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Example Pipeline Leakage Test Report
Petrospection are NATA accredited to perform pressure tests of pipelines in accordance with Australia Standard AS2885.5, Pipelines - Gas and Liquid Petroleum, Part 5: Field Pressure Testing. This standard incorporates a strength and leakage test, which may be performed concurrently if the conditions allow, or as separate tests.
Petrospection specialise in testing pipelines located in storage terminals and along jetties and wharfs, with end point test pressures of 3,000 kPa or less.
Petrospection will also perform routine operational "pipeline pressure tests" in accordance with the client's internal procedures.
Testing can be performed using either water or another suitable fluid having a flash point less than 61 degrees Celsius.
A Strength Test to AS2885.5 involves pressurising a pipeline to 1.25 times MAOP (maximum Allowable Operating Pressure) and maintaining the pressure within 1 percent over two hours.
A Leakage Test to AS2885.5 of a fully unrestrained (exposed) pipeline involves pressurising the pipeline to 1.1 times MAOP and visually inspecting the pipeline for leakage over three hours, or perhaps longer if flanged joints are involved.
A Leakage Test of a restrained (buried) pipeline is more involved, where the temperature/pressure relationship of the pipeline is monitored over 24 hours for compliance with the allowable variation stipulated by AS2885.5. The pipeline is prepared for the leakage test by packing the pipeline with testing fluid, allowing sufficient time for the fluid to reach equilibrium and isolating the pipeline and associated fittings. Pressure and temperature monitoring equipment is fitted to various points along the pipeline and a residual air test is conducted. The residual air test is important because an excessive quantity of residual air may mask the detection of any leaks that may be present in the pipeline.
Provided the residual air content is within acceptable limits the pipeline is then pressurised to a minimum of 1.1 times the MAOP. The pipeline pressure and temperature and ambient temperature relationships are then monitored over 24 hours to identify any gross leakage that may be identified by a non correlation of these values. If leakage is identified from pipe fittings then it is rectified and the test is restarted.
At the completion of the 24 hour test, calculations involving the temperature and pressure variations and the pipeline construction data will determine whether the unaccountable liquid variation is within the limits prescibed by AS2885.5 and whether the pipeline is considered acceptable in regards to leakage. The affect of residual air on the detection of leakage is also reassessed at this stage, particularly if the pipeline pressure is less than 2000 kPa.
Petrospection are able to perform all aspects of the pressure test from pipeline preparation through to reporting, depending on client requirements. All testing equipment is provided by Petrospection and is calibrated/certified to national standards.
Petrospection are also NATA certified for tank calibration, tank settlement and roundness survey and the hydrostatic testing of hoses.
Example Pipeline Leakage Test Report