Well and Equipment Testing
Before the actual process of hydraulic fracturing begins, well servicers conduct a pressure test on the system.
Testing is accomplished prior to fracturing.
The pressure test is conducted by pumping fresh water, brine or drilling mud into the well to gradually increase the pressure. The pressure test involves the gradual increase of hydraulic pressure on the system. The final test pressure is above the maximum fracturing pressure, but below the lowest component failure pressure.
Potential Hazards:
- struck-by high-pressure lines or unexpected release of pressure (for example, mismatched or excessively worn hammer unions and line leaks or line failure)
- rotating equipment hazards
- inhaling diesel particulate
- exposure to high noise levels
Possible Solutions:
- fasten high-pressure lines together properly
- use proper equipment inspection techniques that include hammer unions
- require all non-essential personnel to stand clear
- direct equipment operators to remain at their controls
- use proper equipment guards and covers
- wear proper PPE, such as respiratory, skin and hearing protection, as appropriate for the hazards present
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
2-4. Why is it important to inspect hammer unions on the hydraulic fracturing wellsite?
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