What Is It?

Pressure vessels are tanks, boilers, and other storage units that contain gases, liquids, or steam, often operating under high pressure. They are used in many industrial fields ranging from energy production to chemical processing. To ensure the safe operation of these vessels, periodic inspections are mandatory. These inspections involve regular and detailed evaluations to maintain safety, efficiency, and legal compliance of the pressure vessels.

What Are the Standards?

Periodic inspection of pressure vessels is based on certain legal regulations and international standards. These standards define the design, manufacturing, operation, and maintenance requirements for safe pressure vessel use. The main applicable standards include:

• ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) Section VIII: An American standard that regulates the design, manufacturing, testing, and maintenance of pressure vessels.

• PED (Pressure Equipment Directive) 2014/68/EU: The European Union directive that sets out the safety requirements and regulations for pressure equipment.

• TS EN 13445: The European and Turkish standard that defines the design and manufacturing criteria for pressure vessels.

• TS 12232: The Turkish safety regulation for pressure vessels.

How Is It Done?

The periodic inspection of pressure vessels involves detailed assessments performed by qualified engineers. The key steps in this inspection process include:

• Visual Inspection: The external surface of the vessel is examined for cracks, deformation, corrosion, or rust. The vessel’s sealing and tightness are also checked.

• Structural Examination: The structural integrity of the vessel is assessed. As these vessels often operate under high pressure, internal wear, cracks, or damage are checked.

• Pressure Testing: Tests are conducted to ensure the vessel can safely contain the internal gas or liquid at maximum operating pressure.

• Weld and Joint Inspection: Welding seams and joints are tested for weaknesses or leaks, ensuring welding quality and strength.

• Corrosion Testing: The extent of corrosion on the material is examined to detect potential chemical or environmental degradation.

• Safety Equipment Check: Safety valves, pressure gauges, and relief vents are inspected to ensure they function properly.

Why Is It Applied?

Periodic inspection of pressure vessels is mandatory for safety, efficiency, and legal compliance. The main reasons for conducting these inspections include:

• Safety: Because pressure vessels operate under high pressure, any malfunction could lead to severe accidents. Regular inspections help identify and prevent such risks early.

• Legal Compliance: Many countries require that pressure equipment be tested at regular intervals to comply with national safety laws.

• Efficiency: Regular maintenance and inspection improve operational efficiency by identifying faults before they cause costly downtime.

• Environmental Protection: Inspections help prevent leaks or failures that could harm the environment.

Where Is It Applied?

Periodic inspection of pressure vessels is conducted across multiple industries. The main application areas include:

• Oil and Gas Industry: Pressure equipment used in oil refineries, gas storage, and distribution systems.

• Chemical Industry: Pressure vessels used for storage and processing of chemical substances.

• Energy Production: Boilers and pressurized systems in power plants and energy facilities.

• Food and Beverage Industry: Pressure tanks used for storing liquid foods and beverages safely.

• Pharmaceutical Industry: Pressurized reactors and other vessels used in medicine production processes.

• Wastewater Management: Pressurized tanks and vessels used in water treatment facilities.

Equipment and Techniques

Some of the key equipment and techniques used during periodic inspection of pressure vessels include:

• Ultrasonic Thickness Gauge: Measures material thickness and wear on the metal surfaces of vessels.

• Pressure Testing Devices: Used to perform pressure tests at the vessel’s rated operating pressure.

• Endoscopic Cameras: Used for internal inspection and visual examination inside the vessels.

• X-ray and Ultrasonic Testing (NDT): Non-destructive tests used to detect cracks and weaknesses in weld seams.

• Corrosion Test Kits: Used to detect corrosion and surface degradation.

• Pressure Safety Valve Testers: Used to check the functionality and calibration of safety valves and relief devices.

Advantages

The advantages of periodic inspection of pressure vessels include:

• Safety: Prevents accidents and enhances worker safety.

• Legal Compliance: Ensures conformity with laws and regulations, avoiding penalties and liabilities.

• Longer Equipment Life: Regular maintenance and inspection extend the service life of equipment.

• Increased Efficiency: Ensures proper operation and enhances plant productivity.

• Environmental Protection: Reduces the risk of leaks and accidents, minimizing environmental harm.

Disadvantages

The disadvantages of periodic inspection of pressure vessels may include:

• High Cost: Inspections and testing may lead to additional expenses.

• Time-Consuming: Testing and evaluations can take time, potentially affecting operational schedules.

• Expertise Requirement: Inspections require specialized equipment and skilled professionals to perform accurately.

Contact Us

For more information or to request our periodic inspection services for your pressure vessels, please contact us. As an accredited organization, we manage the required certification processes to ensure the safety and regulatory compliance of your pressure equipment.