Evolution of Boilers and Pressure Vessels

The evolution of boilers and pressure vessels spans centuries, marked by pivotal advancements in design and safety standards, from the early developments in the 17^th century to the establishment of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, ensuring uniformity in design, construction, and maintenance.

History and Applications

The first steam boiler system was developed in 1679 in France. Since then, with the help of modern technology, boiler design and material makeup greatly increased the temperature and pressure these items could operate, making modern boiler systems quite energy efficient. Boiler systems today are used in various applications ranging from hospitals and pharmaceutical manufacturing to food processing plants.

Pressure vessels date back to 1495 with Leonardo da Vinci designing and using them in underwater applications. Pressure vessels are designed to hold liquids, gases, or vapors at a pressure substantially different from the ambient pressure in their surroundings. These vessels can be used directly with your boiler system, along with standalone applications in water treatment facilities or oil refineries. Even the air compressor in your garage is considered a pressure vessel by code.

Establishment of Code and Safety Standards

Despite this great advancement in boiler and pressure vessel design and widespread use, setbacks emerged. There were no codes or standards for the design and construction of these items, and thousands of accidents happened worldwide, resulting in fatalities. Between 1815 and 1900, 61 boiler and pressure vessel accidents were recorded, resulting in 2,124 deaths. Something had to be done.

The ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Committee was established in 1911 out of a need to protect the safety of the public. In 1915, the first ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code edition was published to help establish a baseline for design, function, and safety regarding boilers and pressure vessels. Alongside ASME, The National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors was started in 1919 to create uniformity in the items' construction, installation, repair, and maintenance. These inspectors are an elite group highly trained to inspect, review, and certify installations and repairs done on boiler and pressure vessels.

Since 1915, 28 ASME Code books have supported this avenue of work. These books range from standards on materials, welding, and non-destructive examination and are used by over 100 countries worldwide to ensure safety and uniform standards.

Ahern’s Solutions for Your Boiler and Pressure Vessel Needs

Ahern can help your boiler and pressure vessel systems get back up and running while ensuring code-compliant repairs with our accreditation of an R stamp through The National Board. If a new fabricated pressure vessel is needed for your application, Ahern holds its ASME U stamp mark along with a full-quality program to support the newest edition of ASME Codes and Standards. All our welders are qualified with ASME Section IX to ensure top-quality products are always delivered.

If a new boiler installation is in your near future, Ahern also holds their ASME PP stamp mark to fabricate and install ASME Section I, ASME B31.1 Power Piping spools to get your boiler system in service and ready to battle cold weather conditions.  

Ahern also has on-site capabilities to engineer, design, and certify ASME Section VIII pressure vessels, ASME Section I Power Piping spools, and various other components to complete your project. Our engineering team will ensure compliance with all applicable codes and regulatory requirements based on your item's installation location.

Whether it be a simple repair on your boiler or pressure vessel, an alteration to a current install, or needing a new construction pressure vessel, Ahern is your one-stop shop. We have the fabrication skills, code knowledge, and expert engineering to ensure your item is top quality and ASME compliant.

For more information on ASME boilers and pressure vessels, contact us today.