Question 12

What causes pressure vessel failures?

Pressure vessel failures can occur due to a combination of design issues, operational stresses, corrosion, and lack of proper maintenance. Since pressure vessels operate under high internal pressure, even small defects can lead to serious safety risks if not identified and addressed in time.
In India, industries such as manufacturing, chemicals, oil & gas, pharmaceuticals, and power plants rely heavily on pressure vessels, and failures are a major safety concern governed under the Factories Act, 1948 and related state factory safety rules.

Common causes of pressure vessel failures include:

  • Corrosion and material degradation over time
  • Excess internal pressure beyond design limits
  • Fatigue due to repeated pressure cycles
  • Poor welding or fabrication defects
  • Improper installation or support issues
  • Overheating or temperature fluctuations
  • Lack of regular inspection and maintenance
  • Failure of safety valves or pressure controls

Regular inspection helps detect these issues early and prevent catastrophic failure.
Uniquo conducts detailed pressure vessel inspections to identify early warning signs such as thinning, cracks, corrosion, and leakage. Our reports help organizations take corrective action, improve safety, and ensure compliance with applicable industrial safety standards.