‘Hydraulic testing of 2500 mm water pipeline mandatory’

Lokmat News Network

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:

Hydraulic testing of the main water pipeline laid under the city water supply scheme is mandatory and cannot be avoided. The tender conditions for the project clearly specify this requirement, leaving no room for any obstruction to the testing process, said divisional commissioner Jitendra Papalkar to reporters on Tuesday.

Under the city water supply scheme, a 2,500 mm diametre pipeline has been laid. Out of the total 38 km length, hydraulic testing has been conducted on only 5 km so far. Concerns were raised during a meeting on Monday by municipal commissioner Amol Yedge regarding why testing was not carried out on the remaining 33 km. He also questioned who would be held accountable if leakages occur in the future.

Responding to queries about whether technical matters involving the contractor, the municipal corporation, and the water authority are being brought before the committee, Papalkar stated that the water authority is positive about conducting the hydraulic tests and discussions have already been held with the chief engineers.

What is hydraulic testing?

Hydraulic testing is carried out to detect leakages in a pipeline and to assess its structural strength. During the test, the pipeline is filled with water and subjected to pressure higher than normal (typically around 1.5 times the standard pressure). It is then observed whether the pressure drops over a fixed period.

The key objective of this test is to ensure the integrity of joints, fittings, and the overall pipeline system. Air bubbles are first removed after filling the pipeline with water, and then pressure is applied using a hydraulic pump. The pressure level is maintained for a specified duration (for example, 24 hours). If there is no drop in pressure on the gauge, the test is considered successful. This test is mandatory before the pipeline is buried underground or sealed in concrete.

What happens if testing is not conducted?

If the pipeline is made operational without proper testing, there is a high risk of frequent bursts or leakages in the future due to high water pressure.

Which pipes require hydraulic testing?

Ductile Iron (DI) pipes: Commonly used for main city pipelines; testing ensures they can withstand underground pressure.

Mild Steel (MS) pipes: Used for large-diametre and long-distance water supply projects (such as transporting water from dams to cities). Although factory testing is conducted, an additional hydraulic test is required on-site after welding.