Pressure Testing & Leak Testing (Maritime) Training

Section 1: Introduction to Pressure and Leak Testing (5 minutes)

This section will introduce the learner to the course and will emphasise the importance of leak testing of disturbed joints on normally pressurised systems prior to returning to service.

• Define what is meant by a leak test

• Define what is meant by a pressure test

• Outline the role of the leak tester and the general requirements for leak/pressure testing

• Identify examples of systems that require to be pressure or leak tested

• Give an overview of the dangers of nitrogen and working in oxygen deficient atmospheres

Section 2: Leak Testing and Pressure Testing Methods and Associated Hazards (10 minutes)

This section will discuss the various methods of leak testing, and pressure testing of vessels and pipework, and will also consider the hazards associated with hydrostatic and pneumatic testing.

• Explain proof testing and strength testing of pressure vessels and pipework

• Identify examples of the various methods of pressure/leak testing

• Explain the differences and risks using water as a test medium compared to using pressurised inert gas

Section 3: Preparing a Leak Test (15 Minutes)

This section will provide information on planning a leak test, the use of the ship’s piping drawings, valve line-up checklists and task risk assessment.

• Give an overview of flange tags and disturbed flange management

• Outline how to plan a leak test

• Explain how to use the ship’s piping drawings for planning purposes

• Explain how to use valve line-up checklists

• Explain the use of task risk assessments prior to leak testing

Section 4: Carrying out a Leak Test (15 minutes)

This section will discuss the practicalities of leak testing on site, the safety precautions required, and how pressure is applied incrementally.

• Identify the equipment required for leak testing

• Explain the use of helium as a trace gas

• Describe how to use the HeliTest unit

• Describe the operation of an intensifier pump

Section 5: Test Pressure and Test Documentation (15 minutes)

This section will consider test pressures and how these are controlled below design pressure, in addition to discussing the compilation of test documentation prior to handover to normal operations.

• Describe line specifications and their use in identifying design pressures

• Identify PSV ratings

• Identify examples of test documentation

Section 6: Accumulator Charging

• Explain the role of hydraulic accumulators

End of course assessment with a % pass mark.

• Internet access - users will need a device with a web browser and internet connection

• System - runs on computers, tablets and mobile devices using Windows 7 and above and MAC OS devices running IOS 11 and above

• Browsers - Edge, Chrome, Firefox and Safari

• Minimum browser size - none

• Audio - requires device speaker or headphones