Hydrostatic Tests

A hydrostatic test is a way in which pressure vessels such as scuba tanks and other pressure vessels can be tested for strength and leaks. The test involves filling the vessel with a liquid, usually water, which may be dyed to aid in visual leak detection, and pressurization of the vessel to the specified test pressure. Pressure tightness can be tested by shutting off the supply valve and observing whether there is a pressure loss. The location of a leak can be visually identified more easily if the water contains a colorant. Strength is usually tested by measuring permanent deformation of the container. Hydrostatic testing is the most common method employed for testing pipes and pressure vessels. Using this test helps maintain safety standards and durability of a vessel over time. Newly manufactured pieces are initially qualified using the hydrostatic test. They are then revalidated yearly as is required by Australian law.

Scuba tanks that do not have a valid test stamp on the tank cannot be filled with compressed air by law. Only “in test” tanks will be filled by us.