A pressure vessel is designed to hold gases or other liquids at pressures different than surrounding air pressure. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers -- or ASME -- outlines rules for pressure vessel safety for industries utilizing all sorts of pressure vessels like compressed air tanks, hot water storage tanks and diving cylinders.
Since a pressure vessel can hold more than 500 gallons at temperatures up to 2,500 degrees fahrenheit, it is important to find pressure vessel systems that are in proper working condition and are free of any defects. It's also important to make sure the vessel has an internal cooling system to avoid potential fires or overheating. Pressure vessel gaskets should always be in perfect condition.
Look for the following information before deciding on what type of pressure vessels you require:
1. Safety and operating information from the experts
2. Multiple, web-based quotes for pressure vessels
3. Pressure vessels from manufacturers who comply with ASME code
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Check with authorities for pressure vessel systems safety
Companies who handle pressure vessel fabrication must adhere to strict standards and codes set by industry associations as well as the U.S. Department of Labor. Ruptures and manufacturer defects in any kind of pressurized container can cause injury to both people and property, so it's a good idea to provide education and post guidelines for your staff members.
I recommend: Contact the
ASME to find information about or order copies of pressure vessel and boiler codes. The
U.S. Department of Labor offers guidelines for pressure vessel safety in the workplace.
Get quotes for pressurized vessels through websites with multiple listings
You can find one-click comparison sites online for the widest array of prices on pressure vessels. There are even sites dedicated to listing multiple manufacturers who offer code specifications on their pressure vessels and pressure vessel accessories.
I recommend: Compare more than 1,800 suppliers of pressurized vessels with
ThomasNet. Go to
Industrial Quick Search to request quotes from 2 pages of pressure vessel manufacturers. Be sure to check out the
Pressure Vessel Manufacturers Association's directory of up-to-code manufacturers.
Buy pressure vessels from expert high pressure vessel manufacturers
Many pressure vessel manufacturers pride themselves on offering pressurized vessels that adhere to ASME standards. Shop online for the best pressure vessels, since finding a pressure vessel company that is knowledgeable about ASME code is imperative to employee safety.
I recommend: Roy E. Hanson Jr. Mfg. specializes in carbon and stainless steel pressure vessels in a variety of sizes, all built to ASME code.
Specialty Tank and Welding Co., Inc., also offers a line of pressure vessels that comply with ASME code.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- To make sure your pressure vessels and tanks stay in good condition, contact the National Board of Pressure Vessel Inspectors with any concerns.
The official source of Pressure Vessels is the Pressure Vessels page at Business.com
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