Test medium for Gas PSV`s. N2 or Air?
Test medium for Gas PSV`s. N2 or Air?
(OP)
Hi there
I have a question about testing of PSV`s
Right now, we use N2 as test medium on the test stand. But we are about to rebuild it, and use compressed air (Not O2!) due to the location of the test stand and dangers of suffication.
I`ve heared some engineer`s concerned about the explotion hazzard if we use air instead of N2.
Is this an issue, or maybe he`s thinking of compressed oxygen?
Currently we are limited to 60 Barg when testing on gas. If we are testing any gas valves above 60 Barg, we have to use hydro testing.
Acording to API 527 and API 576, its stated we shold use Air or N2.
So my question is, have anyone ever heard of any accidents related to the use of comressed air?
I have a question about testing of PSV`s
Right now, we use N2 as test medium on the test stand. But we are about to rebuild it, and use compressed air (Not O2!) due to the location of the test stand and dangers of suffication.
I`ve heared some engineer`s concerned about the explotion hazzard if we use air instead of N2.
Is this an issue, or maybe he`s thinking of compressed oxygen?
Currently we are limited to 60 Barg when testing on gas. If we are testing any gas valves above 60 Barg, we have to use hydro testing.
Acording to API 527 and API 576, its stated we shold use Air or N2.
So my question is, have anyone ever heard of any accidents related to the use of comressed air?





RE: Test medium for Gas PSV`s. N2 or Air?
His concern may be a breach of containment because of the pressure used. (As is the concern for any pressure test)
The use of any gas, (air or N2) will have almost the same compressed energy when pressurised and poses the same risks, in that regard.
Proper inspection of your equipment and safe testing practices mitigates against accidents.
RE: Test medium for Gas PSV`s. N2 or Air?