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Vacuum Testing

Sherlock Vacuum Testing

Another world first

In 1996, Fibrelite developed yet another world first in the petroleum industry; an electronic vacuum testing system to verify that underground containment systems are liquid-tight. Over the years, interest has steadily grown and it has now become a mandatory requirement of many oil companies worldwide as the only reliable method to test and verify liquid-tight containment of underground sumps.

Why vacuum test?

Hydro-static (water) testing is a slow laborious process, which frequently does not detect pinhole leaks which allow groundwater into the system over time. The Fibrelite vacuum test can detect holes as small as 0.2mm diameter. The Sherlock system allows stage by stage testing during installation, thus verifying the quality of workmanship throughout.

Annual retro-testing

It is possible to perform an annual retro-test on live sites. This provides maintenance crews with a quick method of leak detection, allowing them to fix problems quickly without costly site closures.

Either Fibrelite distributors or trained contractors will be nominated by oil companies to perform testing. The contractor will charge for testing on a site by site basis. Testing is conducted until a pass is achieved. The contractor will then issue a dated and signed certificate with detailed information of testing performed on the site. This is the customer’s guarantee that sumps have been tested and are verified to be liquid-tight.

Equipment

The Sherlock system comprises of an electronic vacuum testing module and a series of see-through Perspex test plates designed to fit Fibrelite sumps. Please contact us for more information.

Vacuum Testing Equipment List
Vacuum Testing Instructions

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