Local Leak Testing Reduction Studies
This can be achieved by:
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Reducing the number of Type B or C tests.
Taking credit for water filled systems, water sealed systems and closed loops can greatly reduce the number of type B and C tests required to be performed.
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Reduction in the number of As-Found tests required.
Getting maximum advantage out of increased test intervals requires the proper definition of repairs and adjustments as well as maintenance/testing schedule coordination.
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Optimization of administrative limits and total allowable leakage rate.
The values chosen for administrative limits as well as the methodology for the conversion between units of %/day to slpm or scfh may both be optimized.
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Use of equivalent flow rate conversions between water and air.
The use of conversions from air to water is currently allowed and can reduce some high-pressure water testing. The conversions from water to air is allowed in the new revision of ANS 56.8 and allows for on-line quantification of Appendix J leakage rates where no Type C testing is possible.
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Increasing the intervals between Type B and C tests.
Option B to Appendix J as well as the most recent revisions to NEI 94-01 allow for significant extensions in Type B and C test intervals.
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Minimizing time and labor needed for individual tests.
Reductions may be achieved by examining testing methodology such as the venting and draining practices and valve line-ups.
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Increased on-line testing.
Moving some carefully chosen Type B and C tests from the outage to on-line testing can reduce outage workload and time.
