Hydrostatic Pressure Testing
Regular hydrostatic pressure inspections are a critical part of the maintenance process for pressure vessels and systems. To uncover problems before they develop further, ISI has a complete set of Hydrostatic Testing equipment available. Our experienced specialists will ensure your equipment maintains the highest quality of safety standards.
Hydraulic or Hydrostatic Pressure Testing of pressure vessels, pipework, components, and systems are often required following manufacture. Testing could be necessary to verify the design, material, quality, strength, or sealing arrangements. This is essential for ensuring the longevity and reliability of manufacture.
When is a Hydrostatic Pressure Test Required?
For pressure vessels in use, a Hydrostatic Pressure Test may be needed:
- At periodic intervals
- Following a statutory inspection where significant corrosion is identified
- Where you have concerns about performance of “older” equipment
- Following an incident, damage, or repair to the pressure vessel
After extended periods of service, pressure vessels may experience excessive corrosion of the parent material. This leads to a loss of wall thickness which is likely to reduce the vessel's strength and integrity.
In such cases, our team can perform ultrasonic thickness measurement tests to measure the wall thickness. These tests enable us to identify whether the pressure vessel can still perform at its required safe operating pressure.
By performing comprehensive Hydrostatic Pressure Tests, ISI’s experienced engineers can assess your vessels suitability for future service.
Hydraulic & Pneumatic Pressure Testing
ISI can provide Hydraulic Testing and Implosion Testing, on-site or at ISI’s Test House. Such tests can be carried out to a maximum pressure of 10,344 bar / 150,000 PSI, on an infinite range of pneumatic and hydraulic equipment:
- Accumulators
- Pipework
- Air Receivers
- Proto Types
- Calorifiers
- Petrochemical Installations
- Hydraulic & Pneumatic Fittings / Assemblies
- Shot Blast Vessels
- Heat Exchanges
- Steam Boilers
- Hot Water Boilers
- North Sea Gas / Oil Pipework
- Pressure Vessels
- Prototypes / New Products
Potential Risks of Not Carrying Out A Hydrostatic Pressure Test
Risk of Explosion – Pressure vessels which are not tested can fail, causing damage, injury, and death.
Corrosion – Can lead to increased damage over time.
Leaks – Can be dangerous if not rectified by specialist engineers.
Damage to the System – System can become damaged over time without regular inspection and testing.
Reduced Efficiency – Without a Hydrostatic Pressure Test, the system is likely to become reduced in efficiency and performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should pressure vessels be tested?
Frequencies for requiring a hydrostatic pressure test can vary depending on the type of vessel / system, how often it's used, and its current condition. Pressure vessels in use should generally be inspected between 12 and 120 months.
What is considered a pressure vessel?
Typically, a pressure vessel refers to a tank or vessel that has been designed to operate at pressures above 15 PSI. Examples include boilers and steam heating systems, compressed air systems, pipework and hoses, air conditioning plants, and more. Any vessel with over 250 bar/litres capacity will require a hydrostatic pressure test.
How are pressure vessels tested?
There are various methods of hydraulic / hydrostatic pressure testing, including visual inspection, magnetic particle inspection, implosion testing, and ultrasonic testing. These methods provide valuable insights into the condition of vessels operating at high pressures.
Please call our pressure testing specialists on 01675 481779 for further advice and information. Alternatively, see our PSSR pressure system inspection services page.