We have been testing and repairing some client’s hoses annually for the last 25 years.
Hoses are tested in accordance with BS6391:2009 which stipulates an annual test pressure of 1.5 x maximum working pressure. Dependent on the customer’s requirements we hydro-statically test hoses at between 12 and 22.5 bar (174 – 326 p.s.i.).
Hoses that fail the test have areas of damage marked for repair. Unique asset marks/numbers are recorded and logged on a spreadsheet and the failed hoses are set to one side.
Following a successful test, the hose is drained of water, recoiled and a coloured cable tie is attached to the male coupling to indicate that the hose is in test.
The hose is then re-stowed on the vehicle. All hose details are entered on a spreadsheet for the record. Once all testing is completed, a certificate is issued detailing the unique identifiers of the hoses that passed. The asset number/identifier acts as the key to all the other information recorded about the hose such as hose type, length, diameter, coupling make and age, test dates and history. This gives a complete and comprehensive set of records in the event of an incident or accident. This record is also very useful when budgeting for replacement hoses.
Hosetech are experts in the repair of damaged hoses which can massively reduce the cost of failed hose tests as the hoses can often be repaired and retested for a fraction of the cost of a new hose.
New couplings can be wired on professionally fully in accordance with BS6391:2009, and female couplings can be serviced as part of the testing regime if required.
There are two methods for testing Layflat Hoses: on wagon in situ and in our workshop.
On wagon process
The hose will be visually checked for any damage before testing begins. The male coupling is connected to the water delivery and the hose is coiled onto the rotating drum ensuring the release valves are closed.
The delivery is opened and when the hose is full of water, it is inspected for leaks.
The pressure is increased to the required test pressure and visually inspected again for signs of leaking.
Workshop procedure
The hose is visually inspected including all couplings.
The male coupling is checked for wear, cracks and drag damage. It is connected to water delivery to ensure correct engagement of the coupling, and the hose is then run out along the test bench.
The female coupling is checked for wear, cracks and drag damage, washer condition and wear and correct protrusion of connecting lugs. It is connected to the skid to ensure the correct engagement of the coupling and that all the pressure-release valves on the skid are closed.
The hose is visually inspected for burns, abrasion and slits. We check the bindings, hose sleeve and the section of hose immediately adjacent to the coupling. We also check the length to ensure it is over the specified dimensions. The hose is filled to hydrant pressure and checked for leaks along its entire length.
If there are no leaks at hydrant pressure, a pump is used to charge the hose to the required test pressure and the hose is then inspected again. The hose is blown out and recoiled and all test results are recorded.
Speak to us to find out how we can help you test and repair your Fire Hose