250.423—What are the requirements for pressure testing casing?
(a)
The table in this section describes the minimum test pressures for each string of casing. You may not resume drilling or other down-hole operations until you obtain a satisfactory pressure test. If the pressure declines more than 10 percent in a 30-minute test, or if there is another indication of a leak, you must re-cement, repair the casing, or run additional casing to provide a proper seal. The District Manager may approve or require other casing test pressures.
| Casing type | Minimum test pressure |
|---|---|
| (1) Drive or Structural | Not required. |
| (2) Conductor | 200 psi. |
| (3) Surface, Intermediate, and Production | 70 percent of its minimum internal yield. |
(1)
You must ensure that the latching mechanisms or lock down mechanisms are engaged upon installation of each casing string or liner.
(2)
You must perform a pressure test on the casing seal assembly to ensure proper installation of casing or liner. You must perform this test for the intermediate and production casing strings or liner.
(c)
You must perform a negative pressure test on all wells to ensure proper casing installation. You must perform this test for the intermediate and production casing strings.