What is the role of a safety relief valve in a boiler system?

A safety relief valve plays a crucial role in maintaining the safety and integrity of a boiler system. Its primary function is to relieve excess pressure that may build up within the boiler. This is essential because when the pressure exceeds the design limits, it can lead to catastrophic failures, such as explosions or ruptures.

The safety relief valve automatically opens at a set pressure, allowing steam or water to escape and thus reducing the pressure inside the boiler to a safe level. This mechanism ensures that the boiler operates within safe limits, protecting both the equipment and the personnel working around it.

Other options, while related to boiler operation, do not accurately describe the specific function of the safety relief valve. Increasing pressure, preventing overheating, and regulating water flow are managed by different components within the boiler system, whereas the relief valve's sole purpose is to handle excess pressure situations effectively.