Alberta Boilers Safety Association (ABSA) Practice Test

A pressure vessel is specifically defined as a container that is designed to hold gases or liquids at pressures that are significantly different from ambient pressure. This distinction is important because pressure vessels are engineered to withstand the internal pressures and potential hazards associated with storing pressurized fluids safely. They must adhere to strict manufacturing standards and safety regulations to prevent failures that could lead to dangerous situations such as explosions or leaks, especially when under high pressure.

Pressure vessels can be constructed from various materials and are used in a wide range of applications, including chemical processing, oil and gas industries, and even in everyday items like propane tanks. This definition sets pressure vessels apart from other types of equipment, such as those that control fluid flow or serve specific heating or refrigeration functions, which do not necessarily have to accommodate significant pressure differences.