2.4.6 Particular dangers
Safe handling of pressure vessels
There are two types of pressure vessels:
•
Pressure vessels for static load: The pressure vessels are under virtually con-
stant operating pressure, and the pressure fluctuations are very small. Pres-
sure vessels for static load are not specially marked and can be operated as
long as no safety-relevant faults are found during the regular vessel repeat
testing procedures.
•
Pressure vessels for dynamic load: The pressure vessels are under fluctuating
operating pressure, and the pressure can fluctuate between atmospheric pres-
sure and the maximum permissible operating pressure. In the technical docu-
ments for these vessels, you will find details concerning the permissible oper-
ating duration in the form of the permissible cycle figures depending on the
fluctuation of the operating pressure. The change between two different pres-
sures is designated as a load change. Two load changes, i.e. one pressure ap-
proach and one pressure departure, are a cycle.
Follow the following safety instructions to ensure safe handling of pressure ves-
sels:
•
Always observe the permissible operating method of the pressure vessel.
•
Never open or release the vessel covers or pipe connectors under pressure.
Always depressurise the vessel or machine.
•
Never exceed the permissible vessel operating pressure.
•
Never heat the vessel or other individual parts above the stated maximum op-
erating temperature.
•
Damaged pressure vessels should always be replaced completely. Pressurised
vessel components cannot be obtained as spare parts because the vessels are
only ever tested and documented as a unit (see pressure vessel documenta-
tion, serial numbers).
•
Check pressure vessels regularly internally and externally for corrosion dam-
age.
•
Do not use used pressure vessels if the number of load cycles and previous
operating mode are not clearly known.
•
In order not to load the pressure vessel unnecessarily, always check the non-
return valves and pressure retention valves at regular intervals for internal and
external leaks and functionality.
•
Replace aluminium pressure vessel at the latest after 15 years.
•
In the case of pressure vessels for dynamic load: Record the number of cycles
completed. Note down the number of cycles run if there is no automatic cycle
counter.
•
In the case of pressure vessels for dynamic load: When half of the permissible
cycles are reached (aluminium vessel: 1/4 of the permissible number of cy-
cles) is reached, the vessel must be subjected to an internal test which in-
cludes testing the critically loaded vessel areas using suitable test procedures
in order to ensure operational safety.
•
In the case of pressure vessels for dynamic load: After reaching the permissi-
ble number of permissible cycles, the vessel must be replaced and scrapped.
2 | For your safety OPERATING MANUAL
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A_002_en
28.08.2019
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