Composite cargo hoses are hydrostatically tested in the same manner as rubber hose assemblies.
However, due to the nature of their construction, composite hoses will elongate to a much greater extent than rubber hoses.
Each hose should be pressure tested with water. The procedure should be as follows:
- Lay out the hose straight on level supports that allow free movement of the hose when the test pressure is applied. Conduct an electrical continuity test.
- Seal the hose by bolting blanking-off plates to both ends, one plate to be fitted with a connection to the water pump and the other to be fitted with a hand operated valve to release air through a vent. Fill the hose with fresh water until a constant stream of water is delivered through the vent.
- Connect the test pump at one end and apply a pressure of 0.7 bar. Measure and record the overall length of the hose assembly between the measuring points.
- Slowly increase the pressure up to 1.5 times the MWP. Hold this pressure for ten minutes.
- Re-measure the length of the hose over the same surface as before.
- Ascertain the temporary elongation and record the increase as a percentage of the original length.
- Slowly lower the pressure to 0.7 bar and stabilise.
- Re-measure the length of the hose over the same surface as before.
- Reduce the pressure to zero and drain the hose assembly. Re-test for electrical continuity.
If the maximum temporary elongation exceeds 10% the composite cargo hoses should be retired from service in accordance with EN13765.
It should be noted that composite hoses should not be subjected to a vacuum test.
The following criteria should be assured before returning the hose into service:
• Temporary elongation not greater than 10%.
• No leaks.
• No visual damage.
• No cracks or damaged parts during internal inspection.
• No cracks or damaged parts during end fitting inspection.
• Electrical continuity (see section 5.8.7.1).
• Manufacturer’s recommendations have been followed.
