INDUSTRY COMPONENT

Support Skirt

A structural support component that transfers loads from a pressure vessel shell to its foundation while accommodating thermal expansion.

Component Specifications

Definition
The Support Skirt is a cylindrical or conical structural attachment welded to the bottom of a pressure vessel shell, designed to provide stable support, distribute vertical and lateral loads to the foundation, and allow for thermal expansion and contraction of the vessel. It typically includes features like anchor bolt rings, gussets, and access openings for inspection and maintenance.
Working Principle
The Support Skirt functions by transferring the weight of the pressure vessel and its contents, along with operational loads (wind, seismic), through its welded connection to the shell, down to the foundation via anchor bolts. It is engineered to withstand compressive, tensile, and bending stresses while accommodating thermal growth through its flexibility and design, preventing stress concentrations in the vessel shell.
Materials
Carbon steel (e.g., ASTM A36, A516 Gr. 70), low-alloy steel (e.g., ASTM A387 Gr. 11/22), or stainless steel (e.g., ASTM A240 304/316), selected based on temperature, corrosion resistance, and mechanical requirements. Thickness typically ranges from 10 mm to 50 mm.
Technical Parameters
  • Height 500-3000 mm
  • Diameter Matches vessel shell OD
  • Thickness 10-50 mm
  • Design Pressure N/A (non-pressure part)
  • Design Temperature -50°C to 400°C
  • Anchor Bolt Circle Diameter As per foundation design
Standards
ISO 28300, ASME BPVC Section VIII, DIN 28011

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Support Skirt.

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation
  • Weld cracking due to thermal cycling
  • Corrosion at the skirt-to-shell junction
  • Foundation settlement causing misalignment
  • Overstress from seismic or wind loads
FMEA Triads
Trigger: Inadequate weld quality or design
Failure: Crack propagation leading to structural failure
Mitigation: Follow ASME welding procedures, conduct NDT inspections
Trigger: Corrosion from moisture or chemicals
Failure: Thinning and loss of structural integrity
Mitigation: Use corrosion-resistant materials, apply protective coatings, ensure drainage
Trigger: Thermal expansion mismatch
Failure: Excessive stress in vessel shell or skirt
Mitigation: Design with flexibility, include expansion joints if needed

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Interchangeable Parts

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance
±2 mm for diameter and height, ±1° for perpendicularity to vessel axis
Test Method
Visual inspection, ultrasonic testing (UT) of welds, dimensional checks, load testing if required

Buyer Feedback

★★★★☆ 4.8 / 5.0 (39 reviews)

"The technical documentation for this Support Skirt is very thorough, especially regarding technical reliability."

"Reliable performance in harsh Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing environments. No issues with the Support Skirt so far."

"Testing the Support Skirt now; the technical reliability results are within 1% of the laboratory datasheet."

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of a Support Skirt?

To support the pressure vessel, transfer loads to the foundation, and accommodate thermal expansion without stressing the vessel shell.

How is a Support Skirt attached to the pressure vessel?

It is welded to the bottom of the vessel shell, often with a continuous full-penetration weld to ensure structural integrity.

What materials are commonly used for Support Skirts?

Carbon steel like ASTM A516 for general use, or stainless steel for corrosive environments, depending on temperature and service conditions.

Can I contact factories directly?

Yes, each factory profile provides direct contact information.

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