Pressure Vessel End Cap Velocity

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the velocity of a pressure vessel end-cap in the event of a girth weld failure while the tank is pressurized with water. Hydrostatic pressure limits kinetic energy transfer, meaning that once the end-cap breaches, the water will drop rather than propel the end-cap further. The maximum horizontal speed of the end-cap is determined by the flow rate and vessel diameter. Additionally, concerns are raised about water jets escaping from seams and flange bolts potentially failing before the end-cap itself.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of hydrostatic pressure principles
  • Knowledge of fluid dynamics and flow rate calculations
  • Familiarity with pressure vessel design and failure modes
  • Basic concepts of welding and structural integrity
NEXT STEPS
  • Research hydrostatic pressure calculations in fluid systems
  • Learn about fluid dynamics and the Bernoulli equation
  • Study pressure vessel design codes such as ASME BPVC
  • Examine case studies on pressure vessel failures and safety measures
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, safety professionals, and anyone involved in the design, maintenance, or safety assessment of pressure vessels will benefit from this discussion.

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If you had a pressure vessel with an end-cap welded on and this girth weld was to fail, how might you calculate the velocity of the end-cap assuming the tank is pressurized with water?
 
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Hydrostatic pressure limits the amount of kinetic energy transferred to the end-cap, as the water will not push the end-cap further after the breach, instead, the water will drop and flow to the ground. If the flow rate is too high, the water flow will become as hazardous as the end-cap traveling with it or not. The flow rate and vessel diameter will dictate the maximum horizontal speed of the end-cap.

You should worry much more about the water jets coming out of the seams before the end-cap weld fails completely. Also, flange bolts can fail before the end-cap and let water jets out.
 

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