HAZARDS OF TRAPPED PRESSURE AND VACUUM

3.6 Can your vessels deal with vacuum?

In each of the cases described, the systems were not designed to handle the
destructive forces created by ambient pressure. It is hoped that this review of
‘victims of vacuum’ will encourage plant personnel to review existing vacuum
protection thoroughly, to encourage reviews of any modifications made to vent
systems, and to ensure that vacuum protective systems are well maintained.

• Never underestimate the potential of vacuum condition to cause damage.

Equipment that can support tens of bars of pressure are often unable to
sustain a vacuum.
• Follow procedures, do not take shortcuts.
• Do not trap steam that will cool and condense in closed systems.
• Inspect and ensure vents/flame arresters remain clear.
• Do not wrap vent valves with plastic bags.

Vessels designed for a low pressure may not withstand a vacuum.

Vacuum may be created by a number of factors including a high
pumping out rate, lower ambient temperature, lower vapour pressure of
the liquid in the vessel.
The Management of Change (MOC) procedure should examine all types
of changes including changes in the composition of feedstocks or
products.

MOC

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HAZARDS OF TRAPPED PRESSURE AND VACUUM

4
Points to remember

Force
1. Pressure = Force/Area.

Area

2. Liquid Pressure = Depth x Density.

3. Absolute Pressure = Gauge Pressure +

Atmospheric Pressure

4. A vacuum is any pressure lower than the

ambient atmospheric pressure.

5. Gas Law states that PV = nRT, where P =

gas pressure, V = gas volume, n = mass of
gas, T = gas temperature and R = the
PV=nRT
universal gas law constant.

6. Hydraulic pressure—Danger!
Pneumatic pressure—Danger!

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