(a) Each segment of a steel pipeline that is to operate at a pressure of 125 psig (862 kPa) or more must be strength tested in accordance with this section to substantiate the proposed maximum allowable operating pressure.
(b) The test pressure shall be at least equal to 90 percent of SMYS or 1.5 times the maximum allowable operating pressure whichever is less.
(c) The test medium may be water, inert gas or air. For facilities to be operated above 20 percent SMYS in any class location or facilities to be operated at 125 psig (862 kPa) or more in a Class 4 location the medium may only be water unless there are no buildings intended for human occupancy within 300 feet (91.4 meters) of the pipeline facilities being tested and prior approval is granted by the Department to use air or inert gas as the test medium.
(d) Except as provided in subdivision (f) of this section, the strength test must be conducted by maintaining the pressure at or above the test pressure for at least 12 hours after stabilization.
(e) A calibrated recording pressure gauge that will indicate increments of five psig (34.5 kPa) or less, where practicable, shall be attached to the test section. The gauge must be calibrated at least hourly for the first and last two hours of the test. Calibration is against a dead-weight tester, or equivalent device, attached to the test section.
(f) For a short length of pipeline which has not been backfilled and where, throughout its entire length, its entire circumference can be readily examined visually for the detection of leakage, the duration of the test may be reduced to four hours following stabilization.
(g) At least five business days prior to starting the test, the operator shall make notification. In order to maintain continuity of service during emergencies, shorter notice is permissible.
(h) Tests under this section are not considered as satisfactorily accomplished unless certified by an inspector of the department.