What Does
Hydro Testing Mean?
Hydro testing, more formally called hydrostatic testing, is a type of test that is performed on pressure vessels to check for leaks. Hydro testing involves completely filling up a pressure vessel with water and then pressurizing it. Once pressurized, leaks can be detected. Hydro testing can be used to determine if a pressure vessel has the correct mechanical properties.
Corrosionpedia Explains Hydro Testing
Hydro testing is a common test to check for leaks in pressure vessels before being placed into service or during routine checks. Hydro testing is useful because the test itself uses a pressurized liquid to determine whether a leak is present, somewhat replicating what the pressure vessel will actually go through during its service life.
Hydro testing is also used to determine the soundness of the mechanical properties of a pressure vessel. When the water or other liquid is pressurized inside the pressure vessel during a hydro test, the pressure vessel can expand. The pressure vessel is then depressurized, and the amount of permanent deformation is measured. If the permanent deformation is too great for the specification being used, the pressure vessel is not fit for service.
Hydro testing is used for many different types of pressure vessels, including fire extinguishers, gas cylinders, and oil and gas pipelines.