Buffer Tank (Pressurized) (Pressurized) – Pressurized Utility Vessels

Buffer Tank

Introduction

Pressurized Buffer Tanks are ASME-certified hydraulic stabilization vessels used in HVAC, process, and utility systems. They maintain continuous flow, reduce pump/chiller short cycling, and enhance overall energy efficiency.

At NORDSTONE., our buffer tanks are engineered with superior durability, precise hydraulic design, and compliance with ASME Section VIII Div.1, PED, and NB Certification for reliable long-term performance.

What is a Pressurized Buffer Tank?

A buffer tank stores a fixed volume of fluid within a closed-loop system, acting as a hydraulic stabilizer that ensures constant flow despite demand variations.

  • Cylindrical vessel with skirt/leg/saddle support
  • Inlet & outlet nozzles for flow stabilization
  • Air vent or automatic air eliminator
  • Drain connection for maintenance
  • Pressure relief & instrumentation ports
  • Optional insulation to minimize heat loss

Technical Features

1) Design & Construction:
  • Design Codes: ASME Sec VIII Div.1 / PED / NB / API
  • Buffer Tank Types:
    • Hot Water Buffer Tank
    • Chilled Water (CHW) Buffer Tank
    • Pressurized Buffer Tank
    • Vertical or Horizontal Orientation
    • Custom Industrial Buffer Tank
  • Design Pressure: 4 to 20 bar (higher available)
  • Design Temperature: 5°C to 120°C
  • Material Selection:
    • Carbon Steel: SA516 Gr.60/70, SA106 Gr.B
    • Stainless Steel: SS304/304L, SS316/316L
    • Duplex / Super Duplex Stainless Steel
    • Nickel Alloys: Inconel / Hastelloy / Alloy 20
    • Internal/external coatings for corrosion & thermal protection
  • Standard Features:
    • Manways and inspection ports
    • Reinforced nozzles & lifting lugs
    • Saddle/skirt/leg supports
2) Capacity Range:

Buffer tanks are available from 100 Litres to 50,000 Litres, with completely custom options for industrial and utility-grade hydraulic systems.

Typical Design Envelope

Parameter Range Remarks
Diameter 0.3 m – 3 m Custom sizes available
Height 0.5 m – 6 m Depends on capacity
Volume 100 L – 50,000 L Larger on request
3) Nozzle & Accessories:

Each buffer tank is equipped with:

  • Inlet & outlet nozzles
  • Air vent or automatic air eliminator
  • Pressure relief valve port
  • Drain connection
  • Optional manway (large tanks)
4) Surface Finish:
  • SA 2.5 grade sand/grit blasting
  • Anti-corrosive primer
  • PU/Epoxy final top coat (custom colors)
  • Optional thermal insulation
Functional Advantages:
  • Hydraulic Stability

    Reduces pump/chiller short cycling and maintains continuous system flow.

  • Energy Optimization

    Improves system efficiency and reduces operating costs.

  • Extended Equipment Life

    Protects chillers, pumps, and boilers from rapid cycling wear.

Optional Features & Packages:
  • Configuration Options

    • Vertical or horizontal installation
    • Insulated or non-insulated design
    • Flow distribution baffles
  • Level, pressure & temperature instrumentation
  • Skid-mounted or free-standing setup
  • Custom nozzle orientation
Quality Assurance:

All buffer tanks undergo rigorous testing:

  • Hydrostatic & pneumatic testing
  • Ultrasonic testing (UT) for weld integrity
  • Radiographic testing (RT) on welds
  • Dye penetrant & magnetic particle testing
  • EN 10204 3.1 MTC documentation
  • ASME U-stamp & NB certification (optional)

Industries Served

  • HVAC & Chilled Water Systems
  • Hot Water & Boiler Systems
  • Industrial & Utility Water Systems

Why Choose NORDSTONE.?

  • 20+ years of engineering experience in pressurized utility vessels
  • Advanced hydraulic & mechanical simulation capabilities
  • ASME-certified global fabrication
  • Custom-engineered solutions for HVAC & industrial buffer systems
  • Complete QA/QC and third-party inspection support
  • Proven performance in commercial & industrial sectors
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Ready to Discuss Your Buffer Tank (Pressurized) Requirements?

Contact our engineering team for custom solutions and quotations.

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