Process Vessel Insulation & Cladding

Scope#

Thermal insulation and metal cladding of a large horizontal process vessel, including saddles, nozzles and associated pipework.

Why the fittings decide the job#

On a vessel of this size, the cylindrical body is the straightforward part. The work that determines how long the system lasts is at the interruptions — nozzles, manways, saddle supports and instrument penetrations. Each one is a place where the insulation has to stop and start again without leaving a path for water.

Fittings were fabricated to the actual geometry rather than adapted from stock components, so every termination laps in the direction that sheds water.

Thermal movement#

A vessel this size moves measurably between ambient and operating temperature. The cladding was detailed with that movement designed in, so the system accommodates cycling rather than gradually working its fixings loose.

Inspection#

The insulation and vapour barrier were signed off before cladding went on. Once the metal is fitted, the layer that actually does the work is no longer visible — inspecting at the end inspects the wrong thing.