One of the cylindrical reactor vessels in petrochemical plants was examined by acoustic emission method. The vessel was quiet in view of A.E. activity throughout the pressure range $12-44kg.f/cm^{2}.G$. Above the pressure of $44kg.f/cm^2$, some events were appeared lower than 30 counts. In order to verify the events, other Nondestructive testing methods were performed and a surface crack, 10mm in length and 0.8mm in depth, was found on the outside surface of circumferential weld.