Fire
Extinguisher
Maintenance

NY and NJ's #1 Hydrostatic Testing Company

Hydrostatic Testing Services We Provide:

All fire extinguishers require 5-year hydrostatic testing according to the National Fire Protection Association.

5 Year Hydrostatic Test Low Pressure for Dry Chemical, Class K, Pressured Water, and Water Mist Fire Extinguishers
5 Year Hydrostatic Test High Pressure for CO2 fire extinguishers
3 1/2″ X 2 1/4″ Hydrostatic Test Labels

Our Services Related to Hydrostatic Testing

What is hydrostatic testing?

A hydrostatic test always begins with an internal and external examination of the extinguisher as described in the maintenance section of fire extinguisher label.

The extinguisher then has many of its components removed so it is stripped down to the shell and hose and is filled with water at a certain pressure for a certain time.

The extinguisher must then be completely dried to get rid of all of the water and is then reassembled and recharged.

So what happens when a hydrostatic test fails?

If there is any leakage, distortion or permanent moving of couplings, the cylinder fails the hydrostatic test and it must be condemned.

It is extremely important to hire qualified technicians to perform the hydrostatic testing, because it can be dangerous if performed incorrectly.

The hydrostatic testing procedure requires training, certification by the local jurisdiction, and the proper facility/equipment to perform the testing.

HYDROSTATIC TEST LABELS

What are hydrostatic test labels and are they necessary?

According to the NFPA:

For low pressure cylinders a label is required to be attached to the extinguisher. It needs to contain:

The name of the person conducting the test
The date of the test
The pressure at which the test was performed

For high pressure cylinders the testers identification number and the date must be stamped onto the shoulder, top, head, neck or foot ring.

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Hydrostatic Testing Procedure on Low-Pressure Cylinders

These low-pressure cylinders include ABC Dry Chemical, BC Dry Chemical, Water Mist, Pressured Water, and Class K.

Note: What is the requirement for the hydrostatic test? A Hydrostatic Test is to verify the strength against unwanted rupture.

i. De pressurize and discharge Extinguisher and extinguishing agent
ii. Remove Valve and internal parts (if applicable)
iii. Examine and replace if any damage or thread wear is evident on internal parts.
iv. Visually Inspect the internal and external of the extinguisher for any cracks, corrosion, or other defects per NFPA 10 2018 Edition Section 8.4.2
v. Attach fire extinguisher valve opening to test equipment (bonnet/adapter, gauge, testing cage, etc)
vi. Fill extinguisher with water and pressurize to manufacture’s stated testing pressure
vii. The pressure in a hydrostatic test of a cylinder shall be maintained for a minimum of 30 seconds, but for a time not less than is required for complete expansion of the cylinder and to complete the visual examination of the cylinder

Any distortion of the cylinder shall be cause for rejection.
A drop in pressure of the test gauge, which is an indication of a leak, shall be cause for rejection or retest

viii. Once hydrostatic testing is complete, affix maintenance labels on fire extinguisher
ix. Cylinders passing the hydrostatic test shall be thoroughly dried internally before being returned to service. If heated air is used to dry the cylinders, the temperature shall not exceed 150°F (66°C) inside the shell.
x. Refill extinguisher with proper extinguishing agent
xi. Reassemble valve and internal parts
xii. Recharge extinguisher with nitrogen gas
xiii. Insert pull pin and tamper seals
xiv. Place new inspection tag on fire extinguisher

Additional FAQs on Hydrostatic Testing

Is hydrostatic testing the same as pressure testing?

Hydrostatic testing and pressure testing are not the same. While hydrostatic testing involves filling a vessel with water, pressure testing can be done using various mediums.

Hydrostatic testing specifically focuses on evaluating the structural integrity of a vessel under water pressure. Pressure testing, on the other hand, encompasses a broader range of tests that evaluate the performance and safety of a vessel under different pressure conditions.

What is the requirement for hydrostatic testing?

A hydrostatic test is a procedure used to check the integrity and strength of pressure vessels, pipes, and other equipment that will be subjected to fluid pressure. This test involves filling the equipment with water or another suitable test medium and pressurizing it to a specified level.

The requirement for a hydrostatic test is to ensure that the equipment can withstand the designed operating pressure and to detect any potential leaks or weaknesses.

It is important for general audiences and consumers to understand this requirement for the safe operation and maintenance of such equipment.

How long does hydrostatic testing take?

Hydrostatic testing is a method used to evaluate the strength and integrity of a vessel or pipeline by subjecting it to high-pressure water.

The duration of hydrostatic testing can vary depending on the size and complexity of the system being tested, but typically it takes a few hours to a few days to complete. It is an important process to ensure safety and compliance with industry standards.