Section
6 Procedures for testing tanks and tight boundaries
6.1 General
6.1.1 The test procedures detailed in this Section are to be used to confirm
the watertightness of tanks and watertight boundaries, the structural adequacy of
tanks and weathertightness of structures.
6.2 Application
6.2.1 The testing requirements for gravity tanks, defined as tanks subject to a
vapour pressure not greater than 70 kN/m2, and other boundaries required
to be watertight or weathertight, are to be tested in accordance with this Section.
Tests are to be carried out in the presence of a Surveyor at a stage sufficiently
close to completion such that the strength and tightness are not subsequently
impaired and prior to any ceiling and cement work being applied over joints.
6.2.2 The testing of structures not listed in this Section are to be specially
considered.
6.3 Test types
6.3.1 The types of test specified in this Section are:
-
Structural test: which is to be conducted to verify the tightness and
structural adequacy of the construction of tanks. This may be a hydrostatic
test or, where the situation warrants, a hydropneumatic test.
-
Leak test: which is to be used to verify the tightness of a
boundary. Unless a specific test is indicated, this may be a hydrostatic,
hydropneumatic test, air or other medium test.
6.4 Structural test procedures
6.4.2 A hydrostatic test or hydropneumatic test may be carried out afloat to
confirm the structural adequacy of tanks, provided that a leak test is carried out
and the results are confirmed as satisfactory . Where possible, the leak test is to
be carried out before the unit is afloat.
6.4.3 For tanks of the same structural design, configuration and the same
general workmanship, as determined by the attending Surveyor, a structural test may
be carried out on only one tank, provided all subsequent tanks are tested for leaks
by an air test.
6.4.4 Where the structural adequacy of a tank has been verified by structural
testing on a previous vessel in a series, tanks of structural similarity on
subsequent vessels within that series (which are built at the same shipyard
following the same construction, welding and quality procedure) may be exempt from
such testing, provided that the watertightness of all exempt tanks is verified by
leak tests and thorough inspection. However, structural testing is to be carried out
for at least one tank of each type of tank on every vessel in the series. The
relaxation to accept leak testing and thorough inspections instead of a structural
test on subsequent vessels in a series does not apply to cargo space boundaries
adjacent to other compartments or to the boundaries of tanks for segregated cargoes
or pollutants.
6.4.6 For watertight boundaries of spaces other than tanks, excluding chain
lockers, structural testing may be exempted, provided that the watertightness in all
boundaries of exempted spaces are verified by leak tests and thorough
inspection.
6.4.7 Consideration is to be given to the selection of tanks to be structurally
tested. Selected tanks are to be chosen so that all representative structural
members are tested for the expected tension and compression.
6.5 Leak test procedures
6.5.1 Where a leak test is specified in Table 3.6.1 Testing
requirements, unless
specified otherwise, a tank air test, compressed air fillet weld test, or vacuum box
test is to be carried out in accordance with the applicable requirements of Pt 4, Ch 3, 6.6 Definitions and details of tests 6.6.4 to Pt 4, Ch 3, 6.6 Definitions and details of tests 6.6.6. A hydrostatic or hydropneumatic
test conducted in accordance with the applicable requirements of Pt 4, Ch 3, 6.6 Definitions and details of tests 6.6.1 and Pt 4, Ch 3, 6.6 Definitions and details of tests 6.6.2 will be accepted as a leak test on the condition that safe
access to all joints being examined is provided. Where a hydrostatic or
hydropneumatic test is applied as a leak test, the external boundaries are to be
free of any liquid residue prior to the commencement of the test.
6.5.3 Air tests of joints may be conducted at any stage during construction
provided that all work that might affect the tightness of the joint is completed
before the test is carried out.
6.5.4 Where acceptable to the attending Surveyor, provided that careful visual inspections
show a continuous uniform weld profile shape, free from repairs, and the results of
selected NDE testing show no significant defects, the leak testing of automatic butt
welds and semi-automatic (flux core arc welding) butt welds may be omitted.
6.6 Definitions and details of tests
6.6.1
Hydrostatic test is a test conducted by filling a space with a liquid to a
specified head. Unless another liquid is approved, the hydrostatic test is to
consist of filling a space with either fresh or sea-water, whichever is appropriate
for the space being tested, to the level specified in Table 3.6.1 Testing
requirements. For tanks intended to carry cargoes of a higher
density than the test liquid, the head of the liquid is to be specially considered.
6.6.2
Hydropneumatic test is a combination of a hydrostatic test and a tank air
test, consisting of partially filling a tank with water and conducting a tank air
test on the unfilled portion of the tank. A hydropneumatic test, where approved, is
to be such that the test condition in conjunction with the approved liquid level and
air pressure will simulate the actual loading as far as practicable. The
requirements for tank air testing shown in Pt 4, Ch 3, 6.6 Definitions and details of tests 6.6.4 are to be adhered to.
6.6.3
Hose test is a test used to verify the tightness of joints with a jet of
water. The jet of water is to be directed perpendicular to the joint. It is to be
carried out with the pressure in the hose nozzle maintained at not less than 2,0 bar
during the test. The hose nozzle is to have a minimum inside diameter of 12 mm and
is to be situated no further than 1,5 m from the joint. Where a hose test is not
practical because of possible damage to machinery, electrical equipment insulation
or outfitting items, it may be replaced by a careful visual examination of welded
connections, supported by an ultrasonic or penetration leak test, or an equivalent,
see SOLAS Reg. II-1/Regulation 11 - Initial testing of watertight bulkheads, etc.
6.6.4
Tank air test is to be used to verify the tightness of a compartment by means
of an air pressure differential and leak indicator solution. An efficient indicating
solution (e.g. soapy water) is to be applied to the weld or penetration being tested
and is to be examined whilst an air pressure differential of not less than 0,15 bar
is applied by pumping air into the compartment. Arrangements are to be made to
ensure that any increase in air pressure does not exceed 0,30 bar. A U-tube with a
height sufficient to hold a head of water corresponding to the required test
pressure is to be used for verification and to avoid overpressure. The
cross-sectional area of the U-tube is not to be less than that of the pipe supplying
air to the tank. Alternatively two calibrated pressure gauges may be considered
acceptable. All boundary welds including pipe connections in the compartment are to
be examined twice. The first is to be examined immediately upon applying the leak
indication solution; the second approximately five minutes afterwards.
6.6.5
Compressed air fillet weld test. This test consists of compressed air being
injected into one end of a fillet welded joint and the pressure verified at the
other end of the joint by a pressure gauge on the opposite side. Pressure gauges are
to be arranged so that an air pressure of at least 0,15 bar above atmospheric
pressure can be verified at each end of all passages within the portion being
tested. A leak indicator solution is to be applied and the weld line examined for
leaks. A compressed air test may be carried out for partial penetration welds where
the root face is greater than 6 mm.
6.6.6
Vacuum box test is a test used to verify the tightness of joints by means of
a localised air pressure differential and indicator solution. The test is to be
conducted with the use of a box with air connections, gauges and an inspection
window that is to be placed over the joint being tested with a leak indicator
solution applied. Air within the box is to be removed by an ejector to create a
reduction in pressure. The pressure inside the box during the test is to be
maintained between 0,20 to 0,26 bar.
6.6.7
Ultrasonic test may be used where a hose test is not practical to verify the
tightness of a boundary, see
Pt 4, Ch 3, 6.6 Definitions and details of tests 6.6.3. An arrangement of ultrasonic echo
transmitters is to be placed inside a compartment and a receiver outside. The
receiver is to be used to detect any leaks in the compartment.
6.6.8
Penetration test may be used where a hose test is not practical to assess
butt welds, see
Pt 4, Ch 3, 6.6 Definitions and details of tests 6.6.3, by applying a low surface
tension liquid to one side of a compartment boundary. When no liquid is detected on
the opposite side of the boundary after expiration of a defined period of time, the
verification of tightness of the compartment’s boundary may be assumed. A developer
solution may be applied on the other side of the weld to aid leak detection.
6.6.9 Other methods of testing may be considered and are to be agreed by LR
prior to commencement of testing.
6.7 Application of coating
6.7.1 A final coating may be applied over automatic butt welds before the completion of a
leak test, provided that careful visual inspections show continuous uniform weld
profile shape, free from repairs, and the results of selected NDE testing show no
significant defects. For all other joints, the final coating is to be applied after
the completion of a leak test. The Surveyor reserves the right to require a leak
test prior to the application of the final coating over automatic erection butt
welds.
6.7.2 Any temporary coating which may conceal defects or leaks is to be applied
at a time as specified for the final coating, see
Pt 4, Ch 3, 6.7 Application of coating 6.7.1. This requirement does not apply to shop primer.
6.8 Safe access to joints
6.8.1 For leak tests, safe access to all joints under examination is to be
provided.
Table 3.6.1 Testing
requirements
Item to be tested
|
Testing procedure
|
Test requirement
|
Double bottom tanks,
see Note 1
|
Leak &
structural
|
The greater of:
- head of water up to the top of the
overflow
- head of water 2,4 m above top of tank,
see Note 2
- head of water up to bulkhead deck
|
Combined double bottom and
hopper side tanks
|
Leak &
structural
|
The greater of:
- head of water up to the top of the
overflow
- head of water representing the maximum
pressure experienced in service
|
Double bottom voids,
see Note 3
|
Leak
|
|
Double side tanks
|
Leak &
structural
|
The greater of:
|
Combined double bottom,
lower hopper and topside tanks
|
Leak &
structural
|
- head of water up to the top of the
overflow
- head of water 2,4 m above top of tank,
see Note 2
|
Topside tanks
|
Leak &
structural
|
- head of water up to bulkhead deck
|
Double side voids
|
Leak
|
|
Deep tanks (other than
those listed)
|
Leak &
structural
|
The greater of:
- head of water up to the top of the
overflow
- head of water 2,4 m above top of tank,
see Note 2
|
Cargo oil tanks, and fuel
oil bunkers
|
Leak &
structural
|
The greater of:
- head of water up to the top of the
overflow
- head of water 2,4 m above top of tank,
see Note 2
|
Scupper and discharge
pipes in way of tanks
|
Leak &
structural
|
- head of water up to top of tank, see
Note 2, plus setting of fitted pressure-relief valve
|
Peak tanks, see
Note 4
|
Leak &
structural
|
The greater of::
- head of water up to the top of the
overflow
- head of water 2,4 m above top of tank,
see Note 2
|
Fore peak voids
|
Leak and
structural
|
Head of water up to the
bulkhead deck, see Note 8
|
Aft peak voids, see
Note 4
|
Leak
|
|
Cofferdams
|
Leak
|
|
Watertight
bulkheads
|
Leak
|
See Note 5
|
Superstructure end
bulkhead
|
Leak
|
|
Watertight doors below
freeboard or bulkhead deck
|
Leak
|
See Notes 6 & 12
|
Double plate rudder
blade
|
Leak
|
|
Shaft tunnel clear of deep
tanks
|
Leak
|
See Note 5
|
Shell doors when fitted in
place
|
Leak
|
See Notes 5 & 7
|
Weathertight doors, hatch
covers and closing appliances
|
Leak
|
See Note 5
|
Lube oil sump tanks and
other similar tanks/spaces under main engines
|
Leak
|
See Note 5
|
Steel hatch covers fitted
to the cargo oil tanks and cargo holds of ships used for the
alternate carriage of oil cargo and dry bulk cargo
|
Leak
|
See Note
|
Chain locker
|
Leak &
structural
|
Head of water up to top of
chain pipe
|
Independent tanks, and
edible liquid tanks
|
Leak &
structural
|
The greater of:
- head of water up to the top of the
overflow
- head of water 0,9 m above top of tank,
see Note 2
|
Ballast ducts
|
Leak &
structural
|
The greater of:
- ballast pump maximum pressure
- setting of pressure-relief valve
|
Chemical tanks
|
Leak &
structural
|
The greater of:
- head of water 2,4 m above top of tank,
see Note 2
- head of water up to top of tank, see
Note 2, plus setting of fitted pressure-relief valve
|
NOTES
1. Including tanks arranged in
accordance with the provisions of SOLAS Reg. II-1/Regulation 9 - Double bottoms in passenger ships and cargo ships other than tankers.
2. Top of tank is the deck
forming the top of the tank, excluding any hatchways. In
holds for liquid cargo or ballast with large hatch openings,
the top of tank is to be taken to the top of the hatch.
3. Including duct keels and dry
compartments arranged in accordance with the provisions of
SOLAS Reg. II-1/Regulation 9 - Double bottoms in passenger ships and cargo ships other than tankers and Reg. II-1/11.2, as
well as voids used for the protection of fuel oil tanks and
pump rooms arranged in accordance with the provisions of
MARPOL Annex I, Reg. 12A and Reg. 22.
4. Testing of the aft peak is
to be carried out after the sterntube has been fitted.
5. A hose test will be
considered, see
Pt 4, Ch 3, 6.5 Leak test procedures 6.5.2 and Pt 4, Ch 3, 6.6 Definitions and details of tests 6.6.3.
6. Watertight doors not
confirmed watertight by a prototype test are to be subject
to a hydrostatic test, see SOLAS Reg. II-1/Regulation 16 - Construction and initial tests of watertight closures.
7. For shell doors providing
watertight closure, watertightness is to be demonstrated
through prototype testing before installation. The testing
procedure is to be agreed with LR prior to testing.
8. Where demonstrated to be impracticable, the structural
testing of fore peak void spaces may be exempted subject to
the agreement of the attending Surveyor.
9. Where a cargo tank is designed for the carriage of cargoes
with a specific gravity greater than 1,0, an appropriate
additional head is to be considered.
10. Where air vents are fitted below the top of the coaming,
adequate blanking off of these vents may be required prior
to the commencement of the test.
11. Other testing methods
listed in Pt 4, Ch 3, 6.6 Definitions and details of tests 6.6.7 and Pt 4, Ch 3, 6.6 Definitions and details of tests 6.6.8 may be
considered, subject to adequacy of such testing methods
being verified, see SOLAS Reg. II-1Regulation 11 - Initial testing of watertight bulkheads, etc.
12. All watertight doors are to be hose tested after
installation. Hose testing is to be carried out from each
side of a door unless, for a specific application, flooding
is anticipated from only one side. Where a hose test is not
practicable because of possible damage to machinery,
electrical equipment insulation or outfitting items, it may
be replaced by an ultrasonic leak test or an equivalent
test.
|
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