Our engineers were required for a Liquid Nitrogen Pipe Freezing Project to fix a leaking flange, as well as installing a new Butterfly Valve. To find out more, please read our case study below talking about our Pipe Freezing Services:
Client: InterContinental Hotels Groups PLC
Site: InterContinental Hotels, Park Lane, London, W1
Contract duration: Two shifts
Commercial Liquid Nitrogen Pipe Freezing Services
Our fast and experienced pipe isolation services were required at the InterContinental Park Lane, Central London, W1. The Hotel reported a leak on an existing pipework flange. The leak needed to be repaired urgently to prevent any further damage. While the works took place, the Hotel also required a 150mm wheel operated butterfly valve to be installed for future use.
Repairing Leaking Pipework
Our experienced engineers used step ladders and a mobile scaffold tower to safely access the high-level pipework. To gain proper access, they carefully removed the existing insulation from the 150mm LTHW pipework. Once exposed, our engineers applied two freeze jackets around the pipework, positioning them approximately 20 meters apart on either side of the leak. They then poured liquid nitrogen into the freeze jackets, allowing it to freeze and form a solid plug that stopped the water flow. With the pipe freezes in place, our team successfully released the existing pipework containment and repositioned the pipe to begin further work.
After securing the pipe in its new position, our engineers thoroughly cleaned the faces and edges of the pipework flanges. They then removed the existing bolts and washers before draining the section of pipework between the two freeze points. Once the pipework was ready, the team proceeded to install the new flange. Using high-quality materials, they carefully welded the gaskets in place and reconnected the pipework with new bolts, nuts, and washers to ensure a secure and lasting fit.
Final Steps of the Valve Installation
To complete the installation, our engineers applied a coat of red oxide paint to the newly welded flange, as well as the bolts, nuts, and washers. This finishing touch helped blend the new installation seamlessly with the existing pipework and provided additional protection against corrosion. The team then conducted thorough inspections to confirm the integrity of the work before proceeding with the final system checks.
After the works were complete, we allowed for the pipework to thaw. Then we filled the pipework with water and examined the pipework to check for leaks. Lastly, we replaced the missing pipework insulation. After finishing our assigned pipe freezes, our engineers made sure to dispose of all unnecessary items at a licensed recycling facility.
Installed Wheel Operated Butterfly Valve
Four expert engineers returned to site to carry out an additional pipework freeze to the 150mm LTHW pipework in the basement corridor. Next, once the pipework freeze had taken hold, we supplied and installed a new 150mm wheel operated butterfly valve. Along with two flanges, nuts, bolts and gaskets onto the LTHW pipework.
Our trained engineers fabricated a 400mm-long stool piece in our workshop and welded it onto the 150mm pipework using two flanges. After completing the installation, we thawed the pipe freezes, refilled the system, and carefully checked for leaks to ensure proper functionality. Finally, we conducted thorough safety checks, cleaned the site, and transported all redundant materials to a licensed recycling facility
LTHW Pipework Repair Result
The InterContinental Park Lane in Central London urgently needed our fast, experienced team to isolate a leaking pipework flange and prevent damage. During the repair, the hotel requested the installation of a 150mm wheel-operated butterfly valve to ensure easier future maintenance access
What is Liquid Nitrogen Pipe Freezing?
Understand pipe freezing and its benefits by reading our guide: Pipe Freezing Guide.
How can we help you with your next project?
Get a quote, please call the team on 020 8302 7644 or email info@idwe.co.uk
Pipe Freezing, Valve Fitting, Hot Tapping and Pipe Welding
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