3. Regulatory tests

3.1 Context

Testing was introduced at the start of the industrial era as a means of guaranteeing the safety of pressure equipment, at a time when materials and assembly methods were underdeveloped and calculation resources were virtually non-existent.

Progress in design and analysis rules has meant that the importance of the test with regard to this objective has been relativized. Today, however, the test retains a triple interest:

• it provides independent verification that no serious errors have been made in calculation or execution;

• it helps to stabilize dimensions by imposing a stress cycle that goes beyond service conditions;

• it is the "solemn"...