Can older pressure vessels be recertified?
Older pressure vessels can in some cases be recertified for continued use, depending on the material, construction and condition. The conditions are also affected by the requirements of the particular application in the process industry.
Recertification can include different types of checks, such as inspection of construction, welds and materials, and testing, depending on the need. Updating of components such as valves, seals and markings may also be required.
Processöverskott offers new and used pressure vessels in various designs. Opportunities for inspection, testing and documentation vary depending on the object and conditions.
Function and structure
Recertification starts with the mapping of the tank’s function and components:
- Stainless steel inner vessel (AISI 304, 316 or 316L)
- Flanges, pipe connections and seals
- Stirrers and technical options
- External protection and insulation if needed
Materials and construction
Inspection of pressure vessels may include checking the condition of the material, welds and weld seams to identify, for example, cracks or corrosion.
In some cases, the properties of the material may also be analyzed, for example to get a better picture of the metal’s composition and usability in current applications.
Pressurized and atmospheric solutions
Pressurized vessels may be subjected to hydrostatic testing and inspection of components such as safety valves, depending on needs and conditions.
Atmospheric tanks can be examined with a focus on, for example, weld quality, seals and possible corrosion.
Recertification may in some cases provide a basis for continued use, depending on the condition, design and current operating conditions of the tank.
Applications in industry
- Food production – milk, syrups, oils
- Chemical industry – aggressive liquids
- Pharmaceuticals – sterile and sensitive process fluids
- Water treatment – chemicals and process fluids
Technical options and equipment
- Agitators, top or side mounted
- Level and temperature sensors
- Spray ball and CIP system
- Insulation and heating cables
- PLC or SCADA integration
Volumes and capacity
Volumes and capacity
Recertification covers tanks from 100 liters up to 250 000 liters. Process Surplus customizes tests and inspections according to volume and pressure class to ensure safe operation.
Benefits of recertification
- Extending the life of existing tanks
- Ensures PED and CE compliance
- Minimizing environmental impact through reuse
- Ensuring operational safety in the process industry
- Provides documentation of tests and maintenance performed
New and used tanks in stock
Processöverskott offers both new and used pressure vessels in various sizes and designs for use in the process industry.
In some cases, pressure vessels may have been inspected or tested, and related documentation may be available depending on the object and history.
This provides the opportunity to find alternatives that can be used in different types of industrial applications.
Choosing the right recertification level
The level of inspection and possible testing is often based on factors such as the age of the tank, previous use, material type and technical design.
A risk-based assessment may be relevant in some cases to determine the need for additional inspections or tests, depending on the application and operating conditions.
Executive summary
Recertification of older pressure vessels can in some cases be a way to assess the possibility of continued use in the process industry, depending on the condition, design and use of the tank.
The process may include checking, for example, materials, welds, seals and pressure class, and reviewing available documentation. The scope and results vary depending on the object and conditions.
Frequently asked questions about recertification of older pressure vessels
Can older pressure vessels be recertified?
Older pressure vessels may be recertified for continued use in some cases, depending on the material, construction, condition and requirements of the application.
Recertification may include different types of checks, such as inspection of structures, welds and seals, and testing as required. Updating of components may also be relevant in some cases.
Processöverskott offers new and used pressure vessels in various designs. Opportunities for inspection, testing and documentation vary depending on the object and conditions.
What steps are included in recertification?
Recertification can involve several different steps depending on the design, condition and use of the tank.
Common steps that may occur are:
- Visual inspection of the tank condition
- Inspection of welds and weld seams
- Material analysis in certain cases
- Testing of seals and connections
- Hydrostatic testing for pressurized vessels
- Review or update of labeling and available documentation
The scope and content vary depending on the object and technical conditions.
Which tanks can be recertified?
Both pressurized and atmospheric tanks in stainless steel 304 and acid-proof 316/316L may be subject to recertification in some cases, depending on the design and application.
Assessment is often based on factors such as age, previous use and condition of the material. This can provide a basis for determining the possibility of continued use in the process industry.
How long does recertification take?
The time for recertification may vary depending on factors such as the size, type and condition of the tank and the extent of the checks that need to be carried out.
In some cases, the process can be planned on the basis of a risk-based assessment, which can facilitate implementation depending on the conditions and available documentation.
What are the benefits of recertification?
Recertification can in some cases help to extend the useful life of a tank, depending on its condition and construction.
It can also be a way to make use of existing equipment, which can be important from a resource and sustainability perspective.
Documentation and controls in connection with recertification can provide a basis for further assessment, for example in relation to current requirements and areas of use in the process industry.