Hydrostatic Test Pumps Basic Information from Yangcrystal's blog

These hydrostatic test pumps also known as hydrostatic line testers ensure that the pipes used for transferring water and other fluids or gases are safe to use. They will detect a leak no matter how small it may be. They are also used on newly installed pipes to ensure they are safe and connected well.

Hydrostatic test pumps are also used to check old systems and repair pipes. Using these pumps is the fastest and most reliable way to check for leakage in any pipe system. They are durable and very dependable.

To protect the life of your pump you need to make sure that you choose the correct test pump for the job at hand. Make sure that it is installed correctly. You can use the system layout and pump applications to ensure you are using the correct system and installing it properly. Always use proper maintenance procedures to keep your test pump in perfect working condition.

Using Hydrostatic Test Pumps

Hydrostatic testing is done to see if pipes have any leakage. The way it works is by first pumping water into a closed pipeline. Once the system is shut and locked you can test for any leakage in the pipeline.

Many pumps are Honda-powered and have been pre-tested and serviced to make sure they are ready to be used. These models' diaphragm and crankcase have a unique design called “oil bath” to keep the smooth operation of the crankcase. Diaphragm pumps are very durable and resistant to various chemicals can cleaning solutions.

Hydrostatic Test Pumps Designs

Hydrostatic test pumps are built for convenience to make your job as easy as possible. Many of these pumps have rear-facing controls that make it easy for you to reach and use them. The value that gives you access to the discharge hose or the high-pressure hose is located on the side of the pump.

Hydrostatic test pumps are normally installed on frames that are steady and built to last. They are made from aircraft aluminum or powder-coated tubing that is lightweight to make it easier to handle. Aircraft type of aluminum is not only durable but it is also resistant to chemicals and rust. Most models even have pneumatic wheels to make maneuvering easier. Other features include a garden hose inlet and shut-off valve.

Many of these pumps are designed with a damper diaphragm that prevents busting and a bypass valve that relieves pressure during the start-up process. They are even designed to be run dry if necessary.

Most hydrostatic test pumps rely on piston- or plunger-type pumps that work best with pressurized water supplies. In order to use them with a non-pressurized water source, starting a gravity feed—essentially, using gravity as the pressure source needed to flow water into the pump—is typically enough to create positive flow. Simply place the pump at a lower elevation than the container holding the supply of water, turn it on with the priming valve open, and let gravity do its work.

In newer models, the pump is often attached directly to the face of the motor—eliminating the shaft common in older machines. This improvement leads to fewer moving parts, less maintenance, and lower overall weight.

Hydrostatic test pump motors generally rely on three main power sources: battery power, plug-in electric, and gas. Motor size, or horsepower, is determined by the amount of pressure and volume required.

Here’s a word to the wise: For plug-in electric and battery-powered pumps, don’t forget to check whether the power source meets the motor’s electrical requirements. That includes any voltage, phase, hertz, and amperage requirements noted by the manufacturer. It’s also important to check whether the pump’s parts have enough oil and any other needed fluids before testing begins, including the engine crankcase, gear reduction, and gas tanks.

Fire protection systems—especially small ones—can pressurize very quickly. To avoid damage, some pumps, such as Triple R’s HT-89A, include pressure regulators that keep pressure in check without minute-by-minute monitoring.

Regulators can be preset to close off the water supply after detecting that the outlet pressure has hit a specific number. A full-flow bypass then diverts water directed at the outlet hose back into the pump itself.

But while pressure regulators are a useful fail-safe that enables contractors to focus on more important tasks than continuously monitoring system pressure, it’s still wise to check in on the pump. Friction from recirculation causes water to become increasingly hot, which can damage the pump if the regulator runs for too long. What counts as too long can vary from a few minutes to an hour, so be sure to check your manufacturer’s recommendations before performing a test.

On a related note, hydrostatic test pumps generally employ two methods of maintaining system pressure after the supply line or outlet hose is disconnected. Some pumps close off the pressure using a manually operated valve that’s situated at the supply line. Others rely on an in-line check valve that activates automatically when water flows in the wrong direction, as happens when a pump shuts off.

Hydrostatic test pumps include a gauge that indicates the pressure supplied to the system. Read this carefully: that’s different from system pressure, which is measured by a separate gauge.

A test pump’s gauge must be capable of reading up to two times the maximum pump pressure. Put simply, if the pump is rated for 300 psi, the gauge must be able to read at least 600 psi. Generally, the middle of the scale on the gauge offers the most accurate readings.

Vibration is the leading cause of gauge failure. Just like any other pump, moving components on hydrostatic test pumps pulse, vibrate, and generate heat when used as intended. Over time, these forces can damage a gauge’s sensitive parts like links and pivots. Eventually, permanent damage and inaccurate readings can result.

The best hydrostatic pumps rely on a gauge filled with a liquid such as silicone or glycerin that help stabilize its needle. Liquid-filled gauges also limit the build-up of condensation, lubricate moving parts, and guard against sudden changes in temperature.