PTLAP FAQs

If you have an additional questions contact us at ptlap@pumps.org

• What are the system requirements for testing?

  To understand the requirements of the Audit you will need to download a free copy of HI 40.7 Program Guide for Pump Test Laboratory Approval. This program specifies the requirements of a lab to be approved (instrument calibration to ISO 17025, procedures per HI 40.6, quality program, personnel training, etc.). To understand the technical requirements for test setups, measurement equipment and test procedures you will need to purchase HI 40.6 Methods for Rotodynamic Pump Efficiency Testing.

• How long does the audit process take?

  The HI pump test laboratory approval application is to be completed by a representative for the Participant. The application is then submitted to the Program Manager. Within thirty (30) calendar days of receipt of the application, the Program Manager will review each application for completeness and determine if the pump test laboratory is eligible to be in the program according to Section 40.7.2 of HI 40.7. Within seven (7) calendar days of review, the Program Manager will notify the Participant of their application status and then the Program Manager will forward the approved application to the Auditor. The Auditor has thirty (30) calendar days to contact the Participant to schedule the audit. Audits typically last 1-2 days and a report will be issued within thirty (30) calendar days of the audit. This final report will include the list of non-conformities (if any). The final report forms the basis for the Program Manager’s approval decision which is made depending on the results of the audit. If non-conformities are found, the Participant has three (3) months to address these non-conformities or approval will not be granted or renewed.

• What documentation does the Auditor require to complete the audit?

  The HI Audit will provide the following Audit Checklist that should be submitted prior to the audit being completed. The audit checklist includes all upfront documentation that is required to complete the audit.

• What are the advantages of the pump test lab certification?

  HI developed HI 40.7 as a way for test labs to audit their facilities to comply with DOE test procedures (HI 40.6). There is no mandate by DOE that this must be done, it is completely voluntary. HI is developing a voluntary label/rating for pumps and working with utilities to offer incentives for high energy rated equipment. This voluntary rating would require that the test data be certified in an HI approved lab.

• How do I keep up to date with the DOE rulings?

  Visit our Pump Energy Efficiency Regulations page for the most up to date information in regards to the DOE Pump Efficiency Rulemaking.

• What standards are used for testing?

  Below are links to two standards which show how pumps should be installed and what equipment is suitable for proper testing. Note that HI 40.6 is very similar to ANSI/HI 14.6 as it is a derivative of 14.6 and was developed specifically to be referenced by the US DOE in the their Test Procedure for Commercial and Industrial pumps.

  ANSI/HI 14.6, Rotodynamic Pumps for Hydraulic Performance Acceptance Tests
  

  HI 40.6, Methods for Rotodynamic Pump Efficiency Testing

• Are there other standards that apply for the audit?

  There are requirements in HI 40.7 regarding the labs quality program and compliance with certain aspects of ISO 17025.

• Are there any requirements for the design of flanges and pipes?

  The HI 40.6 test procedure standard or the HI 40.7 test lab approval program do not indicate materials or construction requirements

• Is there a certified Pump Test Lab that I can send our pumps to have tested?

  Please refer our current list of Approved Pump Test Labs.

• If our pumps are tested, and everything is accurate, will our pumps be HI certified since they are tested at a Pump Test Lab?

  The HI Pump Test Lab Approval Program (PTLAP) approves test labs but does not “certify pumps”. The manufacturer is responsible for certification of pumps to any regulating bodies such as DOE. Testing pumps in a certified lab is a prerequisite for participation in the HI Energy Rating Programs for Commercial and Industrial pumps or Circulator Pumps.

  In addition, there is a great deal of added value in having your test methods, capabilities, personnel, equipment and procedures reviewed by a third party to ensure that they are being conducted according to the industry standard (HI 40.6). PTLAP and the 3rd party audit provides an extra level of assurance that the performance numbers produced in the test lab are accurate.

• Does a test lab need to be ISO 17025 Certified or does it need to demonstrate that is adheres the ISO 17025 Standard concerning test and measurement equipment?

  A pump test laboratory does not have to be ISO 17025 certified. The Lab must handle equipment calibration in accordance with ISO 17025. Preferably the instrumentation will be calibrated in an ISO 17025 certified lab and the calibration report will include the required measurement uncertainty values. There are exceptions to this noted in the HI 40.7 document, as some equipment is very difficult or impossible to have calibrated by a 17025 accredited laboratory. In these cases, if the Laboratory has demonstrated that it searched for an accredited lab to do the calibration, other non-accredited calibrations are acceptable, but should have measurement uncertainty included in the calibration.

• What are the fees for participating in the Pump Test Lab Approval Program for HI Members & Non-Members?

  The HI Pump Test Lab Approval Program (PTLAP) includes registration fees, audit fees and annual fees. HI Members have provided significant past and on-going commitment; therefore, there is a reduced price for HI Members. For current pricing, email ptlap@pumps.org.

  Program fees will be annual, and audits will need be conducted with associated audit fees a minimum of years 1, 2, 4, 6, etc., pending approval with no non-conformities. Additional audits and fees may be required when non-conformities are present.

• How can I join HI and pay the HI Member rates for the program?

  If you would like to explore becoming a member of HI and benefit from lower program fees please visit our Membership page for more information. For specific membership related questions, please contact membership@pumps.org.

• What methods of payment are accepted for the application and audit fee?

  Check, invoice (for HI members) or credit card payments are accepted.

  Remit check payments to: Hydraulic Institute PO Box 416271 Boston, MA 02241-6271. Credit Card payments should be provided to HI directly.

• How is payment made to the auditor?

  Payment schedule for Auditor Fees will be developed directly with the Auditor once your application is accepted.