Hydraulic and Pneumatic Tests

Hydraulic and Pneumatic Tests

Hydraulic and pneumatic tests evaluate hydraulic and pneumatic components and finished products through flow and pressure tests, performance tests, environmental exposure tests, dynamic tests, and other specialized tests. Hydraulic testing equipment includes test stands, manifolds, manifold-mounted components, and controls. Manifold-mounted controls are organized for operator convenience. A hydraulic tester can operate with a number of different fluids, including phosphate ester-based fluids and red-oils. Hydraulic testers may be capable of higher pressures (<5000 psi) and can use a variety of electrical supply power ratings, including 380 VAC, 50 Hz, three-phase power; 240 VAC, 60 Hz, three-phase power; or 460 VAC, 60 Hz, three-phase power. A hydraulic testing service can upgrade hydraulic equipment with features such as automatic controls and data acquisition. A pneumatic testing can provide similar services, but with pneumatic equipment. Pneumatic testing services use pneumatic testing equipment such as test stands for nozzle airflow, and proof pressure testers, universal pneumatic valves. A pneumatic tester can be a pressure test booth, pneumatic accessories test stand, portable leakage tester, airflow suitcase checker, vacuum leakage test cart, or vacuum leakage test cart.

Hydraulic and pneumatic testing follow guidelines from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Technical Committee 131 (fluid power systems),  Subcommittee 8 (product testing), Technical Committee 20 (aircraft and space vehicles), and Subcommittee 10 (aerospace fluid systems and components). ISO 6772 deals with impulse testing of hydraulic hose, tubing and fitting assemblies. ISO 6403 covers test methods for valves controlling flow and pressure.