Hot Tapping is a technique for connecting a branch line to a main pipeline without disruption of the normal pipeline service and offers a cost effective means for the tie-in of smaller or marginal fields and gas gathering systems.

The main benefits are realised in three areas ie;

  • –

    Lower construction costs through the ability to lay a short line to the nearest suitable trunkline for direct connection.

  • –

    Reduced cost of tie-in resulting from the entire operation being undertaken without disruption of the normal operation of the trunkline.

  • –

    Improved utilisation of existing pipeline systems.

The final phase of a programme of work to develop the technique for high capacity, deepwater trunk gas and oil lines is scheduled for completion by the end of 1989.

Keywords:
requirement, single point, tie-in, installation, welding, consideration, upstream oil & gas, hutt, application, configuration
Subjects:
Pipelines, Flowlines and Risers
Copyright 1989, Society of Petroleum Engineers
You can access this article if you purchase or spend a download.