Red Seal Gasfitter — Class A Practice Exam

What does the term "hydrostatic test" refer to in gasfitting?

1. A test to measure temperature variations

2. A test to check the integrity of gas piping

3. A technique for cleaning gas lines

4. A method for detecting leaks

The correct answer is: A test to check the integrity of gas piping

The term "hydrostatic test" specifically refers to a procedure used in gasfitting to check the integrity of gas piping systems by determining if there are any leaks or weaknesses in the pipes. During this test, the piping system is filled with water or another liquid, and pressure is applied to assess how well the piping can withstand that pressure. If the system holds pressure without any drops, it indicates that the piping is solid and free from leaks. This process is crucial for ensuring safety and reliability in gas systems, as even minor leaks can pose serious hazards. In contrast, measuring temperature variations does not assess the structural integrity of conduits, while techniques for cleaning gas lines are unrelated to pressure testing. Detecting leaks specifically relates to identifying gas escaping from pipes, which can be a part of the hydrostatic testing process, but the primary purpose of the test itself is to evaluate the overall integrity of the gas piping system. Thus, the focus on verifying piping integrity is what makes this choice the correct answer.