Pressure test method for PE pipe

Before PE pipes are put into operation, a pressure test is carried out. The pressure test includes two strength tests and water tightness tests. Water is generally recommended as the test medium for testing. After removing the air in the pipeline to be tested, increase the pressure to the required pressure value at a steady rate of increase. The pressure gauge should be placed as low as possible in the test section. The pressure test can be performed before or after the pipeline is backfilled. Cover soil at certain intervals, especially for snaking pipelines. During pressure tests, the pipelines should be fixed in place. Flange click-to-open link connections should be exposed for easy inspection for leaks.

The test pressure of the pressure test should not exceed 1.5 times the pressure rating of the HDPE pipe material or the pressure rating of the low pressure grade fittings in the system. At the beginning, the pressure should be raised to the specified test pressure value and stay for enough time to ensure that the pipe is fully expanded. The process takes 2-3 hours. When the system is stable, increase the pressure to 1.5 times the working pressure and stabilize the pressure for 1 hour. Carefully observe the pressure gauge and patrol along the line. If there is no visible leakage or obvious leakage during the test pressure drop, the pipeline passes the pressure test.