Safe, Strong Pipeworks Save on Project Costs
IPSL can design test methodologies, test and certify your projects’ pipelines
Hydrostatic Testing for Pipeline Installations
Independent Pipeline Services are Pipeline Testing Experts
We test DI, steel, pvc, PE-polyethylene or composite water or wastewater pipelines to meet mandatory NZ standards. Finding pipe faults early eliminates risks of project cost blowouts. Talk to our trained and experienced team about:
IPSL create bespoke design and test methodologies to suit your construction program
Our bespoke design & testing methodologies save valuable time on site and ultimately, project costs. Our pre-commissioning plans provide clear methods on the installation of pipework and fittings.
Get IPSL involved early in the commissioning stage of your water network’s storage and supply:
- Potable water
- Stormwater
- Wastewater
- Drainage
What is pipeline testing?
This tests the integrity of a pipeline’s composition and construction. It reveals any leaks or weaknesses within systems before they become a costly problem. Pipeline testing enables project engineers and managers to know system limitations and capacities. These are mandatory requirements for consent sign-offs. IPSL ensures your project meets these requirements for pressure capacity and hygiene. Test results are all meticulously recorded and an easy to read report is provided with every job.
Methods IPSL Use
Hydrostatic Testing
Identifies material defects and verifies strength and water tightness. Pipe systems are filled with water until devoid of air. The pipeline or sections of, are gradually pressurised nominally to 1.5 times the design capacity. Pipes installed below water tables may require modified test pressures to allow for ground-water height.
Fresh water is gradually pumped in and the air is bleed off through vents and valves until maximum pressure is reached. The pressure is maintained in the pipeline over variable lengths of time depending on pipe type, length, materials, site conditions and temperature. We use a range of industry standards and techniques to ensure pipeline integrity is achieved. We can help locate and identify the cause of leaks if required and retest once repaired.
Pneumatic Testing
This method is used where pipelines or tanks cannot be filled with water and instead require gradual filling with air or compressed gas. The denser energy content of gas makes this a potentially more hazardous method then hydrostatic testing. So, it is better suited to lower pressure or smaller systems.
The compressed gas or inert air is pumped in slowly and then maintained for a short time whilst readings are taken to indicate pressure lost. If this indicates a significant loss in pressure, then we use a range of industry standards and techniques to identify the leaks.
These are repaired and the pipeline retested until it passes the pressure test.
IPSL is your go-to team for prompt, capable pressure testing of pipelines
What types of pipes or sections can be tested?
- Steel: a common choice due to its strength and durability, weldability and cost-effectiveness.
- Ductile Iron: made from cast-iron and ductile irons. Often used for water, sewage or gas lines.
- PVC: pressure and non-pressure plastic pipes used in water and wastewater infrastructure. PVC is also used to move corrosive fluids or hazardous gases.
- Metal Alloy: copper and copper alloy, lead, nickel, brass, aluminium and stainless steel. These materials are chosen for their particular qualities.
- PE - Polyethylene: Popular modern long-lasting material with high strength and durability, weldability, and cost-effectiveness.
- Composite or combination of materials can be tested together in most situations.
Completing work for the civil construction industry, roading, property subdivision and agricultural industries
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