Pipeline Testing Compression Solutions

Pressure testing is performed during pipeline construction, commissioning or following certain repairs and modifications to verify integrity under defined test conditions. The applicable test method, medium, pressure and acceptance criteria are determined by the pipeline design, operator requirements and relevant codes and regulations.

Pipeline testing can be hydrostatic, using a liquid such as water, or pneumatic, using a suitable gas. LMF compressor solutions support pneumatic testing applications by providing the gas flow and pressure required for controlled pipeline pressurization.

Because compressed gas stores considerably more energy than a liquid at the same pressure, pneumatic testing requires careful engineering, controlled procedures and appropriate safety measures. The compressor forms one part of the overall test system and does not replace the required test instrumentation, safety equipment or approved testing procedure.

With more than 40 years of experience in mobile compressor technology and more than 80 years of expertise in reciprocating high pressure compressors, LMF develops tailor-made mobile solutions for pneumatic pipeline testing under demanding field conditions.

Recommended Compression Solutions by LMF

Mobile Compressors

Recommended for temporary pneumatic pipeline testing at changing locations where flexible on-site gas compression and controlled pressurization are required.
Depending on the package configuration, LMF mobile compressor units can incorporate their own drive system, automation, monitoring, safety equipment and auxiliary systems for operation where limited site infrastructure is available.

  • Capacity:
    up to 22 Nm³/min
  • Pressure:
    up to 350 bar
  • Power consumption:
    900 kW

Selected References 

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Enter the selected test gas, pipeline volume, initial pressure, target pressure and required filling time to estimate key process values, pre-select a suitable LMF compressor model and generate an inquiry for our experts.

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FAQs

Hydrostatic testing uses a liquid, commonly water, to pressurize the pipeline. Pneumatic testing uses a compressed gas and therefore involves different technical and safety considerations. The permitted method is determined by the applicable standards, pipeline design and approved test procedure.

Depending on the pipeline, applicable regulations and project requirements, air, nitrogen or another suitable test gas may be used. Compatibility, contamination risk and safety requirements must be evaluated before selecting the test medium.

The compressor supplies the gas flow and pressure required to fill and pressurize the pipeline. Pressure measurement, test monitoring, isolation, overpressure protection and acceptance assessment are handled by the complete test system and approved testing procedure.

Capacity depends on the pipeline volume, initial and target pressures, selected test gas, temperature conditions and required pressurization time. Pressure losses in connecting lines and other equipment must also be considered.

No. The compressor’s maximum discharge pressure only defines its technical operating limit. The permissible test pressure is determined independently according to the pipeline design, applicable code, test procedure and responsible authority or operator.