Hydrostatic Testing

Hydrostatic testing is a nondestructive test required by the Department of Transportation to insure the integrity of pressurized cylinders. These include everything from small fire extinguishers, to Self Contained Breathing Apparatuses (SCBA) used by fire departments, to CO2 cylinders used for soft drinks, to Nitros cylinders used for race cars and SCUBA tanks used by divers.

At Auto-Tech, we find that regular thorough inspections of pressurized cylinders not only makes for a safer workplace, but also helps to provide a long life span for the cylinders. The cylinders are visually inspected from the inside for stress cracks and rust and then are put under pressures of over 66% higher than their normal working pressure, insuring a safe work environment for you and your employees.

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION REQUIREMENTS

Here are a few tips to help you keep your pressurized cylinders in top shape.

• Hydrostatic testing for different types of cylinders is required at different intervals. Many types of tanks require testing once every five years, others require testing once every three years. Call us at (330) 762-3343 for more information on your specific type of cylinder.
• High pressure, fiber wrapped aluminum cylinders, such as those used by fire fighters must be tested every three years and must be decommissioned after 15 years.
• Additional information can be found in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 49, under "transportation".

Do you need your cylinders tested? Call or send us your information and one of our fire protection specialists will call you back within one business day to set up an appointment.

How long of a life span can well maintained cylinder have? (click a letter): A. No longer than 10 years B. 15 to 20 years C. 25 to 35 years D. 40 to 50 years or more