Will the new heat exchanger be pressure-tested?
Thread Content
For a newly installed unit, shouldn’t the heat exchanger first be pressure-tested before insulation is applied? For the new units we have here, I noticed that many of the heat exchangers are insulated; although the bolts on the end caps are still exposed, it’s not possible to detect any leaks during pressure testing of the tube side. Solve
The principle is to conduct pressure testing first; it depends on the requirements at the site. Since the equipment has already been tested for pressure before being shipped, and no disassembly takes place upon arrival at the site, in cases where time is tight, pressure testing may not be carried out.
It depends on the requirements of the manufacturer. If the manufacturer requires pressure testing, then it should be carried out; if not, it may be omitted. Pressure testing is mandatory for heat exchangers before they leave the factory.
Heat exchangers must pass pressure testing before leaving the manufacturer’s facility, but after installation they need to be tested together with the pipelines; if insulation has been applied to the heat exchanger, it should already have been tested.
The equipment is pressure-tested before leaving the factory, and relevant documents are provided; of course, it’s better to conduct another test upon arrival.
The installation company will not take the initiative to request a pressure test. It is recommended to conduct pressure testing on each individual device upon arrival. System pressure testing is not very reliable. Although pressure testing should be carried out on equipment before it leaves the factory, I personally believe that pressure testing after installation is also very necessary.
The new heat exchanger should also be pressure-tested after installation. Because although pressure testing is carried out at the time of manufacture, damage to the sealing surfaces can still occur during transportation, installation, and other processes due to impacts and similar factors; therefore, pressure testing is recommended.
Generally, separate pressure testing is not carried out on-site; it can be done along with the system’s pressure testing, and there will be no problems. Of course, if damage occurs during transportation, it is better to send it back to the factory for repair.
At the manufacturing plant, a pressure test must be conducted and passed before the product can leave the factory. Upon arrival at the site, another pressure test is required, and only after it passes can insulation work be carried out. It’s something that your on-site equipment installation engineers should know.
Moderator, please explain why you don’t agree with my view? Let’s discuss it.
Pressure testing must be carried out before leaving the factory; the situation on site will determine further actions. It is generally best to conduct another pressure test upon arrival at the construction site as well. Sometimes projects take longer; there is a delay between the completion of equipment manufacturing and its arrival at the construction site, and accidents such as collisions may occur during transportation. It is recommended to conduct another pressure test before installing the equipment at the site.