An overview of composite pressure vessels with polymer liner

Abstract

Pressure vessels are one of the most widely used equipment in various industries. Pressure vessels are divided into four types based on material and structure. Weakness in design, construction and production, service and incorrect choice of materials are the causes of failure of pressure vessels. With the introduction of composites into the world of pressure vessels, many design weaknesses and mechanical properties of the pressure vessel are improved. By using high density polymers, the weight of the pressure vessel is reduced. Type IV pressure vessels with the simultaneous use of composite structure and polymer liner has been able to increase its weight and useful life to one-fifth and twice the type I pressure vessels, respectively. Corrosion resistance, no fatigue in consecutive loads, lightness and portability, high operating pressure (700 bar) and lack of complexity in the production method are the advantages and high production costs due to the use of carbon fibers are the disadvantages of the fourth type pressure vessels. These pressure vessels are used to storing alternative fuels such as hydrogen and portable individual oxygen capsules. In this brief study, the fourth type of pressure vessels with other types have been studied and compared.