A pressure vessel is a container designed to hold fluids or gases at a pressure significantly different from the ambient pressure. These vessels are built to withstand the internal pressure exerted by the contents while ensuring the safety of the surroundings.
There are several types of pressure vessels based on their design, purpose, and construction. Here are a few common types:
Cylindrical Pressure Vessel: This is the most common type and has a cylindrical shape with either hemispherical or dished ends. Examples include storage tanks for liquids or gases.
Spherical Pressure Vessel: These vessels have a spherical shape and are well-suited for storing gases under high pressure. The spherical design allows for better distribution of stresses.
Thin-Walled Pressure Vessel: These vessels have a larger diameter compared to their wall thickness. They are commonly used in applications such as boilers and compressed gas cylinders.
Welded Pressure Vessel: This type of vessel is constructed by welding together plates and sections. Welded vessels are versatile and can be designed to suit various shapes and sizes.
Heat Exchangers: Although not strictly vessels, heat exchangers can also be considered pressure vessels. They are designed to transfer heat between two fluids while maintaining separate pressure environments for each fluid.
It's worth noting that pressure vessels are subject to strict regulations and codes to ensure their safety and structural integrity. These codes outline design, fabrication, and testing requirements to prevent failures that could lead to catastrophic incidents.