For how long should the pressure be maintained during an air/soap test on primary piping?

Maintaining pressure during an air/soap test on primary piping for a duration of one hour is crucial for ensuring the integrity of the piping system. This timeframe allows sufficient time for the pressure test to stabilize and provides an accurate assessment of any potential leaks. During this period, if leaks exist, the pressure will drop, and bubbles will appear in the soap solution applied to the joints and connections, indicating a failure in the system.

A one-hour duration is standardized because it balances the need for thorough testing while being practical for facility operations. Sufficient time is necessary to observe and verify the integrity of the piping, ensuring that any leaks are detected before the system is put back into operation. While other durations might seem sufficient, they do not align with the standard practices for effective testing protocols.