What must the discharge line of a relief valve do according to code?

The discharge line of a relief valve is designed to provide a safe means of venting excess pressure from a system. According to code, it is critical that this line directs any fluid that may escape under pressure safely away from potential hazards. The code specifies that in certain applications, this discharge line should connect back to the fuel oil tank. This is particularly important for systems that handle fuel oils, as it ensures that any discharged fluids are contained and can be safely recirculated into the system rather than being released into the environment, which can pose serious safety and environmental risks.

By directing discharged fluids back to the fuel oil tank, it also minimizes the risk of spills, reduces waste, and maintains the integrity of the system. This practice aligns with safety protocols intended to prevent accidents and maintain compliance with regulatory standards.