Texas CNG(Compressed Natural Gas) Driver Practice

What pressure must a hose assembly be tested at before use?

1. At least its service pressure

2. At least twice the service pressure

3. At least three times the service pressure

4. At least the burst pressure

The correct answer is: At least twice the service pressure

A hose assembly must be tested at least twice its service pressure to ensure safety and reliability during operation. This testing practice allows for the identification of potential weaknesses or failures in the assembly before it is put into use. By testing at this higher pressure, it is possible to confirm that the hose can withstand conditions more extreme than its normal working environment, thereby providing an additional safety margin. Testing at this level ensures that the materials and construction of the hose assembly can handle pressures beyond typical service levels, which is crucial for preventing leaks or catastrophic failures during actual operation. Additionally, industry standards and regulations often specify this type of testing to maintain safety across various applications. It is important to differentiate from other pressure levels that might be considered less rigorous. Testing at or under the service pressure would not sufficiently verify the hose’s integrity, and burst pressure, while indicative of the maximum limit of the assembly, does not ensure safe operation under normal conditions.