Different types of equipment utilise hydraulic systems in performing any needed work. Hydraulic systems work by pumping hydraulic fluid to various hydraulic motors and cylinders so it can be pressurised based on the present resistance. The control valves of these systems are responsible for the movement of the fluid flow to the series of hoses, tubes, or pipes.
The pumps present on hydraulic systems supply their needed hydraulic fluid. The pressure within the system then develops in conjunction with the reaction to the load. So, if a pump is rated for 5,000 pounds per square inch (psi), then it should be able to main flow against a load of the same psi capacity.
Defining Pressure Testing
Pressure within the hydraulic systems can affect their overall performance and longevity, which is why these systems alongside pipelines must undergo pressure testing regularly. A pressure test that is conducted within these components is intended to measure their safety, reliability, and leak tightness. This type of test can be conducted with systems that are either new or recently repaired or altered.
There are two methods of pressure testing. One of these methods is hydrostatic testing, which is done through the water. Another method would be pneumatic testing. This type of testing utilises air, nitrogen, or any non-flammable and non-toxic gas in determining the condition of the system. No matter what method of pressure testing will be used, it must be performed under controlled conditions.
Importance of Pressure Testing
Many industries heavily rely on pressure testing since it plays a huge role in terms of quality assurance as well as maintaining safety standards within a facility or plant. With pressure testing, hidden problems may be diagnosed and discovered, which then prevents any instance of operation disruption and accident during work. Any preventive maintenance can also be done once pressure tests are carried out.
Likewise, with pressure testing, pipelines and vessels that have leaking problems can be easily identified, allowing them to undergo further evaluation, validation, repairs, or maintenance. Finding out and confirming the reliability, maximum capacity, leaks, joint fittings, and pressure of the components are also done with pressure testing, ensuring that they meet the set requirements of the plant or facility.
Carrying Out Pressure Testing
Pressure testing is carried out by filling the test item with a test medium like water or oil. The test medium is typically added with dyes so that any leak can be detected right away. Afterward, the same item is applied with the test pressure so that it can be measured and logged over a certain interval.
During the pressure testing, the amount of pressure that is present on the test items is somehow more than the normal operating pressure. This is done to ensure that the item can hold unexpected pressure levels during actual operations. If there is an instance of pressure loss during the testing, then there is something wrong with the leak tightness of the test item.
Any information and result about the pressure test are stamped onto the component. The stamp may also carry the item’s serial number, manufacturer, and manufacturing date, maximum expansion, rejection elastic expansion, and others.
Factory 89, 38-40 Popes Road
Keysborough, Victoria, 3173
Phone: (03) 9798-6511
Optimized by NetwizardSEO.com.au
