Abstract: A method and apparatus for hydrostatically testing connections between segments of pipe whereby pressurized hydrostatic test fluid is selectively applied to the connection such that the pressures are principally applied in the vicinity of the radial orifices leading into the sealing elements of the connection and not radially to the inner or outer annular surfaces of the connection in the vicinity of the sealing elements of the connection which would tend to substantially affect the bearing pressure of the sealing elements. In addition, a method and apparatus for selectively applying pressurized hydrostatic test fluid such that the pressures are applied to those areas where the bearing pressure of the sealing elements of the connection is sensitive to the applied pressures, thus manipulating the bearing pressure and controlling the sealing capacity of the connection during hydrostatic leak testing.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for hydrostatically testing connections between segments of pipe whereby pressurized hydrostatic test fluid is selectively applied to the connection such that the pressures are principally applied in the vicinity of the radial orifices leading into the sealing elements of the connection and not radially to the inner or outer annular surfaces of the connection in the vicinity of the sealing elements of the connection which would tend to substantially affect the bearing pressure of the sealing elements. In addition, a method and apparatus for selectively applying pressurized hydrostatic test fluid such that the pressures are applied to those areas where the bearing pressure of the sealing elements of the connection is sensitive to the applied pressures, thus manipulating the bearing pressure and controlling the sealing capacity of the connection during hydrostatic leak testing.

Abstract: An apparatus (10) and method is disclosed for connecting a pipe (12) and a test plug (28) comprising a carriage assembly (14) positioned on a base (16) that is capable of horizontal and vertical movement relative to base (16). Opposed pairs of fluid operated cylinders (56) are provided on opposite sides of carriage assembly (14) that support carriage assembly (14) on base (16) for relative vertical movement. A fluid control system associated with the cylinders (56) is selectively operated in two modes, an open pressure balanced float mode to permit relatively free lateral movement between the pipe (12) and test plug (28) for axial alignment, and a closed torque mode provided during make-up, for immediately detecting from an increase in fluid pressure in the cylinders (56) any excessive torque or misalignment of test plug (28) and pipe (12) resulting in a vertical deflection of the carriage assembly (14) thereby indicating when thread damage may be occurring.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for hydrostatically testing pipe is disclosed. Means are provided for externally exerting a force against test plugs sealing the ends of a pipe being tested to oppose forces tending to push the test plugs out of the ends of the pipe. Means are provided for controlling the amount of tension present in the pipe and, alternatively, for creating and maintaining a net compressive force on the pipe during the testing process in order to test characteristics of the pipe.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for hydrostatically testing the seal integrity against leakage of the sealing face surface of the end of a pipe is disclosed. A test pad is engaged against a sealing face surface of a pipe and urged into tight contact with said sealing face surface. Fluid is applied under pressure to the juncture between said test pad and said sealing face surface to determine the seal integrity against leakage of the sealing face surface.