Pressure Testing of Airport Underground Aviation Fuel Hydrant With Jet A-1 Fuel on Completion of Construction

The paper is a description of the author’s experience in the pressure testing of airport underground fuel hydrants with aviation kerosene type fuel, Jet A-1. The paper will discuss pressure testing codes, useful and practical proof (strength) test and leak test acceptance criteria. Equipment to be used for the measurement of test pressures and temperatures will be discussed. Problems and advantages with testing with fuel will be covered. Interpretation of leak detection results by correlating pressure test response with temperature measurements and presentation of the concept that the trend is more important than the absolute values of pressure and temperature will be covered. Promotion of the idea that research is needed into the sensitivity of leak detection. The author has experience in the pressure test in a variety of fuel hydrants, but most recently with the fuel hydrant at the new Hong Kong International Airport at Chek Lap Kok, Hong Kong.