Overview

The inspection and testing of a new installation is essential to a safe installation. Suitable testing is required by various codes. Even if official testing and inspection is not required, common sense would call for careful testing and inspection. Testing methods differ between pressurized pipe and nonpressurized pipe.

Air pressure is often used on nonpressurised installations during testing. But, air and gasses should never be used when testing pressurized systems. There is far too much risk of property and personal damage when a pressurized system is tested with air. Potable water is the preferred medium for testing pressurized systems.

Test methods can also vary between underground installations and aboveground installations. Additionally, some leakage is sometimes allowed for certain types of underground pipelines. Leakage is not allowed in aboveground installations. Another consideration is the type of pipe and joints being tested. For example, systems constructed with solvent-welded joints require plenty of curing time before being tested. Piping installed with mechanical connectors can be tested right away.

When testing a plastic piping system, the test section should be restrained from sudden uncontrolled movement in the event of rupture. If expansion joints are in the system, they should be temporarily restrained, isolated, or removed during the pressure test. When testing a piping system, the test may be conducted on the entire system, or in sections. The test section size is determined y test equipment capability. If the pressurizing equipment is too small, it may not be possible to complete the test within...