Ultrasonic Testing (UT)
This method uses high-frequency sound waves to measure wall thickness and detect internal corrosion or defects. It's a non-invasive technique that provides accurate results without damaging the tank.
1. Conventional Jackets
Conventional jacketing is best suited for low-pressure applications, and works simply by adding an additional layer of stainless steel to completely or partially enclose the vessel. The space between the two layers typically has welded baffling to direct the control fluid evenly across the inner layer that houses the process fluids.
As the vessels get larger and higher pressure, it can get increasingly more expensive to install a conventional jacket, as the thickness of the outer layer would need to increase accordingly.
2. Dimple Jackets
Dimple jackets are fabricated with lighter gauge stainless steel and are affixed to the inner shell by spot or plug welds in a dense, linear pattern. The contact between the welds and the inner shell creates channels to effectively disperse the jacket's heating or cooling fluids.
Dimple jackets should not be used for quick temperature changes or cycling between heating and cooling frequently. This dramatic change in temperature can cause the welds to fatigue and eventually fail.
3. Half-Pipe Coil Jackets
Instead of utilizing an outer wall for insulation, the half-pipe coil jackets are created using a length of split pipe that is wound around and welded to the tank wall. The heating and cooling fluids flow through the coil, effectively dispersing the heat or cold across the tank's shell.
This jacketing style works well with higher-pressure applications due to how the coil is attached to the shell. A coil jacket works well with high-temperature applications and large vessel applications.
