What is Hydrostatic Testing?
Hydrostatic testing is the most commonly used procedure for checking the performance of pipes, boilers and pressure vessels. The method is used to highlight any flaws or damage that could result in a pressure loss. The industry generally considers this to be the safest method of pressure testing and for identifying potential leaks, strength or structural issues.
Hydrostatic testing is often the final step in a series of quality checks that verifies the reliability, integrity and stability of pipes and their ability to operate under pressure. This technique may be used to comply with industry regulations or to confirm a client’s specifications.
How to perform a Hydrostatic Test
Hydrostatic testing is a simple yet effective procedure:
Factors of safety in pipe pressure testing
A pressure test then is applied which should always be higher than the standard operating pressure. The precise level of pressure used during hydrostatic testing varies according to the application and the construction of the pipe itself. The pipe system designer are generally responsible for determining the Design Pressure (DP) and Maximum Design Pressure (MDP) of any system. 1.5 times the standard design pressure of the system is typical however.
It is essential to take full and appropriate safety measures during and after the hydrostatic test procedure due to the high pressures involved. For example, exclusion zones should be implemented during tests proportional to the test pressures and pipe sizes involved. Evidence of adherence to the correct procedure should also be seen, for example the WIS 4-01-03 / IGN 4-01-03.
Stopper Specialists: leading supplier to key infrastructure sectors
From blanking off vessels to conducting advanced pipe pressure testing, Stopper Specialists support utility groups and other key sectors, including:
- Civil engineering
- Water & Water Waste Management
- Housing & Construction
- Petrochemical
- Agricultural
- Manufacturing & Industry
Contact us for more information on pressure testing
Stopper Specialists, home of the Pressure Test+ app, is the leading provider of pipe stoppers, pressure testing, and associated equipment: we consistently strive for excellence and innovation in all aspects of our operations.
To find out more about the full range of products and services offered by Stopper Specialists, call 0370 850 5153 or email us on groundforce@vpplc.com.