SUBSEA PIPELINE TAPPING SPEEDED

A high-energy cutting method (U.S. Pat. No. 3,396,745 and 3,503,407) utilizing three-dimensional linear shaped-charge explosives and a special fitting has been developed by T.D. Williamson Inc. to accomplish rapid underwater pipe-tapping. It can cut an opening in the side of the pipe similar to a machined hot tap. Test taps of 8-16 in. dia made in simulated 16 in. dia pipelines containing, among other substances, gasoline, natural gas, and propane at pressures of 510, 495, and 160 psi, respectively, were conducted with open and closed pipes above and beneath water, with and without fittings. A silicone rubber covering was found to be the best protection for the fittings. Coupon retraction was achieved with attached spring and arm devices. The tapping system is rapid, compact, designed for use by divers, and can accommodate a wide range of tap sizes. It can be adapted for making service connections to gas distribution lines by using conical shaped charges for small-diameter taps. The charges can be used to tap materials that are difficult to machine and can also make unconventionally shaped holes.

Availability:
- Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/00301388
Supplemental Notes:
- Presented at the 25th Amer. Soc. Mech. Eng. Petrol. Mech. Eng. Ann. Conf., Denver, Colo., Sept. 13-17, 1970.
Corporate Authors:
Petroleum Publishing Company

211 South Cheyenne, P.O. Box 1260
Tulsa, OK United States 75221
Authors:
- JORDAN, S
Publication Date: 1970-10-19

Media Info

Pagination: 6 p.
Serial:
- Oil and Gas Journal
- Volume: 68
- Issue Number: 42
- Publisher: PennWell Publishing Company
- ISSN: 0030-1388

Subject/Index Terms

TRT Terms: Construction; Pipelines
Old TRIS Terms: Pipeline construction
Subject Areas: Construction; Marine Transportation; Pipelines; Terminals and Facilities;

Filing Info

Accession Number: 00056259
Record Type: Publication
Source Agency: American Petroleum Institute
Files: TRIS
Created Date: Jul 15 1974 12:00AM