PRESSURE TEST QUIZ
HERE’S THEANSWERS
Qu1. Pressure testing of ASME pipework
According to ASME B31.3 terminology, a pressure test using water at 1.5 x MAWP is called a;
- Proof test
- Sensitive leak test
- Hydraulic test
- Hydrostatic leak test
Answer (d) .General point from B31.3 terminology
Qu2. Test pressures
What pressure would be used for a B31.3 hydrostatic leak test on pipework with a design (MAWP) pressure of 500 psi and a maximum design temperature of 800 degF
- It can vary, but definitely less than 500psi
- 650 psi
- 750 psi
- Greater than 750 psi
Answer (d) .Hydrotests (called a leak test under B31.3) use the S ratio so for 700DegF the pressure would be higher than 500 x 1.5
Qu3. Code-specified test pressures
Test pressures listed in ASME pressure equipment codes are
- Minimum pressures allowed for the test
- Maximum pressures allowed for the test
- Allowed a +/- 3% tolerance
- Allowed a +/- 10% tolerance
Answer (a) .This is the general principle. Note that there may also be maximums listed for safety purposed
Qu 4: Testing of storage tanks
What is the duration of a full hydrostatic test on a large above-ground cylindrical storage tank?
- 4 hours
- 8 hours
- 24 hours
- 48 hours
Answer (c) .API 653.
Qu5. Pressure testing temperature
The chances of brittle fracture during hydrostatic testing of a pressure equipment component are minimised by performing the test at what temperature?
- Below MDMT
- Above the grain transformation temperature
- Above the FATT transition temperature – Above the Ductile-Brittle (Charpy) transition temperature as determined by FATT test. Transformation test is a red herring…related to Normalising. Testing below MDMT will increase the risk of brittle fracture.
- Below the FATT transition temperature
Answer (c) .Above the Ductile-Brittle (Charpy) transition temperature as determined by FATT test. Transformation test is a red herring…related to Normalising. Testing below MDMT will increase the risk of brittle fracture
5-MINUTE COACHING
Pressure testing
Pressure testing is not a complete test for integrity but provides an important check for leakage and gross design errors. It is equally undesirable to either over-pressurise or under-pressurise a component. The type and test pressures used for pressure testing are specified by construction and post-construction codes. Terminology and test pressures vary between codes and components so can be a little confusing.
See our short slide presentation covering this topic
