In medical gas systems, the purpose of a pressure relief valve is to?

A pressure relief valve is designed specifically to discharge excess pressure safely from a system. In medical gas systems, maintaining appropriate pressure levels is crucial for safety and functionality. When the pressure within the system surpasses a predetermined threshold, the pressure relief valve activates to allow some of the gas to escape, thereby preventing damage to the system and minimizing the risk of hazardous situations, such as explosions or ruptures.

This function is essential in ensuring that the pressure within the medical gas system remains within safe operating limits. The other options related to managing pressure under different circumstances, such as backflow prevention or maintaining constant pressure, are not the primary role of a pressure relief valve. Instead, they typically involve different devices or mechanisms designed for those specific functions in a medical gas system.