Hydrostatic testing of pressure vessels
Hydrostatic testing is a method used to check the compressive strength of pressurized tanks in the process industry. In the test, the tank is filled with water or other liquid and subjected to a pressure exceeding the intended operating pressure.
The method can be used to identify, for example, leaks, weak points or deformations in the tank structure.
Process Surplus offers pressure tanks, storage tanks and other stainless steel tanks in stainless steel 304 and acid-proof 316/316L in various sizes and designs.
Function and structure
Hydrostatic testing checks the entire tank design. Key elements include:
- Filling the tank with water or test liquid
- Application of test pressure above operating pressure
- Observation of deformations and leaks
- Inspection of welds and connections
- Evaluation of reinforcements and bottom construction
Materials and construction
The tank is usually made of stainless steel 304 or acid-proof 316/316L, depending on the application in the process industry. Prior to testing, parameters such as plate thickness, welds and surface finish are often documented.
The properties of the material, such as corrosion resistance, can help ensure that the test fluid has limited impact on the tank and that the test provides a relevant basis for further assessment.
Pressurized and atmospheric solutions
Hydrostatic testing is only used for pressurized tanks, both horizontal and vertical. Atmospheric storage tanks are not tested under high pressure but may undergo other types of inspections for materials and welds.
Applications in industry
- Food industry – testing tanks for acids, CIP solutions and pasteurization
- Chemical industry – pressure vessels for highly corrosive solutions
- Pharmaceutical production – sterile tank testing before operation
- Water treatment – reaction vessels and pressurized filter tanks
Technical options and equipment
- Pressure gauges and safety valves for the test
- Filling and emptying valves
- Inspection gaps for internal control
- Internal agitator or process equipment that may affect the test
- Insulation and thermal strengthening in temperature-sensitive processes
Volumes and capacity
Hydrostatic testing can be performed on all tank sizes from 100 liters up to 250 000 liters. The test pressure is dimensioned according to PED requirements and the nominal operating pressure of the tank, ensuring that the entire design is safe for industrial use.
Advantages of hydrostatic testing
- Detects leaks and weak points before operation
- Ensures that the tank meets PED and CE requirements
- Documented quality and safety
- Long lifetime and minimized risk of accidents
- Useful for both new and used tanks
New and used pressure vessels in stock
Processöverskott offers new and used tanks in various sizes and designs for use in the process industry.
Hydrostatic testing may occur in some cases, depending on the history and documentation of the tank. If necessary, it is also possible to request testing in connection with purchase, depending on the requirements of the application in question.
This provides flexibility in tank selection and the ability to customize the solution based on specific needs.
Choosing the right solution
When selecting a pressure vessel, it may be relevant to consider whether hydrostatic testing has been carried out and what documentation is available, depending on the application and process requirements.
Processöverskott offers new and used pressure tanks in various sizes and designs. Hydrostatic testing may in some cases occur or be requested in connection with purchase, depending on needs and application. Documentation linked to, for example, CE marking and PED may be available in cases where it is specified.
This allows you to compare different options and choose a tank that suits the process in question.
Executive summary
Hydrostatic testing is a method used to check the compressive strength of industrial tanks in the process industry. During the test, the tank is subjected to a pressure that exceeds the intended operating pressure, which can give indications of, for example, leaks or weaknesses in the structure.
Processöverskott offers new and used pressurized tanks in stainless steel 304 and acid-proof 316/316L in various sizes and designs. Hydrostatic testing may in some cases occur or be requested in connection with purchase, depending on needs and application. Available documentation linked to, for example, CE marking and PED may be available where indicated.
Frequently asked questions about hydrostatic testing of pressure vessels
How is a pressure tank tested by hydrostatic testing?
Hydrostatic testing involves filling the tank with water or other liquid and subjecting it to a pressure exceeding the intended operating pressure. The method is used to check the construction of the tank and can give indications of, for example, leaks, deformations or weak welds.
Processöverskott offers new and used pressure tanks in various designs. Hydrostatic testing may in some cases occur or be requested in connection with purchase, depending on needs and application. Documentation linked to, for example, PED and CE may be available in cases where it is specified.
Which tanks need hydrostatic testing?
All pressurized tanks above 0.5 bar need hydrostatic testing to meet PED requirements. Atmospheric storage tanks are not tested by this method, but are often checked for material and weld quality.
What pressure is used for the test?
The test pressure is higher than the nominal operating pressure of the tank, usually 1.3-1.5 times the operating pressure. This ensures that the tank can handle normal operating conditions without deformation or leakage.
Which materials are suitable for testing?
Stainless steel 304 and acid-proof 316/316L are often used in tanks that can be used for hydrostatic testing in the process industry. The choice of material depends on the properties of the fluid, the application and the corrosion resistance requirements.
The properties of the material need to be adapted to handle the current pressure levels, but the design and conditions vary between different tanks.
Can used tanks be hydrostatically tested?
Used tanks may in some cases be subject to hydrostatic testing, depending on their construction, condition and use.
Hydrostatic testing may be requested at the time of purchase and is used to check the properties of the tank during pressurization. The result can provide a basis for assessing, for example, welds, plate thickness and construction.
Processöverskott offers new and used pressure tanks in various designs. The possibility of testing and associated documentation varies depending on the tank and conditions.