9-2.
2-
Hydrostatic tests should be made before the joints are covered so that any leaks may be )a(
readily detected. Thrust blocks should be sufficiently hardened before hydrostatic testing is
begun. If the joints are covered with backfill prior to testing, the contractor remains
responsible for locating and correcting any leakage in excess of that permitted in 9-2.3.2 and
.9-2.3.3
The pipeline should be prepared 24 hours prior to testing by filling it with water, in a )b(
manner to remove all air. The test pressure should be applied to stabilize the system. This
should minimize losses due to entrapped air, changes in water temperature, distention of
components under pressure, movement of gaskets, and absorption of air by the water and
.water by the pipe wall
A-9-2.3.1 A recommended test procedure is as follows: The water pressure is to be increased
in 50-psi (3.4-bar) increments until the test pressure described in 9-2.3.1 is attained. After
each increase in pressure, observations are to be made of the stability of the joints. These
observations are to include such items as protrusion or extrusion of the gasket, leakage, or
other factors likely to affect the continued use of a pipe in service. During the test, the
pressure is not to be increased by the next increment until the joint has become stable. This
applies particularly to movement of the gasket. After the pressure has been increased to the
required maximum value and held for one hour, the pressure is to be decreased to 0 psi
while observations are made for leakage. The pressure is again to be slowly increased to the
value specified in 9-2.3.1 and held for one more hour while observations are made for
.leakage and the leakage measurement is made
A-9-2.3.2 New pipe laid with rubber gasketed joints should, if the workmanship is
satisfactory, have no leakage at the joints. Unsatisfactory amounts of leakage usually result
from twisted, pinched, or cut gaskets. However, some leakage might result from small
.amounts of grit or small imperfections in the surfaces of the pipe joints
A-9-2.3.3 The use of a blind flange or skillet is preferred for use when hydrostatically testing
segments of new work. Metal seated valves are susceptible to developing slight
imperfections during transport, installation, and operation and thus may be likely to leak
more than one fluid ounce per inch of valve diameter. For this reason, the blind flange
.should be used when hydrostatically testing
Appendix B Referenced Publications
