Bullet Tank

BULLET TANK
A bullet tank is typically considered a

static equipment in the field of industrial
and process engineering.
A bullet tank, also known as a bullet

vessel or pressure vessel, is a specialized
type of storage tank designed to safely contain pressurized fluids, typically
gases or liquids. These tanks are commonly used in various industries, including
oil and gas, petrochemical, chemical processing, and even in the food and
beverage industry for storing beverages like carbonated drinks.
Here are some technical and mechanical characteristics of bullet tanks:
1. Pressure Rating: Bullet tanks are built to withstand specific pressure levels
depending on the intended application. The pressure rating is one of the most
critical parameters and is determined by the design and construction standards
applicable to the tank.
2. Capacity: Bullet tanks come in various sizes and capacities, ranging from
small vessels to very large tanks capable of storing thousands of gallons or
cubic meters of fluid.
3. Shape: The defining characteristic of a bullet tank is its shape. It has a

cylindrical body with two dished or curved ends. The ends are often referred to
as "heads" or "caps." The dished ends help distribute pressure evenly across
the tank, improving its structural integrity.
4. Materials: Bullet tanks are typically constructed from materials that can
withstand high pressure, such as carbon steel, stainless steel, or other
specialized alloys, depending on the stored fluid's corrosiveness and other
properties.
5. Welding: The seams and joints of the tank are welded to ensure a leak-proof
and structurally sound construction. Welding methods and standards must
comply with industry regulations to ensure safety and integrity.
6. Safety Features: Bullet tanks are equipped with safety features such as
pressure relief valves to prevent over-pressurization, level indicators to monitor
the fluid level, and access points for inspections and maintenance.
7. Support Structures: Larger bullet tanks are often mounted on support

structures or legs to elevate them above the ground. These structures also
need to be engineered to support the weight of the tank and its contents.
8. Insulation: In some cases, bullet tanks may be insulated to maintain the

temperature of the stored fluid, especially if it's a cryogenic or high-
temperature process.
9. Coatings: Tanks may be coated with protective coatings to prevent corrosion

and extend their lifespan.
10. Manways: Bullet tanks typically have manways, which are large access
openings for personnel to enter the tank for inspections, maintenance, and
cleaning.
11. Nozzles and Connections: Bullet tanks have various nozzles and
connections for filling, emptying, and connecting to other process equipment
and piping systems.
12. Compliance: Bullet tanks must comply with industry standards and
regulations, which can vary depending on the location and application.
Common standards include ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers)
Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, API (American Petroleum Institute) standards,
and others.
13. Transportability: Some bullet tanks are designed to be transported, either

on trucks or trailers, to various locations for temporary storage or use in
different processes.
Bullet tanks play a crucial role in ensuring the safe storage and transport of
pressurized fluids in various industries, and their design and construction must
adhere to strict engineering and safety standards to prevent accidents and
environmental hazards.
https://youtu.be/xCdm9s5FlVQ?si=ouUSYUIJy7KQ83of
Bullet tanks range from 6,000 to 30,000 gallons, with an 18,000-gallon tank being the most
common size. Tanks should be no more than 70-80% full in order for the NGLs expand in the
vessel.
WHAT COMPONENTS ARE IN A BULLET TANK?
 Bulkhead Stanchion: a channel that protects against accidental truck pull-away.
 Pressure Relief Valves: the most vital valve on any tank. It is designed to relieve
excess pressure. It keeps the tank from exploding if there is excess pressure buildup.
All our valves here at CROFT are set to 250 psi.
 Level Gauge: gives continuous measurements of NGL levels.
 Emergency Shutoff Valve: minimizes liquid loss in the case of emergency.
 Flex Hose, Hose Couplings: protects piping in case the trucking company pulls away
with the hoses connected and moves the bulkhead. The flex hoses will stretch versus
breaking the ridged piping.
 High-Pressure Regulator: regulates pneumatic pressure suitable for all the ESV’s to
work properly.
 Pneumatic 3-way valves: allows you safely shut in the tank, controlling the
pneumatic valves when the truck removes NGLs
 Tubing Fittings: very tight seals to prevent gas leakage and must be resistant to
chemical corrosion.
 Internal Valves and Internal Pop-off: used on the liquid out and vapor return lines.
These valves are pneumatic in a fail closed position.
Most bullet tanks are connected to the cold separator drain on a Joule
Thomson System (JTS), or on mechanical refrigeration units for the collection
and temporary storage of the recovered natural gas liquids.

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BULLET TANK

A bullet tank is typically considered a

A bullet tank, also known as a bullet

Here are some technical and mechanical characteristics of bullet tanks:

3. Shape: The defining characteristic of a bullet tank is its shape. It has a

7. Support Structures: Larger bullet tanks are often mounted on support

8. Insulation: In some cases, bullet tanks may be insulated to maintain the

9. Coatings: Tanks may be coated with protective coatings to prevent corrosion

13. Transportability: Some bullet tanks are designed to be transported, either

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