Pressure vessel thrust ring/cone

Each pressure vessel is supplied with end caps. Figure 6.11 shows an end cap with an elliptical head with the end adaptor in place. This end cap would be placed at the feed end of the pressure vessel. Figure 6.12 shows an elliptical end cap with the thrust cone (see discussion below) for a side-entry pressure vessel. Figure 6.13 shows a standard end cap with thrust ring for an end-entry pressure vessel. Thrust cones/rings are used on the concentrate end of the pressure vessel. End caps are held in place with a snap ring, shown in Figure 6.14. 

Thrust rings/cones and shims are used in conjunction with pressure vessel end caps to minimize longitudinal movement of membrane modules within the pressure vessel. Movement of the membrane modules can cause the O-rings to wear as well as cause telescoping of the membranes and spacers during pressurization. Thrust rings/cones also serve to distribute the axial pressure load to the full end cap. 

Correct installation of the thrust ring/cone and shims on the pressure vessel end caps and adaptors is important. 

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