Ache tube leak testing tool

A method for the controlled in situ hydrostatic testing of a tube in an air cooled heat exchanger (ACHE) comprising the steps of:

• a. providing a pressurizing component comprising:
• i. an isolation valve in fluid communication with a source of pressurized testing liquid,
• ii. a check valve,
• iii. a drain valve,
• iv. a pressure gauge, and
• v. a tube lock member assembly from a seal plug, all of which are in fluid communication;
• b. providing a pressure retaining component comprising:
• i. tube lock member assembly formed from a seal plug secured to an extension tube that is securely joined to a threaded lock member, and
• ii. a manually controlled vent/drain valve, all of which are in fluid communication;
• c. securing the pressurizing component in the open end of a tube to be tested;
• d. securing the pressure retaining component in the opposite end of the open tube;
• e. opening the isolation valve to admit a stream of pressurized test liquid and opening the vent in the pressure retaining component to release air from, and fill the interior of the tube with test fluid, and closing the vent valve when test liquid is emitted;
• f. pressurizing the tube with the test liquid to a predetermined value;
• g. monitoring the pressure gauge and closing the isolation valve when the hydrostatic pressure in the tube reaches the predetermined value;
• h. continuing to monitor the pressure gauge for a predetermined period of time during the hydrostatic test;
• and
• i. identifying the tube as defective for removal from service based upon a predetermined loss in pressure as indicated by the pressure gauge.