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Dr. Jonathan Wylde, Clariant, USA,
looks
at a unique, multi-functional solution for
environmentally-acceptable hydrotesting.
T
owards the end of the construction phase of typical oilfield
processing equipment, or after rehabilitation of an existing
piece of equipment, it is often necessary to test this
equipment for integrity assurance at a pressure above the
designed working pressure. Pressures are typically conducted at 125%
of the planned maximum allowable operating pressure, but may range
from 100 - 150%. The duration of the hydrostatic pressure tests may
vary depending on the system being tested and the relevant codes and
schedules of piping and equipment.
Identifying the cause of corrosion
Pressure testing is typically performed with water (termed hydrostatic
testing). After the pressure test is completed, it is not unusual for the
hydrotest fluid to remain in the tested equipment for an extended
period of time and only disposed of once the equipment is ready
to be put back into service. The fluid used for hydrotesting can be
extremely varied in quality and source. In offshore facilities, seawater
is invariably used. On land, it can be brackish water, river water, lake
A
healthy
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