Test Pressure for Lines

The process designer also needs to designate the

hydraulic test pressures for each line. This testing is performed
after construction is essentially complete and
often is conducted by testing sections of pipe systems,
blanking off parts of the pipe or equipment, if necessary.
Extreme care must be taken to avoid over pressuring any
portion of pipe not suitable for a specific pressure, as well
as extending test pressure through equipment not
designed for that level. Vacuum systems must always be
designed for full vacuum, regardless of the actual internal
process absolute vacuum expected. This absolute zero
design basis will prevent the collapse of pipe and equipment
should internal conditions vary. Some line design
systems include the test pressure in the line code, but this
often becomes too unwieldly for drafting purposes.
The usual complete line designation contains the following:
(1) line size (nominal); (2) material code; (3)
sequence number; and (4) materials of construction.