dbigkahunna, I am quoting some ASME clauses here as I'm not sure I fully understand your post.
Am I correct in understanding that you are mainly talking about pipelines under API 1104 etc. because I have never had these restrictions on process pipework and that includes such US based companies such as CB&I and Jacobs Eng. amongst others?
I believe Hydro testing is the safest way of proving a system is leak tight and fit for service or as you put it “establishing the integrity”. I would guess that if a system leaked, it would not be integral? Would you class deformation under pressure as not integral?
Again, I am only quoting ASME standards and fully appreciate that other standards may have completely different requirements but that is where I wish to gain knowledge as I mainly work under ASME controls!
ASME B31.3 (2011)
“345 TESTING
345.1 Required Leak Test
Prior to initial operation, and after completion of the applicable examinations required by para. 341, each piping system shall be tested to ensure tightness.
The test shall be a hydrostatic leak test in accordance with para.345.4 except as provided herein…….bla bla bla”
ASME 8 Div 1 (2008)
“UG-99 STANDARD HYDROSTATIC TEST
(g)
Following the application of the hydrostatic test pressure, an inspection shall be made of all joints and connections. This inspection shall be made at a pressure not less than the test pressure divided by 1.3. Except for leakage that might occur at temporary test closures for those openings intended for welded connections, leakage is not allowed at the time of the required visual inspection.
Leakage from temporary seals shall be directed away so as to avoid masking leaks from other joints.”
So at least under ASME B31.3, a hydrostatic test is considered a leak test not an integrity test?
Under ASME 8, ALL connections must be visually inspected whilst under some sort of pressure which could be substantial i.e above 100psi or even 250psi?
Henry, I am also slightly confused by your post!
I imagine you comments regarding emoticons and the Kings English were directed toward electrode’s response to Joey’s comment on Slag Islands? To be honest I don’t think ‘electrode’s’ native tongue is the ‘King’s English’, I may be wrong but I'm fairly confident as a UK citizen that his is not, although he can most assuredly speak and write better English than I can his or any other language!
However, I admit I am not a big fan of the over use of emoticons! But that is just my opinion and it is up to the user to decide how others perceive there professionalism by the use of them! I'm not trying to influence anyone, just my own inconsequential opinion!
BTW Henry, I would have really appreciated your educated input on the resulting thread that Al started from this post about slag islands!
I was sort of hoping that you could have found a lost link or two! I was pretty sure you would have a wealth of info on this phenomena!
PS has anyone noticed that the OP’s figures don’t really add up and show no calcs have been done?
“Spec:
Design pressure :17 kg/cm2g
Hydrotest pressure : 22.1 kg/cm2g
Hydrotest temp: 17c to 48 c
Material Spec:
shell: SA 55 GR 70
thickness:40mm
mawp:17kg/cm2g
calculated min thickness:32 mm”
Let see who spots the mistake!