Pressure Testing Procedures Flashcards
7 cards from real API 510 practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Pressure Testing Procedures flashcards as text
Under what condition may an API 510 inspector waive a pressure test entirely for a vessel that has undergone major repair?
Answer: Only with documented engineering analysis demonstrating continued fitness-for-service without testing
A major repair waiver requires documented engineering justification confirming the vessel remains fit-for-service without a pressure test.
If a hydrostatic test reveals a leak at a threaded connection, the correct action before retesting is to:
Answer: Apply thread sealant and retighten the connection, then retest
Minor threaded connection leaks can be corrected by applying appropriate sealant and retightening before conducting a new test.
API 510 requires that the results of each pressure test be documented. Which of the following must be recorded as a minimum?
Answer: Test pressure, test medium, hold time, temperature, and test result (pass/fail)
Complete pressure test records per API 510 must include the test pressure, medium, hold time, temperature, and the outcome of the test.
When a vessel has an internal lining, such as a refractory or rubber lining, how does this affect pressure testing requirements?
Answer: The lining must be inspected and its condition considered before the test to avoid damage from test pressure
Internal linings can be damaged by pressure testing if they are unbonded or cracked, so their condition must be evaluated before a test is performed.
For pressure vessels in lethal service, what additional requirement applies to pressure testing compared to non-lethal service vessels?
Answer: Full radiographic examination of all pressure joints is required in addition to the pressure test
Vessels in lethal service require full radiography of all pressure joints per ASME Section VIII Division 1, providing additional assurance beyond pressure testing alone.
When using a pressure-measuring system during a test, API 510 recommends that gauge calibration be verified within how long before the test?
Answer: Within a recent, documented calibration period appropriate to the owner's quality program, typically within one year
Gauges must be within their current calibration cycle per the owner's QA program; a one-year interval is typical practice in the industry.
What is the significance of the term 'test pressure at the top of the vessel' versus 'test pressure at the pump' during a hydrostatic test?
Answer: The pressure at the top of the vessel is lower due to the hydrostatic head of fluid, so the pump must develop higher pressure to achieve the required test pressure at the top
The hydrostatic head of water in a tall vessel reduces pressure at the top relative to the pump, so the pump pressure must compensate to achieve the required test pressure at the vessel's highest point.