Cementitious Performance Testing: Vacuum Testing
Manhole vacuum testing, or negative-air-pressure testing, has gained industry wide acceptance as the most common and predominantly specified means of validating the integrity and seal of both the cementitious manhole liner materials and the contractor installer's adherence to proper construction procedures during the restoration process.
Manhole vacuum testing is a very quick and simple testing procedure, and is performed by creating a vacuum within the lined manhole and monitoring the loss of vacuum pressure (if any) over an established time frame which is based on the manhole depth and dimensions. Should the vacuum pressure drop below the corresponding allowable limits for the given manhole dimensions, there is most likely a leak within the manhole liner which must be addressed.
The standard relevant procedure for manhole vacuum testing is ASTM C1244 - Standard Test Method for Concrete Sewer Manholes by the Negative Air Pressure (Vacuum) Test.
Please feel free to contact your local Quadex representative for more information on the importance and benefits of manhole vacuum testing.
