Are there any constructional restrictions in ARC valve, which forces the above mentioned configuration, especially in high pressure applications such as BFW?
Two basic concepts are to be kept in mind. 1. ARC valves are eminently uni-directional valves. (2) Flows happen from upstream to downstream, i.e. high hydraulic energy level to lower energy level. 3. Orientation by position “at top or at side” becomes significant based on the design pattern of the ARC valve. Being basically unidirectional, they are similar to non-return valves or pressure relief valves. They are actually pressure relief valves only. with the provision of the relief line being connectible to the circuit to make the flow to return to suction and not go waste. Pressure relief mechanism often being spring loaded the orientation may not matter. But it is better to follow the manuals, because the spring-loading may have difference in response based on orientation.
