The Risks of Incorrect Pressure Vessel Sizing
Sometimes, pressure vessels are manufactured in bigger or smaller sizes than the applications they are intended for. There are a number of problems that can occur as a result, and these vary based on the size of the pressure vessel.
Issues With Oversized Pressure Vessels
The larger the vessel is, the greater the risk of damage.
ASME pressure vessels frequently travel to remote or international locations. During these long trips, larger vessels become more difficult to manage, which can lead to severe damage unless appropriate steps are put in place. Often, these challenges are further complicated by the use of trains or planes. If the size and weight of the vessels are beyond certain limits, air freight will not be possible, potentially leading to significant delays.
Transporting larger vessels by land also needs special arrangements so as not to obstruct other vehicles. It requires permission from local highway authorities and transport police. Sometimes, logistics service providers need permission to transport the vessel by road far in advance. If you intend to transport a larger vessel by ship, you will also need specialized haulage cranes to move it.
Issues With Undersized Pressure Vessels
The smaller the size, the more pressure vessels will be needed for a given job. This can be a huge inconvenience, as managing multiple vessels is more difficult than managing one. Undersizing like this typically happens when ASME vessels are designed without understanding the client’s requirements or based on poor specifications provided by the client.
In such cases, the user will be forced to utilize two or three vessels in the place of one large one. This creates problems for transportation, increases transportation and logistics charges, and leads to over-pressurization, which could result in damage to the vessel and its surroundings.
Best Practices for Proper Pressure Vessel Sizing
Pressure Vessel Sizing — Best Practices
| Practice |
Action |
Benefit |
| Match to application |
Evaluate operating pressure, temperature, and fluid/gas properties |
Reduces rework; ensures performance |
| Partner with experts |
Work with a qualified manufacturer using advanced tools and software |
Higher quality vessels designed for transport and use |
| Provide precise inputs |
Supply accurate measurements and calculations |
Improves design accuracy and sizing |
| Communicate clearly |
Maintain clear communication between client and manufacturer |
Aligns expectations and satisfaction on both sides |
Sizing pressure vessels properly is essential for easy and quick transit handling. Transportation lead times and damage risks can be minimized greatly if pressure vessels are designed and sized according to end-user applications. This means evaluating operating pressure and temperature, fluid or gas properties, and other important characteristics.
Since designing and sizing pressure vessels is a complex procedure, it is important to partner with a qualified manufacturer. The right manufacturers have advanced tools and software to design and test pressure tank sizes based on client specifications. This approach produces higher quality vessels designed for both transport and practical use.
As a client, keep in mind that proper measurements and calculations are necessary. You must be cautious and precise when evaluating the application of your ASME pressure vessel. Clear communication between both parties is needed to ensure maximum satisfaction for both the manufacturer and the client.
Learn More From BEPeterson Today
Are you looking for a manufacturer that is an expert in ASME vessel design and sizing? BEPeterson can assist. We
specialize in ASME pressure vessels, ASME tanks and vacuum furnaces and have been serving clients across various industries since 1935.
Request a free quote today to learn more.
