The Ultimate Pressure Test…
When it comes to ensuring the integrity and safety of piping systems, valves, cylinders, and other pressure-bound components, pressure testing equipment is indispensable. GLOBE is a worldwide leader in the design and manufacture of robust, reliable, and versatile test rigs that meet the demands of industries ranging from oil & gas and mining to manufacturing, utilities, and defence.
Understanding Different Types of Pressure Tests
Pressure testing can be applied to a wide range of materials and components to identify leaks, weak points, or verify maximum pressure ratings. Generally, pressure tests fall into three main categories:
- Leak Tests – Identify holes, cracks, or other defects that allow fluid or gas to escape.
- Burst (Fracture) Tests – Determine the maximum pressure a material or component can withstand, while also revealing potential weak spots.
- Proof Tests – Confirm whether a component can safely handle a specified operating pressure.
The type of pressure test required, and therefore the system best suited for the job, depends on several important factors, including:
1. What Do You Want to Test?
Different applications require different equipment. For instance, testing high-pressure hoses demands a completely different setup compared to pressurising and testing fire extinguishers. That’s why selecting the right system is essential. Our specialists work closely with you to configure the most suitable test rig for your specific requirements.
2. Which Medium Will You Test With?
The test medium—whether gas or liquid—plays a crucial role in system selection. Many gas-based pressure testing systems cannot be used for liquids, and vice versa. Identifying the medium upfront ensures that your chosen system is safe, accurate, and compliant with your application.
3. Where do you need to test? & What power source is available?
GLOBE pressure test equipment can be air-driven or electrically driven; and whilst both serve the same critical function, delivering controlled, repeatable pressure testing, they are engineered for different environments, needs, and operational advantages.
Air-Driven Pressure Test Equipment
Air-driven systems use compressed air to generate hydraulic pressure.
Key Benefits:
- Portability & Simplicity – Compact and lightweight units that can be deployed quickly, even in remote or field locations.
- Safe in Hazardous Areas – No electrical power required, making them ideal for use in potentially explosive or volatile environments (ATEX-compliant when required).
- Fine Pressure Control – Operators can ramp pressure up smoothly, making it easier to detect leaks or system weaknesses during testing.
- Low Maintenance – Fewer moving parts and simple operation lead to long service life and minimal downtime.
Suitable Applications:
- Offshore oil & gas testing
- Pipeline maintenance and leak detection
- On-site testing of valves, hoses, or hydraulic components
- Portable/mobile testing operations
Electrically Driven Pressure Test Equipment
Electrically driven units harness electric motors to power the hydraulic pump, providing a more robust and continuous testing solution.
Key Benefits:
- High Efficiency & Continuous Duty – Ideal for repetitive testing or large-volume test cycles where speed and consistency are essential.
- Precision & Automation – Options for automated controls, digital readouts, and programmable test sequences allow greater accuracy and repeatability.
- Higher Flow Rates – Capable of reaching higher pressures faster, improving throughput for large-scale operations.
- Workshop-Friendly – Perfect for controlled environments where power is readily available.
Suitable Applications:
- Manufacturing QA and batch testing
- Power generation and utility maintenance
- Heavy industrial workshops
- Applications requiring high-pressure testing on a regular basis
Choosing the Right Pressure Test Solution
The decision between air-driven and electrically driven testing equipment comes down to where and how you need to test:
- If you’re working in the field, in hazardous locations, or need a flexible, portable solution, Globe air-driven test units might be the right fit.
- If you’re in a controlled workshop environment with high-volume, repetitive test demands and access to electricity supply, Globe electrically driven units provide efficiency and automation.
Regardless of which solution you choose, you can be confident in Globe’s engineering: reliable performance, rugged design, and industry-proven precision.
Looking for a tailored solution? Globe offers standard and custom-built test systems designed to meet your specific pressure ranges, media, and compliance standards.
Contact us to find out more about the range of GLOBE pressure test equipment and help determine the right solution for your requirements.