Hydrostatic testing
Composite hoses should be hydrostatically tested with water at least once every twelve (12) months.
The test pressure should be no greater than 1.5 times the proposed working pressure of the assembly as determined by the lower of the assembly’s actual working pressure or the maximum working pressure as listed in the product data sheets (see note below).
Some Standards and Codes call for a lower test pressure and where the assembly is operating under this code, the lower test pressure calculation should be used. For example, the Australian Institute of Petroleum Code of Practice CP27 calls for testing at only 1.25 times the nominated working pressure.
note: Where the hose and end coupling working pressures differ, the maximum working pressure of the assembly is that of the lowest rated component – see also ‘end connections composite hose assemblies’ data sheet.
Elongation is not a satisfactory way of judging deterioration of a composite hose, as by its method of manufacture some elongation is to be expected.
Electrical continuity test
Fuel and Oil Group 1 composite hoses should be tested for correct electrical continuity at least once every six (6) months or in accordance with relative industry standards. By laying the hoses on dry ground and testing with an approved electrical measuring device, hoses can be checked that they meet the electrical continuity specifications shown on the original Radcoflex tag attached to the hose. Hoses not meeting these specifications should be retired from service and returned to Radcoflex for possible repair.
The electrical continuity of other composite hoses with inner and outer wire can also be checked if requried however, the electrical continuity of Transchem cannot be checked due to the polypropylene coating on the inner wire. To check Transchem, the inner metal of the wire would need to be exposed (from the polypropylene cover), which would create an opening for future corrosive attack.