Pressure Relief & Control
Advanced Overpressure Protection for Critical Transformer Assets
Qualitrol’s Pressure Relief Devices (PRDs) are specifically designed to provide rapid mechanical pressure relief for oil‑filled transformers, load tap changers and other fluid‑filled equipment. When sudden internal pressure spikes occur, these devices open instantly to safely vent hot oil and gas, protect the tank, safeguard personnel, and minimise environmental impact. Once pressure normalises, the devices automatically reseal to maintain system integrity and reduce downtime.
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- 01 Application Overview
- 02 Extra Large Pressure Relief Device
- 03 LPRD Large Pressure Relief Devices
- 04 What We Solve For
Application Overview
Qualitrol PRDs are used across the full spectrum of transformer installations—from network transformers (500 kVA and above), large distribution and medium power units, through to large power transformers and load tap changers. They offer precise, reliable pressure relief for equipment operating in utility, heavy‑industry, mobile, and railway environments. Their directed‑flow designs and optional piping systems help ensure hot oil is safely redirected away from personnel and critical components.
Extra Large Pressure Relief Device

Mechanical over pressure protection device with integrated directional discharge outlet. Provides pressure relief and insulating fluid containment (requires optional piping) on transformers and load tap changers during over pressure conditions. Automatically reseals once pressure has fallen.
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Dual spring loaded valve for quick operation and reseal after a pressure situation
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50% higher flowrate than the LPRD for increased tank protection during an over pressure event (12600 SCFM)
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Utilizes the same bolt pattern as the LPRD and industry standards enabling direct replacement
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Standard integrated directional shield with 8 inch diameter outlet to maximize flow rate and control hot oil and gas discharge
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Reduces risk to environment, surrounding assets, and people in the immediate area when used in conjunction with piping kits
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Variety of optional piping kits, flanges, and animal screens are available from Qualitrol to divert hot oil
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Operating pressure, Gasket material, indicator style
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Up to 2 latching or momentary switches (single or double pole form C, high DC, or low current gold contacts)
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Electrical connection style
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Gas bleed system
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Stainless steel piping and body option
LPRD Large Pressure Relief Devices

The Qualitrol LPRD is a mechanical pressure relief device engineered to protect transformers and load tap changers from excessive internal pressure. Featuring a patented dual-gasket system for rapid response and automatic resealing, the LPRD offers visual and remote operation indication, optional alarm switches, and directional shielding for safe discharge of hot oil and gases. With over 50 years of field-proven reliability, it remains the industry standard for transformer overpressure protection.
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Patented dual-gasket system for fast response and reliable resealing
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Up to 4 Form C contacts with only 2 switch enclosures
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IP65-rated switch enclosure standard; IP66 available with AS1000 switch
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Visual operation indicator pin and optional semaphore
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Rugged die-cast flange with corrosion-resistant coating
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Directional shield for controlled hot oil/gas discharge
What We Solve For
Utilities and heavy‑industry operators face operational, environmental and safety risks due to sudden internal transformer faults that cause pressure spikes. Qualitrol’s PRDs solve these challenges by offering:
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Improved personnel safety through controlled directional discharge
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Reduced environmental impact by enabling discharge to containment
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Reduced downtime thanks to reliable automatic resealing
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Extended asset protection via fast‑acting mechanical design
These solutions address safety compliance, environmental obligations and asset‑life optimisation.
Features & Functionality

Flow Capacity
Provides up to 12,600 SCFM flow rate, independently verified, exceeding IEC and CE requirements.

Valve System
Ensures precise operation, fast opening and reliable resealing using a patented single‑piece dual‑acting gasket.

Directed‑flow design reduces the risk of hot‑oil exposure to workers and supports optional containment piping for environmental control.

Rugged Construction
Built with stainless steel, cast aluminum and epoxy/polyester‑coated components to withstand harsh environments including salt‑spray conditions.
Functionality & Options
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Patented gasket and valve designs ensure quick actuation and consistent resealing after pressure subsides, maintaining internal fluid containment.
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Both LPRD and XPRD models can be paired with aluminum or PVC piping, protective screens, large‑radius elbows, or compression couplings for safer and cleaner discharge control.
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Optional semaphores, indicator pins and alarm switches provide clear notification of pressure‑relief events—locally or through SCADA/monitoring systems.
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SPDT and DPDT configurations, high‑DC switches, low‑current gold‑contact types and multiple connector styles support any alarm scheme.
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Devices can be top‑mounted horizontally (recommended) or side‑mounted vertically; shields rotate 360° for alignment with containment piping.
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Gas bleed systems ensure trapped gases can be safely purged when PRDs are used below the oil level.
Key Technical Specifications
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Flow Rate: Up to 12,600 SCFM at 15 PSI (XPRD)
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Operating Temperatures:
Ambient: –40°C to +80°COil
Temperature (LPRD): –20°C to +100°C
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Materials: Stainless steel valves & hardware; cast or die‑cast aluminum flanges and rings; nitrile, Viton or silicone gaskets; zinc‑plated or stainless‑steel springs
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Environmental Testing:
XPRD: 1000 hours salt‑spray exposure
LPRD: 200–1000 hours salt‑spray testing with no structural degradation
- Electrical Connections: Multiple circular connectors, flying leads or terminal boxes; dielectric strength 2000–2500 VAC
- Recommended Tank Opening (XPRD): 171.5 mm
Downloads
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Brochures
Projects featuring Qualitrol Transformer Measurement & Control
Explore project highlights to see where Qualitrol Transformer Measurement & Control is making an impact.
For tailored advice on whether this solution suits your network, please connect with our team here.
Why Choose Qualitrol Pressure Relief & Control Devices
Proven Performance
Environmental Protection
Built for the Long Term
Services & Support
Insulect offers comprehensive services and support for the products we specialise in, enhancing value for local utilities, major energy users, equipment manufacturers, and service operators.
Our local technical team provides exceptional support and expertise, ensuring quick response times and personalised service to tackle any challenges that may arise during project execution.
Through Qualitrol, our team utilises advanced technology and industry knowledge to assist customers.
We facilitate smooth procurement and logistics processes by sourcing from trusted, proven partners and coordinating timely deliveries, ensuring projects remain on schedule and within budget.
We are able to oversee every phase from concept to completion, providing comprehensive solutions that simplify complex projects and ensure successful outcomes.