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Vesfg001 PDF Free
Vesfg001 PDF Free
March 2007
PIP VESFG001
Fiberglass Tank and Vessel
Selection, Design, and Fabrication Specification
ASME RTP-1 and Section X
PURPOSE AND USE OF PROCESS INDUSTRY PRACTICES
In an effort to minimize the cost of process industry facilities, this Practice has
been prepared from the technical requirements in the existing standards of major
industrial users, contractors, or standards organizations. By harmonizing these technical
requirements into a single set of Practices, administrative, application, and engineering
costs to both the purchaser and the manufacturer should be reduced. While this Practice
is expected to incorporate the majority of requirements of most users, individual
applications may involve requirements that will be appended to and take precedence
over this Practice. Determinations concerning fitness for purpose and particular matters
or application of the Practice to particular project or engineering situations should not
be made solely on information contained in these materials. The use of trade names
from time to time should not be viewed as an expression of preference but rather
recognized as normal usage in the trade. Other brands having the same specifications
are equally correct and may be substituted for those named. All Practices or guidelines
are intended to be consistent with applicable laws and regulations including OSHA
requirements. To the extent these Practices or guidelines should conflict with OSHA or
other applicable laws or regulations, such laws or regulations must be followed.
Consult an appropriate professional before applying or acting on any material
contained in or suggested by the Practice.
PRINTING HISTORY
March 1999 Issued
November 2000 Technical Correction
March 2007 Technical Revision
PIP VESFG001
Fiberglass Tank and Vessel
Selection, Design, and Fabrication Specification
ASME RTP-1 and Section X
Table of Contents
1. Introduction................................. 3 6. Materials.................................... 16
1.1 Purpose............................................ 3 6.1 Resins ............................................ 16
1.2 Scope ............................................... 3 6.2 Resin Fillers and Additives ............ 17
6.3 Catalysts and Promoters................ 17
2. References .................................. 4 6.4 Reinforcements.............................. 17
2.1 Process Industry Practices .............. 4
2.2 Industry Codes and Standards ........ 4 7. Design ....................................... 19
2.3 Other References............................. 5 7.1 Design Pressure and
Temperature .................................. 19
3. Definitions ................................... 5 7.2 MAWP and Coincident Maximum
Temperature .................................. 19
4. Requirements.............................. 6 7.3 Minimum Design Temperature
4.1 General ............................................ 6 and Coincident Pressure................ 19
4.2 Documentation to be Provided 7.4 Design Loads and Load
by the Fabricator .............................. 8 Combinations ................................. 20
7.5 Component Design ........................ 21
5. Selection Guidelines .................. 9
5.1 ASME RTP-1 vs. Section X ............. 9 8. Fabrication................................ 27
5.2 Resins ............................................ 10 8.1 Laminates ...................................... 27
5.3 Corrosion Veils............................... 11 8.2 Laminate Tolerances ..................... 29
5.4 Construction Methods .................... 12 8.3 Laminate Acceptance Criteria........ 29
5.5 Cure Systems ................................ 14 8.4 Repairs........................................... 30
5.6 Design Methods ............................. 14 8.5 Post Curing .................................... 30
8.6 Field Joints..................................... 30
8.7 Field Fabrication ............................ 31
8.8 Fabrication Tolerances .................. 31
1. Introduction
1.1 Purpose
This Practice provides requirements for the construction of fiberglass vessels and
tanks in accordance with ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section X “Fiber-
Reinforced Plastic Pressure Vessels” or ASME/ANSI RTP-1 “Reinforced Thermoset
Plastic (RTP) Corrosion Resistant Equipment.” Fabrication shall be by ASME-
accredited manufacturers. When the type of fiberglass fabrication is not within the
scope of Code Section X or ASME/ANSI RTP-1, the Purchaser may use this Practice
for guidance. In addition, Sections 5 and 11 provide guidance for the User or
Designer in developing procurement specifications and installation practices for this
equipment. Sections 5 and 11 are not the responsibility of the Fabricator.
1.2 Scope
1.2.1 This Practice describes the general requirements for the design, materials,
fabrication, examination, inspection, testing, certification (ASME stamp and
Supplier’s Data Report), and pressure relief of aboveground fiberglass
reinforced polyester, vinyl ester, and epoxy tanks and vessels having internal
or external pressure from full vacuum up to the limits of the Code Section X.
This practice covers shop and field-fabricated equipment, thermoplastic-lined
equipment, and dual laminate equipment.
1.2.2 This Practice does not cover the following equipment items that are excluded
from both ASME/ANSI RTP-1 and Code Section X:
a. Portable or movable containers
b. Hoods, ducts, and stacks
c. Fans and blowers
d. Vessel internals such as entrainment separators, chevron blades, packing
support plates, and liquid distributor plates
e. Pipe or piping
f. Fully buried underground closed vessels
1.2.3 This Practice does not cover the following equipment items that are excluded
from Code Section X:
a. Vessels having an inside diameter (ID), width, height, or cross-section
diagonal of 6 inches (150 mm) or less, with no limitation on length or
pressure. The 6 inch (150 mm) dimensions exclude the thickness of any
corrosion liner.
b. Vessels containing lethal substances as designated by the owner in
accordance with Code Section X Paragraph RG-113.
1.2.4 This Practice does not cover the following equipment items that are excluded
from ASME/ANSI RTP-1:
a. Vessels constructed of furan, epoxy, or phenolic resins
2. References
Applicable parts of the following Practices, industry codes and standards, and references shall
be considered an integral part of this Practice. The edition in effect on the date of contract
award shall be used, except as otherwise noted. Short titles are used herein where appropriate.
3. Definitions
With reference to the Foreword and Article RG-3 of Code Section X and Paragraph 1-200 of
ASME/ANSI RTP-1, and for the purposes of this Practice, the following definitions apply:
approved equal: A substitution to a specified product that has been approved in writing by
the Purchaser
designer: The party responsible for defining and specifying the mechanical design
requirements (e.g., UBRS) consistent with User criteria for use by the ASME/ANSI RTP-1 or
Code Section X Fabricator. The Designer is frequently an engineering contractor, but could be
the User, third party consultant, or ASME/ANSI RTP-1 or Code Section X Fabricator.
fabricator (supplier): As defined in ASME/ANSI RTP-1, this term refers to the producer of
RTP equipment. The Fabricator combines resin and reinforcing fibers to produce the final
product. In this Practice, the Fabricator is the party entering into a contract with the Purchaser
or Designer to construct a vessel in accordance with the purchase order.
National Board (NB): The National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors. This is
an organization comprised of chief inspectors from various governmental jurisdictions in the
United States and Canada. Vessels meeting requirements of Code Section X can be registered
with the NB.
owner: The party who owns the facility wherein the tank or vessel will be used.
purchaser: The party who awards the contract to the supplier and places the order for the
vessel or vessel components. The purchaser may be the owner or the owner’s authorized
agent.
user: The party responsible for establishing construction criteria consistent with RTP-1 or
Section X philosophy and service hazards as described in Section 1. This term refers to the
owner and/or operator of the equipment.
4. Requirements
4.1 General
4.1.1 All vessels and tanks shall be designed and constructed in accordance with
the purchase order, UBRS, this Practice and all applicable requirements of
ASME/ANSI RTP-1 or Code Section X, including symbol stamping.
4.1.2 References in this Practice to ASME/ANSI RTP-1 and Code Section X apply
based on the specified standard and are not interchangeable except as
specifically indicated.
Comment: ASME/ANSI RTP-1 provides requirements for stationary
vessels and tanks for the storage, accumulation, or
processing of corrosive or other substances at pressures
not exceeding 15 psig (0.103 MPa) (external or internal)
above any hydrostatic head.
Comment: Code Section X provides requirements for stationary
vessels for the storage, accumulation, or processing of
substances at pressures exceeding 15 psig (0.103 MPa)
5. Selection Guidelines
Section 5 provides guidelines and other tutorial information intended to assist the Designer in
selecting and specifying fiberglass tanks and vessels.
Note: These guidelines are not the responsibility of the Fabricator unless the Fabricator
is also the Designer.
required for design by rules and for vessels in critical corrosive services. All
vessels are required to have a minimum 2-ply chopped strand mat and 1-ply
veil corrosion liner and be constructed of corrosion-resistant resins such as
polyester, vinyl ester, and epoxy novalac types which use contact molding or
filament winding construction techniques. Furan, epoxy, or phenolic resins,
and non-E glass structural reinforcement, are not within the scope of
ASME/ANSI RTP-1. ASME/ANSI RTP-1 also covers thermoplastic-lined
equipment and both shop- and field-fabricated vessels and tanks plus
structural cored materials for flat heads and bottoms.
Since most of the fiberglass equipment built today falls within the scope of
ASME/ANSI RTP-1, this standard shall be widely utilized. Earlier standards
such as ASTM D4097, ASTM D3299, and the now withdrawn NBS PS15-69
shall no longer be used. ASME/ANSI RTP-1 represents the best state of the
art technology for tanks and vessels 15 psig (0.103 MPa) and below.
5.1.2 Section X Philosophy and Coverage
Code Section X is more of a performance standard with few rules and
fabrication procedures. All designs are proven by either a destructive test
(as in Class I vessels) or an acoustic emission test (as in Class II vessels).
Because of the destructive proof test requirements for Class I vessels and a
100,000-cycle pressure test requirement, Class I vessels typically have been
less than 1,000 gallons (3.785 m3) in size and of “standard” designs with very
few nozzles. Consequently, Class I vessels have not been widely used in the
chemical processing industry.
Class II vessels do not require a destructive test, but shall have their design
proven via an acoustic emission test at 1.1 times the Maximum Allowable
Working Pressure (MAWP) at the design temperature. This is an expensive
process and has limited the widespread use of Class II equipment because
lined metallic vessels are generally less expensive.
Both contact-molded and filament-wound construction are permitted in
Class II equipment; in addition, Class I equipment permits bag molding and
centrifugal casting techniques. Code Section X neither requires the use of nor
defines the construction of a corrosion liner. Any liner shall be specified by
the User and is not included in the structural calculations. This Practice
requires an ASME/ANSI RTP-1 liner as a minimum in any Code Section X
vessel. Code Section X permits metallic and thermoplastic liners, non-glass
structural reinforcements, and all types of resins (including furan). However,
this Practice prohibits the use of metallic liners and furan or phenolic resins,
and limits structural reinforcements to types E and S glass for Code Section X
vessels.
5.2 Resins
The most common types of resins used to manufacture ASME/ANSI RTP-1 and Code
Section X vessels are polyester, vinyl ester, and epoxy resins. Code Section X also
permits the use of phenolic and furan resins, but they have very limited application
and are outside the scope of this Practice. ASME/ANSI RTP-1 does not permit furan,
epoxy, or phenolic resins at the present time.
Note: This method is also referred to as hand lay-up, but this term
does not capture all methods of contact molding such as spray-
up and machine-applied.
5.4.2 Filament Winding
Filament-wound construction uses multiple glass filaments that are applied to
a rotating mandrel in a band. The band is typically dipped in a resin bath
during this application.
Because the glass fibers are continuous, the resulting laminate has the highest
tensile strength and modulus of elasticity of any type of laminate
construction. However, the resin content is lower and hence, the corrosion
resistance is lower than in contact-molded construction. The vessel wall is
more difficult to repair because any repair overlay will necessarily be of
contact-molded construction and typically be twice as thick as the original
wall. Because liquids can weep along the fibers, the external location of a
leak does not represent the internal location of a liner failure. The advantages
of filament winding are that it is faster and stronger than contact molding.
This results in cheaper fabrication costs for large vessel shells.
Because of the great strength of continuous filaments, Code Section X limits
the maximum pressure of Class I vessels with uncut filaments to 3000 psig
(20.68 MPa) and with cut filaments to 1500 psig (10.34 MPa). For Class II
vessels, the product of the pressure (in psi) and the diameter (in inches)
cannot exceed 7200 lb/inch (127.5 kg/mm).
5.4.3 Centrifugal Casting and Bag Molding
Centrifugal casting and bag molding are two other methods used to fabricate
fiberglass vessels. These methods are used primarily for small diameter
(i.e., less than 12 inches (300 mm) in diameter) Code Section X Class I
vessels because the tooling does not lend itself to large fabrications.
In centrifugal casting, a female mold is loaded with the appropriate fiberglass
reinforcement mats and cloth. Resin is injected into the center of the mold,
then thrown to the outside of the spinning mold by centrifugal force. The
advantage to centrifugal casting is quick fabrication with a well-saturated
resin laminate and no joints. The main disadvantage is that applications are
limited because it is almost impossible to do any side-mounted nozzles.
Bag molding also uses a female mold into which fiberglass cloth is inserted.
Resin is then added and a central inflatable bag squeezes the resin into the
cloth. Again, complex shapes are very difficult to manufacture. Because the
reinforcement fibers are not continuous, the maximum permitted pressure in
Section X is 150 psig (0.103 MPa) for bag-molded construction.
5.4.4 Dual Laminates
Dual laminates are thermoplastic-lined fiberglass vessels. These are currently
allowed in Code Section X and ASME/ANSI RTP-1. Materials covered in
Section 6.4.8 can be used for linings. Linings typically are formed into the
required vessel shape, then glued, welded, or molded into one piece. The
fiberglass laminate is laid on top of the thermoplastic liner.
Fabricator shall have test data for all qualified laminates. For Code Section X
Class II vessels, a basic laminate unit is qualified and the maximum
allowable design stress is determined from that test data. Code Section X
Class I vessels are destructively tested to verify the design. In ASME/ANSI
RTP-1, testing is not required for filament-wound laminates, but the laminate
properties are determined by lamination analysis. In general, the minimum
allowable design stress for continuous loads shall not be below 900 psi
(63.3 kg/cm2) for an all-mat construction and could be over 2000 psi
(140 kg/cm2) for a well-constructed laminate of mat and woven roving.
Filament-wound laminates can have design stresses that exceed 3000 psi
(207 kg/cm2). In addition, ASME/ANSI RTP-1 and Code Section X allow a
maximum shear design stress of 200 psi (13.7 kg/cm2). ASME/ANSI RTP-1
also gives a maximum allowable stress of 50 psi (3.5 kg/cm2) in peel. For all
field-fabricated tanks and vessels designed for 2 psi (13.78 kPa) and above,
ASME/ANSI RTP-1 requires a proof test of the as-constructed laminates to
verify the design stress values in both the axial and hoop directions.
5.6.5 Maximum Allowable Design Strain
For filament-wound laminates, the maximum allowable design strain for
ASME/ANSI RTP-1 vessels is 0.001 for continuous loading and 0.002 for
intermittent loading and for external pressure. In Code Section X, the
allowable strain is approximately 0.001 for all types of loading in Method A
analysis. In ASME/ANSI RTP-1, this elastic modulus is determined via
lamination analysis. In Code Section X, it is determined by test method.
However, due to the difficulty of applying the test method (which involves
winding a flat laminate), only contact-molded laminates have been used thus
far for Class II equipment.
6. Materials
6.1 Resins
6.1.1 Resins specified on the UBRS or drawings shall be used throughout the
laminate. Where resins are not specified, the Fabricator shall submit a request
to the Purchaser to use selected resins that are suitable for the operating
conditions and fluids shown on the UBRS or drawings. All resin shall be
commercial grade, and selection shall be based on supplier test data as
published in corrosion guides or actual field or laboratory tests. Resin
substitution shall not be allowed in any step of vessel fabrication.
6.1.2 The Fabricator shall follow the resin manufacturer’s current fabrication
instructions for proper formulation and cure. If FDA compliance is required,
only resins certified by the resin manufacturer to meet FDA requirements
shall be used, and a post cure using hot air or steam followed by cleaning
with water or steam is required.
6.4 Reinforcements
All resins shall contain reinforcements of one or more of the types described in this
Section. A separately cured, unreinforced interior resin gel coat shall not be used.
Integrally bonded chopped strand mat and woven roving are not permitted in the
laminate.
6.4.1 Glass Surfacing Veil
Glass surfacing veil shall be C glass, 10 mils (0.25 mm) thick, with a silane-
type finish and a binder compatible with the lay-up resin.
6.4.2 Organic Surfacing Veil
Organic surfacing veil shall be apertured or non-apertured polyester veil,
12 to 16 mils (0.3 to 0.4 mm) thick, with a finish compatible with the lay-up
resin.
6.4.3 Carbon Surfacing Veil
Carbon surfacing veil shall be 0.5 oz/yd2 (16.9 g/m2), 6 mils (0.15 mm) thick,
with a finish compatible with the lay-up resin.
6.4.4 Chopped Strand Mat
Chopped strand mat shall be type E (electrical borosilicate) or ECR
(electrical corrosion-resistant) glass; 0.75, 1, or 1.5 oz/ft2 (236, 354, or
472 g/m2), with a silane-type finish.
6.4.5 Woven Roving
Woven roving shall be E glass, nominal 24 oz/yd2 (813 g/m2), 5 x 4 square
weave, with a silane-type finish.
6.4.6 Continuous Roving
Continuous roving used for filament winding or in chopper guns for spray-up
shall be E or ECR glass with a silane-type finish.
6.4.7 Oriented Glass Fabric
Uniaxial or biaxial glass fabric used as structural reinforcement shall be
E glass with a silane-type finish.
6.4.8 Thermoplastic Liners
Thermoplastic liners may be used in lieu of or in addition to fiberglass
corrosion liners. The thermoplastic liner materials can be TFE, FEP, PFA,
MFA, PVDF, ECTFE, ETFE, PP, HDPE, PVC, or CPVC from 40 to 250
mils (1 to 6.35 mm) thick. All materials shall meet ASTM specifications and
be adopted by ASME/ANSI RTP-1 Appendix M-14, Part M14-2. All
thermoplastic welders shall be qualified in accordance with ASME/ANSI
RTP-1, Appendix M-14, Part M14-8. Filler materials shall be of the same
ASTM specification as the parent material.
6.4.9 Core Materials
Core materials may be used to provide forms for molding ribs, head
knuckles, or other parts. They may also be used as filler between the bottoms
or shells of double-walled vessels. Core materials may be considered part of
the structural wall in the design and can be used as filler in flat-bottom tank.
The cored bottom can be subject to bending loads from internal or external
pressure. Balsa wood, cardboard, urethane or glass foams, plastic fillers,
fiberglass mats, or other materials compatible with the lay-up resin may be
used as core materials. Core materials shall always be covered by laminate
and shall never be exposed to the chemical environment.
7. Design
7.5.1.3 Maximum deflection of the top head or flat bottom head under all
combinations of loadings shall be 1/2 percent of span at any location.
7.5.1.4 On any flat-sided tank, the maximum deflection of any wall shall be
1/2 percent of span at any location.
7.5.1.5 If a tank shall be agitated by a vertical, top-entering agitator, the
agitator shall not be supported from the tank head unless an
advanced analysis of all agitation loadings into the top head is
performed. The shell shall be reinforced with external
circumferential stiffening ribs if the tank is agitated.
7.5.1.6 The shells of an open-top, vertical tank shall be provided with a
reinforcing ring at the top of the tank shell. The ring shall be of
sufficient rigidity to maintain the shape of the tank.
7.5.1.7 Dished heads subject to internal or external pressure or hydrostatic
loads shall be reinforced in the knuckle in accordance with
ASME/ANSI RTP-1, Figure 4-2(a), or Code Section X, Figure
RD-1175.2.
7.5.1.8 Flat bottoms on tanks fabricated to ASME/ANSI RTP-1 shall be
reinforced in the knuckle in accordance with ASME/ANSI RTP-1,
Figure 4-3, and have a 1-1/2 inch (38 mm) minimum knuckle radius.
In addition, flat bottoms shall be suitable for installation on flat,
cushioned surfaces (such as those described in Section 11.2.3)
without the use of grout.
7.5.1.9 Shell joints shall be reinforced in accordance with ASME/ANSI
RTP-1, Figure 4-5, or Code Section X, Figure 1175.2.
7.5.2 Nozzles and Reinforcements
7.5.2.1 Nozzles shall be as specified in the UBRS and any requirements of
the purchase order.
a. If not otherwise specified, the design shall conform to
ASME/ANSI RTP-1, Figure 4-6, or Code Section X, Table
RD-620.1.
b. Minimum nozzle size shall be 2 inches (50 mm).
c. Threaded connections, bulkhead fittings, or pad-type nozzles
shall not be permitted.
d. All nozzles that are 4 inches (100 mm) and less shall be
equipped with plate or conical gussets in accordance with
ASME/ANSI RTP-1, Figure 4-11, or Code Section X, Figure
RD-620.4. Code Section X requires gussets on nozzles 6 inches
(150 mm) and less.
7.5.2.2 All manways and nozzles except those providing clearance for
connecting internal piping (i.e., dip pipe mounting nozzles),
instrumentation, or other specified penetrating nozzles and internal
appurtenances shall be installed flush with the inside of the
7.5.7.5 The loading and weight basis of the support design shall be included
in the design calculations.
7.5.7.6 Flat-bottom tanks shall be installed with fully supporting foundations
and shall be anchored. Minimum size of anchor bolts shall be 1 inch
(M25).
7.5.7.7 Design of anchors shall be in accordance with ASME/ANSI RTP-1,
Appendix NM-4, with holddown clips in accordance with
ASME/ANSI RTP-1, Figure NM4-5.
7.5.7.8 Suspended vessels shall use design methods given in RTP-1,
Appendix NM-5.
7.5.7.9 If horizontal tanks or vessels require saddles for support, a finite
element analysis shall be performed to design the supports and check
for excessive stresses in the shell and heads. A Zick analysis shall
not be used to design horizontal vessel support systems because of
the different properties of fiberglass laminates versus metallic plates.
Multiple saddles and additional stiffening are typically required.
7.5.7.10 Skirt supports shall be attached to the vessel in accordance with
Appendix C, fabrication detail VESFG001-01of this Practice.
7.5.7.11 All skirts shall be provided with vent and access openings in
accordance with Appendix C, fabrication detail VESFG001-02.
7.5.7.12 Skirt holddown methods are given in Appendix C, fabrication detail
VESFG001-03.
7.5.8 Body Flanges
7.5.8.1 If required, body flanges, shall be designed in accordance with
ASME/ANSI RTP-1, Appendix NM-2, or Code Section X, Paragraph
RD-1176, and shall always contain woven roving.
7.5.8.2 Body flanges shall be flat and true to a tolerance in accordance with
ASME/ANSI RTP-1, Table 4-3 and Paragraph 4-700, or Code Section
X, Paragraph RD-620.3 and Figure RD-620.3.
7.5.8.3 Under no circumstances shall the finished machined and resin coated
flange thickness be less than that specified. (See Section 8.1.4.)
7.5.9 Stiffening Rings
7.5.9.1 If provided, stiffening rings shall be a minimum of 3/16 inch (5 mm)
thick and be constructed similar to ASME/ANSI RTP-1, Figure 4-4.
Other shapes such as trapezoidal, triangular or flat ribs may be used.
7.5.9.2 The required moment of inertia for stiffening rings used to support
the shell against external pressure is given in ASME/ANSI RTP-1,
Paragraph 3A-330, or Code Section X, Paragraph RD-1172.1.
7.5.9.3 Core materials used to help form the rib shape shall not be
considered to increase the moment of inertia.
7.5.10 Internals
7.5.10.1 Unless otherwise specified, all internals shall be manufactured with
the same materials as the equipment wall.
7.5.10.2 Metallic pipe for tubing or coils shall be as specified on the UBRS
and shall be suitable for cold bending.
7.5.10.3 Coils and other internal piping, trays, or other internals shall be
supported to prevent vibration or breakage during shipping and
operation.
7.5.10.4 Baffles for agitated tanks shall be of the wedge type with sealed
ends or the plate type with gussets. See Appendix C, fabrication
detail VESFG001-04 of this Practice for baffle construction.
7.5.10.5 Support ledges for packing supports or other heavy internals shall
be integrally molded into the wall or shall utilize a plate clamped
between body flanges. Secondary bonded rings may also be used to
support lighter loads such as trays but they shall be well sealed and
all cut edges shall be capped with veil. See Appendix C, fabrication
detail VESFG001-05, for internal support ledge construction.
7.5.10.6 All internals shall be covered with a full corrosion liner on the
outside and all edges shall be capped with surfacing veil. A coating
of resin only shall not be permitted.
7.5.10.7 Secondary bonded internals shall not contain woven roving; they
shall be all mat construction.
7.5.10.8 On internal piping with butt joints, the joint edges shall be wrapped
with surfacing veil before the butt joint overlay is attached.
7.5.10.9 Internal glued joints shall not be permitted.
7.5.11 Nameplates
7.5.11.1 The completed equipment shall be provided with a nameplate in
accordance with ASME/ANSI RTP-1, Paragraphs 1-530, 1-540, and
1-550, or Code Section X, Article RS-1.
7.5.11.2 In addition, the following information shall be provided either on
the RTP-1 or Section X nameplate or a separate nameplate:
a. User’s equipment item number
b. Initial test pressures
c. Purchase order number
d. Resin used
e. Liner construction
f. Capacity in gallons
g. Estimated weight when empty, full of process fluid, and full of
test water
7.5.11.3 Nameplates shall be located in an accessible location.
7.5.11.4 The Fabricator shall show the nameplate location and information
provided on the dimensioned fabrication drawing.
7.5.11.5 On insulated tanks, the nameplate shall be located on a bracket that
extends 1 inch (25 mm) beyond the insulation thickness.
7.5.12 Ladders, Platforms, and Handrails
7.5.12.1 If specified in the purchase order, ladders, platforms, and handrails
shall be provided.
7.5.12.2 Design and material for ladders, platforms, and handrails shall be in
accordance with PIP STF05501, PIP STF05520, PIP STF05521,
and PIP STF05535.
7.5.12.3 All materials shall also conform to OSHA regulations or equivalent
national standard and any local building code, as required.
8. Fabrication
8.1 Laminates
8.1.1 Corrosion Liner
8.1.1.1 The corrosion liner shall be 100 mils (2.5 mm) thick minimum, and
consist of as a minimum, 1 ply of surfacing veil and 2 or more plies
of chopped strand mat totaling 3 oz/ft2 (915 gr/m2)
8.1.1.2 Spray-up or chopped strand mat from a chopper gun shall not be
permitted in the corrosion liner.
8.1.1.3 Colorants, thixotropic, or fire retardant additives shall not be
permitted in the corrosion liner.
8.1.1.4 Paraffin used for surface cure and fillers may be used to increase
abrasion resistance.
8.1.1.5 Only C glass, polyester, or carbon surfacing veils shall be permitted
in the corrosion liner.
8.1.1.6 The corrosion liner shall not be used in structural calculations to
determine vessel wall thickness.
8.1.1.7 For vessels having a thermoplastic lining, the fiberglass corrosion
liner described in Section 8.1.1.1 can be omitted. However, a
conductive layer shall be placed directly behind the thermoplastic
liner to enable the entire liner surface to be spark tested.
8.1.2 Structural Layer
8.1.2.1 The structural layer shall consist of multiple plies of glass cloth, such
as chopped strand mat and woven roving, in contact-molded
construction or multiple cycles of filament winding roving
interspersed with chopped strand mat and/or oriented glass cloth.
8.1.5.4 Each successive ply shall overlap the preceding ply by 1/2 inch
(12 mm) beyond each side. The first ply shall be a minimum of
3 inches (75 mm) wide minimum.
8.1.6 Lapping of Reinforcements
8.1.6.1 All edges of reinforcing material shall be lapped a minimum of
1 inch (25 mm) for mat and oriented cloth and 2 inches (50 mm) for
woven roving.
8.1.6.2 Lapped edges of adjacent layers shall be staggered.
8.1.6.3 The laps in nozzle reinforcing pads shall be located at least 45
degrees from the longitudinal axis of the vessel.
8.1.7 Tapering of Secondary Bonds
8.1.7.1 To minimize stress concentrations, all interior and exterior secondary
bonds shall be tapered at the edges a minimum of 6:1.
8.1.7.2 The material in the taper shall not be included in the required
structural strength of the bond.
8.1.8 Thermoplastic Liners
8.1.8.1 Thermoplastic liners shall meet the requirements of ASME/ANSI
RTP-1, Appendix M-14, except that Part M14-7 for shop
qualification is not mandatory for Code Section X stamped vessels.
8.1.8.2 All provisions of ASME/ANSI RTP-1, Appendix M-14 are mandatory
for ASME/ANSI RTP-1RTP-1 stamped equipment.
8.1.9 Mold Release Agents
8.1.9.1 Molds shall be prepared using a layer of polyester film, carnauba-
based paste wax, or polyvinyl alcohol.
8.1.9.2 All mold release agents shall be removed before inspection and
shipment.
8.4 Repairs
8.4.1 Minor defects in workmanship shall be repaired before stamping.
8.4.2 Before a repair is started, the repair method and extent of repair shall be
approved by the Purchaser and the Code Section X Authorized Inspector or
the ASME/ANSI RTP-1 Certified Individual.
8.4.3 All repairs to ASME/ANSI RTP-1 vessels shall be in accordance with
ASME/ANSI RTP-1, Appendix M-9.
8.4.4 For Code Section X vessels, corrosion liner and structural layer repairs for
Class II vessels shall be in accordance with ASME/ANSI RTP-1, Appendix
M-9.
8.4.5 Structural repairs to Code Section X Class I vessels shall not be permitted.
9.4.4 The maximum permissible air entrapment density for ASME/ANSI RTP-1,
Table 6-1, Level 1 and Level 2 laminates shall be 10 bubbles per square inch
(6.45 square centimeters) for the corrosion liner.
9.4.5 For ASME/ANSI RTP-1 structural laminates, the maximum density shall be
10 bubbles per square inch (6.45 square centimeters) for bubbles 1/16 inch
(1.5 mm) and smaller or 4 bubbles per square inch (6.45 square centimeters)
for bubbles larger than 1/16 inch (1.5 mm).
9.4.6 The criteria for foreign inclusions in the corrosion liner shall be a maximum
dimension of 1/32 inch (0.75 mm) with a maximum density of 1 particle per
square foot (929 square centimeters) for both Level 1 and Level 2 laminates.
9.4.7 Thermoplastic liners shall be in accordance with ASME/ANSI RTP-1,
Appendix M-14, Table M14E-1, “Lining Visual Inspection Acceptance
Criteria.”
9.7.5.5 If the test water will be in contact with stainless steel internals for
more than 72 hours, the water shall be treated with an appropriate
biocide to prevent biologically induced corrosion of stainless steel.
9.7.5.6 The Fabricator shall provide all facilities and materials (e.g., blinds,
bolting, and gaskets).
9.7.6 Test Temperature
Before applying the test pressure, the test water and vessel material shall be
permitted to equalize to approximately the same temperature.
9.7.7 Hold Time
Unless otherwise specified, the final hydrostatic test pressure shall be held
for a minimum of one hour.
9.7.8 Post Test Requirements
After completion of the hydrostatic test, the vessel shall be drained, dried,
and closed as quickly as practicable. This includes drying internals.
9.7.9 Field Test
If field assembly/erection is required, the hydrostatic test shall take place on
the User’s site. The Fabricator shall provide a detailed test procedure to the
Purchaser for review before testing.
9.7.10 Horizontal Vessels
Horizontal vessels shall be designed to support a full weight load of water.
Horizontal vessels shall be tested while resting on its support saddles without
additional supports or cribbing.
9.7.11 Tall Vertical Vessels
Tall vertical vessels shall be tested in the installed position in accordance
with ASME/ANSI RTP-1 and Code Section X. These vessels shall be
adequately supported during the test to prevent damage. A field hydrostatic
test is usually required in cases where the vessel is supported by lugs or ring
supports in steelwork.
9.7.12 Flanged Joints
9.7.12.1 Any flanged joint for which the service gasket is to be provided by
the Fabricator and which will not be disassembled after testing shall
be tested with the specified service gasket.
9.7.12.2 If the joint is to be disassembled after testing and employs flanges
in accordance with ASME B16.5, the test gasket may be selected by
the Manufacturer subject to the limitations in Sections 9.7.12.4,
9.7.12.5 and 9.7.12.6.
9.7.12.3 If the service gasket is not specified and the joint is to be
disassembled after testing and employs nonstandard flanges
(i.e., other than in accordance with ASME B16.5), the test gasket
shall be as specified by the Purchaser.
9.10.4 Test procedures and equipment shall be in accordance with Code Section V,
Article T-11.
10. Shipping
10.2.2 Internals
10.2.2.1 If any internals cannot be safely shipped in place, the internals shall
be assembled in the vessel to assure the internals fit properly in
accordance with any specified clearances or tolerances.
10.2.2.2 After the trial assembly is completed, the internals shall be
removed, identified, tagged, and shipped separately.
10.2.3 Accessories
10.2.3.1 All bolting and other loose parts shall be suitably packaged and
labeled with the purchase order number.
10.2.3.2 Uncoated bolts and nuts shall be coated with a suitable thread
lubricant to prevent corrosion during transportation and storage.
10.2.3.3 The thread lubricant shall be easily removable with mineral spirits
or a solvent.
10.5.9 If two or more separate units are shipped together, sufficient clearance shall
be provided between units to prevent contact during transit.
Note: This guidance is not the responsibility of the Fabricator unless the Fabricator also
installs the equipment.
11.2 Installation
During installation of fiberglass vessels and tanks, the following considerations shall
be given to ensure adequate service:
11.2.1 To avoid localized damage during storage or repositioning, fiberglass vessels
shall be placed only on firm level surfaces that are free of stones, tools, or
other small hard objects.
11.2.2 The support base surface for flat-bottom tanks shall be nonporous and free of
cracks, depressions, and vertical projections. Reinforced concrete with a
trowel finish is often used as a support base. The support base shall be flat
within 1/4 inch (6 mm) of a horizontal plane; if sloped, the support base shall
not have projections greater than 1/4 inch (6 mm) above the surface plane.
11.2.3 Flat-bottom tanks shall be set on a cushioning pad to minimize stresses
caused by seams, shrinkage distortions, and/or support base or vessel bottom
irregularities. The pad shall be 1/2 inch (12 mm) thick, closed cell
elastomeric sponge material of suitable composition with a compression
deflection range of 5 to 9 psi (34.5 to 62 kPa) or 1/2 inch (12 mm) asphalt-
impregnated felt. Resin or cement grout, petroleum base mastic/sand mortar,
or other suitable conforming material which will cushion the vessel bottom
over surface irregularities of the support base or tank bottom may also be
used.
11.2.4 If the vessel has a bottom drain, the support base shall be notched to provide
clearance with the nozzle flange or reinforcement.
11.2.5 If the support base has a trench to accommodate bottom discharge piping,
a structural grating trench cover shall be installed flush with the top of the
support base to minimize any unsupported area of the tank bottom.
11.2.6 To prevent nozzle damage due to piping strains, flexible connectors shall be
used to connect metallic piping that is 2 inches (50 mm) and larger to vessel
nozzles.
11.2.7 Valves attached directly to vessel nozzles may need to be independently
supported so that weight and torque forces will not be transmitted into the
nozzle.
11.2.8 Flanged piping connections shall use flat face flanges with full face gaskets.
If a raised face piping flange must be connected to a flat face fiberglass
flange, a blocking ring spacer shall be utilized (see ASME/ANSI RTP-1,
Figure NM9-2). Metal washers shall be used under all bolt heads and nuts.
All bolts or studs shall be well lubricated before tightening. Do not exceed
the Fabricator’s recommended torque when tightening the bolting. Tighten in
a sequence as shown in ASME/ANSI RTP-1, Figure NM9-3.
11.2.9 Vertical or side-entering agitation equipment shall be supported
independently from the vessel to prevent excessive vibration that might
damage the nozzle or vessel wall.
11.2.10 Provision shall be made to prevent the vessel contents from freezing.
A positive venting arrangement shall also be provided, such as a
conservation vent, relief valve, or open vent sized to prevent the maximum
allowable working internal and external pressure from being exceeded.
11.2.11 Storage tanks shall have overflows as large as any inlet nozzle. Roof nozzles
shall not be used as overflows on flat-bottom storage tanks as required by
ASME/ANSI RTP-1, Paragraphs 5-400(b) and 5-400(c).
APPENDIX A
The Fabricator’s Design Report, in accordance with Paragraph 1-300 of ASME/ANSI RTP-1,
or Paragraph RG-321 of Code Section X, shall contain at least the following data:
1. Design Calculations
2. Fabrication Drawings
3. Certification by a registered professional engineer of the above two items for ASME/ANSI
RTP-1 vessels and Code Section X Class II vessels
4. Final copy of the UBRS updated with all fabrication changes
The following are required only in a Code Section X Fabricator's Design Report:
1. Material manufacturer’s specification sheets for resin, fiber reinforcement, promoters,
catalyst, and other components used in laminate construction
2. Procedure Specification for all laminates
3. Properly certified Form RP-2 for parts of the vessel fabricated by other fabricators
4. Qualification Test Report for Class I vessels
5. Records of Quality Control Test Reports
6. Production Test Report
Documentation Schedule
PIP VESFG001 TECHNICAL REVISION
Fiberglass Tank and Vessel Selection, Design, and Fabrication Specification March 2007
ASME RTP-1 and Section X
APPENDIX B
Documentation Schedule
Current UBRS
Vessel Details
Design Calculations
NOTES:
1. Drawings and data are to be mailed to ____________________________________ unless submitted with quotation.
2. Final certified drawings are to be submitted within 2 weeks of receipt of “Approved” or “Approved As Noted” prints.
3. All data shall be supplied before submission of invoice.
4. All questions of a technical nature shall be directed to __________________________________________________.
5. Reproducibles and original film drawings shall not be folded for mailing.
6. Each copy of all data (e.g., Drawing Sheets, manuals) shall be certified by Fabricator. Equipment or instrument Tag
Number and Purchase Order Number shall be written or typed on the face of each copy.
The Fabricator shall provide certified assembly and working drawings for all vessels and tanks.
Fabricator's drawings shall have the same designation for nozzles, manways, skirt openings, and
column trays as shown on Purchaser's drawings. Drawings shall be complete and shall include, but
not necessarily be limited to, the following information:
1. Maximum Allowable Working Pressure and coincident maximum design temperature (internal
and external, if applicable) (see Section 7.2)
2. Minimum Design Temperature and coincident Maximum Allowable Working Pressure
(see Section 7.3)
3. Reference to ASME RTP-1 or Section X, Edition, and Addenda. Include any Code Cases used
and special service restrictions.
4. Special service notes (e.g., “for Critical Corrosive Service” followed by a description of the
service)
5. National Board registration number (“RP”-stamped vessels)
6. Design specific gravity
7. Liner thickness and type
8. Secondary bonded joint details. All secondary bond overlays shall be detailed and identified by
use of standard symbols described in a drawing legend.
9. Nondestructive examination requirements
10. Post curing requirements
11. Hydrostatic, pneumatic, or vacuum test pressures, as applicable
a. Shop test in horizontal position (referenced to top of vessel)
b. Shop test in vertical position (referenced to top of vessel) (except for horizontal vessels)
c. Any Field in operating position (referenced to top of vessel)
12. Material specifications for all components and all attachments to components
13. Thickness and laminate sequences of all components.
14. All pertinent dimensions, including location of joints, knuckles, manways, nozzles and
projections, vessel supports, insulation supports, and any other information necessary for a
complete description of the vessel
15. Complete description of all vessel flanges (including both standard and custom-designed),
pressure bolting, and gaskets
16. Legend describing laminate sequence symbology
17. Sensitive leak tests, if any
18. Vessel support details
19. Surface preparation, painting, or other protective coating specifications
20. Estimated weight of vessel when empty, operating, and full of water
21. Design capacity of vessel (or each compartment) (in gallons or liters)
22. Full size reproductions of Fabricator and ASME nameplates as stamped by Fabricator
Special Notes
Fabricator's drawings shall also include the following notes as applicable:
1. Declaration of critical or lethal service (lethal services are prohibited in Code Section X)
2. Laminate defect level and maximum density of entrapped air
Fabrication Figures
APPENDIX D
APPENDIX D
Quality Overview Plan
ASME/ANSI RTP-1 and Code Section X Vessels
Activities checked apply to the above item. In most cases, the Purchaser representative will require five (5) days notification to make
arrangements for hold point inspections.
1. Resin identification
7. Post curing
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.