Pressure Vessel Inspections are a critical activity in the Australian industry for the safety of your employees and customers, as well as avoiding costly fines and shutdowns.  Should a pressure vessel fail in operation, there is the possibility of significant damage to equipment and even fatalities. A pressure vessel inspection from AWS In-Service Inspections can help identify if your organisation’s pressure plant is safe to operate.

In summary, pressure vessel inspections:

• Ensure your pressure plant is safe.

• Avoid risking injury or even death of staff.

• Avoid expensive fines and litigation.

The benefits of pressure vessel inspection

Both the Federal and local state government agencies have legislated a requirement for pressure vessels to be inspected by a third-party inspection company. Pressure vessel testing ensures that the integrity of the pressure vessel and its design meet safety standards. It also ensures that the pressure vessel has been installed correctly and can be monitored for corrosion or defects during its life cycle.

Why Australia has strict pressure vessel regulations

Australia has strict regulations for the maintenance and inspection of pressure vessels. Regulations have been put in place to ensure that all pressure vessels are tested before being used or installed and then regularly while in use. These tests are done by independent third-party inspectors such as AWS ISI and meet Australian standards.

Regular inspections are in place to ensure pressure vessels continue to be kept in good working order to avoid explosions, environmental damage, and even death if they are compromised.

What kind of pressure vessels need to be inspected?

Determining the pressure vessels that need to be inspected depends on the industry. Pressure vessel testing and inspection is often required for high-pressure boilers, piping systems, and other components. These pressure vessels are at risk for some serious consequences if they’re not properly maintained or inspected.

It’s important to have a qualified pressure vessel inspector, for example, AWS ISI go over these items and make sure they are safe for use.

What are the common pressure vessel shapes?

The most common pressure vessel shapes are:

• Cylindrical Pressure Vessels.
• Spherical Pressure Vessels.
• Horizontal Pressure Vessels.
• Vertical Pressure Vessels.

What are the pressure vessel hazard ratings?

Safe Work SA rates Pressure vessels from A (most hazardous) to E (least hazardous).

These hazard levels are calculated using Australian Standard AS 4343:2005

There are a number of factors that contribute to a pressure vessels hazard level, which include:

• volume
• pressure
• temperature
• location
• usage
• contents type.

A, B and C level Pressure equipment is required to be registered and regularly inspected by a competent person in accordance with the Australian Standard AS/NZS 3788 to ensure it is safe to operate.

How often should a pressure vessel inspection be conducted?

Pressure vessel inspection should be conducted regularly, with the frequency depending on the type of pressure vessel. For example, pressurized tanks should be inspected every two years and pressure vessels used for piping or instrumentation should be inspected annually. You will also need a pressure vessel testing company to conduct these inspections as well.

What happens during a pressure vessel inspection?

A pressure vessel inspection can be a daunting process for any business that has pressure vessels in the plant. However, it’s important to stay on top of safety standards and make sure your equipment is not only safe but also up-to-date.

There are three main parts of a pressure vessel inspection:

Hydrostatic test

The hydrostatic test involves filling the vessel with water and applying air pressure until the tank bursts or reaches a predetermined level.

External examination

The external examination is

• an assessment of the pressure vessel appropriateness for the role it is used for
• ensuring its external safety devices are in good working order
• determining it has been impacted by corrosion
• if it has any other visual defects.

Internal examination

Finally, an internal inspection checks welds and assembly for corrosion and integrity inside the vessel itself.

Once completed, these tests will give you a sense of whether the equipment is compliant with the relevant standards.

Pressure Vessel Inspection

To arrange an inspection of the pressure vessels in your plant, please complete and submit the details below.

We’ll contact you to arrange a convenient time for you, and on of our qualified inspectors will come onsite and conduct the pressure inspection and provide a certificate

Pressure Vessel Audit

To assist businesses who may not be sure which of their pressure vessels require legislated inspection and testing, AWS In-Service Inspection can arrange for a Pressure Vessel Audit.

If you would like more information about our pressure vessel audit, please complete the details below: