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The safety valve is specifically designed for use in steam systems to protect against excessive pressure. In these systems, steam is generated, and if the pressure exceeds a predetermined limit, the safety valve automatically opens to release steam and prevent potential damage or catastrophic failure. The primary function of the safety valve is to ensure that pressure remains within safe operating limits, thereby safeguarding both the equipment and personnel.

Other types of valves, such as ball valves, gate valves, and check valves, serve different purposes. For instance, ball valves are generally used for on/off control of flow because they can provide a tight seal and are capable of rapid operation. Gate valves are primarily used for isolation purposes and are not suitable for throttling or pressure relief. Check valves prevent backflow in a system but do not regulate pressure. Consequently, they are not designed for pressure control like the safety valve, which is crucial in steam applications.