Pressure vessel

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A pressure vessel is a sealed container engineered to contain gases or liquids under pressures exceeding ambient levels. Due to the potential hazards of the elevated pressure differential, regulatory bodies oversee pressure vessel design, construction, and operation. International definitions vary, but generally include parameters such as maximum safe operating pressure and temperature, and safety factors like corrosion allowance and minimum design temperature. Nondestructive testing methods, including ultrasonic testing, radiography, and hydrostatic or pneumatic pressure tests (commonly referred to as hydrotesting), are employed during manufacturing. In the United States and many other countries, vessels exceeding certain size and pressure thresholds must be constructed in accordance with codes such as ASME's Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (BPVC) and require an Authorized Inspector's approval. Each vessel is marked with key information, including its maximum allowable working pressure, maximum temperature, minimum design metal temperature, manufacturer, date of manufacture, registration number through the National Board, and ASME's U-stamp, which verifies it as an official ASME Code vessel.