What is the typical pressure recommended for pressure testing repaired pipes?

The typical pressure recommended for pressure testing repaired pipes is generally set at 1.5 times the operating pressure. This standard is established to ensure the integrity and reliability of the repaired section of the pipe.

By testing at this level, it provides a sufficient safety margin to account for any potential issues that may not be visible during a visual inspection. It helps in identifying weaknesses in the repair that could lead to failure under normal operating conditions. This testing protocol strikes a balance between ensuring thorough testing without placing undue stress on the pipe, which could lead to further damage or misdiagnosis of its condition.

Moreover, testing at a pressure significantly above the operating pressure may not be practical or safe, and maintaining the same pressure as the operating pressure would not effectively test the repair for durability and resilience. Therefore, using 1.5 times the operating pressure is an accepted practice for ensuring that any repairs made to distribution pipes are robust and capable of handling the stresses they will encounter in service.