hot tap split tee
hot tap split tee
(OP)
following welding of a full encirclement split tee onto a live pipeline that will be used for a hot tap tie-in connection the tee is pressure tested. The hot tap supplier typically undertakes a leak test using nitrogen to prove the welds.
- is a leak test sufficient or should this be a strength test (hydrostatic test) to above the max operating pressure of the pipeline?
- The circumfrential welds joining the tee to the live pipeline are fillet welds. What NDT can be performed? (assuming no radiography) UT, MPI?
- is a leak test sufficient or should this be a strength test (hydrostatic test) to above the max operating pressure of the pipeline?
- The circumfrential welds joining the tee to the live pipeline are fillet welds. What NDT can be performed? (assuming no radiography) UT, MPI?





RE: hot tap split tee
This is why you need an experienced contractor and a good welding inspector present when the welding is being undertaken as it is not easy to test beforehand or do radiographic examinations.
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Also: There's usually a good reason why everyone does it that way