When evaluating the effect of heat input or removal from a closed system, the rate of heat transfer needs to be identified. Common heat transfer techniques, usually assuming a constant value, are employed while recognizing…

The transfer of heat into or out of a constant volume container results in an attempt of the entrapped fluid to change in overall density, leading to pressure increases or decreases. The change in fluid…

The Second Edition of the CCPS Guidelines for Pressure Relief and Effluent Handling was released recently, and we have finally had a chance to review the contents. Overall, the book has had a significant overhaul…

For overpressure scenarios involving heat input to a multi-component fluid, with subsequent vaporization of that fluid and relief of the vapors generated, a question arises: what is the effective heat of vaporization that should be…

When performing pressure relief analysis, the blocked system outlet is one of the most common overpressure scenarios requiring consideration.  A blocked system outlet can occur on almost any piece of equipment.  A blocked outlet may…

Prescriptive requirements for overpressure protection in the United States: Steam (ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section I, §PG-67 through PG-73) Compressed Gas Containers (29 CFR 1910.101) Acetylene (29 CFR 1910.102) Hydrogen (29 CFR 1910.103)…

For vessels containing compressed air, the requirements for overpressure protection are found in 29 CFR 1910.169(a)(2)(ii)1, which specifically references ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (BPVC), Section VIII.2 All equipment used in providing and utilizing…

For overpressure protection systems involving only rupture disks (that is, not a rupture disk in combination with a pressure relief valve), the frictional losses throughout the piping system is typically used as a means for…

All control valves, regardless of their fail-safe position, have the potential to go wide open.  Failure open of an inlet control valve is typically considered an applicable overpressure scenario for a pressure vessel when the…

2018 Q1 Technical Awareness