Short Term Burst Pressure Testing of Plastic Piping

Hydrostatic Burst Test for Plastic Pipes, Tubing & Fittings

The ASTM D1599 / ISO 1167 standard test method is used to evaluate the short-term hydrostatic burst pressure of plastic pipes, tubing, and fittings. This critical test determines a product’s ability to withstand increasing internal water pressure over a short duration, typically under one hour.

In burst testing, a pipe or fitting is filled with water and subjected to controlled, steadily increasing internal pressure until it bursts. Key data such as burst pressure, failure location, and mode of rupture are recorded to assess product performance.

This method is essential for pipe manufacturers, quality assurance teams, and product developers to ensure compliance with design pressure ratings and industry standards. By simulating high-pressure failure conditions, the test helps verify material integrity, manufacturing consistency, and suitability for high-pressure applications in water distribution, plumbing, and industrial systems.

Accurately assess pressure resistance to ensure long-term performance and regulatory compliance with industry standards.

SCITEQ’s solution for short term pressure testing is purpose-built for the plastic pipe industry, offering precise, controlled testing of pipe samples under internal hydrostatic pressure until failure. This critical test simulates real-life stress conditions to verify structural integrity, prevent system failure, and ensure product reliability in the field, whether for R&D, regulatory compliance, or quality control.

User-friendly & efficient control

The SIGMA software is a browser-based platform designed for pressure and laboratory testing in line with Industry 4.0 and IoT trends. It enables users to access and control testing processes remotely using any device with a web browser, including tablets and smartphones, without the need for installing additional apps. The software features a user-friendly interface with multiple access levels, providing tailored permissions for different roles such as operators and supervisors.

Recipes & adjustable reports

A key benefit of SIGMA is its efficient recipe system, allowing users to quickly set up, save, and reuse standardized test configurations. It integrates seamlessly with SCITEQ’s testing equipment, enabling real-time monitoring and centralized management of test data. The software also includes an adjustable report function, allowing users to customize test reports to meet specific documentation or compliance needs. SIGMA is ideal for laboratories and quality control environments aiming to modernize operations, ensure consistency, and adopt smart, connected testing workflows.

  • Quality assurance during production
  • Material evaluation in R&D environments
  • Standards compliance, including ISO 1167, ASTM D1599, and EN standards
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How to perform short term pressure test

The purpose of the short term pressure test is to determine the burst strength of pipes, tubing, or fittings by applying internal water pressure until failure occurs.

The SCITEQ BurstONE plug’n play unit offers one pressure station supplying up to 200 bar and up to 15 l/min.

The expandable SIGMA pressure system can be configured with a mix of pressure outlets according to your test needs and at the required pressure range and flow.

Both solutions are controlled by the smart and intuitive online software

Step-by-Step Guide to short term pressure test. Burst Test in 60–70 Seconds (Procedure A):

1. Prepare the Specimen: Pipe is cut to minimum 5x its outer diameter (min. 300 mm) and closed using end caps.

2. Fill the System with Water: The pipe is completely filled with water, ensuring no trapped air.

3. Temperature conditioning: The sample is conditioned at 23 ±2°C for at least 1 hour.

4. Test setup: The pipe is connected to a hydraulic pressure system and fully immersed in a temperature-controlled water bath

5. Pressure ramp: Internal pressure is increased continuously and uniformly so the sample bursts within 60–70 seconds.

6. Data recording: The maximum pressure at failure is recorded and reported. Any failure outside 60–70 seconds invalidates the test.

Important: Ensure all safety protocols are followed. Use protective barriers and personal protective equipment, as the failure may be sudden and forceful.

Use a pressure source such as SCITEQ BurstONE for this test. The BurstONE unit offers one pressure station with linear pressure ramp.

A test report will be generated automatically via the SCITEQ control software.

This test is relevant for R&D or production validation when fast, destructive failure data is required.

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          Airless pressure testing

          Airless short term and burst testing is performed with water. This test is often performed as a pre-production test to meet safety and quality standards. The vessel or specimen is filled with water and pressurized untill bursting.

          Airless pressure testing, using water enhances safety by avoiding the high energy risks of compressed air, improves control and accuracy, and eliminates issues like pressure surges and false burst readings caused by gas compressibility.

          The pressure ramp is controlled by the SIGMA software ensuring accuracy and test data analysis. The pressure range for the SCITEQ pipe burst tester standard system is up to 200 bar. The unique software & intelligent dynamic regulation ensures the most stable and linear pressure regulation in the market. Learn more about the test process

          • for short test term and burst test
          • Up to 200 bar
          • Flow max. 15 l/min
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          A Smarter Approach to Pipe Pressure Testing

          As the demand for higher efficiency and data integration grows in modern production environments, traditional pressure test machines are showing their limits. The SIGMA pipe pressure test system offers a practical and forward-compatible solution for manufacturers working with PE, PEX, PVC, PP, PB, glass fibre pipes, tubes, and hoses.

          Built around a modular, airless pressure system with up to 50 independently run pressure stations, SIGMA allows for quick configuration and easy expansion—helping facilities scale testing capacity without the need for costly overhauls.

          Compliant with ISO 1167, EN 12293, ASTM D1598, D1599, and equivalent standards, SIGMA meets today’s testing requirements while enabling smoother integration with Industry 4.0 and IoT workflows.

          The result: lower total cost of ownership, better data traceability, and a testing platform ready for tomorrow’s production needs.

          The advanced system of the SCITEQ Hydrostatic Pressure Test equipment providies pressure in the range from 6-200 bar with accuracy ≤ ± 1 bar of set pressure.

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          PPXXII – The Plastic Pipes Conference & Exhibition 2025 in Warsaw, Poland, September 15–17.

          Learn about advanced Pipe Testing System at PPXXII – Visit us at Booth No. 23

          We are excited to participate in PPXXII, the premier global event for the plastic pipe industry. Visit us at Booth No. 23 to explore our cutting-edge testing solutions and innovations in plastic pipe quality control.

          Discover how SCITEQ’s solutions enhance sustainable plastic pipe production, minimize downtime, and optimize testing efficiency while ensuring regulatory compliance.

          Let’s connect at PPXXII Warsaw 2025!

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          Experts in testing during 50 years

          With more than 50 years’ experience in developing and manufacturering test equipment, SCITEQ A/S Denmark is world leading specialist in process control and test equipment.

          Learn more about SCITEQ

          Reach out to one of our experts

          Learn more about our burst and pressure testing solutions.
          We are ready to help you optimize your tests.

          Peter Sejer

          Partner & Sales Director

          +45 8696 1933

          +45 4051 0278

          sales@sciteq.com

          Jonas Jørgensen

          Sales Manager

          +45 8696 1933

          +45 2779 2178

          sales@sciteq.com

          Dennis Damborg Hansen

          Managing Director

          +45 8696 1933

          +45 4241 7574

          sales@sciteq.com
          FAQ

          Frequently Asked Questions

          How to perform short term pressure test?

          The short time pressure test is performed by filling a test specimen with water, while making sure there is no air inside the test specimen and exposing it to a pressure by increasing the internal water pressure steadily and continuously. Maintain a consistent rate of pressure rise as specified in the standard. Observe the test closely. The test ends when the specimen ruptures or leaks. Record the maximum pressure reached before failure.

          What is short term burst testing?

          The short-time hydraulic pressure test for plastic pipes, tubing, fittings and storage vessels determines the ability to withstand rapidly increasing internal water pressure over a short period. The test specimen is pressurized until it reaches the burst point. The test assesses the short-term burst strength of the material by applying pressure until failure, providing important data on the structural integrity and performance limits of the components.

          What is the best short term burst tester for pipes?

          The SCITEQ BurstONE unit is designed for reliable and efficient short term pressure testing. The user-friendly software and dynamic regulation ensures the most stable and linear pressure regulation in the market. Compliance with both national and international standards is guaranteed in both batch testing verify the performance of finished products and material - as well as for R&D purposes.

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