Re: Hot Tapping

> --- sattar hkan <pip04bbi@y...> wrote:
>
> > Hi,
> > Are there any constraints or limitations for Hot
> > Tapping :
> >
> > In the Process Plants?
> > In the size of Header & Branch ( is it possible
> > to make a connection with same size of header)?
> >
> >
> > ---------------------------------
> >

Are there any constraints or limitations for Hot Tapping?

Yes as Shannon stated. Things like burn-thru and cracking, minimum pipe header wall thickness, maintaining some flow during hot tapping, presence of lamination, mixture near explosive/flammable range, its a definite no no when hydrogen s d commodity or when PWHT is required. See Section 3 of API RP 2201 for details.

In the Process Plants, is it possible to make a connection with same size of header/branch?

Yes. TDW does it all the time . The important thing is to ensure that the isolation valve is full-port and that the actual thickness of the header is assured. How you may ask - well the use of full encirclement is one solution. You also want an assurance of course that the coupon can be retracted/recover and that the hot tapping machine can be removed. Before welding, check for lamination. Before cutting, hydro the hot tap connection. Use also a qualified weld procedure and material that is suitable for the service - with traceability. When there is a doubt about safety, dont proceed. Received on Wed Dec 14 02:52:00 2005