Maximum safe water pressure for testing

[Optimustang]

Hi,

We test water jacket cavity in our compressor cylinder heads for
their water holding capacity. We put in a water pressure of 150psi. I want to know, What is the maximum water pressure I can put and be able to stand safely next to it (while testing). In other works what is the maximum safe water pressure for testing purposes. Do you know OSHA standards?
Thanks in advance.

I can provide details if necessary.

RJ

 

[fegenbush]

This questions is highly dependent on the vessel design, configuration and likely failure methods.

That being said, power plants are routinely hydro tested to 3000 psi. I don't hear OSHA having seizures over that...

 

[metengr]

If this is a pressure test looking for leaks, no problems with 150 psi provided water temperature is below 120 deg F, and you are below maximum operating pressure.

 

[EdStainless]

If you deaireate the water and make sure that all air is removed from the space being tested then the risk is minimal. I have stood next to units that were hydro tested to failure at 5,000 psi.
But if there is any air trapped then you have a bomb.

= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Plymouth Tube

 

[lganga]

YOU CAN LOOK AT THE DESIGN CONDITION FOR THE WATER COOLIMG SYSTEM

 

[Optimustang]

Thanks fegenbush, metengr, EdStainless and lganga.

Based on what you guys said, I am confident that 150psi of water is harmless for the kind of testing we do. Now, I just have to convince our safety guy... now that will be a pain.

 

[moltenmetal]

Eliminating trapped air is the critical factor, to both the safety and the usefulness of the test.

 

[zzzjim]

A Fluid is incompressible , it has no urge to expand .

Any trapped air should delay pressure increase seen on monitoring equipment , Operator needs to be aware of Normal behavior , and possible danger when not normal !

Any air , will act like a spring , an unwanted effect .

Air present will delay pressure increase adding water ,
delay pressure drop as water is bled out .

Messy practical demonstration ,
party balloon , confetti ,air/water !