303
Pressure testing and gas leak detection
Gas testing and gas leak detection are two important processes in industries and other technical contexts to ensure that pipelines, tanks, vessels and other pressurised systems meet set requirements and are leak-proof. Gas testing is a method for testing and ensuring the strength of, for example, pipelines, tanks and vessels. The process involves pressurising the system with gas, usually air or nitrogen. The pressure is increased to a set test pressure as the expected working pressure. This is done to identify ensure the strength and detect any leaks in the system.
During the pressurisation test, the pressure is closely monitored and if any indication of excessive load or leakage is detected, action can be taken before the system is put into service. After successful pressurisation and verification of system integrity, the system can be handed over for further commissioning.
We at Power Heat have a long and documented experience of gas and liquid pressure testing. Pressure testing, tightness control and leak detection are part of the control steps that are carried out during non-destructive testing of e.g.
- pipework
- tanks
- vessel
- composite systems.
Pressure testing is done to make sure that pipelines and pressure vessels fulfil the calculated strength requirements. Testing by pressurisation with gas is a risky operation because it is not possible to be sure that the device will hold. Because of these risks, there are regulations for testing with overpressure or underpressure (AFS 2023: 13 Chapter 12).
The test equipment, together with risk assessment and the competence of the test personnel, is an important and central part of the regulation. According to the regulation, all organisations that use gas pressurisation as a test method must be accredited by Swedac. The regulation applies to the safety of both their own staff and other people. The Swedish Work Environment Authority is the regulatory authority.
Power Heat is an authorised inspection body
Pressure testing and gas pressure testing can be used when there are special requirements, such as cleanliness requirements or if it is difficult to drain liquid from the system. Power Heat is an approved inspection body accredited by SWEDAC according to SS-EN ISO/IEC 17020:2012. The accreditation means that we can test systems with gas.
Pressure test with gas
Gas pressure testing is an important method to ensure that different types of tanks, vessels and pipelines fulfil specified strength requirements. The process involves
- risk management/risk analysis
- monitor any leaks
- ensure that no plastic deformation occurs.
It is a method used to test the integrity and durability of different types of containers or pipelines at a pressure higher than their normal working load. The purpose of gas pressure testing is to detect any leaks or defects that may occur during use.
Leak detection, leakage control with gas
Leak detection, gas tightness testing is a method of detecting and locating leaks in pressurised systems. If there are any leaks, the gas will flow out through the weak points. Using a gas detector or leak spray soap bubbles, leaks can be detected. Gas leak detection is a fast and efficient method to find even small leaks, which may be difficult to detect by other means.
Equipment
Power Heat has a number of test rigs for both gas and liquid testing. Our rigs cover pressure ranges from :
-
Gas: 0-172 bar
-
Liquid: 0-700 bar
These are used for pressure testing, leak testing and leak detection in different types of pressurised systems. The construction, control and use of equipment is regulated by AFS 2023:13 chapter 12 and the accreditation requirements of Swedac.
The purpose of using standardised and controlled test equipment is to ensure personal safety, minimise risks and achieve repeatable and documentable test results.
Helping you all the way
Our pressure testing manager will help you all the way with everything from
- risk analysis
- planning
- execution
- preparation of documentation.
With us at Power Heat you are in safe hands
Since we at Power Heat are an approved inspection body accredited by SWEDAC according to SS-EN/ISO IEC 17020:2012, you as a customer are in safe hands. With our trained pressure test manager, we always have the right knowledge. A warm welcome to us at Power Heat.