Hazard levels for pressure vessels with internal bladders

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the classification and inspection of pressure vessels, specifically in the context of Australian and U.S. systems. In Australia, the classification is based on a German model that uses a pressure multiplied by volume figure (MpA x Litres) and applies service factors to derive a hazard number, which is categorized into five logarithmic bands. In the U.S., there is no unified standard; instead, various industry-specific standards exist, with Pennsylvania having its own regulations that supplement the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code. The conversation highlights the limitations of risk assessment in current codes, which are primarily prescriptive.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code
  • Familiarity with pressure vessel classification systems
  • Knowledge of risk assessment methodologies in engineering
  • Awareness of state-specific regulations for pressure vessels in the U.S.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code in detail
  • Examine the German classification system for pressure vessels
  • Learn about risk assessment techniques specific to pressure vessels
  • Investigate state regulations for pressure vessels in Pennsylvania
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, safety inspectors, and regulatory compliance professionals involved in the design, inspection, and operation of pressure vessels, particularly those working in Australia and the U.S.

LT Judd
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TL;DR
What is the US system for classifying pressure vessels to determine hazard levels and required level of design and inspection oversight.
Hi , I am based in Australia and my question originates from some grey areas in the Australian system of classifying pressure vessels. I am guessing most users on this forum are US based . Does the US have a system for classifying pressure vessels such as air receivers , boilers, autoclaves, heat exchangers etc. to determine what level of inspection and design review is required?. If so could some one briefly describe it. From what I have seen on the web it looks like you don't have a general standard , but different standards depending on the industry and application. I am interested particularly in the case of water buffer tanks and accumulators that have a bladder inside them filled with nitrogen and how they are considered in terms of risk and hazard.
The Australian system is, I think, based on a German one in which you start with a pressure X volume figure ( MpA x Litres) and then mutiple by 3 different service factors to get a hazard number. The hazard numbers are then divided into five different bands (Logarithmically) which call out different requirements involving design, verification inspection and operation.
 
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We have ASME boiler and pressure vessel code, but inspections are a state (or insurance) thing. I live in Pennsylvania and we have our own PVC that sits over top of ASME for administration.

It seems to me that risk assessment is limited; the codes are prescriptive and you just find what category yours is in (unfired pressure vessel).

https://www.dli.pa.gov/Individuals/...ges/Boilers-and-Unfired-Pressure-Vessels.aspx
 
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