Smart Tap – Mechanical Hot Tap Fitting

Smart Tap – Mechanical Hot Tap Fitting

Oceaneering’s Smart Tap is a split mechanical hot tap fitting that provides a necessary flanged branch for hot tapping an existing subsea pipeline and tying-in a new lateral pipeline. The fitting eliminates costly pipeline shut downs and expensive hyperbaric welding.

After tapping, the Smart Tap provides permanent high quality sealing integrity and structural reinforcement for the design life of the pipeline.

Smart Tap Features

  • Viton-B circumferential and longitudinal seals as standard, Buna-N (Nitrile) or other elastomeric compounds can be provided for compatibility with pipeline contents or inhibitors.
  • Elastomeric circumferential seals are mechanically set, permanently pressurized and fully restrained, mitigating concerns of explosive decompression effects for gas service.
  • Seal extrusion guards are for 12-in Nominal Pipe Size (NPS) and larger when API 5L pipe outside diameters tolerances become significant.
  • Port for annulus testing between the seals and pipeline prior to tapping.
  • Galvalum III anodes sufficient for 25-yr design life.
  • Externally coated with 3-part marine epoxy.
  • RTJ flange lateral branch is standard, specialized flanges that accommodate temporary plugs for line stopping, scarfed nipples or pigging bars can be provided.
  • Hardened steel grips and bowls provide reinforcement to the pipeline by transferring axial loads from the pipeline into the body of the fitting, effectively replacing structural integrity after the branch hole is tapped.
  • Internal components are securely retained whether the fitting is open or closed, before or after installation.