Hot Tapping Into a Pressurized Underground System
for Commercial, Industrial, and Municipal Clients
Hot tapping into a commercial, industrial, or municipal pressurized underground system refers to the process of making a connection or accessing a live, pressurized pipeline or system without shutting it down. This method allows for the addition of new branches, valves, or other components, all while the system remains operational, minimizing disruptions and downtime.
These hot taps can range from a ½ inch hole designed for something as simple as quality control testing, up to a 48 inch tap for the installation of a variety of ports, valves, t-sections or other pipes.
Why Hot Tapping Is Done
H can be used to tie in to new construction by allowing the installation of new junctions. They can also be used for repair, or to bypass sections of pipeline that need to be repaired or replaced. This bypass can be temporary or permanent, depending on the needs of the situation. They can also be used for the installation of sampling ports to make quality control much simpler. For the more volatile applications, the taps can also be used to install jet fuel hydrants at airports, for example.
If you do not use a hot tap when accessing a pressurized system, several risks and complications can arise:
System Shutdown
Without hot tapping, you would typically need to shut down the entire pressurized system to safely make the connection or modification. This can result in significant operational downtime, leading to disruptions in service, loss of productivity, or downtime costs.
Safety Hazards
If the system is not properly isolated and depressurized before accessing it, there is a risk of dangerous pressure releases, which can cause leaks, bursts, or even explosions. This is especially critical in systems that carry hazardous materials, such as natural gas or chemicals, posing a risk to workers and the surrounding environment.
Environmental Impact
In systems that carry substances like oil, gas, or wastewater, failing to properly manage pressure and access can lead to spills or leaks, which can harm the environment, cause contamination, and result in legal liabilities and cleanup costs.
Increased Costs
Shutting down a system for maintenance or connection work typically requires additional labor, time, and resources. This increases operational costs and can lead to additional expenses in terms of regulatory compliance, cleanup, and recovery of system integrity.
How Hot Tapping Is Done by OES
At OES Underground, we use specialized equipment, such as a tapping machine, to drill into the pipe or system while maintaining the pressure inside and without shutting down the system and interrupting service. Hot tapping is commonly used in industries like oil and gas, water distribution, and sewage systems, where maintaining continuous flow is essential.
A Simplified Breakdown of the Hot Tapping Process:
Preparation
A specialized fitting (often a saddle or a tee) is securely attached to the outside of the operating pipeline. This fitting houses a valve and a drilling mechanism.
Installation of the Tapping Valve
A tapping valve is installed onto the pressurized pipe at the location where the new connection is to be made and provides a secure seal.
Drilling the Tap
A specialized drill, contained within the fitting, carefully cuts a hole through the pipeline wall.
Valve Closure
Once the hole is drilled through, the valve within the fitting is closed, isolating the newly created opening.
Removal of the Drill
The drill is then retracted from the pipeline.
Connection
The new connection, such as a branch line or a new piece of equipment, can then be safely attached to the pipeline through the newly created opening.
What Happens When You Don’t Use a Hot Tap for Accessing a Pressurized System?
This can result in safety hazards, environmental risks, operational downtime, and higher costs. Hot tapping by OES helps avoid these issues by allowing work to proceed without shutting down or compromising the integrity of the system. Contact OES for a quote for hot tapping services that will be on time, and within budget.