ASME Hydrotest Pressure

ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section 8, Division1, Hydrotesting - see Section
UG-99
Typical hydrotest pressure is 1.3x design pressure (read the code for variations due to
temperature and "tall" vessels where water pressure will be significant).

A few years ago, the hydrotest pressure multiplier was 1.5x. ASME has relaxed the the
multiplier in recent years.

A good specification entry for hydrotesting:

HYDROSTATIC TESTING

1.0 Hydrostatic pressure testing shall be carried out in accordance with the requirements
of ASME Sec. VIII Division 1 Paragraph UG-99.

1.1 Hydrostatic testing shall be carried out on the vessel before it is externally painted.

1.2.1 Hydrostatic tests shall be held at full test pressure for a minimum duration of 1
hour and shall be recorded on an approved, certified chart recorder and should be
witnessed by the Company's inspector in addition to the regulatory body inspector.

1.2.2 Fresh tap water at a temperature between 20C (68F) and 49C (120F) may be
used for testing vessels except where internals are austenitic S.S. at which time the water
used must be de-chlorinated to contain less than 1 ppm chloride.

1.2.3 After hydrotesting, all vessels shall be drained and dried completely. Heating and
air circulation may be employed for drying initially but where access is available the
vessel shall be opened and all internals thoroughly dried and cleaned.

1.2.4 After cleaning the vessel shall again be sealed against moisture and dirt ingress.

1.3.1 Reinforcing pads and similar attachments shall be tested with 350 kPa (50 psi) air,
or at a reasonable pressure consistent with the vessel design, and all welds shall be leak
tested.

1.3.2 Test holes on reinforcing pads shall be suitably protected against water ingress with
heavy grease or other soft material.