1. Purpose:

   • Pressure Vessel: A pressure vessel is designed to contain fluids or gases at a pressure different from the ambient pressure. Its primary function is to store, transport, or process these fluids under high or low pressure conditions.
   • Boiler: A boiler, on the other hand, is a specific type of pressure vessel designed to convert water into steam. Its primary purpose is to generate steam for heating, power generation, or other industrial processes.

2. Function:

   • Pressure Vessel: Pressure vessels are versatile and can be used for various applications such as storing compressed air, chemicals, or liquids under pressure. They are not involved in the direct production of steam or heat.
   • Boiler: Boilers are specialized pressure vessels that use heat from fuel combustion or other heat sources to produce steam. This steam is then used for heating or to power machinery.

3. Components:

   • Pressure Vessel: Pressure vessels typically have a simple design, consisting of a container with various fittings for pressure measurement, safety valves, and access points.
   • Boiler: Boilers have a more complex design with additional components like burners, tubes, and a combustion chamber to facilitate the generation of steam.

4. Regulations:

   • Both pressure vessels and boilers are subject to strict safety regulations, with specific codes and standards governing their design, fabrication, and operation. These regulations vary depending on the region and the intended use of the equipment.

5. Applications:

   • Pressure vessels find applications in industries such as petrochemical, pharmaceutical, and manufacturing where the storage or transport of pressurized fluids is required.
   • Boilers are primarily used in power plants, heating systems, and industrial processes where steam is needed for energy or heating.

In summary, the main difference between a pressure vessel and a boiler lies in their primary purpose and function. While pressure vessels are designed to store or transport fluids under pressure, boilers are specialized vessels used to generate steam for various industrial applications. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of these essential components in different industries.

• When the BPV is insured with a boiler and machinery insurance policy, the insurance company is responsible for inspecting the device and issuing the certificate of inspection required by the Ontario Regulation 220/01: Boilers and Pressure Vessels.
• When the boiler or pressure vessel is not insured, TSSA inspects the device and issues the Certificate of Inspection required by the Ontario Regulation 220/01.

1. A pressure container that holds a gas, vapor, or liquid with a maximum allowable working pressure of 15 psi or lower.
2. A pressure container that holds liquids that are no more hazardous than water, operating at a temperature of 150°F or lower, and with a maximum allowable working pressure of 250 psi or lower.
3. A pressure container designed for domestic use, having an internal diameter of 24 inches or smaller, used for storing hot water not exceeding 212°F and with a heat input of 120 kW or lower.
4. A pressure container used exclusively for hydraulic purposes, operating at a temperature not exceeding 150°F (65°C).
5. A pressure container with an internal diameter of 24 inches (610 mm) or smaller, connected in a liquid pumping system, operating at a temperature not exceeding 150°F (65°C), and containing compressed air or an inert gas as a cushion.
6. A pressure container with a capacity of 1 and one-half (1½) cubic feet (42.5L) or smaller, excluding fittings.

Repairs encompass any necessary tasks to reinstate a boiler or pressure vessel to a secure operational state, without deviating from the original design. In case there is a deviation from the design, there are different requirements.

Companies undertaking repair work must possess a Certificate of Authorization issued by TSSA or another Canadian jurisdiction. These companies can be found listed in TSSA's business directory. Alternatively, companies holding a National Board Certificate of Authorization (indicated by an "R" stamp) are also acceptable, as long as they fulfill all the requirements set by the National Board.

Inspection of BPVs for repair purposes with Mechanical Breakdown insurance:

If your BPVs are covered by Mechanical Breakdown insurance, get in touch with your insurer to arrange for the repair inspection.

Inspection of BPVs for repair purposes without Mechanical Breakdown insurance:

Prior to commencing any repair work, contact a local TSSA BPV inspector to ensure compliance with all technical and regulatory prerequisites. You can consult our BPV Inspector list to locate an inspector in your vicinity.