API 610 Pump Testing Guide for Test Engineers
1. Understand the Scope and Purpose
- API 610 covers centrifugal pumps for petroleum, petrochemical, and natural gas industries.
- It emphasizes reliability, safety, and performance under demanding conditions.
2. Key Testing Responsibilities
Hydrostatic Testing (Section 8.3.2)
- Test pressure: 1.5 × MAWP (Maximum Allowable Working Pressure).
- No leakage or seepage allowed for 30 minutes.
- Use water with a wetting agent for low specific gravity fluids.
- Ensure all welds and joints are tested before painting.
Performance Testing (Section 8.3.3)
- Conducted per HI 14.6 / ISO 9906 Grade 1.
- Measure flow, head, power, and vibration at multiple points (shutoff, rated, BEP, etc.).
- Correct results for speed, viscosity, and density.
- Tolerances:
- Head: ±3% at rated point.
- Power: ·104% of rated.
- NPSH3: Must not exceed quoted value.
Optional Tests (Section 8.3.4)
- 4-hour mechanical run test.
- NPSH required test.
- Complete unit test (pump + driver).
- Sound level and resonance tests (if specified).
3. Vibration Monitoring (Section 6.9.4)
- Measure vibration at multiple flow points.
- Use RMS velocity for bearing housings.
- Use peak-to-peak displacement for shaft vibration.
- Limits vary by pump type and speed (see Table 8 and 9).
4. Seal and Bearing Checks
- Ensure seals meet API 682 standards.
- No visible leakage during performance test.
- Bearings must operate within temperature limits.
- For oil-lubricated bearings, check oil temperature rise and cleanliness.
5. Documentation and Reporting
- Maintain detailed logs of all tests.
- Submit certified test curves and data.
- Include vibration spectra and temperature readings.
- Use Annex M for test data summary format.
6. Pre-Shipment Checks (Section 8.4)
- Ensure alignment between pump and driver.
- Apply rust preventatives and seal all openings.