Code of Maine Rules
06 - DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
096 - DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION - GENERAL
Chapter 695 - RULES FOR UNDERGROUND HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE STORAGE FACILITIES
Appendix 096-695-C - Requirements for Pneumatic (Air) Testing for Piping and Tanks

1. When conducting an air pressure test on metallic tanks or piping, all joints, seams and connections shall be soaped. For fiberglass tanks and piping the entire surface as well as joints and connections shall be soaped.

2. The test shall be maintained for a minimum of 1 hour, and all soaped areas shall be visually inspected for bubbles or any other indication of a leak.

3. Any loss of pressure or appearance of bubbles shall constitute failure of the test.

Piping

4. Underground piping shall be physically isolated from the tank prior to the test.

5. Underground piping shall be tested to 15O% of the maximum anticipated pressure of the system, but not less than fifty (50) pounds per square inch (psi) gauge at the highest point of the system.

NOTE: Flexible connectors should not be connected to piping during the maximum pressure testing of the piping without the approval of the manufacturer of the flexible connectors.

6. Piping shall be re-tested, if necessary, with flexible connectors attached at the maximum pressure allowed by the manufacturer of the flexible connectors.

Tanks

7. Air pressure testing of tanks shall only be performed on new, empty tanks, which have never contained product.

8. Tanks shall be tested before being covered, enclosed or placed in service.

9. Tanks shall be tested at not less than three (3) pounds per square inch (psi) and not more than five (5) pounds per square inch (psi) gauge. Gauges used during air testing of tanks shall have a maximum limit of 10-15 pounds per square inch (psi).