ON-LINE TESTING OF PRESSURE VESSELS AND STORAGE TANKS USING ACOUSTIC EMISSION
Phillip T Cole, Carl A Husain
Physical Acoustics Limited
Keywords: acoustic emission, on- line testing, pressure vessel, safety, storage tank
ABSTRACT Acoustic Emission is now a widely used method for evaluating the integrity of pressure vessels and storage tanks, traditionally however it has been used in conjunction with pressure testing. This paper addresses the issues involved with its use on operating plant and equipment and studies typical case histories including cryogenic storage tanks for ammonia and butane, storage spheres for LPG, ammonia, and crude receiving, reactors, both hot and cold shell types, and a sulphur tank. The paper shows when and where AE can be used properly, and as important, where it is not applicable. Cost savings from on-line testing are huge, but it is imperative that safety is not compromised as a result. A structured approach to addressing suitability is presented, together with the key factors which must be taken into account when considering the use of the method for on-line testing.
Publication Source: Trends in NDE Science & Technology; Proceedings of the 14th World Conference on Non-Destructive Testing, New Delhi, 8-13 December 1996.Vol. 2, pages 339 - 344
Publisher: Ashgate Publishing Company
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