Hot-tap plug systems adapt to odd-shaped pipes

Hot-tap plug systems adapt to odd-shaped pipes

Multi-Flex line stop plugging systems from Petersen Products are designed for insertion through a small hot tap into a larger pressurized pipeline to stop flows and make repairs without having to drain the pipe.

"Any type of pipe or conduit is fine," says Phil Lundman, general manager for Petersen Products. "Because it's so flexible the pipeline can be rectangular, oval or odd shaped."

Made of ballistic nylon, polyurethane and rubber, plug composition can vary depending on chemical resistance and temperature requirements.

The 128 Series plug installs downstream of the tap, allowing bypass through a tee between the tapping valve and launch cylinder. The system includes a tapping saddle and valve, launch cylinder, Multi-Flex pipe plug with Z-swivel on the inflation end of the plug, and directional shoe on the lead-in, inflation controller with gauge, inflation hose, inflation ram assembly with centering guide, inflation ram packing seal and T-handle.

The 129 Series installs directly below the hot tap or nozzle and can withstand higher-pressure applications.

"As the pipe size gets larger, the pressure rating goes down," Lundman says. "For instance, on a 20-inch pipe, the most we've helped back is about 250 psi."

Plugs can be used on pipelines from 2 inches up to 21 feet (129 Series) in diameter. "There's really no limit to the size," Lundman says. "On the 128 Series, 96 inches is the practical limit." Custom configurations are available. The plugs can be used on any type of pipeline and can withstand temperatures up to 400 degrees F.

Taps vary by pipe diameter. "A 36-inch pipe would require a 12-inch tap," Lundman says. "Once you have the tap in and the launch tube assembled and ready to go, all you have to do is open the valve and push it in. That should take 20 minutes at the most. An 8-inch (pipe) takes about a minute."

Air or nitrogen is used to inflate lower-pressure plugs. Water is used to inflate larger or higher-pressure plugs. Valves can be attached to the tap hole, or sealed once repairs are made. Plugs are deflated and removed using the optional completion valve. 800/926-1926; www.PetersenProducts.com



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