Hydrostatic Testing

Hydrostatic testing is a process where components, such as fire extinguisher cylinders, are tested for strength and leaks by filling them with pressurized liquid. Utah Fire Prevention is one of the largest DOT hydrostatic testing facilities in Utah. We pride ourselves on our quick turnaround time and our attention to detail. We are fully equipped to hydrostatically test most types of fire extinguishers with a DOT number, including but not limited to: • CO2 Fire Extinguishers • Dry Chemical Fire Extinguishers • Water and Foam Extinguishers • Clean Agent Fire Extinguishers • Wet Chemical Extinguishers • High-Pressure Fire Suppression Cylinders • Low-Pressure Stored Cylinders • Cartridge-Operated Extinguishers Hydrostatic Testing (Re-qualification) – The Process A brief description of the re-qualification process follows. The fire extinguisher cylinder has its valve removed and all external and internal surfaces made visible to the DOT (Department of Transportation) qualified hydrostatic tester. The cylinder is externally and internally inspected according to required DOT specifications. If it passes, the hydrostatic test is performed. To perform the hydrostatic test, the extinguisher cylinder is placed inside a sealed water jacket. The cylinder is filled with water and pressurized using a high-pressure pump. As it expands slightly under pressure, it displaces water in the jacket. This displacement is measured to calculate how much the cylinder has permanently expanded. The results are compared with DOT limits to determine whether the cylinder meets requalification standards. If the extinguisher passes the visual inspection and the hydrostatic test, it is stamped or labeled with the retest date and our RIN (Requalifier Identification Number). A detailed record of the re-qualification is maintained in compliance with DOT regulations. If a fire extinguisher cylinder fails testing, it must be condemned. Cylinders may be stamped with “Condemned” or marked with X’s over the DOT markings. With the owner’s permission, we render condemned extinguishers inoperable by drilling through the cylinder or removing valve threads. This is documented according to DOT standards. Other Fire Extinguisher Cylinder Services We Offer: • Bead Blasting • Valve Removal and Replacement • Cylinder Cleaning • O2 Cleaning • Eddy Current Thread Inspection • Proper Disposal of Condemned Units Utah Fire Prevention is a fully licensed hydro testing facility! How often do I need to have my fire extinguisher hydro tested? You can check the required testing interval on the DOT markings stamped into the extinguisher cylinder. These include the manufacturer, serial number, and original manufacturing date. If you're unsure about the testing schedule for your extinguisher, contact Utah Fire Prevention and we’ll help you determine your compliance needs. Typical Fire Extinguisher Testing Intervals: • CO2 Fire Extinguishers – Every 5 years • Dry Chemical Fire Extinguishers (stored pressure) – Typically every 12 years • Water and Foam Fire Extinguishers – Every 5 years • Clean Agent & Halotron Extinguishers – Every 5 years • Cartridge-Operated Units – Varies by type; often every 5 years