Testing a pressure relief valve (PRV) online, while the system is in operation, requires special consideration for safety and effectiveness. Here’s a guide on how to perform an online test of a pressure relief valve:
1.) Safety
Precautions
· Before
proceeding with the online test, ensure that all necessary safety precautions
are in place.
· Wear
appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses, gloves,
and hearing protection.
· Ensure
that all personnel involved in the testing are aware of the procedure and
potential hazards.
2.) Isolation
and Bypass
· Safely
isolate the pressure relief valve from the system to prevent any sudden release
of pressure or fluid during testing.
· Install
a bypass line or temporary isolation valve to maintain system operation while
the PRV is being tested.
3.) Functional
Test
· Perform
a functional test of the pressure relief valve by manually lifting the valve or
activating its test lever (if equipped).
· Monitor
the operation of the valve to ensure that it opens fully and smoothly without sticking
or binding.
· Listen
for the sound of air or fluid escaping from the valve, indicating proper
operation.
4.) Set
Pressure Verification
· Verify
that the pressure relief valve is set to the correct pressure rating as specified
by the system’s design requirements.
· Use
a pressure gauge or pressure calibrator to measure the system pressure and compare
it to the set pressure of the valve.
· Adjust
the set pressure if necessary, according to the manufacturer’s instructions or
regulatory standards.
5.) Online
Testing Tools
· Utilize
specialized online testing tools or equipment designed for testing pressure
relief valves while the system is in operation.
· These
tools may include pressure transducers, data acquisition systems, and remote
monitoring devices.
6.) Pressure
Cycling
· Gradually
increase and decrease the system pressure in small increments to simulate
normal operating conditions.
· Monitor
the response of the pressure relief valve to ensure that it opens and reseats
properly at the designated set pressure.
7.) Leak
Test
· After
the online test, inspect the relief valve and surrounding piping for any signs
of leakage.
· Use
a leak detection solution or soap solution to check for bubbles, which indicate
escaping fluid or gas.
8.) Documentation
· Document
the results of the online pressure relief valve test, including that date,
time, test pressure, set pressure, and any observations or findings.
· Maintain
records of testing activities for compliance, maintenance, and safety purposes.
· In
some countries, it is a legislation to keep a record and testing for any registered
pressure relief valve.
Performing an online test of a pressure relief valve
requires careful planning, execution, and monitoring to ensure safety and
accuracy. If any issues or abnormalities are detected during the test, take
appropriate corrective actions, and consider removing the PRV from service for further
inspection or maintenance.
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