D.O.T. Certified Hydro-Test Facility
Hawkeye Fire & Safety is a fully certified D.O.T. Hydrostatic Test Facility, equipped to perform hydrostatic testing on both low- and high-pressure cylinders using specialized, industry-approved testing equipment.
Start Hydrostatic Testing Quote Today
We’re here to help. Get in touch to maintaintain compliance and reduce safety risks to personnel and equipment.
Why Hydrostatic Testing Is Required
Hydrostatic testing is essential to ensure the structural integrity and safety of pressurized cylinders. Both NFPA and the Department of Transportation (D.O.T.) require periodic testing to confirm a cylinder’s ability to safely contain pressure at its rated levels. OSHA 1910.157(e)(4) requires that all stored pressure dry chemical fire extinguishers requiring 12-year hydrostatic tests be emptied and subjected to applicable maintenance procedures every 6 years. Testing intervals are defined by NFPA 10 for fire extinguishers and by D.O.T. specifications for high-pressure cylinders.
| FREQUENCY |
Every 5 yrs (CO2) · Every 12 yrs (dry/wet chemical, water) |
| SERVICE |
Discharge and depressurize the unit, inspect the interior, then pressurize to test pressure and watch for expansion or leaks. |
| MORE INFO |
Interval is set by extinguisher type under NFPA 10. CO2 units are on the shorter 5-year cycle. |
| FREQUENCY |
At recharge / when discharged · 12 yrs max |
| SERVICE |
Recover the agent first, then pressurize and test the empty cylinder. Full hydrotest at 12 years if not triggered sooner. |
| MORE INFO |
Covers FM-200, Novec 1230, etc. Units in continuous service over 5 yrs without discharge may stay in place per NFPA 2001. |
| FREQUENCY |
Every 5 yrs (CO2) · Every 12 yrs (dry/wet chemical) |
| SERVICE |
Drain the agent, perform an internal inspection, pressurize to test pressure, and verify there's no permanent expansion. |
| MORE INFO |
Applies to engineered and pre-engineered systems such as Ansul kitchen and industrial setups. |
| FREQUENCY |
Every 3 yrs (composite) · Every 5 yrs (steel/aluminum) |
| SERVICE |
Visual inspection plus a hydrostatic expansion test. The manufacture date and service-life limit are checked at the same time. |
| MORE INFO |
Composite (carbon/fiber-wrapped) cylinders carry a 15-year service life and must be retired after that regardless of test results. |
| FREQUENCY |
Every 5 yrs (hydro) · Annual visual inspection (VIP) |
| SERVICE |
Measures permanent volumetric expansion against elastic expansion. The cylinder fails if it exceeds allowable limits. |
| MORE INFO |
The dive industry pairs the 5-year hydro with a yearly VIP sticker, often required before a shop will fill the tank. |
| FREQUENCY |
Every 5 yrs · Up to 10 yrs under DOT special permit |
| SERVICE |
Standard expansion test. Oxygen cylinders also require oxygen-clean reassembly after testing to remove contaminants. |
| MORE INFO |
Covers medical/industrial O2, nitrogen, argon, and similar. Some cylinders qualify for a 10-year interval under DOT permits. |
Let us help you stay compliant and safe with accurate, certified hydrostatic testing services. Loaner extinguishers are available during service to maintain your protection without interruption. Contact Hawkeye Fire & Safety today for everything from sales, recharges, inspections, and hydrotesting.