Seal of Approval - The New Vacuum Test Kit

The new vacuum test kit now available from Kennards Hire Test & Measure offers the most efficient, accurate and cost-effective solution for testing new, existing and rehabilitated manholes.

Vacuum Test Kit from Kennards Hire

Leo De Sousa, Branch Manager of Kennards Hire Test & Measure East Brisbane explained that, “The new vacuum test kit has been designed to test the integrity of manholes and their resistance to water infiltration or exfiltration.”

“The test is performed by creating a vacuum in the manhole. The operator monitors a gauge for vacuum loss to identify problems within minutes. The head assemblies are made of lightweight aluminium, which makes them the lightest units available.”

Previously, sewer pipes were tested using water through either infiltration or exfiltration. Groundwater entering the pipe is monitored through the use of a weir, while for the exfiltration test, water is introduced into the pipeline and the level monitored over a specified period, usually 24 hours.

The infiltration method of testing can be problematic. A faulty section of pipe could pass due to no groundwater being present and it’s difficult to use metering equipment to measure water flow. For exfiltration tests, problems can occur if ground water is present, water will not escape from the pipe, leading to inaccurate results.

These methods of testing are expensive and time consuming. And if a leak is identified, there’s no method of determining its exact location. “The vacuum test kit from Kennards Hire Test & Measure enables you to test manholes and identify a leak immediately before or after ring installation and backfilling,” said Leo. “It also eliminates the need for water tests.”

The vacuum pump draws 10” hg in approximately 2 minutes for a 15’ deep manhole at a rate of 15 CFM. It features an oil-free graphite vane pump, which has eliminated the need for a cumbersome lubrication system and has aluminium rather than glass filter jars. The head assembly is supported by a durable, aluminium brace. An aluminium pushpin rod connection allows for easy depth adjustment.

Vacuum Test Kit availabe for Hire from Kennards Hire

The plate style tester seals the surface of the manhole frame or cone. It has a 1” neoprene gasket to ensure a leak-free seal. The new vacuum test kit now available from Kennards Hire Test &  Measure offers the most efficient, accurate and cost-effective solution for testing new, existing and rehabilitated manholes.

The vacuum test kit is ideal for Construction, Civil Engineering, Remedial Works, Plumbing  Contractors, Council, Utilities and Waste Management companies.