What are the possible causes of pipeline rupture during pressure testing before PE pipeline burial?

Possible reasons for pipe rupture during pressure testing before PE pipeline burial:

I. Pipeline Quality Issues

Raw materials substandard

If the raw material quality of PE pipelines is poor, there may be issues such as excessive impurities and insufficient strength, which can easily lead to fractures during the extrusion test.

For example, pipes produced using recycled materials or substandard raw materials may fail to meet the requirements of pressure testing.

2. Production Process Defects:

Improper process control during production may also lead to pipeline quality issues.

If extrusion temperature and pressure are unstable, it may lead to uneven wall thickness of the pipeline, with local weak points prone to fracturing during pressure application.

● Poor welding can also lead to insufficient strength at pipe joints, resulting in fractures during testing.

Improper construction

1. Damage during transportation and installation process:

During the handling and installation of PE pipes, improper operation may cause damage to the pipes.

For instance, rough handling and dragging pipelines can cause scratches and dents on the pipeline surface, which may become starting points for fractures during the pressure testing.

Improper pipeline installation

● Failure to adhere to standard procedures for initial treatment and backfilling during pipeline installation can lead to uneven stress distribution and potential pipe rupture during pressure testing.

For instance, uneven base levels may cause local pipe sections to hang in the air, and the presence of sharp stones or other hard materials in the backfill soil may lead to compression and scratching of the pipes.

Issue of suppression operations

High stress levels or rapid increase in pressure:

If the pressure surges exceed the pipeline's design capacity or if the pressure increase rate is too rapid, it can cause the pipeline to withstand excessive pressure instantly, leading to a rupture.

● The stamping operation should be strictly conducted according to the design requirements and specifications, controlling the pressure and the rate of pressure increase.

2. Overlong voltage stabilization time

Extended voltage stabilization periods may lead to fatigue failure in pipelines under continuous pressure, resulting in fractures.

Properly control the voltage stabilization time in accordance with the standard requirements.