What is the difference between DP163, DP163G, and DP163Y?

DP163 is designed for saturated steam service with metal-to-metal sealing. DP163G features soft seals for compressed air and inert gases (not oxygen). DP163Y has a lower rate pressure spring (0.2–3 bar g) specifically for steriliser and autoclave applications requiring precise low-pressure control.

Can this valve be used for clean steam in pharmaceutical applications?

Yes. The all-stainless-steel construction (SS 316 wetted parts) makes the DP163 suitable for clean steam applications. EN 10204 3.1 material certification is available on request—specify at time of order.

What is the turndown ratio and how does it handle variable loads?

As a pilot operated PRV, the DP163 maintains accurate downstream pressure across a wide flow range, from low loads to full capacity. The pilot mechanism continuously adjusts the main valve position to compensate for upstream pressure fluctuations and downstream demand changes.

Which flange standard should I specify for Indian installations?

Most Indian process plants use ASME 300 or EN 1092 PN40 flanges for steam systems. Both are available as standard. Confirm your existing pipeline flange rating and face type before ordering.

How do I select the correct pressure adjustment spring?

Select based on your required downstream pressure: Red spring for 0.2–17 bar g (most common), Grey spring for 16–21 bar g, or Yellow spring for 0.2–3 bar g (DP163Y only). Springs are colour-coded and field-replaceable.

SPIRAX SARCO · CONTROL VALVES

Spirax Sarco DP163 Pilot Operated Pressure Reducing Valve – Stainless Steel PRV for Steam

Name: Spirax Sarco DP163 Pilot Operated Pressure Reducing Valve – Stainless Steel PRV for Steam
Brand: Spirax Sarco

Spirax Sarco DP163 stainless steel pilot operated pressure reducing valve for steam, compressed air & autoclave applications. DN15-DN80. Buy from PC

Request a Quote More Steam & condensate

Overview

The Spirax Sarco DP163 is a pilot operated pressure reducing valve (PRV) constructed entirely from stainless steel, designed for accurate and stable downstream pressure control in demanding industrial environments. The pilot operated design ensures precise pressure regulation even under varying load conditions, making it suitable for critical steam systems where consistent pressure is essential.

Available in three variants—DP163 for saturated steam, DP163G for compressed air and inert industrial gases (soft seal version), and DP163Y with a lower rate spring for steriliser and autoclave applications—this valve addresses diverse process requirements across pharmaceutical, food processing, and general manufacturing industries. The all-stainless-steel construction (SS 316/304) provides excellent corrosion resistance for clean steam and hygienic applications.

The valve complies with EU Pressure Equipment Directive and UK Pressure Equipment (Safety) Regulations, with optional EN 10204 3.1 certification available for traceability requirements.

Key Features

All stainless steel construction – Body, internals, and fasteners in SS 316/304 for corrosion resistance
Pilot operated design – Delivers accurate, stable downstream pressure control under variable loads
Three variants available – DP163 (steam), DP163G (compressed air/inert gases), DP163Y (sterilisers/autoclaves)
Wide size range – DN15LC (low capacity) through DN80
Multiple flange standards – EN 1092 PN25/PN40, BS 10 Table J, ASME 300 as standard; ASME 150 and JIS 20 on request
Colour-coded adjustment springs – Red (0.2–17 bar g), Grey (16–21 bar g), Yellow (0.2–3 bar g for DP163Y)
Internal strainer – Protects pilot valve from debris
CE marked – Compliant with PED requirements

Specifications

Parameter	Value
Sizes	DN15LC, DN15, DN20, DN25, DN32, DN40, DN50, DN80
Flange Standards	EN 1092 PN25/PN40, BS 10 Table J, ASME 300 (std); ASME 150, JIS 20 (on request)
Body Material	Cast Stainless Steel BS 3100 316 C12
Internals Material	Stainless Steel SS 316/304/431
Max Design Pressure (PN40)	36.4 bar g @ 20°C
Max Upstream Pressure (Steam)	25 bar g (PN40); 14 bar g (ASME 150)
Max Operating Temperature	250°C @ 24 bar g
Min Operating Temperature	0°C (consult Spirax Sarco for lower temps)
Max Differential Pressure	25 bar g (PN40); 14 bar g (ASME 150)
Downstream Pressure Range (Red Spring)	0.2 – 17 bar g
Downstream Pressure Range (Grey Spring)	16 – 21 bar g
Downstream Pressure Range (Yellow Spring)	0.2 – 3 bar g (DP163Y only)
Cold Hydraulic Test Pressure	60 bar g (max 40 bar g with internals fitted)
DP163G Max Temp	120°C @ 26 bar g
DN15LC	DN15	DN20	DN25	DN32	DN40	DN50	DN80
1.0	2.8	5.5	8.1	12.0	17.0	28.0	64.0

Applications

- Steam systems – Pressure regulation for process heating, humidification, and heat exchangers - Pharmaceutical manufacturing – Clean steam pressure control for sterilisation and autoclaves (DP163Y) - Food & beverage processing – Hygienic steam applications requiring stainless steel wetted parts - Compressed air systems – Plant air pressure reduction (DP163G variant) - Chemical processing – Inert gas pressure control where corrosion resistance is required - Hospital and laboratory autoclaves – Precise low-pressure control with DP163Y

Note: DP163G is not recommended for oxygen service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get a Quote

Contact PC Engineering for pricing, availability, and technical support for the Spirax Sarco DP163 Pilot Operated Pressure Reducing Valve.

Call us or fill in our inquiry form — our engineers will respond within 24 hours.

Related Control Valves

Brand

Find the losses before you invest in new equipment.

Steam and pump system walkthroughs that identify inefficiencies, energy losses and improvement priorities before any new product is specified.

Request an Energy Audit