Testing Equipment

Cherne® offers a wide range of Underground Testing Equipment including Manhole Testing, Smoke Testing, Joint Testing, Hydrostatic Testing and More.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a piston style pump and a Diaphragm test pump?

All of Cherne’s hydrostatic test pumps are designed to pressure test new potable water lines. Piston style pumps can be pressure fed or suction fed.  Piston pumps cannot be run dry nor should they be used in conjunction with chlorine. (Chlorine is frequently used when new potable water lines are being tested to avoid contamination).  Diaphragm test pumps cannot be pressure fed. However they can be used with an optional gravity feed water tank sold by Cherne, or with a large container (like a garbage can) filled with water into which the intake hose can be placed.  Diaphragm pumps can be used with up to a 10% chlorine solution in the test water.

What type of oil / lubricant is used on the hydrostatic test pumps?

Diaphragm Hydrostatic test pumps use oil in the engine, in the gear reduction unit, and in the pump itself. 30 weight motor oil is used for the engine and pump. The gear reduction unit uses 90 weight gear lube. **Piston Pumps only use oil in the engine.  (30 weight motor oil.)

Can I order specific parts for a Honda test pump?

Owner’s Manuals and parts lists on all Cherne equipment can be located in the technical section of the Cherne website. http://www.cherneind.com/Data/ “pieces parts” – replacement parts for the hydrostatic test pumps and joint testers. We do not stock engine parts.