Pressure Test Methods

Hydrostatic Pressure Testing

A hydrostatic pressure test uses liquid as the medium for applying pressure. During testing, vessels such as pipes, tubing, fuel assemblies, boiler components or fuel tanks are filled with water (or another specified liquid). The component is pressurized to a certain level for a specific amount of time, based on customer or industry requirements. Acceptance of the test is based on the ability of the material under test to hold the specified pressure without deformation of the material or leakage. 

Depth Testing and Submerge Testing

These methods are performed to determine how a product will react underwater, or while under external pressure.

Pneumatic Pressure Testing

Unlike the hydrostatic pressure test, pneumatic pressure testing is performed using air pressure, and is often used to find leaks in sealing systems, ductworks, or ventilation pipes. Using a pressure gauge, pneumatic testing assesses individual components and complete systems to isolate failures and determine pressure rating. 

Proof Pressure Testing 

Also known as the modified hydrostatic test, proof pressure testing uses liquid to apply a force above a product’s intended operating pressure. The results of the test determine whether the product can withstand the stress without permanent damage. 

Ultimate Pressure Testing

Ultimate pressure testing is performed to determine the maximum pressure level that a component can withstand before failure.  Our experts can help you determine safe operating levels for your equipment, helping to prevent catastrophic issues in the field.

Burst Pressure Test

This test increases the pressure applied to the test item until a physical failure occurs. 

Cyclic pressure testing applies liquid or air pressure at a cyclical rate, which is typically a specified amount of time on and time off. Cyclic pressure tests help to determine a product’s susceptibility to fatigue failure when in use. We can reach pressure ramp rates of up to 200,000 PSI per second.

Load Testing

Mostly used for building products (link to Building Panel Load Testing), load tests apply force to a product to determine its ability to withstand various environmental factors. Element offers a number of load tests, including Racking Shear, Axial Load, Transverse Load, Diaphragmatic and Long-Term Transverse Load.