(A) The contractor shall perform hydrostatic testing of all water distribution systems, as set forth in the following, and shall conduct said tests in the presence of representatives from the Water Department or other authorized agencies, with 48 hours advance notice provided.
(B) Piping and appurtenances to be tested shall be within sections between valves, unless alternate methods have received prior approval from the Water Department. Testing shall not proceed until concrete thrust blocks are in place and cured, or other restraining devices installed. All piping shall be thoroughly cleaned and flushed prior to testing to clear the lines of all foreign matter. While the piping is being filled with water, care shall be exercised to permit the escape of air from extremities or the test section, with additional release cocks provided if required.
(C) Hydrostatic testing shall be performed at 150 pounds per square inch pressure, unless otherwise approved by the Water Department, for a period of not less than two hours. Testing shall be in accordance with Section 12, AWWA Standard C600. The allowable rate of leakage shall be less than the number of gallons per hour determined by the following formula:
L = ND x (P) 1/2
3700
For 150 psi Test: 1 = 0.00331 ND
L = allowable leakage in gallons per hour
N = number of joints in the section tested (asbestos-cement pipe couplings shall be considered as one joint)
D = nominal diameter of the pipe in inches
P = average test pressure maintained during the leakage test in pounds per square inch gauge.
(D) The testing procedure shall include the continued application of the specified pressure to the test system, for the two-hour period, by way of a pipe taking supply from a container suitable for measuring water loss. The amount of loss shall be determined by measuring the volume displaced from said container.
(E) Should the test fail, necessary repairs shall be accomplished by the contractor and the test repeated until within the established limits. The contractor shall furnish the necessary labor, water, pumps, gauges and other items required to conduct the required water distribution system testing and perform necessary repairs.
(Ord. 348, passed 12-3-87) Penalty, see § 77