Assessing vessel integrity and supporting safe operation

The Safety and Environmental Protection Division – Vietsovpetro (SEPD / TTAT&BVMT) provides hydrostatic testing services for pressure vessels through its Specialized Equipment Repair Workshop (SCTBCD). The service supports the inspection, maintenance and technical condition management of pressure equipment used in the oil and gas industry and other industrial sectors.

Drawing on practical experience in the maintenance, repair and inspection of specialized equipment, together with dedicated workshop facilities and testing equipment, SEPD aims to deliver professional services with a strong focus on safety, quality and technical record traceability.

Hydrostatic Testing – An Important Step in Pressure Vessel Safety Management

Pressure vessels are used to store or transport gases, liquids and other pressurized media. During service, they may be affected by pressure cycles, operating environments, corrosion and other factors that can influence their technical condition.

Hydrostatic testing is a method of applying test pressure using a liquid in accordance with applicable technical requirements. It helps assess a vessel’s pressure-bearing capability and integrity, supports the identification of abnormal conditions, and provides technical information for considering further use, maintenance or other necessary action.

Hydrostatic testing must be performed in accordance with the standards, regulations, manufacturer’s instructions and technical requirements applicable to each vessel. Test pressure, holding time and acceptance criteria are determined based on the relevant technical documentation; a single set of parameters is not applicable to all pressure vessels.

Scope of Services

SEPD provides hydrostatic testing for pressure vessels within its accepted service scope and established technical capability, including equipment used in oil and gas operations and industrial applications.

Depending on customer requirements, the service may include equipment receipt, documentation and external condition checks, test preparation, hydrostatic testing, recording of results and completion of service documentation in accordance with the agreed scope of work.

Service Procedure

Depending on the vessel type, technical documentation and applicable requirements, hydrostatic testing is organized through the following basic steps:

Equipment receipt and information review: identify the vessel type, technical specifications, available documentation and testing requirements.

External condition inspection: record visible damage, corrosion or abnormalities that may affect the test.

Test preparation: select the appropriate test method, equipment and parameters in accordance with applicable technical requirements.

Hydrostatic testing: raise and maintain pressure in accordance with the procedure while monitoring for abnormal conditions.

Evaluation and recording of results: compile test information and record the vessel condition and results against the applicable criteria.

Service documentation: prepare the test records and hand over documentation in accordance with the agreed scope of work.

Capability and Experience

Established in 1988, SEPD has experience providing specialized safety and technical services to the oil and gas industry. SCTBCD is the Division’s workshop responsible for inspection, maintenance and repair of specialized equipment, including hydrostatic testing of pressure vessels.

According to information published by Vietsovpetro, during the period 2014–2020, the Workshop performed inspection and testing services for 14,254 pressure vessels. This represents practical experience accumulated over many years in support of Vietsovpetro’s production, maintenance and safety activities.

Service Commitment

SEPD emphasizes compliance with applicable technical requirements, safety control during testing and clear service documentation. The scope of work, applicable standards and regulatory status of the results are determined in accordance with the Division’s established capability, relevant approvals and the specific requirements for each type of equipment.

SEPD – Vietsovpetro: Supporting customers in the inspection, maintenance and safe management of pressure equipment.