Rising Mains Pressure Testing
The increase in new housing stock being built has resulted in the installation of an increasing number of rising sewer mains (pumping mains). To prevent leaks and potentially environmentally dangerous contamination it is essential that these mains undergo a rigorous rising mains pressure test. Chlorination is not normally required for these types of system but if the system is live then we generally will chlorinate to make them much safer to work on.
Water Hygiene Solutions have a proven record of providing rising main pressure tests for developers, water authorities, ground workers and contractors Nationwide across the UK.
With a huge range of specialist end fittings in stock we are able to effectively pressure test both PE and metallic systems of any size and length to meet the local Water Authority specifications. We can also provide water solutiosn where water is not available on site through our partnered tankering solutions.
We discuss below the importance of pressure testing, the regulatory obligations involved, and how it can greatly enhance the efficiency of your water systems.
What is Rising Mains Pressure Testing?
Pressure testing a rising main is essential to ensure the structural integrity of the sewage carrying pipe work and ensure hydraulic performance of the pipe work installation. Flow rate through the rising main are also measured to determine the efficacy of the main and ensure the full diameter is available for use.
We perform a range of monitoring and logging during the testing to evaluate the efficiency and structural integrity of your rising mains.
Pressure testing is normally performed from the sewage pumping station to the discharge manhole and allows you to meet the legal requirements of the Water Authorities and Environment Agency.
Why is Pressure Testing a Rising Main Important?
Pressure testing a rising main is essential to ensure safety, efficiency and reliability. Without pressure testing there may be weaknesses and defects in the pipeline that may cause sudden, dangerous failures.
These failures in rising mains can create a significant pollution issue and potential health hazard for those in the area. Sewerage from the rising main can enter natural watercourses and kill aquatic animals and can in sever cases wipe out entire eco-systems.
Future failures and leaks from the main can be both difficult to locate and can mean significant excavation as the majority of rising mains run under other infrastructure such as roads etc.
As such the repair of leaks once the main has been commissioned is costly both in terms of time and financially. As such it is better to pressure test immediately after installation to ensure that any risk of pipe leakage is discovered early and can be remediated prior to putting the pipe line into service.
What Does a Rising Main Pressure Test Entail?
In order to carry out an effective mains pressure testing operation there are a number of vital steps:
-
- Appropriate stoppers are fitted to each end of the pipe line, allowing us to fill the pipe with water. These may be internal or external stoppers depending on the configuration of the pipe.
- The pipework is then swabbed to remove any debris, material that may later cause blockages and air. The removal of air is important to ensure safe pressure testing can be performed (air compresses and stores energy so a pipe burst can be dangerous if air is not removed).
- Our pressure logging equipment is then fitted to the test pipe to measure and record the pressure and water input volume during the pressure test.
- The pipe work is then brought to pressure utilising a specialist high pressure pump and we conduct an inspection of all visible joints for leaks. The pipe is left for a period of time depending on the time taken to pressurise the main.
- On completion the pipe work is depressurised and we assess the data collected through our specialist template to ensure that the pipe work has reacted in accordance with the WIS 4-01-03 guidance.
- A full report with all relevant detail is provided to the client.
- Appropriate stoppers are fitted to each end of the pipe line, allowing us to fill the pipe with water. These may be internal or external stoppers depending on the configuration of the pipe.
Why Choose Us for Pressure Testing Services?
When you contract Water Hygiene Solutions for your rising main pressure test and certification you are contracting experts in the field. Our experienced engineers (we don’t sub-contract) have a wealth of expertise and experience that allows them to quickly analyse and identify any issues and develop a plan to remediate them.
- Our Hydrostatic Pressure Testing Certification – The certification provided is fully auditable, to the correct latest standards (WIS 4-01-03 replacing the IGN 4-01-03) and comes with full GPS and photographic proof as required by the Water Authorities.
- Our Testing Equipment – Our equipment is specific to rising mains and we utilise where possible battery powered equipment to minimise noise and environmental impact. We hold a significant number of end stoppers in stock to enable fast mobilisation and reduced costs from hire. We provide backflow protection of the supply mains through specialist break tanks to ensure there is no risk to the supply water from the sewer rising main. Our loggers provide a steady data stream to ensure the results and certification are fully traceable and auditable.
- Bespoke Solutions – Our expert team can provide a solution no matter the challenge. From a lack of water on site, a rising main that is in use already or difficult site access we can develop a plan to ensure the job is performed quickly and efficiently with minimal disruption.
Contact Us For Rising Mains Pressure Testing Services
At Water Hygiene Solutions, we adhere to the highest standards, assuring you that your contract runs on time every time. Where necessary we will perform minor remedial works such as tightening bolts etc as part of the service.
With CSCS trained staff, we can work across construction sites with ease and our in house kit means we can move quickly to complete the works even with a tight schedule.
With a commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest industry advancements and best practices, we excel in providing exceptional pressure testing services for your pumped rising main system.