Industrial Pressure Testing & Hydrostatic Testing Services


ASME Hydrostatic Test Requirements


Titan Research Group is a Canadian pressure testing company delivering industrial pressure testing for pipelines, pressure vessels, and high-pressure systems. Our pressure testing services cover hydrostatic, pneumatic, and burst/proof testing, using ISO 17025 accredited, ISTA certified, ANAB accredited, CSA approved laboratories. We are no strangers to highly customized as well as routine testing and test system development based on decades of engineering experience.

We are no ordinary test laboratory service because we strive to work with our clients to maximize the desired test output cost-effectively, and in a timely manner.

Industrial Pressure Testing Services


Right to left: High temp. steam, large safety chamber, high temp. pressure chamber

ASME Hydrostatic Test Requirements – Titan Research Group’s hydrostatic pressure testing services utilizes state-of-the-art precision servo hydraulic pressure generators, which when compared to standard air-to-fluid pressure boosters, eliminates pressure fluctuation and produces linear ramp rates.

Our hydro performance test lab features test equipment that can utilize pressure transducers that are NIST traceable with ISO 17025 calibration certificates. The following ASME B31.3 pressure testing solutions are provided:

  • Pressure burst, leak and proof testing to CSA, ASTM, AWWA, ISO, and ASME standards
  • TSSA witnessed proof testing service
  • Advanced high pressure impulse cycle testing between 50 and 100,000 psi at rates up to 20 Hz. High tolerance trapezoid, square and sine waveforms can be controlled in very tight tolerance. Automatic sample failure detection.
  • Combined pressure, load and temperature testing to apply mechanical load and extreme temperature conditions in a load range up to 110,000 lb from -70 to 600ºC
  • Test mediums: water, steam, oil, calibration fluids, nitrogen & air
  • Test pressure up to 100,000 psi

Industry Applications of Hydrostatic Testing

The Importance of Industrial Pressure Testing

Pressure testing is a critical step in verifying the integrity and safety of piping systems and pressure vessels. Tests are conducted at pressures exceeding the expected operating levels to confirm that the system can withstand normal service conditions without failure. 

Equipped with advanced technology and extensive experience, Titan Research Group provides comprehensive pressure testing services for both liquid and gas applications. Our team can conduct tests at pressures up to 100,000 psi, ensuring all systems meet regulatory standards and are safe for commissioning and continued operation.

Structural and Mechanical Testing

✔ Cyclic and dynamic loading

✔ Load capacity up to 110,000 lb

✔ Servo-hydraulic test rigs

Pressure Testing Equipment For Pipes

Pressure Testing Equipment For Pipes is a test that is carried out at any under-construction site after the installation of the pipes before we put them into use. This is done to evaluate the certain limits of pipelines in terms of reliability, maximum capacity, leaks, joint fittings, and pressure. Without testing the installed pipelines, one cannot ensure if pipes meet the standard installation requirements. While the non-technical basic purpose of developing the system for pipelines is to ensure the safety of labor working on the construction site and outline the safety practices that must be carried out while testing pipes.

The main responsibility of Pressure Testing Equipment for Pipes lies with two personnel, the plumbing foreman and the project engineer. They perform the hydrostatic test to find out leakages or damages in the pipelines. The information received from the test helps construction personnel to maintain the safety standards and keep the pipelines in good working condition. This information is documented and signed by the assigned personnel.

The system uses two methods: Hydrostatic Pressure Testing Equipment For Pipes and Pneumatic Pressure. These test methods use the quick couplings and air compressors as the testing equipment.

Safety is critical during hydrostatic testing because pressurised systems can be hazardous if not managed correctly. Before testing begins, a thorough risk assessment is performed to identify potential hazards. All personnel follow strict personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements and safe work procedures. Equipment is inspected for integrity, and fail-safe pressure relief systems are in place to prevent accidental over-pressurisation. 

Test plans include emergency shutoff procedures, monitoring protocols, and contingency steps for unexpected failures. By following these strict safety measures, hydrostatic testing not only verifies system integrity but also protects personnel, property, and the surrounding environment.

Pressure-Temperature Curves for Process Instrumentation

Establishing reliable temperature de-rating curves for products not covered by published North American standards is becoming an industry norm and expectation. Not only is it prudent to provide de-rating guidelines, but it is essential to the safety of instrumentation operation to understand the pressure-temperature behaviour of the product under various conditions such as: inlet temperature, working fluid type, ambient temperature, and pressure.

Canadian Registration Number Pressure Testing

When applying for a Canadian Registration Number (CRN), the CSA B51 referenced code, or a particular Canadian review engineer at any one of the review authorities, may require witnessed pressure testing to ASME code, or other accepted code.

Modern hydrostatic testing has evolved beyond basic pressure checks. Today, advanced techniques allow for precise, repeatable, and data-driven testing. Digital pressure monitoring systems provide real-time feedback on pressure changes, while automated data logging creates detailed test reports that support regulatory audits. High-frequency impulse testing simulates rapid pressure fluctuations to uncover potential failure points before equipment is put into service. 

Moreover, some labs integrate non-destructive evaluation (NDE) methods alongside hydrostatic testing to detect micro-cracks or weak welds without damaging equipment. These innovations guarantee more accurate results, minimise retesting, and reduce overall downtime for clients.

Package Testing

✔ ISTA standard package testing

✔ Shipping container testing up to 8’x5′

✔ Mechanical and environmental simulation

CLIENTS WE’VE HELPED WITH OUR TESTING SERVICES

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Types of Pressure Tests We Offer


No two assets fail the same way, so we run several pressure test methods depending on the code, the medium, and what you need to prove. Below are the four pressure testing services we run most often for Canadian manufacturers and operators, from a routine hydro test to a destructive burst test.

Hydrostatic Testing

A hydrostatic test fills the vessel or piping with water (or another near-incompressible liquid) and raises pressure above the maximum allowable working pressure to confirm the part holds without leaking or yielding. Because liquid stores very little energy, a hydro test is the safest option for most CRN and ASME work, and it is the default required by CSA B51 for registered pressure equipment. Our servo-hydraulic generators hold linear ramp rates and stable hold periods up to 100,000 psi, with NIST-traceable transducers logging every second of the test for your records. For a deeper walkthrough, see our hydrostatic pressure testing guide.

Pneumatic Testing

When a component can't tolerate liquid (for example, instrumentation, vacuum-rated parts, or systems that must stay bone-dry), we run a pneumatic test with air or nitrogen. Gas is compressible and stores far more energy, so pneumatic testing demands tighter exclusion zones, staged pressure increases, and continuous monitoring. We design every pneumatic test around ASME stored-energy calculations and witnessed sign-off so the procedure satisfies the reviewing authority.

Burst and Proof Testing

Proof testing confirms a part survives a set multiple of its rated pressure; burst testing takes a sample all the way to failure so you know the true safety margin. We capture the failure pressure, failure mode, and pressure-versus-time curve for your design file, which is often what a review engineer wants before signing off on a new product. Read more about our burst testing services.

Hydrostatic vs Pneumatic vs Burst Testing


Not sure which method fits your part? This table compares the three pressure testing methods we run most, so you can match the test to your code requirement and risk tolerance.

Factor Hydrostatic Test Pneumatic Test Burst Test
Test medium Water or calibration fluid Air or nitrogen Water or gas to failure
Stored energy / risk Low High High (destructive)
Outcome Pass/fail, leak check Pass/fail, leak check Failure pressure & margin
Part reusable after? Yes Yes No
Best for CRN/ASME vessel & piping sign-off Dry or liquid-sensitive parts New product design validation

Industries We Serve


Our pressure testing services support manufacturers and operators across regulated Canadian sectors. A few common use cases:

  • Oil and gas: hydrostatic testing of new pipeline spools and separator vessels before commissioning, with witnessed sign-off for provincial authorities.
  • Biogas and renewables: proof and leak testing of digester piping and gas-handling skids that must meet CSA B51 before registration.
  • Pharma and food processing: pneumatic and hydro testing of sanitary pressure vessels and CIP loops where cleanliness and documentation matter.
  • Water and wastewater: hydrostatic pressure testing of distribution mains, pumps, and storage tanks at full operating pressure.
  • Manufacturers launching new products: burst and impulse testing to establish true safety margins for a design file.

See the full list of the industries we serve for CRN and testing work across Canada.

Our Pressure Testing Process


We keep the process predictable so your registration or product launch isn't held up waiting on a test report. Here's how an industrial pressure testing project runs with us:

  1. Scope and code review. We confirm the applicable code (ASME, CSA B51, ASTM, AWWA) and the test pressure, medium, and hold time your part needs.
  2. Written test procedure. We draft a procedure with acceptance criteria and, where required, arrange a witness from the reviewing authority such as TSSA or ABSA.
  3. Fixturing and instrumentation. The part is fitted with NIST-traceable transducers and connected to our servo-hydraulic or pneumatic system.
  4. Controlled test. Pressure is ramped at a linear rate, held, and logged continuously, with safe exclusion zones for any pneumatic or burst work.
  5. Reporting. You receive a stamped report with the pressure-time curve, calibration certificates, and pass/fail or failure data ready for your audit file.

Standards and Codes We Test To


A pressure test only counts if it's run to the right code. Our work aligns with the standards Canadian review authorities expect:

  • ASME BPVC: hydrostatic and pneumatic test requirements for boilers and pressure vessels, including the test-pressure multipliers and hold times the code specifies. See our guide to ASME pressure vessel testing.
  • CSA B51: the Canadian boiler and pressure vessel code that governs registration and the pressure testing required before equipment is put into service.
  • Provincial requirements: each authority (ABSA in Alberta, TSSA in Ontario, RBQ in Quebec, and others) can require witnessed testing tied to your CRN registration.
  • ASTM, AWWA, ISO: additional product and pipeline standards we test to for burst, proof, and leak work.

FAQs About Hydrostatic Pressure Testing

What is pressure testing?
Pressure testing is a method used to verify the integrity and safety of pressure vessels, pipelines, and other pressurized systems. It involves applying a controlled pressure test to make sure the system can operate safely under expected conditions. Companies looking for hydrostatic pressure testing services can find professionals to carry out these tests safely and accurately.
What is the difference between a hydrostatic test and a hydrotest?
Hydrostatic test and hydrotest are often used interchangeably. Both involve filling a system with water and applying pressure to check for leaks or weaknesses. An ASME pressure vessel hydrostatic test is a common type of hydrotest used for certified vessels and piping systems.
What is the typical hydrostatic test pressure?
The typical hydrostatic test pressure is usually 1.3 to 1.5 times the system’s design pressure, depending on regulations and equipment standards. Pressure testing companies will determine the exact pressure based on the design code and safety requirements.
What is a hydrostatic test for HST?
A hydrostatic test for HST (High-Pressure Steam Turbines or High-Pressure Systems) ensures that equipment can withstand operational pressures without leaking or failing. Professionals offering hydrostatic pressure testing services can conduct this test safely.
How long does a hydrostatic test last?
A hydrostatic test typically lasts from 15 minutes to a few hours, depending on system size, design pressure, and regulatory requirements.
How many types of hydrostatic tests are there?
The most common types are:
  • ASME pressure vessel hydrostatic test – for ASME-certified vessels.
  • Pneumatic tests – using air or gas instead of water.
  • Hydrostatic tests are preferred for safety because water is incompressible.
What are the rules for hydrostatic testing?
Hydrostatic testing must comply with standards like ASME, CSA, and local regulatory codes. Companies offering hydrostatic pressure testing services must follow strict procedures for test pressure, duration, and safety.
What are the risks of hydrostatic testing?
Risks include leaks, ruptures, or sudden releases of pressure. Using qualified pressure testing companies ensures the test is conducted safely.
What is the safest type of pressure testing?
Hydrostatic testing is considered the safest because water is incompressible. This reduces the stored energy in the system during testing, minimizing the risk of explosive failure if a leak or rupture occurs.
What happens when a hydrostatic test fails?
If a hydrostatic test fails, the system is depressurized and inspected to identify leaks or weak points. Necessary repairs or redesigns must be made before retesting.
How is hydrostatic test data interpreted?
Data from pressure transducers and monitoring equipment is analysed to verify that the system meets design pressures and shows no leakage. Deviations are investigated and documented for corrective action.
How often should hydrostatic tests be performed?
Testing frequency depends on regulations, equipment type, and operational conditions. Many industrial pipelines and pressure vessels are tested at initial commissioning and after major maintenance or modification.
Can testing be done on-site or only in a lab?
Both options are available. On-site testing is ideal for large pipelines or installed systems, while lab-based testing allows controlled conditions and precise instrumentation.
What best practices improve hydrostatic test results?
Maintain proper system preparation, accurate calibration of test equipment, controlled ramp rates, clear communication among testing personnel, and detailed documentation. Following these practices minimises errors and provides reliable, actionable results.