UFC 4-390-01
23 July 2003
C.1.2.6 Joint Tightness Test. A joint tightness test subjects
mechanically joined pressure containing boundaries of pipe and
piping components to an internal pressure equal to 100% of
maximum operating pressure. It is used after joint assembly to
help identify leakage in mechanically joined pipe and piping
components. Unless otherwise specified, test pressure tolerance
should be maintained within + or - 3% (but no greater than 100
psig) of the specified test pressure. The duration for the joint
tightness test is to be not less than 15 minutes (not less than 5
minutes if the test is conducted in a shop or a bench test) soak
time plus sufficient time for inspection. All joints, when
possible, should be checked for leakage using a leak detection
solution. A sonic leak detector may be used in conjunction with
the leak detection solution to help find leaks. System fluid is
the preferred test medium for joint tightness testing, however,
Requests for other fluid substitutions should be directed to the
SCA.
C.1.2.6.1 Acceptance Criteria. Acceptance criteria for joint
tightness testing of all systems, except those tested with helium
or hydrogen, should be zero leakage. For systems using helium or
hydrogen as the test medium, the acceptance criteria should be
zero leakage except at valve stem seals where a leakage rate of
0.6cc/min for each stem seal is permitted. This is identified by
only small bubbles forming in the solution like foam but no
bubbles large enough to be identified as an individual bubble
with the naked eye.
C.1.2.6.2
Joint Tightness Test Instructions (FIG C.5).
Block (1) Enter the name of the command at which the work is
being performed.
Block (2) Enter the REC number that this test is associated with.
Block (3) Enter the system or component that is being tested.
Block (4) Enter a short description of the item being tested.
Block (5) Enter the required test pressure (100% of operational
pressure).
Block (6) Enter the time the test was started and the time the
test was completed.
Block (7) The facility Manager (or designated representative)
should review the REC including the proposed test.
Signature in this block allows testing to begin.
Block (8) Enter the joint numbers tested. Joint numbers may be
assigned at the time of the test by including a sketch
identifying the location and orientation of each joint.
Block (9) Enter the results of each joint test (sat or unsat).
If a joint is unsatisfactory it must be repaired and
103
Previous Page
