Professional Gas Line Test Procedures

Professional gas technicians conduct internal field pressure tests shortly after new pipelines are installed. In most cases, the lines that are tested contain a lot of air or nitrogen.

Basic Testing Methods

At industrial plants, gas line workers conduct a pre-test and the regular test. The early procedures help the technicians prep the lines for the main test. This basically means that the tension equilibrium is adjusted to boost volume within the gas lines. Once this process is completed, the pressure in the system drops. As this happens, the machinery constantly pumps so that vital components can recover the lost pressure. Depending on the level of pressure, the workers may have to re-tighten the flange screws if the connection weakens. When everything is stable in the gas line, the main testing phase begins. Throughout the main test, the pressure typically drops along the walls within the pipes. As a result, the machinery doesn’t have to use the pumping mechanism anymore. However, frequent inspections are necessary since leaks can happen without notice. Gas line pressure technicians always check for leaks around joints, which is where the position of a pipe usually changes.

When a pipeline is equipped with compensators, other test procedures will be implemented. Compensators are highly sophisticated components that can influence specific actions in a pipeline. The test pressure in a pipeline with compensators is much higher, so the axial forces near specific points have matching properties. Workers always consider the pressure levels carefully when creating fixed points within this kind of pipeline.

Internal Test Methods

Before technicians implement any internal testing procedures, they thoroughly inspect the equipment. A properly prepared system should have correctly mounted flap traps and relief components. Near the end of the lines, all valves must be efficiently shut to prevent high pressure problems.

Once the inspection is done, the pipeline will be filled to the lowest level. Later, pressure is applied to the system slowly so that the water doesn’t hammer.

At industrial plants, highly trained workers use advanced equipment to test the pressure in gas lines. The goal during every project is to test all lines strategically without damaging the pressure transmitter.