The How and Why of Hydrostatic Pressure Testing

One of the most reliable ways to detect leaks and integrity issues is by utilising hydrostatic pressure testing. This works for both newly installed plants or pipelines and to detect leaks in existing vessels.

Although various methods exist, one of the most widely used approaches entails filling the pipeline or vessel with dyed water to help with the visual detection of leaks and to identify pressure issues in the vessel. To this end, hydrostatic pressure testing is considered one of the safest options, especially for high pressure and hazardous gas or liquid pipelines or vessels.

The hydrostatic testing helps to detect leaks when a plant has just been constructed and before it is put into full operation. Since the pipes and joints have not yet been put under pressure, it is not possible to detect the weak points in the system. To ensure the system is leak-free and able to handle the required pressure, hydrostatic tests are performed.

When Is It Used?

This approach is also used with vessels already in operation. In such instances, the tests are performed to detect where leaks are when problems are experienced with a drop in the liquid flow. Not only is it safer than pneumatic testing when it comes to high-pressure vessels, but it is also rather cost-effective. Indeed, in many operations, hydrostatic pressure testing should be performed at specific intervals as part of maintenance. The aim is to ensure the safety and integrity of plant and pipeline systems, to minimise loss of valuable fluid or gas, and to prevent ruptures or vessel failures.

Pipelines are often exposed to harsh weather conditions and the effects of corrosion. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the integrity of such pipelines. With tests, using the superior-quality pumps available from us, it is possible to cost-effectively test such systems at the intervals required. Pneumatic tests are best performed on systems with lower pressure for safety reasons. The hydrostatic method can be used on post-construction applications for leak and integrity analysis on pipelines that transport hazardous fluids or gas. The method is also used to test gas cylinders for leakages.

In Conclusion

It is essential to test the integrity of pipelines, vessels, and plants that transport or hold fluids or gas under pressure. Make use of the best equipment for the task. Get in touch with our Johannesburg office for more information on the pumps available for hydrostatic testing.