#420 - Mechanical Design and Maintenance of Pressure Vessels

Course Objective

This practical, applications-oriented course is divided into two sections: pressure vessel design and pressure vessel maintenance. Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to evaluate the mechanical design of pressure vessels in accordance with the ASME Code Section VIII. They will also be able to develop a pressure vessel maintenance program based on API-510 and other industry practices and then apply these requirements to typical pressure vessel maintenance situations.

Who Should Attend

Individuals who are responsible for evaluating the design of pressure vessels in accordance with the ASME Code Section VIII or the mechanical integrity of in-service pressure vessels in process plant applications. Also, managers who are responsible for implementing a pressure vessel maintenance program and desire an understanding of applicable evaluation procedures.

Course Description

Individuals who are responsible for designing, reviewing, and implementing pressure vessel maintenance programs should first have a good understanding of pressure vessel design. This course treats both the design and maintenance aspects of pressure vessels. It first provides the information necessary for individuals to be able to evaluate the design of pressure vessels in accordance with the ASME Code Section VIII, with emphasis on Division 1. To do this, participants will learn the fundamental requirements specified in the ASME Code. It then provides the information necessary to develop a pressure vessel maintenance program and evaluate pressure vessel mechanical integrity in accordance with API-510 and other industry practices. The following topics are covered:

Section 1 – Pressure Vessel Design

• Basic Pressure Vessel Concepts
• Main Pressure Vessel Components
• Primary Pressure Vessel Process Functions  
• Materials of Construction for Pressure Vessels
• Factors That Affect Material Selection
• Determining Maximum Allowable Stresses
• Material Selection Requirements  
• Specifying Design Requirements for Pressure Vessels
• The ASME Code in Pressure Vessel Design
• Specifying Design Conditions and Loadings
• Vessel Component Thickness Design Criteria
• Design Calculations for Pressure Vessel Components
• Design of Pressure Vessel Supports  
• Fabrication, Inspection, and Testing of Pressure Vessels
• Evaluating Fabrication Drawings for Acceptability
• Inspection and Testing Requirements  
• Glossary
• Work aids and procedures to assist in evaluating pressure vessel designs
• Sample Problems and Participant Exercises are included throughout the course to enhance participants' understanding of the material that is covered

Section 2 – Pressure Vessel Maintenance

• Pressure Vessel Integrity Program
• Overall Risk Assessment
• Inspection Plan
• Fitness-for-Service Assessments
• Overview of API RP 579 Requirements
• Data Requirements
• Assessment Methods and Acceptance Criteria
• API-510 Requirements
• Scope
• Definition
• Pressure Vessel Inspection Practices
• Causes of Vessel Deterioration
• Inspection Intervals
• Corrosion Rate Determination
• Evaluating Corroded Pressure Vessels for Continued Operation
• Determining Minimum Actual Thickness
• Acceptability of Corroded Area  
• Brittle Fracture Assessment
• Fracture Toughness Determination
• Brittle Fracture Evaluation of Existing Equipment 
• Details for Welded Repairs and Alterations
• Classification of Repairs and Alterations
• Welding and Design Requirements
• Defect Repairs
• Rerating Pressure Vessels
• Changes to Original Design Conditions
• Hydrotest Requirements
• Glossary
• Work aids and procedures to assist in evaluating in-service pressure vessels
• Sample Problems and Supplementary Exercises are included throughout the course to enhance participants' understanding of the material that is covered

Course Duration - 5 days