It is important to distinguish between a Proof -Pressure Test and a Leak Detection Test.
Expansion Joints need to be proof-pressure tested and tested for leak tightness to ensure observance to regulations and safe and reliable operation.
Proof-Pressure Test
A Proof-Pressure Test verifies if a component can withstand pressure above its intended operating pressure without permanent damage. It is a form of stress test to demonstrate the fitness of an Expansion Joint under the test pressure conditions.
The proof-pressure test shall be a hydrostatic pressure test, except where the hydrostatic pressure test is harmful or impractical or they cannot safely be filled with water.
In these instances, a pneumatic pressure test or other tests shall be performed.
The proof-pressure test (hydrostatic or pneumatic) shall always be carried out under controlled conditions, with appropriate safety precautions and equipment and in such a way that the persons responsible for the test are able to make adequate inspections of all pressurized parts.
Hazards involved in Pneumatic testing
It is well known fact that as water cannot be compressed (Boyles law), the energy stored in a vessel under hydrostatic pressure is lesser as compared to that of a vessel under same pressure with air. This stored potential energy gets converted to kinetic energy at the time of rupture and that is what makes pneumatic test very dangerous.
Pneumatic proof-pressure test, is it permitted by Codes?
Pneumatic test is an alternative method of pressure test in lieu of Hydrostatic test, allowed by codes at certain conditions, by using air or any other gas as test media and preferably done only for low pressure applications & vessels having
low volumetric capacity.
What are the risks involved with pneumatic test?
Air/gas used for pneumatic test is compressible to large extent and has very high potential energy stored when compressed. Any minor leak path can lead to a rupture and blast within no time releasing total energy with an impact of sudden
explosion. Time gap between identifying a leakage and failure is very small making it almost impossible to take remedial action. Damages associated with failure are uncontrollable and huge.
Why Hydrostatic test is safer as compared to Pneumatic Test?
Water or liquid used for pressure test are not compressible compared to air or gases. Energy stored is very less. Small leak will reduce gauge pressure immediately which does not happen when air is the test medium.
It has less potential energy hence damages are mostly limited to nearby area.
There is a possibility that you can take remedial action once minor leakages are noticed before total failure occurs.
