Hot Tapping/Under Pressure Drilling is a technique used in forming a new branch/connection to an existing pipework system without draining down the system.
Hot Tapping is the technique used for welding on a new branch or connection
Under Pressure Drilling is the technique when using a mechanical clamp or branch tee drilling into cast iron/ductile iron/copper/plastic/asbestos i.e. where welding cannot be used.
Therefore, new branches/connections can be made to existing pipework systems while maintaining
- Full flow
- Temperature
- System Pressure
Benefits of using Hot Tapping or Under Pressure Drilling
- Save energy – no loss of temperature either heating or cooling
- No loss of inhibitors/anti-corrosives/biocides
- No loss of water treatment
- No loss of pressure or fresh water being introduced into the system
- No venting of air from the system, thereby preventing further corrosion
- Assisting in the control of Legionella
- Environmental benefits
Hot tapping and under pressure drilling are suitable for
- Heating systems
- Hot and cold water services
- District Heating Schemes
- Chilled water systems
- Condenser water lines
- Fire sprinkler systems
All work is carried out using pneumatic machines, which allows quick and cost-effective work – for instance, we can complete work on a 6”/150mm pipe in just 20 minutes, compared to two hours with traditional methods.
Bishop Group Services can conduct hot tapping on pipework up to 12”/305mm in diameter.