Rapture Disks
Product Overview
Rupture Disks (also called burst disks) are non-reclosing pressure relief safety devices used to protect equipment, pipelines, and vessels from overpressure or vacuum conditions. They consist of a thin metallic or composite membrane designed to burst at a predetermined pressure.
Unlike safety valves, rupture disks open instantly and fully when the set pressure is reached, providing rapid pressure relief and protecting systems from catastrophic failure.
They are widely used in chemical processing, oil & gas, pharmaceuticals, food processing, and power plants where fast and reliable pressure protection is required.
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How it works (simple explanation)
A rupture disk works based on controlled mechanical failure.
- The disk is installed in a holder within a pipeline or vessel.
- During normal operation, it remains intact and seals the system.
- When system pressure rises above the predetermined burst pressure, the disk ruptures instantly.
- This creates a full opening, allowing pressure to escape safely through a relief line or vent system.
- Once ruptured, the disk must be replaced before the system returns to operation.
What it measures
Rupture disks do not measure a parameter directly but are designed to respond to pressure conditions.
They respond to:
- Overpressure
- Vacuum conditions (in reverse buckling designs)
- Pressure surges or spikes
Their function is protective rather than measuring.
Key advantages
- Instant full-bore pressure relief
- High reliability with no moving parts
- Leak-tight sealing during normal operation
- Corrosion-resistant materials available
- Low maintenance requirements
- Fast response to sudden pressure spikes
- Can be used with safety relief valves for double protection
Applications
Rupture disks are commonly used in:
Oil & Gas
- Process pipelines
- Compressors
- Storage tanks
Chemical Processing
- Reactors
- Pressure vessels
- Mixing tanks
Pharmaceutical & Food
- Sterile process systems
- Sanitary pipelines
Power Plants
- Boilers
- Steam systems
- Heat exchangers
Industrial Manufacturing
- Gas cylinders
- Hydraulic systems
Installation
Proper installation is critical for accurate burst performance.
Typical installation steps:
- Select the correct burst pressure rating.
- Install the disk inside a rupture disk holder.
- Place the assembly between pipeline flanges.
- Ensure correct flow direction (important for reverse buckling disks).
- Tighten bolts using specified torque values.
- Connect to a relief vent or safety discharge system.
- Verify that the disk is not damaged during installation.
Rupture disks are often installed:
- Before safety relief valves
- On pressure vessels
- On reactor systems
- On storage tanks
Technical Specifications
Parameter | Specification |
Burst Pressure Range | 0.1 bar to 1000 bar |
Operating Temperature | -200°C to 500°C (material dependent) |
Disk Materials | Stainless Steel, Nickel, Inconel, Graphite |
Size Range | ½ inch to 36 inches |
Burst Tolerance | ±2% to ±10% depending on design |
Design Types | Forward Acting, Reverse Buckling, Composite |
Leakage | Bubble-tight sealing |
Response Time | Instantaneous (milliseconds) |
Mounting Type | Flanged holder assembly |
Standards | ASME, ISO, PED compliant |