Pressure Testing Pipework up to 6 Psi with Inflatable Stoppers
Vessels such as pipelines, gas cylinders and fuel tanks are often pressure tested for strength and leaks.
A range of standard and non-standard Inflatable Stoppers for tanks, chambers, tubes, pipes, pipework fabrications and ductwork is available from the Pipestoppers® Division of Huntingdon Fusion Techniques HFT®.
Ron Sewell, Chairman for HFT® said: “Our range of Inflatable Stoppers can be used for carrying out pressure tests as an alternative to mechanical test plugs.”
“Depending on the size plug, these Inflatable Stoppers have an inflation pressure of up to 10 Psi (680 mb) and will hold a back pressure of 400 mbar (5.8 Psi).”
“Along with pressure testing, these versatile Inflatable Stoppers can also be used for sealing gas, water, oil and sewerage pipes made of any material, with Heat Resistant Covers available to protect them against high temperatures. We also have a range of specialized rubber Inflatable Stoppers that are suitable for petrochemical applications and are resistant to all hydrocarbon fluids and gases.”
The range of Inflatable Stoppers can be used as “overnight stoppers” to provide a strong barrier in pipeline activities, to prevent foreign bodies entering the line during downtime.
In machining applications, they can be inserted below a horizontal flange on a vertical pipe, to prevent machining fluid, swarf and tools from falling into expensive machinery such as pumps and turbines etc.
When welding large tanks and vessels, stoppers inflated with air can dramatically reduce the volume inside, so that the argon purging process takes little time and uses the minimum of expensive gas. The stoppers can pay for themselves in one weld or application and can be used multiple times.
All Inflatable Stoppers are manufactured with a strong internal latex balloon, covered in a waterproof polyurethane coated nylon bag for low friction and to prevent the production of static electricity or accidental sparking.
Inflatable Stoppers are particularly useful when one or more can be inserted into a small opening close to a work location, rather than at the end of the pipe, tank or vessel. No high-pressure equipment is needed for inflation.
The standard range of Inflatable Stoppers is available for immediate delivery in Cylindrical or Spherical formats with sizes ranging from 1 to 96” (25 to 2,440 mm).
Huntingdon Fusion Techniques HFT® have a worldwide Exclusive Distributor network, which can be found at www.huntingdonfusion.com.