Our Fire Hydrant Testing Examinations

SES Utilities offers the following fire hydrant testing examinations.

Above ground examinations

Our above ground examination will involve a visual inspection of the hydrant frame, cover, surface surrounding the hydrant and the hydrant indicator plate. The period between inspections will be risk assessed and taken into account such likely factors of area location and risk, hydrant position, age, material, previous history, etc.

Below ground examinations

Our below ground examination will involve the visual inspection of the hydrant pit and the hydrant itself.  Defects affecting the ability to deliver water for fire-fighting purposes or create a hazard are reported immediately.  Also the period between inspections will be risk assessed and taken into account such likely factors of area location and risk, hydrant position, age, material, previous history, etc.

Wet Pressure Test

A standpipe is fitted to the outlet and  the valve is partially opened to allow a small amount of water to flow. A blank cap is fitted in the standpipe head and the hydrant fully opened. Whilst under pressure, all joints are visually inspected for signs of leakage and those leakages that would impair the hydrant for fire-fighting purposes or cause a hazard are reported immediately.

Static Pressure Test

The static pressure assembly is attached to the standpipe with the vent cock open. The hydrant is then opened and the vent cock is closed when the standpipe is free of air. A pressure reading is then taken. The hydrant valve is then closed and the vent cock opened to release the pressure before removing the standpipe assembly.

Flow Test

Before attaching the flow tube to the hydrant standpipe the main will be flushed for a short period of time (approximately 1 minute) to clear any debris which may cause damage to the flow sensor. After flushing, the flow tube is attached to the standpipe and the hydrant valve is fully opened. The digital display is left to settle before any readings are taken.