Have you tested your pipework yet?

When completing a new building, every aspect of the infrastructure must be checked to ensure it is working. Handing over a building when the piping doesn't function correctly could be disastrous. After working on piping, either on an installation in a new building or repairing an existing pipework installation, you must test the piping to check that no problems are lurking in the system. The best way to examine whether the pipework is acting correctly and meets the requirements of the appropriate regulations is to use pipe test equipment.

How is pipe test equipment used?

There are several ways that piping can be tested. One of the most effective methods involves using test plugs to engage in low-pressure testing. You could choose either centre-locking test plugs or rim-fastening test plugs. Both types of test plugs will make satisfactory pipe test equipment, whether they are made from steel, aluminium or nylon. Exactly how the pipe testing will be done depends on how the pipework is being used. Two popular ways of using pipe test equipment are the water test and the air test. The water test is straightforward. You must use test plugs to plug the pipe under test and any related pipe branches. You must check the water level at the start of the test and leave the pipe for a few hours. When you return to the pipe, you must see whether the water level has remained the same or whether there is a leak that has caused the level to drop. The air test is similar to the water test, except that you can check the pipe for leaks immediately.

Is there any other pipe test equipment?

Test plugs are the most widely used type of pipe test equipment, but many other items could be useful, depending on what you want to check. If you are having trouble locating the source of an air leak, why not introduce some smoke pellets into the system to make the leak easier to spot? For pipework carrying water, drain tracing dyes can serve a similar purpose. For pressure testing, an inflator pump could make your job much easier. Whatever pipe test equipment you need, your local supplier should be able to source it for you. If you have a problem that you are unsure how to tackle, talk to your supplier. They may have the type of pipe test equipment that you need.