MCC-NH Gas Fitters Practice Exam

Prior to acceptance and initial operation, what must all piping installations undergo?

1. Visual inspection

2. Leak checked and pressure tested

3. Functional testing

4. Cleaning and purging

The correct answer is: Leak checked and pressure tested

Before any piping installation is put into operation, it's crucial for it to undergo leak checks and pressure tests. This step is essential to ensure the integrity and safety of the piping system. Leak checking involves examining the system for potential leaks that could lead to hazardous situations or system failures, especially given that gas can be highly flammable or toxic. Pressure testing assesses the piping's ability to withstand the pressure that will be exerted during normal operation. This process helps to confirm that the installation has been completed correctly, meets all relevant safety standards, and is free from defects that could lead to failures. Though visual inspection, functional testing, and cleaning and purging are important aspects of preparation for a piping system, they do not specifically address the safety concerns associated with leaks and pressure integrity to the same extent as leak checking and pressure testing. Therefore, while these other methods contribute to the overall reliability and functionality of the installation, the priority is to ensure that the piping can safely handle operational conditions without risk of leakage or failure.