Spherical tanks under pressure are one of the innovative inventions in the field of fluid and liquid storage tanks. Due to their unique features, these structures are used in various industries including oil and gas, petrochemical and power plants. In this article, we will introduce the structure, function, applications and advantages of pressurized spherical tanks.
The structure of spherical tanks under pressure
Spherical pressure tanks are one of the types of pressure tanks that are used to store gases or liquids at high pressures. These tanks are used in the oil and gas, petrochemical, and chemical industries due to their special structure and technical advantages. Below we explain the structure and characteristics of spherical tanks under pressure.
1.Structural materials:
Steel: Steel with specific standards such as ASTM A516 or ASTM A537 is usually used to make spherical tanks. These steels have high mechanical resistance and properties compatible with high pressure conditions.
Special alloys: Some spherical tanks are made of special alloys such as nickel or titanium alloys for use in special conditions.
2.Hydraulic structure:
Base: Spherical tanks are placed on special bases and are connected to the base with screws or strong welds. These foundations should be able to support the weight of the tank and its contents and increase the stability of the tank.
- Walls and shields:
Outer wall: The outer wall of the tank is spherical and consists of different layers of steel that always withstands the pressure of the liquid or gas inside.
Inner wall: Some tanks have an inner wall that acts as a protective layer against corrosion or other effects of the inner material.
Shields: Shields or ribbons are placed vertically inside the tank and help strengthen the overall structure of the tank. These shields can be grid or cylindrical.
4.Slope (Cone):
Many spherical tanks have a slope (Cone) on the bottom side, which helps the internal drop of the tank and improves the possibility of material discharge.
5.Other components:
Doors and slots: some tanks have doors or slots for access inside the tank, maintenance and repairs.
Protective systems: These systems include fire extinguishing systems, cooling systems and other protective devices.
Due to their special structure and high resistance, spherical pressure tanks are widely used in various industries for storing and transporting liquids and gases.
Performance of spherical tanks under pressure
The performance of these tanks varies according to the standards and specific needs of different industries. In the following, some of the main features and functions of spherical tanks under pressure are discussed:
Storage of liquids and gases
Oil and oil derivatives: Spherical tanks are used as storage containers for oil, diesel, gasoline and other oil derivatives.
Natural Gases: Used to store natural gases including methane, ethane, and propane.
Pressure adjustment
Positive pressure: In many cases, spherical tanks are used to maintain a positive pressure and create safety conditions for industrial processes.
Internal pressure regulation: Since spherical tanks are under pressure, accurate internal pressure regulation of these tanks is critical.
Test standards and methods
Safety Standards: Spherical pressure vessels must be designed and constructed using relevant safety standards and guidelines. These standards include ASME BPVC and API 620/650.
Force tests: Spherical tanks under pressure need periodical force tests to ensure that their structure functions properly under different pressures and environmental conditions.
Temperature and heat transfer
Cooling systems: Some spherical pressure vessels have cooling systems to keep the temperature within a certain range and prevent overheating.
Prevention of excessive heat: If the internal liquids or gases are hot, the tanks must be designed to discharge a certain amount of heat.
Control and supervision
Control systems: use of intelligent control systems for optimal monitoring of pressure, temperature, and internal conditions of tanks.
Reservoir Information Systems: The use of information technology to collect and process repository data to optimize performance and safety.
Leak prevention and environmental protection
Anti-leakage layers: using special layers to prevent leakage and protect the environment.
Leak monitoring systems: Installation of leak monitoring systems to quickly identify any leaks and take preventive measures.
Use in various industries
Oil and gas industries: Spherical tanks under pressure are of great importance in the extraction, storage, and distribution of oil and gas.
Petrochemical industries: for storage of chemical products and petrochemical gases.
Spherical tanks under pressure are designed and manufactured under special conditions according to the needs of different industries to work in the best possible way and guarantee safety and efficiency.
Challenges
Costs and structural materials: The construction of spherical pressure vessels is often expensive and time-consuming. High-quality materials such as steel resistant to pressure and environmental conditions increase the cost of production.
Transportation issues: Some spherical tanks require special equipment and transportation due to their large dimensions and weight. This issue can create a challenge in the transportation and installation of these tanks.
Stability and safety: The safety and stability of these tanks may pose challenges in some cases. Further research on this field can help improve the performance and safety of these structures.
Future developments
Use of new materials: research in the field of new materials can help to use materials with better capabilities and characteristics in the structure of tanks. For example, materials that reduce weight and increase resistance.
Advanced technology in design: The latest technologies are used in design and simulation to optimize structures and increase productivity.
Smart monitoring: using smart monitoring systems to better monitor the internal condition of the tanks and provide timely information about any risks.
Conclusion
Spherical pressurized tank with unique structure and high strength is used in various industries as one of the key tools for safe storage and transportation of liquids and gases. Due to the advantages of safety, easy transportability, and resistance to pressure, these structures have gained their place as a main option in various industries.
Petrosazeh Beinolmelal Aram Co, a producer of fixed equipment for oil and gas industries, cylindrical tank, spherical tank, with years of experience in this field, is proud to cooperate with major companies and industries of the country.