Final answer:
Breakdown losses to fired pressure vessels include explosion, overheating, cracking, and bulging, all of which can be catastrophic. Preventive measures are essential for safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
Common Breakdown Losses to Fired Pressure Vessels
Pressure vessels are critical components in various industrial processes, and their failure can lead to catastrophic events. Common types of breakdown losses to fired pressure vessels include:
- Explosion: A rapid release of energy due to the rupture of the vessel, often caused by overpressure or a chemical reaction gone awry.
- Overheating: Excessive temperatures can weaken the vessel’s material, leading to deformation or rupture.
- Cracking: Stress corrosion, fatigue, or thermal stress can lead to the formation of cracks, which may propagate and cause the vessel to fail.
- Bulging: Caused by the failure of a section of the vessel wall, often due to internal overpressure or material defects.
Each of these breakdowns can be catastrophic, affecting not only the safety of the plant but also the surrounding environment and humanity. Preventive measures such as regular inspections, proper material selection, and adhering to operational limits are vital to avoiding these types of losses.