steam purging for Tanks
steam purging for Tanks
(OP)
Hi Every one
I wan to know if there is any rule dictated by ASME or API codes calling for including the steam purging (S/out) condition in the design of tanks? so is there any rule or relation of design parameters like pressure, temp or thickness or service condition to decide whether to consider steam purging connection?
I wan to know if there is any rule dictated by ASME or API codes calling for including the steam purging (S/out) condition in the design of tanks? so is there any rule or relation of design parameters like pressure, temp or thickness or service condition to decide whether to consider steam purging connection?





RE: steam purging for Tanks
There is not specific ASME or API design condition called "steam out". However, the principle of steam condensation creating vacuum in closed environment is also well known, I believe that you are fully aware of this. Generally, the datasheet would specify the "steam out" condition, which implies the request to include in the vessel (or tank) design a vacuum condition. Typically, people used to design the ASME VIII vessel for full vacuum, unless vacuum limiting valves are used or simply use large openings like manways as vacuum breakers during the cleaning operation. Also, as a precaution, the high pressure steam if used for cleaning, the steam saturation temperature is being specified as design temperature, unless other process condition requires higher design temperature. Theoretically, the same can be applied for small API tanks, except careful consideration has to be given for limiting the vacuum to the Code allowed level and considering the feasibility of designing the tank for temperatures above 200F. Practically, it's hard to imagine a steam out condition for large API tanks with large openings, where the operator using a relatively small steam lance, could cause a damaging vacuum.
Cheers,
gr2vessels
RE: steam purging for Tanks
RE: steam purging for Tanks