过去几年的经验使丹佛水务部深入了解了在可能发生气穴的地方正确应用减压阀的理论和实践标准。在设计减压站时，必须在确定合适的阀门或阀门时考虑操作要求、物理约束和备选方案的成本。许多变量影响空化的发生，其中许多很难预测或确定。研究开发了确定各种类型阀门空化潜力的方法；然而，这并不能消除在制定设计决策时使用一些判断的必要性。 通过将从研究和实际现场经验中获得的知识应用于新设施的设计，人们应该能够就减压阀的应用做出明智的设计决策。

Experiences over the last several years have provided the Denver Water Department insight into the theoretical and practical criteria for proper application of pressure reducing valves where cavitation might occur. In designing a pressure reducing station, one must consider the operating requirements, the physical constraints, and the cost of the alternatives in determining the proper valve or valves to be used. Many variable affect the occurrence of cavitation, many of which are hard to predict or determine. Research has developed methodology for determining cavitation potential for various types of valves; however, it doesn't eliminate the necessity for using some judgement in formulating design decisions. By applying the knowledge gained from research and actual field experiences to the design of new facilities, one should be able to make informed design decisions concerning valve applications for pressure reduction.