Air test for drainage pipes

How to Test Drain Pipes Step 1. Clean the end of the pipe that will be tested to remove any dirt or other debris. Connect the hand pump to the hose via the T-piece connector. Squeeze the hand pump to increase the air pressure in the pipe until the level on. Air Test – for single pipes or individual drain runs.

The air pressure test is effective, but it can only be used to test a length of a drain that can be capped at both ends.

Water Drop Test – for complete drainage systems including chambers and gullies. Can a water pressure test be done instead of a drainage air test. A water test can be tested instead of an air test , however the drainage air test will find any leaks more easily and is a better method of finding any leaks. A water drainage test also qualifies for producing a certificate to show that the drains and soil stack is safe use. Pump pounds of air pressure into the pipes.

Watch the pressure gauge on the weenie so you can see when this level is reached. Turn the pump off and watch the gauge for minutes to make sure the pipes are not losing pressure. Walk along the path of the pipes listening for soft hissing sounds to check for slow leaks.

Designed for use when air testing drainage pipes to a standard air test of 100mm of water over air.

Milltest Air test stoppers are very light and easily transporte making them ideal for testing awkward to reach locations. The size of pipe being tested will determine the test parameters. Suitable plugs are inserted at the lower end of the drain or sewer and at the head of any connections. A suitable bend together with a vertical length of pipe is fitted at the head of the sewer or drain to provide the necessary test head. The system then filled with water.

Air - test a system of water pipes by turning off the main shutoff valve and draining the water from the system. After all the water has draine turn off all the faucets. For a new system, place a cap on all the stub-outs connected to the system you are assessing.

For water systems, solder or glue the caps to test the pipes in your system. As for drain vent waste systems, you can simply glue a cap to all the stub-outs with plastic pipe cement. Once the testing is complete, cut the caps off. The air test is relatively more sever on smaller pipe diameters.

Pipe wall dampness affects air test , particularly on smaller diameter pipes and at the low pressure specified. To test the pipeline, fit strutted plugs at each end and pump air until a pressure of 1m head is shown on the U tube. Temperature change can lead to an apparent failure of the air test (particularly if a cold wind is blowing across the pipes). If this is the case a longer stabilisation period may be necessary.

The requirements of the test are that the pipeline is pressurised with air to 100mm of water in a ‘U’ tube (Manometer) connected to the system. The test is performed by sealing and pressurising a discrete length of pipeline with air to support 100mm of water.

Seal off the drain to be tested with the Drain Test Plugs or Bags. Ensure that the inside surface of the pipe is clean and smooth.