DIFFERENT METHODS USED IN TESTING HDPE PIPES

DIFFERENT METHODS USED IN TESTING HDPE PIPES

High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE): Applications and Testing

High-density polyethylene (HDPE) stands out as a favored material for both underground and above-ground applications, given its versatility and durability. Applications of HDPE piping encompass a wide range, including potable water transport, irrigation, drainage, sewage handling, gas distribution, chemical waste management, and firefighting.

HDPE Pipes Testing: Ensuring Longevity

Testing of HDPE pipes is crucial during installation to guarantee the longevity of piping systems. The focus of field testing primarily revolves around assessing the integrity of HDPE pressure pipe connections. As the saying goes, “A chain is only as strong as its weakest link,” emphasizing that a pipeline’s strength is determined by its weakest connection.

How to Test HDPE Pipes: Procedures for Pressure Leaks

HYDROSTATIC PRESSURE TESTING

Hydrostatic pressure testing is a common field test procedure during potable water line installation. The procedure includes:

  • Assessing structural integrity
  • Testing fusion of pipes and fittings
  • Identifying faults or defects in laying and embedment procedures
  • Verifying assembly integrity of piping components
  • Ensuring leak-free operation under operating pressure

Procedures for testing outside the trench and inside the trench are outlined, both adhering to F2164 specifications of the American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM).

PNEUMATIC LEAK TESTING

Pneumatic leak testing, an alternative to hydrostatic testing, uses air or gas instead of water. This method is suitable for piping systems with internal linings vulnerable to water damage or those that must remain moisture-free. Safety precautions outlined in ASTM F2786 are emphasized due to the potential violent nature of failures.

Pneumatic leak testing procedures involve gradually filling the system with gas, disconnecting, examining for leaks, and incrementally increasing pressure until reaching the maximum test pressure.

Other Methods for HDPE Pipes Testing

Testing strategies extend beyond hydrostatic and pneumatic leak tests. Additional methods include:

  • Deflection Testing: Measures HDPE pipe flexibility and its ability to deflect without structural damage in response to stress, ensuring optimal backfill support.
  • Joint Testing: Crucial in gravity sewer systems, it checks for infiltration and exfiltration using air and water testing methods.

Testing HDPE Piping Systems: A Comprehensive Approach

HDPE pipe fittings, pipes, and systems necessitate rigorous field testing during or upon installation to ensure functionality and meet expected lifespans. Proper testing mitigates the risk of expensive repairs and replacements. Additionally, adherence to internationally established manufacturing standards and industry best practices in installation and assembly is paramount for ensuring structurally durable piping systems.

Departments

Subscribe to our newsletter

Copyright © 2023 Zenith Pipes Ltd. Proudly Zambian

Flight Instructor Team

The team
With over 70 years of airline experience, our specialised team can provide you with world renowned quality training ranging from ground training facilitators to flight instructors.
Our training team is led by Captain Glen Warden and Captain Paul Dore who ensure that a seamless and professional training experience is provided to all our clients. Together they lead a dynamic team of highly trained instructors who are all active pilots at the forefront of airline operations.

Our Team of Fight Instructors boasts more than:

60 000 Hours on Boeing 737’s

10 000 Hours of flight training on modern narrow bodied aircraft

70 Years of Airline experience

Captain Paul Dore

External Training Manager
In an industry where hours matter, Paul Dore has more than put in his time. Over the years he has accumulated 18 000 accident-free hours of which 7 000 were on helicopters and 6 000 are as a flight instructor. Aside from experience, Paul has an innate instinct for flight and training that we have come to rely on at Alt. Pilot Training.
Paul has been involved in the Aviation industry since 1975. After starting in the military – a tough and thorough training ground – he progressed through Corporate Aviation industry to the Airlines. He has been actively involved with flying training since 1980 on both fixed wing aircraft and helicopters. He attained Designated Examiner status with the SACAA in 1992.

Captain Glen Warden

Manager of Commercial Operations
Captain Glen Warden, Manager of Commercial Operations, understands first-hand the demands of a career in aviation. In an industry that is high-octane and where the stakes are high, he brings a lifetime of experience, savvy and innovative solutions to the team at Alt. Pilot Training.
Glen has been in the industry for over 40 years, with over 30 years as advanced instructor both in the South African Air Force, and the civilian aviation sector. Having studied at Universities of Stellenbosch Business School, Newport (California), Dallas Fort Worth, he has wide commercial business experience in providing innovative, value-add training solutions.

Talk to us