthrough of credible overpressure causes — blocked outlet, utility failure, control valve failure, and more. How to identify the governing scenario and calculate the correct relief rate.
20–38
min
min
PSV Sizing — Step by Step
Walk through API 520 sizing methodology with a worked example. Set pressure vs. relieving pressure vs. back pressure — terminology, impact, and common errors explained clearly.
38–50
min
min
PSV Selection & Back Pressure Effects
Conventional vs. balanced bellows vs. pilot-operated PSVs — decision criteria, back pressure limits, and when to use each type.
50–60
min
min
Live Q&A + Free Tool Demo
Open Q&A with the instructor. Live walkthrough of the free Relief Calculator at relief.devsanenergy.com — a real sizing calculation done in under 2 minutes.
What You Will Walk Away With
✓
A systematic approach for identifying overpressure scenarios on any equipment
✓
Confidence in applying API 520/521 to size a PSV correctly and independently
✓
Clear criteria for selecting the right PSV type for any service and back pressure condition
✓
Understanding of how PSV design feeds into the overall flare system and relief header
✓
Access to DevSan Energy’s free Relief Calculator for instant sizing checks on any project
✓
A summary reference sheet (PDF) with key formulas, decision trees, and standard references
Who Should Attend
Early-Career Engineers
0–5 years in process engineering. You’ve heard of PSVs — now learn to size them correctly and confidently.
Engineers Switching Areas
Moving from simulation or project engineering into safety/relief? This session fast-tracks your ramp-up.
Mid-Level Engineers
5–10 years in. You’ve done the calculations — fill the conceptual gaps and sharpen your judgment.
Your Instructor
DV
Devendra Vaidya
Relief & Flare System Expert
Founder, DevSan Energy · Senior Process Engineer
17+ Years Process Engineering
ADNOC Approved Engineer
LNG · Refineries · Petrochemicals
Bechtel · Technip Energies