The gas test pressure should be no less than how many times the proposed maximum working pressure?

In gas piping systems, it is essential to ensure that the system can handle pressures well above the normal operating levels to guarantee safety and functionality. The correct answer emphasizes that the gas test pressure should be no less than 1.5 times the proposed maximum working pressure. This test pressure serves as a safety margin, allowing for the identification of any potential leaks or weaknesses in the piping before it is put into operation.

Setting the testing pressure at 1.5 times the maximum working pressure helps account for variations that might occur due to changes in temperature, manufacturing defects, or future wear and tear on the system. It ensures that the integrity of the piping system can withstand the operational pressures that it will face under normal conditions, thus promoting system safety and preventing accidents.

A lower multiplier, such as 1 time, would not provide an adequate safety buffer, while higher multipliers like 2 or 3 times may unnecessarily complicate the testing procedures and can lead to increased costs and longer downtime without offering proportional benefits in safety. Therefore, the 1.5 times standard strikes a balance between thoroughness and practicality in testing gas piping systems.