Hydraulic Accumulators are classified as pressure vessels under the Pressurised Systems Safety Regulations. Above a volume x pressure of 250 bar litres, accumulators require a Written Scheme of Examination. This is a document detailing the accumulators in a system, their pressure limits and their protection systems, such as relief valves. Details of inspection and testing are also included. This document follows the accumulator until it is scrapped and replaced by other accumulators and then the scheme is modified.
The above only forms a part of working safely with hydraulic accumulators. If hydraulic accumulators are inspected and tested that will give some good confidence that they will be safe. Other activities surrounding hydraulic accumulator maintenance can create risks. For example checking the charge pressure on an accumulator can be a risk if the person checking it is not trained, does not have a procedure and does not have equipment that has been maintained.
If you have hydraulic accumulators in a hydraulic systems then depressurising them before you maintain the system is important. Accumulator safety blocks provide isolation and vent down capabilities, along with a pressure gauge to indicate the system pressure. Safely venting and isolating a hydraulic system with accumulators is very important when working safely with hydraulics.
MGHR Fluid Engineering can help with all aspects of Hydraulic Accumulators, from writing Written Schemes, to writing risk assessments and providing training. Call us on 07031 904499 for further details.
