Yara Trinidad Ltd

INSPECTION DEPARTMENT
RECOMMENDED GUIDELINES FOR HYDRO TESTING OF HEAT EXCHANGERS
1. Before any exchanger is subjected to Hydro Testing, the following information must be known:
a. Equipment number & description
b. Component being testing i.e. Shell, Tube or Floating Head
c. Pre-approved test pressures
2. The unit to be tested shall have sufficient high point vents to allow for proper bleeding off of
any trapped air pockets whilst being filled.
3. Any safety valve that is attached to the component that has its relief setting lower than the
intended test pressure should be temporarily removed.
4. Any other components such as gauge glasses, pressure gauges and rupture disks incapable
of withstanding the test pressure intended should also be temporarily removed.
5. The test equipment being used and its components should be rated for the test pressure
being applied and all low pressure filling lines should be disconnected before the start.
6. The pressure gauge used for the test shall be readily visible to the operator controlling the
pressure test.
7. The pressure gauge to be used should be off dial indicating type measuring in pounds per
square inch (psi) and should be graduated no more than 3 times the intended test pressure
and not less than 1 times.
8. All pressure gauges used should have a valid calibration certificate and/or a stamp.
9. The testing medium should be clean water; in the case where power boilers are tested the
testing medium should be deminerarlized water.
10. The test temperature of the water should be at ambient but no less than 50deg F (or 30 deg F
above the minimum design metal temperature) and no more than 120 deg F.
11. The test pressure should be brought up in increments of 50 psi or a rate to be determined by
the Inspector and maintenance personnel.
12. The duration of the test shall be 30 minutes and should be witnessed by a Yara Inspector
or designate.
13. If leaks occur during the pressure up stage before reaching the test value, the hydrotest
should stop and all leaks repaired before continuing.
14. Small leakage may be tolerated on temporary test closures, but not as much to restrict the
test pressure from being achieved.
15. Once the test has been successful, the test certificate should be completed and signed off by
both the Inspector and the relevant Maintenance personnel and the test water drained.
Any further requirements shall be subject to ASME Pressure Vessel Code and Yara internal standards.

Version 1, RB