Charps Approved for Hydrostatic Pipeline Testing in California

Charps has been approved to provide hydrostatic pipeline testing services in California, expanding access to integrity testing, leak detection and monitoring services for operators in the state.

(P&GJ) — Pipeline infrastructure contractor Charps LLC has been approved to provide hydrostatic testing services in California after being confirmed as an approved service provider by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

The designation makes Charps eligible to perform hydrostatic pipeline testing in the state, where pipeline safety standards limit the number of approved vendors.

Charps said it demonstrated in-house expertise and resources for pipeline integrity testing, including hydrostatic test planning and execution, as part of the approval process.

The company provides construction, maintenance, integrity and emergency response services across North America. In California, Charps plans to pair its hydrotesting services with real-time monitoring, leak detection and digital reporting through its subsidiary, PipeSense.

PipeSense's PipeTest platform uses dynamic pressure pulse technology to provide pressure trending, stabilization insights and AI-supported leak detection data through customer dashboards.

Charps and PipeSense are also exploring the use of mobile pressure test trailers for regional operators. The trailers are designed to serve as on-site testing hubs for hydrostatic testing work.

Charps CEO Joe Van Vynckt said the approval opens new opportunities for the company in California.

"This new certification creates opportunities to explore the West Coast market with backing from the state," Van Vynckt said.

Van Vynckt said hydrotesting remains important as California balances energy reliability and environmental protection.

"Ensuring that pipelines operate safely and without leaks or structural damage is critical to achieving both aims," he said.