Applied Technical Services conducts hydrostatic leak testing to verify the structural integrity of pressure vessels and systems.
What is Hydrostatic Leak Testing?
Hydrostatic leak testing, also known as hydrostatic or hydro testing, is a method used to identify leaks and other discontinuities in a pressure system. This nondestructive procedure involves filling a subject with liquid, typically water, and increasing its pressure to the maximum tolerance of the pressure vessel. Water is then forced out of any imperfections in the structure’s walls, allowing the technician performing the subsequent visual inspection to identify the location of any leaks. Hydrostatic leak testing is highly effective for identifying structural integrity flaws, making this a common method with countless applications across a variety of industries.
Hydrostatic testing requires that the system be suspended from use as equipment cannot be tested during normal operation. Hydro testing is most often used to verify that a recently repaired system or vessel is ready to return to service. The frequency at which this nondestructive testing method must occur to maintain industry compliance is determined by the type of system and is usually required every three to five years. Hydrostatic leak testing standards are established by the U.S. DOT (Department of Transportation), the ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials), the ISO (Internal Organization for Standardization), and the ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers). ATS recommends adhering to a precise maintenance schedule to prevent the costly repairs, equipment replacement, unexpected downtime, and potential safety threats that follow a vessel rupture.
Applied Technical Services performs testing on several different types of pressure systems and vessels, including but not limited to:
- Boilers
- Pipelines
- Plumbing Systems
- Gas Cylinders
- Piping Systems
Applied Technical Services
Founded in 1967, Applied Technical Services has over fifty years of experience in industrial testing. Our team of certified experts is comprised of knowledgeable professionals who strive to achieve the highest level of customer satisfaction on every project. ATS performs hydrostatic testing both in our ISO 9001:2015 certified labs and in the field to satisfy the needs of our clientele. Contact us today to schedule your next testing appointment.
