4'' END PORT

PRESSURE VESSEL

TECHNICAL
MANUAL

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
May, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 0 of 29
Introduction

BEL, founded in 1966, specializes in the design and manufacture of a variety of

products made from advanced composite materials. With over 50 years of
experience, the company has developed and mastered the innovative technologies
necessary to manufacture the highest quality composite products. Combining
innovation, technology, responsibility and dedication, our goal is to become the
leader in providing commercial and industrial composite vessels for our clients
needs.

BEL pressure vessels are manufactured from filament wound fiber reinforced plastic
(FRP), wound over precision mandrels, using a superior epoxy resin, which results in
the ultimate combination of physical strength and an ultra smooth inside surface.
Vessels are tested according to the requirements of ASME code section X, the
internationally recognized standard for pressure vessel construction.

BEL holds ISO 9001 quality systems certification, and its quality assurance is also
approved for in-house final inspection by many of its customers.

The BEL family of pressure vessels is designed to be used as housings for all 4'', 8'',
9'' and 16'' inch spiral-wound Reverse Osmosis (RO), Nanofiltration (NF) and Ultra
filtration (UF) membrane elements.

The pressure vessels are manufactured in different configurations, according to the

required operating pressures, filtration type, and piping layout. In order to enhance
interchangeability and facilitate the use and maintenance of the vessels, the
utilization of identical parts and sub-assemblies has been maximized throughout the
design of the vessel. For better performance and longer service life, each model is
manufactured from the highest quality and highest performing materials of
construction.

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 1 of 29
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ................................................................................................. 3
2. INSTALLATION NOTES ................................................................................................... 4
3. COMPONENT LIST .......................................................................................................... 5
3.1.- BEL 4" Pressure vessel 300 psi. End Port type. ........................................................ 5
3.2.- BEL 4" Pressure vessel 450 psi. End Port type. ........................................................ 6
3.3.- BEL 4" Pressure vessel 600 psi. End Port type. ........................................................ 7
3.4.- BEL 4" Pressure vessel 1000 psi. End Port type. ...................................................... 8
3.5.- BEL 4" Pressure vessel 1200 psi. End Port type. ...................................................... 9
3.6.- BEL 4" Pressure vessel 1500 psi. End Port type. .....................................................10
4. MAINTENANCE ...............................................................................................................11
4.1.- Opening the vessel ..................................................................................................11
4.2.- Visual inspection .....................................................................................................13
Component inspection .....................................................................................................13
Vessel inspection .............................................................................................................13
4.3.- Closing the vessel....................................................................................................14
4.4.- Head disassembly ...................................................................................................16
4.5.- Head reassembly .....................................................................................................19
4.6.- Loading the membrane elements .............................................................................23
ANNEX 1 - BEL Puller For 4" pressure vessels heads extraction ...................................24
ANNEX 2 - BEL Pusher For 4" and pressure vessels heads installation........................25
ANNEX 3 - Shimming procedure .......................................................................................26
ANNEX 4 - O-Ring replacement and scratches treatment procedure .............................28

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 2 of 29
1. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
1.1. BEL pressure vessels are designed for high pressure operations. Improper installation,
operation service or maintenance may cause severe damage to property, physical
injury or death.

1.2. BEL pressure vessels are designed for water treatment only.

PRESSURE AND TEMPERATURE DESIGN LIMITS - Operation of a vessel outside the

design limits will make void the warranty and may result in vessel fatigue with possible
eventual explosive head failure. Although each vessel is tested at 110% of the design
pressure LONG-TERM OPERATION ABOVE DESIGN PRESSURE MUST BE
PREVENTED. Permeate port pressure MUST NOT EXCEED 125 psi. (8.6 bar). Other
options are available, please, consult BEL

1.3. Vessels should NOT BE OPERATED AT TEMPERATURES ABOVE 65° C (150°F).

1.4. The pressure vessel should not be use as a support. Piping manifolds and other fittings
should be properly designed system framework. OPERATING PERSONNEL SHOULD
BE DISCOURAGED FROM APPLYING UNDUE FORCE TO ANY FITTINGS
CONNECTED DIRECTLY TO A PRESSURE VESSEL.

1.5. Only qualified mechanics, experienced in working with high pressure hydraulic
systems, should be allowed to disassemble or assemble the vessel.

1.6. Regularly inspect the system so as to ensure that the various components have not
deteriorated or been damaged. Replace any faulty component, make sure the reason
for the fault has been found and fixed as well.

1.7. Make sure that vessels and associated pipe systems are fully depressurized before
attempting any service or maintenance operation.

1.8. Be careful not to scratch the inside wall of the shell, especially at the inner sealing area
near the groove.

1.9. Corroded parts may cause difficulties in removing the head or other components. Do
not try to force remove components before all visible signs of corrosion have been
eliminated.

1.10. Inspect end closures regularly; replace components that have deteriorated and correct
causes of corrosion.

1.11. Do not tolerate Leaks, or allow end closures to be routinely wetted in any way.

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 3 of 29
2. INSTALLATION NOTES
2.1. Provide adequate room for serving at both ends of vessel. Elements are installed from
the upstream end, pushed through towards the downstream end and eventually
removed from the downstream end.

2.2. Make sure that the vessel is horizontally installed on support saddles. For other
installation ways, please consult BEL.

2.3. The vessels must not be rigidly clamped in place, mounting design must allow for both
radial and axial expansion (typically up to 0.5 mm radial and up to 2-3 mm axial).
Restriction can result in damage to the vessel and other system components.

2.4. Straps should be tightened enough to hold the vessel onto the support pads. Using a
wrench, tighten mounting bolts, but never so tightly (with torque 2-3 Nm) as to restrict
expansion.

2.5. A flexible piping connection should be provided in order to prevent unwanted loads
transfer from the manifolds to the permeate connection and to permit decoupling the
header from the vessel.
The recommended permeate port connection is a U-bend pipe with flexible connections at
each end.

2.6. The piping system must be connected to the ports using flexible connectors in order to
allow relative movement of the vessels and the piping system. (Victaulic or equivalent
connections are recommended).

End
Port
Spacing Max Angle
Max Offset*
[mm]- X [Deg]
[mm]
1" 2 - 0.5 2 2

Table 2.1

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 4 of 29
3. COMPONENT LIST

3.1.- BEL 4" Pressure vessel 300 psi. End Port type.

Item Part number Q-ty Description Material

1 40300-/0..6(12) 1 Body of Pressure vessel Glass / Epoxy
2 55410208 2 Retaining ring 316 Stainless steel
3 003-400-0003 2 Base plate Engineering plastic
4 55412360 2 Seal for Base plate EPDM
5 55412367 2 Seal for Adapter EPDM
6 55412377 0-6 Disk spacer Engineering plastic
7 001-075-1200 2 Adapter for Ø 0.75" Engineering plastic
8 55412367 2 Membrane seal for Ø 0.75" EPDM
9 55410246 2 Strap assy. 316 Stainless steel
10 55410352 2-3 Saddle Engineering plastic

Notes:

1) Items 9 & 10 are optional. Delivered upon request. Priced separately.

2) Number of elements can vary between 1-6 for membrane length of 40", or 1-12 for membrane
length of 21".
3) Items 6, 7 & 8 are not used for in the vessels with 1 or 2 membrane elements.
4) Item 3 corresponds to membrane elements with permeate tube 0.75”.
5) Items 7 & 8 can be changed to fit more types of membrane permeate tube.
6) Item 7 for permeate tube Ø 0.75”, part number of Blind adapter - 001-075-1208.

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 5 of 29
3.2.- BEL 4" Pressure vessel 450 psi. End Port type.

Item Part number Q-ty Description Material

1 40450-/0..6(12) 1 Body of Pressure vessel Glass / Epoxy
2 55410208 2 Retaining ring 316 Stainless steel
3 003-400-0003 2 Base plate Engineering plastic
4 55412360 2 Seal for Base plate EPDM
5 55412367 2 Seal for Adapter EPDM
6 55412377 0-6 Disk spacer Engineering plastic
7 001-075-1200 2 Adapter for Ø 0.75" Engineering plastic
8 55412367 2 Membrane seal for Ø 0.75" EPDM
9 55410246 2 Strap assy. 316 Stainless steel
10 55410352 2-3 Saddle Engineering plastic

Notes:
1) Items 9 & 10 are optional. Delivered upon request. Priced separately.
2) Number of elements can vary between 1-6 for membrane length of 40", or 1-12 for membrane
length of 21".
3) Items 6, 7 & 8 are not used for in the vessels with 1 or 2 membrane elements.
4) Item 3 corresponds to membrane elements with permeate tube 0.75”.
5) Items 7 & 8 can be changed to fit more types of membrane permeate tube.
6) Item 7 for permeate tube Ø 0.75”, part number of Blind adapter - 001-075-1208.

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 6 of 29
3.3.- BEL 4" Pressure vessel 600 psi. End Port type.

Item Part number Q-ty Description Material

1 40600-/0..6(12) 1 Body of Pressure vessel Glass / Epoxy
2 009-034-0600 2 End port 3/4" NPT 316 Stainless steel
3 011-034-1202 2 Retaining ring for E. port 316 Stainless steel
4 55412361 2 Seal for port EPDM
5 55412369 2 Retaining ring P. port 316 Stainless steel
6 005-461-1200 2 Support ring Aluminum
7 011-401-1202 2 Retaining ring 316 Stainless steel
8 003-400-1003 2 Base plate Aluminum
9 55410231 2 Sealing plate Engineering plastic
10 55412360 2 Seal for S. plate EPDM
11 55412363 2 Seal for P. port EPDM
12 008-403-1200 2 Permeate port Engineering plastic
13 55412377 0-6 Disk spacer Engineering plastic
14 55412367 2 Seal for Adapter EPDM
15 001-075-1200 2 Adapter for Ø 0.75" Engineering plastic
16 55412367 2-4 Membrane seal for Ø 0.75" EPDM
17 55410246 2 Strap assy. 316 Stainless steel
18 55410352 2-3 Saddle Engineering plastic

Notes:

1) Items 17 & 18 are optional. Delivered upon request. Priced separately.

2) Number of elements can vary between 1-6 for membrane length of 40", or 1-12 for membrane
length of 21".
3) Items 15 & 16 can be changed to fit more types of membrane permeate tube.
4) Item 15 for permeate tube Ø 0.75”,part number of Blind adapter - 001-075-1208.
5) Item 2 with Victaulic connection, part number 009-134-0600.

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 7 of 29
3.4.- BEL 4" Pressure vessel 1000 psi. End Port type.

Item Part number Q-ty Description Material

1 401000-/0..6(12) 1 Body of Pressure vessel Glass / Epoxy
2 009-034-1200 2 End port 3/4" NPT Super Duplex Stainless steel
3 011-034-1202 2 Retaining ring for E. port 316 Stainless steel
4 55412361 2 Seal for port EPDM
5 55412369 2 Retaining ring P. port 316 Stainless steel
6 005-461-1200 2 Support ring Aluminum
7 011-401-1202 2 Retaining ring 316 Stainless steel
8 003-400-1003 2 Base plate Aluminum
9 55410231 2 Sealing plate Engineering plastic
10 55412360 2 Seal for S. plate EPDM
11 55412363 2 Seal for P. port EPDM
12 008-403-1200 2 Permeate port Engineering plastic
13 55412377 0-6 Disk spacer Engineering plastic
14 55412367 2 Seal for Adapter EPDM
15 001-075-1200 2 Adapter for Ø 0.75" Engineering plastic
16 55412367 2-4 Membrane seal for Ø 0.75" EPDM
17 55410246 2 Strap assy. 316 Stainless steel
18 55410352 2-3 Saddle Engineering plastic

Notes:

1) Items 17 & 18 are optional. Delivered upon request. Priced separately.

2) Number of elements can vary between 1-6 for membrane length of 40", or 1-12 for membrane
length of 21".
3) Items 15 & 16 can be changed to fit more types of membrane permeate tube.
4) Item 15 for permeate tube Ø 0.75”, part number of Blind adapter - 001-075-1208.
5) Item 2 with Victaulic connection, part number 009-134-1200.

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 8 of 29
3.5.- BEL 4" Pressure vessel 1200 psi. End Port type.

Item Part number Q-ty Description Material

1 401200-/0..6(12) 1 Body of Pressure vessel Glass / Epoxy
2 009-034-1200 2 End port 3/4" NPT Super Duplex Stainless steel
3 011-034-1202 2 Retaining ring for E. port 316 Stainless steel
4 55412361 2 Seal for port EPDM
5 55412369 2 Retaining ring P. port 316 Stainless steel
6 005-461-1200 2 Support ring Aluminum
7 011-401-1202 2 Retaining ring 316 Stainless steel
8 003-400-1003 2 Base plate Aluminum
9 55410231 2 Sealing plate Engineering plastic
10 55412360 2 Seal for S. plate EPDM
11 55412363 2 Seal for P. port EPDM
12 008-403-1200 2 Permeate port Engineering plastic
13 55412377 0-6 Disk spacer Engineering plastic
14 55412367 2 Seal for Adapter EPDM
15 001-075-1200 2 Adapter for Ø 0.75" Engineering plastic
16 55412367 2-4 Membrane seal for Ø 0.75" EPDM
17 55410246 2 Strap assy. 316 Stainless steel
18 55410352 2-3 Saddle Engineering plastic

Notes:

1) Items 17 & 18 are optional. Delivered upon request. Priced separately.

2) Number of elements can vary between 1-6 for membrane length of 40", or 1-12 for membrane
length of 21".
3) Items 15 & 16 can be changed to fit more types of membrane permeate tube.
4) Item 15 for permeate tube Ø0.75”, part number of Blind adapter - 001-075-1208.
5) Item 2 with Victaulic connection, part number 009-134-1200.

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 9 of 29
3.6.- BEL 4" Pressure vessel 1500 psi. End Port type.

Item Part number Q-ty Description Material

1 401500-/0..6(12) 1 Body of Pressure vessel Glass / Epoxy
2 009-034-1200 2 End port 3/4" NPT Super Duplex Stainless steel
3 011-034-1202 2 Retaining ring for E. port 316 Stainless steel
4 55412361 2 Seal for port EPDM
5 55412369 2 Retaining ring P. port 316 Stainless steel
6 005-461-1500 2 Support ring 316 Stainless steel
7 011-401-1202 2 Retaining ring 316 Stainless steel
8 003-423-1003 2 Base plate 316 Stainless steel
9 55410231 2 Sealing plate Engineering plastic
10 55412360 2 Seal for S. plate EPDM
11 55412363 2 Seal for P. port EPDM
12 008-403-1200 2 Permeate port Engineering plastic
13 55412377 0-6 Disk spacer Engineering plastic
14 55412367 2 Seal for Adapter EPDM
15 001-075-1200 2 Adapter for Ø 0.75" Engineering plastic
16 55412367 2-4 Membrane seal for Ø 0.75" EPDM
17 55410246 2 Strap assy. 316 Stainless steel
18 55410352 2-3 Saddle Engineering plastic

Notes:

1) Items 17 & 18 are optional. Delivered upon request. Priced separately.

2) Number of elements can vary between 1-6 for membrane length of 40", or 1-12 for membrane
length of 21".
3) Items 15 & 16 can be changed to fit more types of membrane permeate tube.
4) Item 15 for permeate tube Ø0.75”, part number of Blind adapter - 001-075-1208.
5) Item 2 with Victaulic connection, part number 009-134-1200.

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 10 of 29
4. MAINTENANCE

4.1.- Opening the vessel

4.1.1. Pressure relieve - Stop all pumps and relieve pressure from vessel.

4.1.2. Disconnect all pipes from ports connecting the vessel's heads with the manifolds.

4.1.3. 300/450 psi vessels - Use a flat-end screwdriver. Insert the blade underneath the tab
of the spiral retaining ring locker and pull out the end of the spiral. Pull the spiral’s end
towards the center of the head and outwards until the whole length of the spiral retaining ring
has been extracted.

600/1000/1200 psi vessels - Use a flat-end screwdriver. Insert the blade underneath the tab
of the spiral-retaining ring, lift it up and pull it out of the groove, by running your screwdriver
behind the retaining ring as it continues to exit the groove, as shown in pictures. Once the
retaining ring is out, remove the two locker segments from the groove.

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 11 of 29
4.1.4. head extraction -

a- Tight the puller legs (see annex 1) to the vessel wall as

shown in Fig 4.1.4a to support the puller to the vessel.

Fig 4.1.4a

b- Screw in fully the cup to the Permeate port (clockwise)

while supporting the back side of the puller.

c- Screw out the Puller's handle (clockwise) until the Head

assembly is extracted, after that pull out the Puller with the
Head assembly. As shown in Fig 4.1.4b

Fig 4.1.4b

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 12 of 29
4.2.- Visual inspection
Once the vessel has been opened, perform a visual inspection of the vessel, head and
fittings, to locate any signs of corrosion or salt concentrations if corrosion or salt
concentrations are found, follow the following steps:

Component inspection Vessel inspection

4.2.1 Use a small wire brush to loosen any 4.2.6 If any case of deposit of foreign
large deposits. material has been discovered scrub
surface with a fine Scotch-Brite and a
4.2.2 Place components in a shallow mild detergent solution, clean both ends
container of soapy water and scrub their of the vessel, up to 30 cm into the
surfaces with medium-grade Scotch-Brite vessel for 300/450 psi & 45 cm for
until all corrosion is removed. 600/1000/1200 psi.
4.2.3 Rinse components with clear water. 4.2.7 If during inspection scratches are
4.2.4 Blow components dry with found on the inner surface of the
vessel, grind the area carefully with
compressed air.
sand paper until it is smooth.
4.2.5 Examine components for damage that
may affect structural strength or sealing
properties.

Note! DO NOT strike or apply excessive force on

the ports to remove the vessel's head.

Note! if the vessel was in service for a long time, it

may be more difficult to remove the head
assembly.

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 13 of 29
4.3.- Closing the vessel

4.3.1. Clean vessel internal surface area with clean clamp cloth. Ensure vessel sealing area
is smooth and free of scratches. Please consult BEL in case of scratches. Clean head
seal or replace with new (recommend after opening). Apply full and reach layer of
lubricant on the O-ring (the amount of the lubricant should be just enough to give a
lustre to the O-ring) and on the vessel’s groove and sealing area. See pictures.

4.3.2. Place the pusher (see Annex 1) and push the Head into the vessel on its place. To
avoid property damage do not bend the tool inside the Base plate Permeate port.

4.3.3. With the head assembly inserted into the vessel (once the head is in the correct
position, the groove for support ring is exposed) slide the two segments into the
locking groove (for 600/1000/1200 psi vessels) as shown in Figs 4.3.3.1, 4.3.3.2.

Fig 4.3.3.1 Fig 4.3.3.2

4.3.4. Insert the retaining ring into the groove of the Support ring and continue running your
fingers behind the retaining ring as it continues to enter the groove. As shown in Figs
4.3.3.3, 4.3.3.4, 4.3.3.5.

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 14 of 29
Fig.4.3.3.3. Fig.4.3.3.4 Fig.4.3.3.5

For 300/450 psi vessels must be used only Retaining ring without Support ring.

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 15 of 29
4.4.- Head disassembly
4.4.1. Disassemble the Adapter and Spacers from the Sealing plate by removing it out from
the plate (for 300/450 psi vessels) or from the Permeate port (for 600/1000/1200 psi
vessels).

4.4.2. Use a screwdriver in order to remove the retaining ring, which hold the Base
plate to its place. As shown in pictures.

4.4.3. Disassemble the Permeate port from the Base/Sealing plate by pressing the threaded
end of the permeate port, as shown in Fig 4.4.3 and Fig 4.4.4. After remove the Sealing plate
from the Base plate, Fig 4.4.5.

Fig 4.4.3 Fig 4.4.4

Fig 4.4.5

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 16 of 29
 4.4.4. Use a screwdriver in order to remove the retaining ring, which hold the End port that
installed at the inner side of the Base plate, as shown in pictures.

4.4.5. Remove seal from the grooves:

a) Seal for Sealing plate for 300/450 psi vessels and for 600/1000/1200 psi vessels

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 17 of 29
b) Seal for End port for 600/1000/1200 psi vessels

c) Seal for Permeate port for 600/1000/1200 psi vessels

d) Seal for Adapter for 300/450 psi vessels and for 600/1000/1200 psi vessels

e) Membrane seal for 300/450 psi vessels and for 600/1000/1200 psi vessels.
4.4.6.

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 18 of 29
4.5.- Head reassembly
Parts for vessel 300/450 psi. Parts for vessel 600/1000/1200 psi.

4.5.1. Install the O-ring seals on the Sealing plate into the groove (Seal for Sealing plate &
Membrane seal), Permeate port and Adapter. Visually check the seals for any
mechanical damage.

a) for vessel 300/450 psi.

b) for vessel 600/1000/1200 psi.

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 19 of 29
4.5.2. Apply a small amount of lubricant (Molykote 111 or equivalent, Glycerin can be
used as well) on the seals (Seal for End port, Seal for Permeate Port and Adapter
seal).

4.5.3. Insert the End port into the Base Plate, as shown in Fig 4.5.3.1 and use a
screwdriver to install the internal retaining ring until it fits the End port groove. After
install the retaining ring in the external side of the Base plate to hold the End port.

Fig 4.5.3.1

4.5.4. When the Base plate and the End port installed, couple both parts with Sealing plate
by pushing them together until they touch each other.

4.5.5. Insert the Permeate port from the inner side of the base plate and carefully push
it all the way, as shown in Fig 4.5.5.

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 20 of 29
 Fig 4.5.5

4.5.6. Install the retaining ring as shown in Fig 4.5.6 in order to secure the Permeate
port to place.

Fig 4.5.6

4.5.7. Apply a thin layer of lubricant (Molykote 111 or equivalent, Glycerin can be used as
well) on the Adapter seal thereafter insert the Adapter into the Permeate port (with a
plastic / rubber mallet).

For 300/450 psi

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 21 of 29
For 600/1000/1200 psi

Or can be added the Spacers for head used in feed side (see ANNEX 2 for Shimming
procedure).

Note: for vessel closing, apply a small amount of lubricant on the seals (Seal for sealing
plated and Membrane seal) and on the vessel’s groove and sealing area (see §4.3).

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 22 of 29
4.6.- Loading the membrane elements
4.6.1. Flush the vessel with fresh water to remove dust and debris.

4.6.2. Insert Head assembly, without the O-ring into the downstream end of the vessel.

4.6.3. Install the segments of the support ring into the locking groove.

4.6.4. Inspect the membrane element surface to find any imperfections that could scratch the
vessel bore element loading. If any defect is found, which cannot be easily corrected contact
the element manufacturer.

4.6.5. Apply a thin layer of lubricant (see §4.3) to lubricate the inside of the vessel near the
groove. This will assist membrane element loading and reduce the risk of inadvertently
scratching the vessel bore.

4.6.6. Install the brine seal on the upstream end of the membrane element so that the seal's
open side faces upstream (if it is not already installed by the manufacturer). Apply a thin
layer of lubricant on the seal.

4.6.7. Load the first element into the upstream of the vessel. Leave 10 cm of the element
projecting out of the vessel to facilitate connection with the next element.

4.6.8. Apply a small amount of lubricant (see 4.5) onto the O-ring of the interconnector and
connect the interconnector to the projected end of the loaded element.

4.6.9. Line up the next element and assemble it to the inter connector which is already on the
first element. Carefully maintain element alignment during assembly, misalignment
may result damage to the membrane and vessel parts.

4.6.10. Carefully push the two elements into the vessel until the second element is
projecting from the vessel approximately 10 cm. Repeat the above steps until all membrane
elements have been assembled.

4.6.11. Calculate the correct shimming distance (see Annex 2) in order to avoid impact
damage on the membrane and head parts during pressure drop.

4.6.12. Insert the shimming spacers on the upstream head assembly (Membrane adapter)
so that the sum of their lengths will be equal to the shimming distance.

4.6.13. Install the upstream head assembly as described in section 4.3.

4.6.14. Remove the downstream head assembly and reassemble it with the O-ring.

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 23 of 29
ANNEX 1 - BEL Puller For 4" pressure vessels heads extraction
This tool designated to extract BEL head assembly for 4" pressure vessels. Before opening
any of the vessels parts ensure internal pressure has been unloaded.

Note:

It is highly recommended to replace all seals each time the head

is reassembled.
A seal replacement kit is available from BEL’s Customer Service.
Part number: 069-040-1200 –for vessels 600/1000/1200 psi,
Email: [email protected] Web Site: www.belvessels.com
069-040-0450 – for vessels 300/450 psi.

Kit assembly: Tool must be assembled as shown on illustration 1.

Figure 1 –Puller assembly

(1) Puller adapter, (2) Threaded Rod

(3) Puller base, (4) Handle

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
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Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 24 of 29
ANNEX 2 - BEL Pusher For 4" and pressure vessels heads installation
This tool designated to install BEL head assembly for 4" and pressure vessels.

Note:
It is highly recommended to replace all seals each time the head is
reassembled.
A seal replacement kit is available from BEL’s Customer Service.
For Head installation apply full and reach layer of lubricant on seals, vessel's
groove and vessel's sealing area.

Part number:Email:
N/A – [email protected] WebPP)
can be used Plastic (PVC, Site: www.belvessels.com
pipe for head installation.

Pipe dimensions: O.D.= 100 mm., I.D.=80 mm., Length=150 mm.

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 25 of 29
 ANNEX 3 - Shimming procedure
Correct shimming is needed in order to keep minimum Adapters and Membrane elements
movement at operation time, shimming should be applied at the feed side only.

First, make sure the membranes is fully pressed towards the brine side. Load the head
assembly and the membranes. In order to check that the membrane is fully pressed against
the brine side, pull out the head assembly and measure the distance between the membrane
and the locker (See "Y" in the drawing below).

This distance is equal to the total length of the head assembly - 87 mm for 300/450 psi
vessels or 135 mm for 600/1000/1200 psi vessels. It is important to mention that measuring
of "Y" is an option and it's not mandatory. However it is very important* to make sure that the
membrane is fully pressed before applying the shimming procedure.

Y X
Head assembly

Concen. Feed

Membrane

Correct shimming can be achieved by using the following formulas:

For BEL 4" 300/450 psi:

Let X (see drawing above) be the distance between the groove and the membrane on the
feed side. Measure this distance by using a caliber between the inner side of the locker and
membrane.

- Thickness of base plate

- Thickness of adapter

* Note: this process is highly recommended for vessels containing 3 membranes and above.

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
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Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 26 of 29
For BEL 4" 600/1000/1200 psi-

Let X (see drawing above) be the distance between the inner side of the locker and the
membrane on feed side.

- Thickness of sealing plate

- Thickness of base plate

- Thickness of permeate port base

- Thickness of adapter

After installing the shimming, a space of 1 mm to install the retaining ring locker / locker shall
remain. In case of extra space or too little space, remove or add spacers respectively until
receiving a satisfying result.

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 27 of 29
ANNEX 4 - O-Ring replacement and scratches treatment procedure

1. Preparations

Please prepare the following items before procedure:

1.1. New intact O-Ring seal suitable with Base/Sealing Plate type.

1.2. BEL Base/Sealing Plate. Ensure O-Ring groove is clean and free of scratches.

1.3. Clean cloth.

1.4. Lubricant.

1.5. BEL Pusher/Puller (optional).

2. O-Ring Replacement procedure

2.1. Clean vessel internal surface at sealing area (O-Ring area) with clean damp cloth
after the dissembling of the head assembly from the vessel.

2.2. Ensure vessel sealing area is smooth and free of scratches. See next procedure for
scratch treating.

2.3. Assemble Head parts (e.g. Base Plate, Sealing Plate, Permeate Port, Adapter, O-
Rings and Shims) and apply full and reach layer of lubricant on seals, vessel's groove
and vessel's sealing area.

2.4. Install Head using BEL's pusher.

3. Scratches treatment procedure

3.1. Clean vessel internal surface at sealing area (O-Ring area) with clean damp cloth.

3.2. Locate the scratch at the O-Ring sealing area. Scratches out of this area will not
cause leaks, therefore will not be treated.

3.3. Grind out the scratch using Extra-Fine sand paper (P400) until scratch is flat and
smooth. DO NOT grind deep into the vessel; this might cause permanent damage to
the vessel.

Note: In case of deep scratches or layers delamination please consult BEL engineering
department.

BEL COMPOSITE IBERICA S.L.

Parque Tecnológico Fuente Álamo. Ctra. del Estrecho-Lobosillo, km 2.
30320 Fuente Álamo, Murcia, Spain – CIF B30781215
Tel.: +34 968 197 501 | FAX: + 34 968 197 502 | www.belvessels.com | [email protected]
Jun, 2020 - Rev.3 - Page 28 of 29