For gas distribution from 5 psi to 15 psi, what is the required test pressure and duration?

For gas distribution from 5 psi to 15 psi, what is the required test pressure and duration?

• A. 3 psi for 30 minutes
• B. 50 psi for 30 minutes
• C. 100 psi for 1 hour
• D. No less than 90 psi

Answer: (C)

When testing gas distribution piping, you need a test that stresses the system well above its normal operating pressure to reveal any leaks or weak joints. For a distribution system that will operate up to 15 psi, the test pressure and duration must provide a reliable leak test over a sufficient time. The best choice is to pressurize the system to 100 psi and hold it for one hour. This combination ensures a meaningful pressure differential to uncover leaks and gives enough time for any slow leaks to show up. Lower pressures or shorter durations aren’t as effective at revealing issues, and stating a pressure without a duration (or using a much lower pressure) wouldn’t guarantee a proper leak test. Thus, 100 psi for 1 hour is the most appropriate test specification for this scenario.

When testing gas distribution piping, you need a test that stresses the system well above its normal operating pressure to reveal any leaks or weak joints. For a distribution system that will operate up to 15 psi, the test pressure and duration must provide a reliable leak test over a sufficient time.

The best choice is to pressurize the system to 100 psi and hold it for one hour. This combination ensures a meaningful pressure differential to uncover leaks and gives enough time for any slow leaks to show up. Lower pressures or shorter durations aren’t as effective at revealing issues, and stating a pressure without a duration (or using a much lower pressure) wouldn’t guarantee a proper leak test. Thus, 100 psi for 1 hour is the most appropriate test specification for this scenario.