What is a critical step before conducting a hydrotest on a bundle?

Before conducting a hydrotest on a bundle, ensuring that the tubesheet is thick enough for the pressure is essential. During a hydrotest, the bundle is subjected to high pressure, which requires the structural components, including the tubesheet, to withstand this force without failure. If the tubesheet is not adequately designed to handle the specified pressure levels, it could lead to deformation, leaks, or even catastrophic failure during the test.

While cleaning the system thoroughly, determining tube cleanliness, and performing visual inspections can indeed be important steps in preparing for a hydrotest, they do not directly address the integrity of the tubesheet under pressure. The tubesheet's thickness and overall design must meet the requirements established by relevant codes and standards to ensure safety and effectiveness during the test process. This focus on structural integrity and safety is critical in pressure vessel inspection and testing procedures.