Sizing Styrene Expansion Tank

[RJB32482]

Hello,
I am trying to size an expansion tank for styrene. It seems that when we have a blocked in section of styrene sit outside too long, it expands and leaks through some valves. I was going to size the expansion tank, so is the formula:

(delta V/initial V)=(expansion coefficient)*(change in temperature).

Where the delta V would be the size of the expansion tank needed.

Is this correct? Any other comments? Any other ways to prevent the leaks from occuring?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Tonylmiller]

That would probably work, as long as you have enough vapor space in the system. Most liquids do not expand very much with temperature, but the pressure rise can be tremendous due to thermal expansion if the fluid is blocked in (in other words, the liquid has a fixed volume). Many people use a relief valve for this purpose.

Tony Miller
Cornerstone Engineering Group, p.c.

http://www.cegpc.com