Hydrostatic testing involves water-pressure testing a pipeline. A hydrostatic test involves pressurizing a section of pipe with water. The pressure is tested at a higher percentage of the pipe material’s maximum design strength for natural gas.
Hydrostatic testing is a proven method of verifying the actual capability of a natural gas pipeline. We want our system to operate at a safe level of pressure. Hydrostatic testing is also used to test such familiar items as scuba tanks, fire extinguishers and air compressor tanks.
To learn more about our gas system and how we keep it safe, visit our Explore the PG&E Natural Gas System page.