The ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (BPVC) is a universally acknowledged set of standards developed by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers which regulates the design, manufacturing, installation, inspection, and operation of boilers and pressure vessels. An ASME Certification signifies that a company is committed to public safety and has an effective quality control system in place to oversee the pressure vessel manufacturing process.

A pressure vessel is a unit designed to hold gases or liquids at a pressure and temperature substantially different from normal ambient conditions. Pressure vessels are used in a variety of applications such as in heating glycol solutions and dehydrating natural gas. Some of the industries that use pressure vessels in different applications include:  

• Oil and gas
• Chemical & petrochemical
• Renewable natural gas systems
• Natural gas storage systems
• Hot water storage tanks
• Power generation
• Refineries

Pressure Vessel Engineering and Design

Prior to the start of the pressure vessel fabrication process, the engineering and design teams produce the pressure vessel drawings and supporting calculations. Kinder Morgan Treating’s process engineers run simulations, create the process flow schemes, and provide the approved drawings that ensure the vessel design is safe, meets code and customer requirements, and is built using materials fit for purpose. After a qualified engineer approves the drawings and calculations, the vessel drawings can then be issued for construction (IFC) to the material procurement and fabrication teams.

As noted above, the design phase essentially defines the scope of the project and includes the technical specifications needed for the ASME pressure vessel. Materials will also be outlined depending on the final intended purpose of the ASME pressure vessel. Kinder Morgan Treating has designated pressure vessel engineers that design vessels using approved industry software to validate that the design meets or exceeds ASME Section VIII code and other requirements.

Pressure Vessel Fabrication Process

The fabrication process requires precise cutting, welding, layout, and assembly. ASME certified welders are typically employed in the fabrication process to carry out the steps outlined in the pressure vessel drawings.

An ASME pressure vessel must go through various inspection hold points and testing methods to determine the strength of the material used. Aside from steel heads and shells, the following materials are primary components that are included in the bill of material of an ASME pressure vessel:

• Pipe and plate
• Forged fittings
• Nozzles and couplings
• Instruments (i.e., transmitters, gauges, pressure indicators)

After a pressure vessel is fabricated, it is hydrostatically tested to the required pressure at a specified hold time. Post weld heat treatment may also be required depending on the pressure vessel shell thickness and other variables. Charpy impact testing or other testing methods may also be necessary. After any required heat treatment and testing, the vessel is normally sandblasted and coated using the recommended mill thicknesses.

Pressure vessel fabrication activities are monitored and regulated by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and the American Petroleum Institute (API). Both the ASME and API have published codes, standards, and recommended practices that provide guidelines for the pressure vessel manufacturing process. All regulatory and customer requirements are taken into consideration during the pressure vessel engineering, design, and fabrication process.

An ASME pressure vessel is used in various industries in both the private and industrial sectors. This requires various types of steel to be used, such as:

• Carbon steel
• Stainless steel
• Duplex or specialty steels, and more

ASME Code and Pressure Vessels

As previously mentioned, the ASME has implemented codes and regulations to guide engineers regarding the design, fabrication, and overall maintenance of a pressure vessel. These guidelines are referred to as the BPVC. Within the code, it is outlined which industry standards are essential to the design specifications such as the design pressure, design temperature, and other engineered specifications.

Pressure Vessel Repairs

Kinder Morgan Treating holds an ASME “U” Certificate of Authorization, an “R” Repair Stamp, and a “NB” Symbol Stamp from the National Board. Kinder Morgan Treating is a certified field and shop repair facility that can assist with pressure vessel repairs. Kinder Morgan Treating is authorized to manufacture new pressure vessels, repair existing pressure vessels, and re-rate vessels in accordance to the National Board Inspection Code and the ASME code.

ASME pressure vessels are an essential component of natural gas processing facilities and oil and gas gathering systems. A pressure vessel that meets ASME standards has been put through a rigorous process and should conform to the requirements outlined in various codes, such as ASME Section VIII, Division 1. With such high standards, you are also reassured that you are getting a high-quality product. ASME codes are implemented and followed on an international scale.

Kinder Morgan Treating is a leading manufacturer of ASME pressure vessels and other essential equipment. We have unparalleled customer service. Contact us today at 713-369-8544 or 713-369-8535.