The adoption of IS 19060 (Part 1): 2024 by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) aligns with global practices concerning the design, fabrication, inspection, and testing of large transportable cryogenic vessels. The development of this standard takes into account the safety, quality, and performance needs of vessels used for transporting cryogenic fluids, focusing particularly on large vessels exceeding 450 liters in volume. By adhering to this standard, manufacturers can ensure that their products meet international safety and operational guidelines while being tailored to the specific requirements of India. The inclusion of specific testing methods such as pressure tests and non-destructive testing ensures that these vessels are safe for their intended applications.

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What is IS 19060 (Part 1): 2024 Cryogenic Vessels - Large Transportable Vacuum-Insulated Vessels Part 1 Design, Fabrication, Inspection and Testing (ISO 20421-1: 2019, MOD)?

IS 19060 (Part 1): 2024 Indian Standard which is modified adoption with ISO 20421-1: 2019 ‘Cryogenic vessels - Large transportable vacuum-insulated vessels - Part 1: Design, fabrication, inspection and testing’ published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) was adopted by the Bureau of Indian Standards on recommendation of the Gas Cylinders Sectional Committee and approval of the Mechanical Engineering Division Council. This standard applies to vessels over 450 liters in size, which are either permanently or temporarily attached to a transport system. It is an essential guideline for manufacturers, detailing the design, materials, testing, and operational safety requirements needed to produce such vessels.

The purpose of IS 19060 (Part 1): 2024 is to provide comprehensive guidance for the construction of cryogenic vessels capable of safely storing and transporting cryogenic fluids. These fluids may include substances like liquid oxygen, nitrogen, and LNG, all of which require secure containment and handling to maintain their properties during transportation. The standard incorporates various technical specifications such as the materials to be used, the design principles to be followed, and the testing protocols that need to be executed. This ensures that every vessel built is not only reliable but also safe and capable of operating under the challenging conditions faced during transport. 

Significance of IS 19060 (Part 1): 2024 

IS 19060 (Part 1): 2024 plays a critical role in enhancing the safety, quality, and performance of cryogenic transport vessels in India. The adoption of this standard is not just a technical necessity but also a legal and regulatory requirement, as manufacturers must comply with the prescribed design, fabrication, and inspection guidelines to ensure their vessels meet national and international standards. This standard ensures that cryogenic vessels used in various industries, including the medical, energy, and transportation sectors, are constructed with high precision and reliability. It helps safeguard the lives of individuals involved in the handling and transportation of hazardous cryogenic fluids by enforcing strict safety protocols. 

The importance of BIS certification cannot be overstated. By adhering to IS 19060 (Part 1): 2024, manufacturers can assure their customers and stakeholders that their vessels meet the highest standards of safety and reliability. Furthermore, compliance with this standard opens doors for Indian manufacturers to engage in international trade, as it aligns closely with the ISO 20421-1: 2019 standards. This promotes India's credibility in the global market, allowing its products to compete with those from other nations. Importantly, the implementation of this standard also minimizes risks associated with the storage and transportation of cryogenic fluids, protecting both personnel and the environment.

Scope of IS 19060 (Part 1): 2024 

The scope of IS 19060 (Part 1): 2024 is comprehensive and applies to the design, fabrication, inspection, and testing of large transportable cryogenic vessels with a volume greater than 450 liters. These vessels are used to transport cryogenic fluids such as liquid nitrogen, oxygen, and argon, as well as liquefied natural gas (LNG). The standard applies to both fixed tanks (permanently attached to a transport system) and non-permanent tanks (such as demountable tanks and portable tanks). 

Importantly, the standard does not apply to vessels designed specifically for the transport of toxic fluids or vessels primarily used as fuel tanks in vehicles. It also does not cover the general vehicle requirements such as braking systems, running gear, and lighting, as these are governed by other applicable standards. The focus is on ensuring that the vessel can safely store and transport cryogenic fluids without compromising the safety of personnel, the environment, or the vehicle.

Also Read: IS 18879 (Part 3): 2024 ISO 8536-3: 2009 + AMD 1: 2022 Infusion Equipment for Medical Use Part 3 Aluminium Caps for Infusion Bottles

Key Components of IS 19060 (Part 1): 2024 

The key or main components of IS 19060 (Part 1): 2024 cover several important aspects, each of which ensures the safe and efficient operation of large transportable cryogenic vessels. The main components of cryogenic vessels covered by this standard are:

1. Design: The standard specifies the design requirements of large transportable cryogenic vessels, including structural integrity, thermal insulation, material properties, and resistance to mechanical and thermal loads. Design calculations are based on factors such as pressure, fluid type, vessel size, and transportation modes. Specific design methods for reinforcement and material selection are also outlined.
2. Fabrication: Strict guidelines are provided for the fabrication process, ensuring that vessels are built to meet safety and quality standards. The standard covers welding procedures, material traceability, stress relief, and quality control during manufacturing. It emphasizes the need for testing and inspecting welded joints and ensuring the alignment and dimensional accuracy of the fabricated components.
3. Inspection and testing: The standard outlines the necessary tests and inspections for ensuring the vessels’ quality and safety. These include material verification, dimensional checks, visual inspections, non-destructive testing (NDT), and pressure tests to confirm the integrity of the vessel. Vessels must undergo periodic inspections to maintain compliance with the standard.
4. Safety features: Vessels must be equipped with pressure-relief devices, valves, and other safety mechanisms to prevent overpressure and leakage. These devices are essential for maintaining vessel integrity during operation and preventing accidents.
5. Marking and labelling: Vessels must be marked with essential information, including design specifications, test pressures, capacity, and approval details. The markings must be clear and visible, ensuring that all relevant information is readily accessible for inspection and compliance verification.
6. Service equipment: This includes valves, pressure-relief devices, and other components necessary for filling, venting, and maintaining the cryogenic vessel during operation. Proper installation and configuration of these devices are crucial for safe operation.
7. Materials: The materials used for constructing the inner vessel, outer jacket, and service equipment must meet specific standards to ensure the vessel's performance and durability, especially when exposed to cryogenic temperatures.
8. Welding: The welding processes for the construction of these vessels must adhere to international standards for quality and safety. This includes ensuring that all welded joints are sound and capable of withstanding mechanical and thermal stresses.

Benefits of IS 19060 (Part 1): 2024 

The adoption of IS 19060 (Part 1): 2024 brings several benefits to manufacturers, operators, and other stakeholders in the cryogenic vessel industry:

• Better safety: The main advantage of this standard is the better safety it ensures for transporting cryogenic fluids. Detailed design, testing, and safety requirements significantly reduce the risk of accidents such as leaks, explosions, or ruptures during transportation.
• Improved product quality: By following strict manufacturing and inspection guidelines, manufacturers can ensure that their cryogenic vessels meet high quality standards. This helps reduce the chances of product failure and increases the reliability of vessels during their operational life.
• Regulatory compliance: IS 19060 (Part 1): 2024 ensures that manufacturers comply with local and international regulations for construction and operation of cryogenic vessels. Achieving BIS certification demonstrates that products meet the required safety and quality standards, facilitating smooth operations and legal compliance.
• Market competitiveness: Manufacturers who adhere to this standard gain a competitive edge in the market. BIS registration is a valuable certification that indicates product reliability and safety, helping manufacturers to attract customers in both domestic and international markets.

Impact of IS 19060 (Part 1): 2024 on Stakeholders

• Manufacturers: By complying with IS 19060 (Part 1): 2024, manufacturers can ensure their products meet industry standards for safety and performance, leading to better market positioning and the ability to obtain BIS certification. This, in turn, helps build trust with customers and regulatory bodies.
• Operators: Operators of cryogenic vessels benefit from this standard as it provides clear guidelines on how to ensure the safe operation and maintenance of these vessels. The standard’s focus on regular inspections, safety features, and testing ensures that the vessels operate reliably and safely over time.
• Regulatory authorities: For regulatory bodies, IS 19060 (Part 1): 2024 offers a clear framework for assessing compliance with safety and design requirements. This helps ensure that only safe, reliable vessels are allowed for use in cryogenic fluid transportation, minimizing the risks to public safety and the environment.
• Consumers: End consumers benefit from the higher reliability and safety of the products transported in cryogenic vessels. Whether it is industrial gases, liquefied natural gas (LNG), or medical gases, consumers can trust that the products are transported safely and efficiently.

Also Read: IS 18881 (Part 3): 2024 ISO 13408-3: 2006 Aseptic Processing of Health Care Products - Part 3 Lyophilization

Other Important Considerations

IS 19060 (Part 1): 2024 also provides detailed guidance on other aspects of cryogenic vessel operation. This includes periodic inspections to ensure long-term compliance with safety standards and detailed requirements for material properties at low temperatures. Additionally, the standard provides additional considerations regarding certain materials, such as 9% Ni steel, which are often used for low-temperature applications. This part of the standard provides clear guidance on the necessary material properties, welding procedures, and inspection requirements to ensure the integrity of cryogenic vessels made of this material.

Conclusion

IS 19060 (Part 1): 2024 is a key standard for safe design, fabrication, inspection and testing of large transportable cryogenic vessels. This ensures that manufacturers meet global safety and quality standards, providing reliable and safe vessels for transporting cryogenic fluids such as liquid oxygen, nitrogen and LNG. By following this standard, manufacturers can improve product safety, quality, and regulatory compliance, as well as gain a competitive edge in local and international markets. The standard helps protect personnel, the environment, and the products being transported, ensuring that cryogenic vessels operate safely and efficiently over time. Overall, it increases trust among stakeholders and contributes to safer cryogenic fluid transport.