How does a pressure reducing valve work?
A spring-loaded pressure reducing valve operates via a diaphragm that responds to outlet pressure. When the downstream pressure drops, the diaphragm moves downward and opens the valve. When pressure rises, the diaphragm moves upward and partially or fully closes the valve. This mechanism continuously corrects pressure, even when flow rates or inlet pressure fluctuate.
In pilot-operated designs, a small pilot valve controls the main valve for greater accuracy. This type is suitable for larger pipe sizes or applications where outlet pressure must remain within tight tolerances. Choose a pilot-operated valve for DN50 and above, or for steam systems with variable load.
What does a pressure reducing valve do in your installation?
A pressure reducing valve protects downstream equipment — pumps, cylinders, heat exchangers, pipelines — against overpressure and pressure spikes. By keeping the outlet pressure constant, you prevent wear, unnecessary downtime and premature failure of components. This extends the service life of your installation and reduces maintenance costs.
Pressure reducing valves also contribute to energy savings: systems operating above the required working pressure consume more energy than necessary. By matching the pressure to actual demand, this excess loss is reduced.
Pressure reducing valve for water: when to use one?
In water installations — from domestic to industrial — a pressure reducing valve brings the inlet pressure down to a manageable level, typically 3 to 6 bar. This prevents damage to pipework, taps, boilers and other connected equipment.
Choose brass for standard drinking water installations. Choose stainless steel for higher temperatures, steam or hygienic applications. For demineralised water and chemically treated media, plastic is the correct choice — demineralised water is aggressive to metals due to its very low mineral content. Georg Fischer supplies pressure reducing valves in PVC-U, PVDF and PP for corrosive media or cleanroom applications. Stübbe offers plastic and stainless steel versions for the chemical industry.
Pressure reducing valve for compressed air and compressors
On the outlet of a compressor, a pressure reducing valve ensures a constant compressed air pressure, even when demand fluctuates or inlet pressure varies. Without pressure reduction, the system operates at the compressor's maximum pressure, leading to accelerated wear of cylinders, solenoid valves and pipework.
Ebora supplies compact air service units from Festo, Camozzi and Norgren for compressed air systems, with an adjustable range of 0.5 to 12 bar. Combination units with filter, pressure reducing valve and lubricator in a single housing are also available.
Selection guide: which pressure reducing valve suits your application?
| Application |
Material |
Type |
Brand |
| Drinking water / heating |
Brass |
Spring-loaded |
Goetze, ARI |
| Steam |
Stainless steel |
Pilot-operated |
Spirax Sarco |
| Compressed air |
Aluminium / Zinc |
Spring-loaded |
Festo, Camozzi, Norgren |
| Demineralised / aggressive media |
PVC-U / PVDF / PP |
Diaphragm-operated |
Georg Fischer, Stübbe |
| High pressure class |
Stainless steel |
Pilot-operated |
ARI, Spirax Sarco |
Note when selecting: the pressure range, Kv value and flange connection must match the specifications of your system. When in doubt, our specialists will help you make the right choice.
Brands and versions
Ebora supplies pressure reducing valves from:
- Goetze Armaturen — proven reliability for water, steam and gas; available in brass and stainless steel with connections from ½" to 2"
- Spirax Sarco — specialists in steam and condensate applications; high accuracy under variable load
- ARI-Armaturen — extensive range for industrial applications; spring-loaded and pilot-operated versions
- Georg Fischer — plastic valves for corrosive media; available in PVC-U, PVDF and PP
- Stübbe — plastic and stainless steel versions for the chemical industry
For pressure sustaining valves and overflow valves, please refer to our check valves range. Where precise flow control is the primary requirement, view our safety valves.
Select and order your pressure reducing valve
Select your pressure reducing valve based on medium, pressure range and connection diameter — or request advice directly from our valve specialists.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a spring-loaded and a pilot-operated pressure reducing valve?
A spring-loaded pressure reducing valve operates entirely mechanically via a diaphragm and spring. This type is suitable for smaller pipe sizes and applications where a tolerance of a few tenths of a bar is acceptable. A pilot-operated valve responds more accurately and is better suited to larger pipe sizes or systems with significant pressure fluctuations.
Which material should I choose for a pressure reducing valve?
Brass is sufficient for drinking water and standard heating installations. Stainless steel is the right choice for higher temperatures, steam or hygienic requirements. For demineralised water and chemically aggressive media, plastic (PVC-U, PVDF or PP) is correct — metallic valves are attacked by the low conductivity of demineralised water.
Can I adjust a pressure reducing valve myself?
Most pressure reducing valves are fitted with an adjustment screw or handwheel allowing you to set the outlet pressure steplessly within the valve's pressure range. Always verify that the inlet pressure is within the maximum permitted range before making adjustments. For advice on setting or selection, our specialists are available based on your process data.
How do I maintain a pressure reducing valve?
Most pressure reducing valves require minimal maintenance. Inspect the diaphragm condition and seals periodically, particularly in applications with variable flow rates or high temperatures. Replacement kits for diaphragm and seat are available for common types from Goetze, Spirax Sarco and ARI.
