ASME B31.3 hydrotest and/or leak test requirement

[engr2GW]

Hello,

For low pressure systems, i.e. Class 150 or less pressure rating, is hydro test required? can a leak test be used instead?
In oil and gas tank batteries, most hydrotest are done on medium to higher pressure systems, like CL 600. I have seen a lot of operators simply ignore the lower pressure areas or just use the process or production (during commissioning) to leak test the system.

As much as possible, do it right the first time...

 

[jmec87]

Per B31.3 345.1, an initial service leak test is only an option for Category D fluid service (at the owner's option).

 

[LittleInch]

Is a hydro test required - generally Yes - Pressure class is irrelevant.

As said above only Cat D fluids are exempt
Note that in the definition below ALL of the items need to apply....
Definition of category D is:

(a) Category D Fluid Service: a fluid service in which all
of the following apply:
(1) the fluid handled is nonflammable, nontoxic, and
not damaging to human tissues as defined in para. 300.2
(2) the design gage pressure does not exceed 1 035
kPa (150 psi)
(3) the design temperature is not greater than 186°C
(366°F)
(4) the fluid temperature caused by anything other
than atmospheric conditions is not less than −29°C
(−20°F)

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