How to determine if a pressure vessel is nearing the end of its service life?

I. Regular Thickness Measurement and Corrosion Assessment

Thickness Measurement: Regularly check the vessel wall thickness using an ultrasonic thickness gauge and compare it with historical data to determine the corrosion rate.

Remaining Service Prediction: Estimate the remaining service life using methods such as finite element analysis (FEA) based on the corrosion rate and current wall thickness.

Risk Monitoring: Focus on easily corroded areas and regularly assess the degree of corrosion.

II. Structural Integrity Inspection

Cracks and Deformation: Inspect welds and vessel walls visually or using non-destructive testing (such as magnetic particle testing). Immediately address any cracks or bulges found.

Safety Accessories: Regularly calibrate pressure gauges and safety valves; replace any that fail immediately.

III. Operation and Management

Risk Reduction: For aging vessels, appropriately reduce operating pressure and temperature.

Compliance Management: Vessels exceeding their design life require a special assessment, registration changes, and adherence to the "Special Equipment Use Management Rules."

Records and Reports: Record maintenance and inspection details in detail; report any abnormalities promptly.

IV. Decision-Making and Replacement

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Comprehensively assess maintenance costs and safety risks to decide whether to replace or decommission the device.

Emergency Response Plan: Develop emergency response procedures for accidents such as leaks and explosions.