What Is Leak and Pressure Testing?
At Applus+ Laboratories, we perform leak tests, pressure pulse tests, and burst pressure tests to ensure the performance, quality, and safety of hydraulic components, pipework, fittings, screw connections, fuel lines, cooling systems, injection systems, rails, and more. These tests can be used both for approval tests (e.g., for hydraulic systems) and for comprehensive validation of components like fuel rails and exhaust gas recirculation coolers.
Which Standards Do We Test Against?
We work to internationally recognised standards and certification requirements, including:
- IACS (International Association of Classification Societies): Requirements concerning pipes and pressure vessels
- GL (Germanischer Lloyd): Classification and construction regulations, pipe fittings
- DNV (Det Norske Veritas): Type testing of pipe connections
- BS 4368 (British Standard): Pressurised pipe connections
- DIN EN ISO 19879
What Leak, Pressure Pulse, and Burst Pressure Testing Do We Perform?
Our expert teams carry out:
- Pressure impulse tests
- Hydraulic pulsation tests
- Combined pressure impulse and vibration tests (IACS, GL, DNV)
- Burst pressure tests
- Leak tests with various media (oil, water, nitrogen, helium, etc.)
These tests address different aspects of product integrity and performance, from detecting small leaks to assessing resistance to repeated pressure loading and catastrophic failure thresholds.
What Is Leak Testing?
Leak testing is a non-destructive testing method used to verify the tightness of components or to pinpoint leakage sites. We perform:
- Leakage tests with various media (e.g., oil, water, nitrogen, helium)
- Vacuum testing
What Is Pressure Pulse Testing?
In pressure pulse testing, the test specimen is periodically impacted with defined pressure surges by a pulse generator to check its fatigue strength. This helps determine how the component will perform under dynamic, cyclical loading.
Our capabilities include:
- Hydropulse tests
- Combined pressure pulse and vibration tests (in accordance with IACS, GL, DNV) where hydraulic fittings are additionally subjected to internal pressure and bending.
What Is Burst Pressure Testing?
Burst pressure testing is a destructive test. The test specimen is subjected to a continuously increasing pressure until it bursts or breaks, revealing its maximum pressure tolerance under extreme conditions.
What Are Our Leak, Pressure Pulse, and Burst Pressure Testing Parameters?
We cover a wide test spectrum to simulate real-world conditions. Our key testing parameters include:
- Maximum Pressure:
- Up to 1,400 bar (dynamic)
- Up to 2,000 bar (static)
- Pulse Frequency: Typically 1 Hz, up to 20 Hz (sinusoidal)
- Vibration / Bending Frequency: Up to 20 Hz
- Curve Shapes: Sine, triangle, trapezoid, or standardised curves (e.g., IACS P2.11.5.5.3)
- Temperature Range: -40°C to +140°C
What Is Leak, Pressure Pulse, and Burst Pressure Testing For?
These tests are critical for validating the safety and reliability of components that operate under pressure. By identifying potential weak points, leaks, or early signs of fatigue, manufacturers can:
- Enhance Product Reliability
- Ensure Compliance with industry standards and customer requirements
- Reduce Risk of failure and costly recalls
What Products Do We Test?
We test a broad range of products and components, including:
- Hoses and pipes
- Fittings
- Quick couplings
- Pumps and motors
- Valves
- Distributors
- Filters
- Hydraulic power steering systems
Why Choose Applus+ Laboratories for Leak, Pressure Pulse, and Burst Pressure Testing?
- Comprehensive Services: We offer a full suite of tests, from leak detection to fatigue testing to burst pressure evaluation, ensuring you get a complete validation.
- Advanced Equipment & Techniques: Our cutting-edge testing facilities are designed to handle high pressures, dynamic loads, and extreme temperatures, providing accurate and reliable results.
- Expert Team: Our specialists bring extensive experience in hydraulic systems, fuel lines, cooling systems, and other high-pressure components, guaranteeing robust solutions tailored to your needs.
- Internationally Recognized Standards: We work according to IACS, GL, DNV, BS, and DIN EN ISO, ensuring that your products meet the highest quality and safety standards.
- Flexible Testing Solutions: From one-off approvals to long-term validation projects, we offer scalable testing programs that accommodate your production timeline and budget.
- Fast, Clear Reporting: We provide prompt, comprehensive, and transparent reports, enabling you to quickly implement improvements or confirm compliance.
Contact Applus+ Laboratories to learn how our leak testing, pressure pulse testing, and burst pressure testing services can ensure the quality, safety, and reliability of your components and systems.