A hydrostatic test checks the strength and safety of pressurized containers, such as boilers, gas cylinders, and pipes. The container is placed in a steel chamber filled with water, and pressurized water is pumped into it. The amount of water leaving and returning to the chamber determines if the container passes. Fire extinguishers undergo hydrostatic tests to check for leaks and structural defects. The cylinder is pressure tested with a high-pressure water hose, and if the amount of water remaining in the burette is more than ten percent of the amount initially expelled from the chamber, the cylinder fails the test.
A hydrostatic test is a test that measures the strength or structural integrity of pressurized containers that contain a liquid or gas. Containers that can be tested include boilers, gas cylinders, or pipes in a water system. The test ensures that there are no leaks in the container and that it is structurally safe to use.
To perform a hydrostatic test, the container is typically placed in a steel chamber filled with water at normal pressure. Subsequently, the pressurized water is pumped into the vessel under test. The container will expand, forcing the water out of the steel chamber, then contract once the pressure is released, forcing the water back into the steel chamber. The amount of water leaving and returning to the steel chamber is used to determine whether or not the tested container passes the hydrostatic test.
Fire extinguishers usually undergo a hydrostatic test to ensure they are safe. Over time, the casing that contains the flame retardant material can weaken and lose its integrity, which can lead to malfunctions or even breakage. The cylinder, hose, shell and assembly are pressure tested for leaks.
Before placing a fire extinguisher cylinder into the hydrostatic chamber, the valve is removed and a visual inspection of the interior is performed. Signs of corrosion and structural defects can cause cylinder failure under pressure. If everything appears to be normal, the hydrostatic test is started.
A high pressure water hose is connected to the cylinder, which is then placed in a steel chamber filled with water. Water is pumped into the cylinder. As the water pressure inside the cylinder increased, the cylinder walls began to expand, forcing the water inside the chamber to move. The water typically leaves the chamber through a small outlet and collects in a burette, or laboratory measuring device, located outside the chamber. Once the pressure in the cylinder is reduced, the cylinder walls contract, causing the water in the burette to flow back into the chamber.
The burette provides a measurement of the amount of water that has been expelled from the chamber. It also measures the amount of water that has returned to the chamber. Generally, if the amount of water remaining in the burette is more than ten percent of the amount initially expelled from the chamber, the tested cylinder has failed the hydrostatic test.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
