Piping Component Fire Testing Services

Southwest Research Institute® (SwRI®)offers independent, third party fire testing services to evaluate the performance of valves and other piping components. SwRI has more than 20 years of experience in performing fire tests on a variety of piping components and to date has completed over 900 tests for both domestic and international clients.

The capabilities of the SwRI piping component fire test facility are briefly discussed below. A written price quotation, application form, and preparation instructions may be obtained by directing your inquiry to one of the contacts listed. Clients are welcome to witness the fire test at no additional cost. All testing done at this facility is governed by a confidentiality policy that protects client names, test results, or any other information obtained in connection with the testing performed.

Evaluations Available

• API Standard 607 4th Edition, Fire Test for Soft-Seated Quarter-Turn Valve
• API Specification 6FA 3rd Edition, Specification for Fire Test for Valves
• BS 6755: Part 2, Specification for Fire Type Testing Requirements
• API Standard 589 2nd Edition, Fire Test for Evaluation of Valve Stem Packing
• Modified versions of the above procedures for testing piping components such as gaskets, flanges, and fittings
• Tests to other specifications available

Test Facility Capabilities

• Flame temperatures from 1000 °F to 2000 °F
• Test pressures from 30 to 10,000 psig
• Test item sizes from  1/4 inch to 24 inches
• Valve pressurization system flow of up to 2.6 GPM at all test pressures maintain test pressure for valve leakage rates significantly in excess of allowable quantities

Special Features

• Closed circuit television systems monitor the test chamber and downstream leakage during tests
• Testing is monitored and controlled remotely from an indoor control room
• Four natural gas burners are used to fully engulf the test item
• Automated data acquisition system is used during tests
• Automated water spray system ensures uniform quenching of test item

Deliverables

• Plots of temperature and pressure recorded throughout the test
• Complete test report summarizing test conditions and leakage rates
• VHS video recording of test chamber and downstream leakage during entire test
• Preliminary test data available on the day of testing; final report provided within two weeks of test completion

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