Pressure testing

[Nessieburger]

We have a large pressure testing programme coming up in 2013 - 2014. The site that i work at is not the most organised and they still have not put a pressure test organisation in place.
At a meeting while discussing the issue of the pressure test, it was suggested that the tests are done without removing vessel internals.

Is there any text within API that states that internal fittings should be removed prior to a pressure test? I have not found anything so far that specifically tells you to remove internals before doing the test. I have checked through API 510, 572. I have also looked through ASME VIII and as it's the construction code it makes no mention of internals. Leaving in internal fitting (to me) is a place for air pockets to accumulate so should be removed am i right?

P.S there is no way round it the tests need to be done as per the Country’s legislation.

 

[Duwe6]

Internals that are not part of the strength calc's are irrelevant. Neither API nor ASME require that they be installed, or left out, during a hydro.

 

[pennpiper]

Nessieburger, this is an interesting statement:
"P.S there is no way round it the tests need to be done as per the Country's legislation."

You left out important information that you (we) would need in order to resolve this problem.
a). What Country is this?
b). Is this requirement in writing?
c). Do you have a copy of this requirement in front of you and can you give us the exact wording?
d). Does it say that only the piping is be Hydro-tested or does it say that both the piping AND the vessels must be hydro-tested together?
e). Were the vessels Shop hydro-tested?
f). Have you asked (the vessel vendor) and confirmed that hydro-testing will not damage the vessel internals?
g). if the internals would be damaged by hydro-testing and the vessels have been Shop hydro-tested can the vessel be isolated at all nozzles by Block valves or Spec Blinds?