The Hot Tapping process facilitates making a live connection to existing pipework without the need to isolate, shut down or drain the system. This allows the pipeline to remain in operation while maintenance and modifications take place, ensuring no disruption to services. Hot Tapping Services are a highly cost-effective method for adding a new line or branch in industrial buildings. See below common FAQs for Hot Tap Services:
Hot Tapping Services
What is the purpose of hot tapping?
The purpose is to create new branch connections to an existing pipeline without interrupting the flow within the system.
What are the advantages?
- Cost Effective – saving time and money as there is no need to drain the system down or isolate the system. The pipework can remain in use while welding onto the live pipework.
- Operational Continuity – continuation of services can be crucial for businesses where continuous operation is essential.
- Emergency Repairs – in emergency situations, hot tapping process can be used to quickly add a new connection and bypass damaged sections of a pipeline, ensuring repairs can be made without stopping the system flow.
- Convenience – a flexible solution for adding branches or connections to existing systems, enabling easier system expansions and modifications.
What is the difference between hot and cold tapping?
Hot tapping involves creating a live connection to active pipework while the pipeline remains in operation. In contrast, cold tapping refers to modifying a pipeline that has been shut down. Both methods are used for maintenance, repairs, or new installations, depending on whether the pipeline can be taken out of service.
What are the disadvantages?
There is a risk of pressure control or equipment failure. Therefore, skilled engineers must exercise high precision to ensure a proper seal and safe operation. Careful planning and a thorough risk assessment are essential.
Is there another name for hot tapping?
Pressure tapping, line tapping, pressure cutting and side cutting.
What pipework can hot tapping be carried out on?
Water systems.
How long does it take to install a hot tap?
Welded tappings will take longer and can be more involved. As you are directly penetrating into the wall of the existing pipe with the weld. This method is used for steel pipes and stainless steel pipes.
Copper, galvanised, plastic and other coated pipe materials require clamp on tappings which is a quicker process. Every tapping is pressure tested before the drilling process takes place.
What are the precautions for Hot Tapping?
Professional engineers must adhere to safety precautions and wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Before any drilling, they should conduct a pressure test on the welded sections of the pipes.
For on-site welding, TIG welding can be utilised to minimise sparks during the attachment of the hot tap to the pipes.
When executed correctly, it is a safe and efficient method for modifying pipelines.
Common Hot Tapping Applications
Using a clamp-on-boss or saddle and drilling the pipework live.
IDWe Ltd is one of the leading Industrial Hot Tapping UK services experts in pipeline isolation solutions. For 30+ years we have been providing hot tapping, pipe freezing, valve replacements, pipe welding services and more.
As a leading Hot Tapping UK Contractor, discover our projects below:
Our engineers returned to PwC in London, to carry a Hot Tap Installation. The brief was to complete 40mm Outlets on 65mm CHW flow and return risers for future use.
Two of our experienced engineers installed six Hot Taps and six Bore Gate Valves/stainless Steel Ball Valves to 100mm CHW (four valves) and LTHW (two valves) flow and return pipework.
>> As an Industrial Hot Tapping company, discover other examples of our work, please read our case studies
Can we help you with your next pipework modification project?
It’s a skilled operation and we have over 30 years’ experience in the trade. As well as Hot Tapping, we also offer Pipe Freezing, Valve Fitting, Bespoke Welding and more.
For Hot Tapping Company near you, our industrial business services operate in Greater London, Kent, East Sussex, Essex, Hertfordshire, Surrey and West Sussex.
Get a quote today, please call 020 8302 7644 or email info@idwe.co.uk
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