Valve Test Record Template (Shell, Backseat and Seat Tests)
Every pressure rated valve leaving a shop needs a record that shell and seats were tested. This template gives you a structured test record with shell, backseat and seat test lines and signature blocks.
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Valve Test Record Template (API 598 Shell and Seat)
Valve Pressure Test Record
Manufacturer or shop: Permian Valve Services Inc Customer: Example Midstream LLC PO number: PO-77412-03 Tag: XV-2201 Serial number: VLV-26-1184 Test date: 2026-10-20
Valve Identification
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | Gate |
| Size and class | NPS 6, Class 600 |
| Body and trim | A216 WCB body, 13Cr trim |
| Test standard | API 598 |
Test Results
| Test | Pressure | Hold time | Medium | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shell | 2220 psig | 15 minutes | Water for shell, water for seat | |
| Backseat | ||||
| Seat, upstream | 1628 psig (1.1 x rating) | 5 minutes | Water for shell, water for seat | |
| Seat, downstream | 1628 psig (1.1 x rating) | 5 minutes | Water for shell, water for seat | |
| Low pressure air seat | Air |
Acceptance Criteria
Shell: no visible leakage through the body, body joints or packing for the stated duration. Seat: No visible leakage for soft seat; per standard rate for metal seat.
Overall result: Accepted
Instruments
Gauge ID: ______ Calibration due: ______ Test bench ID: ______
Signatures
Starting point only. Test pressures, durations and allowable leakage differ by valve type, standard and edition, so copy the values from the governing standard and your customer's inspection and test plan. In API 598 the shell test is typically 1.5 times the 38 C rating and the high pressure seat test 1.1 times. Not legal or engineering advice.
Digital test records in your ERP
Optional: replace paper test sheets with captured results linked to serial numbers.
Optional. The tool and every export work without this. No spam.
How to use the template
Fill in the valve data and the standard, then set pressures and hold times from the standard for the valve type and class. Print or export the document and write down the observed results line by line during testing. Keep one record per serial number and file it with the material certificates and the final data book.
- Verify the seat direction for unidirectional valves
- Record water quality for stainless valves
- Test with the valve in the half-open position for shell tests where required
- Use a calibrated gauge and record the ID
What the tests mean
The shell test pressurizes the body and bonnet to check the pressure boundary. The backseat test confirms stem sealing when the valve is fully open on valves designed with a backseat. The seat test checks leakage past the closure element, with allowable rates set by the standard and seat type. API 598 covers many general-purpose valves, API 6D covers pipeline valves, and API 6A covers wellhead equipment.
Reading the results
A soft seated valve is normally expected to show no visible leakage during the test period. Metal seated valves have allowable leakage rates by size under the standard. If the valve fails, record the failure mode, repair it and retest from the start, keeping the first failed record on file so trends can be seen.
ERP and quality records
In ERP, link the test record to the production or repair order for the serial number, with shell and seat pressure as inspection characteristics. That makes it possible to prove every shipped valve passed, and to find all valves of a given heat or batch if a material issue arises.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tests does API 598 require?
API 598 covers shell, backseat where applicable, and seat tests, with a high pressure test and low pressure air test for some valves. Pressures and durations depend on valve type, size and class, so use the standard tables.
What is the usual shell test pressure?
For many valves the shell test is 1.5 times the 38 degrees C pressure rating, held for a period that depends on valve size. Confirm the exact multiple and time in your governing standard.
Can I test with air instead of water?
Water or a suitable liquid is the standard medium for the high pressure tests. Air or gas tests are used for the low pressure seat test and in specific cases, and have extra safety requirements.
Does this meet API 6D paperwork?
It gives you the base record. API 6D and customer specifications may add fields such as test sequences and acceptance rates, so add those to match the contract.
If you want test results captured straight into your ERP rather than paper, Netray can discuss how. The template stands on its own.
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