Pressure vessel (redirected from pressure vessels)

Pressure vessel

A cylindrical or spherical metal container capable of withstanding pressures exerted by the material enclosed. Pressure vessels are important because many liquids and gases must be stored under high pressure. Special emphasis is placed upon the strength of the vessel to prevent explosions as a result of rupture. Codes for the safety of such vessels have been developed that specify the design of the container for specified conditions.

Most pressure vessels are required to carry only low pressures and thus are constructed of tubes and sheets rolled to form cylinders. Some pressure vessels must carry high pressures, however, and the thickness of the vessel walls must increase in order to provide adequate strength. Hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders are machine elements that are forms of pressure vessels.