IDWe Pipe Freezers completed a critical Pipework Freezing project at Woking Community Hospital in Surrey. The client required a valve replacement on a 76mm copper boiler main. However, patient comfort and operational continuity could not be compromised.
Therefore, a full system drain and boiler shutdown was not an option. Instead, our team delivered a controlled pipe freeze using liquid nitrogen. This approach allowed essential maintenance works to proceed without interrupting the hospital’s heating services. The project demonstrated our pipe freezing services and showed how our experience helps commercial and industrial clients avoid system downtime.
Professional Pipe Freezing Company in Woking
Client: NHS
Location: Woking Community Hospital
Project: Pipe Freeze – 76mm Copper Main on Boiler to Allow Valve Replacement
Method: Cryogenic Pipe Freezing using Liquid Nitrogen
Sector: Healthcare
Service: Pipe Freezing Services
The Challenge
Healthcare environments demand uninterrupted heating and hot water. Any boiler shutdown risks patient discomfort, safety concerns, and operational disruption. The pipework measured 76mm, which required specialist pipework freezing expertise. The hospital also required works outside normal hours to minimise site disruption.
As a result, the client needed a trusted pipe freezing company with healthcare experience. They chose IDWe Pipe Freezers due to our proven cryogenic freezing capability.
Our Pipework Freezing Solution
We planned the project carefully to ensure safety, reliability, and compliance. First, the boilers were isolated 24 hours before attendance. This step ensured the pipework temperature reached ambient conditions. Our engineers confirmed the pipe section was a dead leg at 20°C, suitable to pipe freeze. Once conditions were verified, our engineers attended site outside normal working hours.
Step-by-Step Pipe Freezing Services Process
Site Access and Preparation
- Gained access to the plant room
- Removed existing pipework insulation where required
- Prepared the copper main for freezing
Installation of Freeze Equipment
- Installed freeze jackets either side of the valve
- Positioned equipment to maintain safe working clearances
- Carried out Liquid Nitrogen Pipe Freezing
Completed two 76mm Liquid Nitrogen Freezes
- Created a secure ice plug within the pipe
- Verify the freeze before works commenced
- Once the freeze fully took hold, third-party contractors installed the new valves safely.
Completion and Reinstatement
After the valve replacement, our expert engineers carefully released both freezes in a controlled sequence. The engineers then checked thoroughly for leaks and pressure stability. Finally, we reinstated all previously removed pipework insulation. The team cleared the site fully and removed redundant materials responsibly. All waste was disposed of at a licensed recycling facility.
The Result
- The project completed successfully with no boiler shutdown.
- Patients experienced uninterrupted heating throughout the works.
- The hospital avoided draining systems, refilling, and recommissioning delays.
Most importantly, the service reduced risk, downtime, and overall project costs. This case study highlights why pipe freezing services suit live healthcare environments.
Why use Pipework Freezing in Healthcare Buildings?
Pipework Freezing provides a safe, efficient alternative to system shutdowns. It allows valve replacements, repairs, and modifications on live systems.
Benefits include:
- No heating or hot water interruption
- Faster project completion
- Reduced operational risk
- Lower overall costs
For hospitals, clinics, and care facilities, this method is often essential.
Trusted Pipe Freezing Company Across London and the South East
IDWe Pipe Freezers operate across London, Kent, Surrey, Hampshire, Essex, East Sussex, West Sussex and beyond.
We support hospitals, commercial buildings, and industrial sites.
Our engineers specialise in:
- Cryogenic Pipe Freezing
- Offer our own industrial Valve Replacement services
- Professional Hot Tapping Services
- Electrical interventions including LV power installations, LED lighting upgrades and lighting maintenance
If you need a reliable Pipe Freezing Company in London or the South East, we can help, talk to the team today on 020 8302 7644.
Related Resources
View another recent related project:
Pipe Freezing Services at The Portman Hospital in Central London, please read our case study
Pipeline Hot Tapping Services for Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead, please read our case study
Learn more about our specialist services:
Liquid nitrogen pipe freezing, please read our guide.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pipework Freezing
What is pipework freezing?
Pipework freezing temporarily blocks pipes using an ice plug, it allows work without draining or shutting down systems.
Is liquid nitrogen pipe freezing safe?
It is safe, trained engineers use controlled cryogenic methods and safety checks ensure system integrity throughout the freeze.
Can you freeze large diameter pipes?
You can, we regularly freeze pipes over 50mm, including 76mm and above and cryogenic pipe freezing handles large mains reliably.
Does pipe freezing work in hospitals?
This method suits hospitals perfectly and avoids boiler shutdowns and protects patient comfort.
How long does a pipe freeze last?
The freeze lasts as long as required and professional engineers monitor and maintain the ice plug throughout works.
Do you offer pipe freezing services near me?
We cover across London, Kent, Surrey, Hampshire, Essex, East Sussex, West Sussex and beyond.
About us
With over 35 years’ experience, our team take pride ourselves on delivering safe and professional isolation services.
Our engineers use specialist Pipework Freezing Techniques with liquid nitrogen to create reliable ice plugs.
Can we help you with your planned works?
Get in touch today for a quote or expert advice, please call 020 8302 7644 or email info@idwe.co.uk
We can adapt our services to suit your industrial and commercial needs.
The team also provide services across London, Kent, Surrey, Hampshire, Essex, East Sussex, West Sussex and beyond.
View all services IDWe Ltd offer
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