Hot Taps
What is a hot tap?
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A hot tap is the creation of a branch connection off of an existing pipe (or vessel) without interrupting the flow.
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When would a hot tap be used?
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A hot tap is a good choice when disturbing service to the surrounding area isn't an option. For example, a new fire hydrant must be installed and connected to the water main but shutting down homes and businesses isn't practical.
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What are the risks of hot tapping?​​
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Issues rarely arise during hot taps but can include leaks and lost coupons.
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N.S. Pawliuk works hard to prevent issues from occurring through manufacturer-centred employee training, adherence to proper procedures, and adherence to the AWWA's best practices.
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What sizes of outlets can be hot tapped?​
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N.S. Pawliuk has drilling equipment which can perform hot taps with outlets 1200mm+ (48"+).
The most common pipe materials in Canada can support outlets the same size as the existing pipe. Manufacturers make specialized tapping sleeves for this purpose.
Click here to see examples of some of the hot taps we've performed.
Certain limitations for outlet sizes apply, especially with concrete cylinder pipe. Contact us for more information.
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What types of hot taps does N.S. Pawliuk specialize in?
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N.S. Pawliuk specializes in hot taps performed on pipes containing potable water, wastewater and light industrial chemicals such as coolant, sludge and percolate.
We also have plenty of experience hot tapping HDPE, concrete cylinder and stainless steel pipe, as well as all standard waterworks pipe materials.
Key take-aways:
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Hot taps prevent the need for a system shut down when creating new connections.
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Hot tapping a new connection is faster than cutting in a tee.
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No chlorination of the line is required, no lab reports to wait on and virtually no water is wasted.
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N.S. Pawliuk adheres to the AWWA's best practices and employs well trained workers.
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N.S. Pawliuk stocks 300+ tapping sleeves for fast delivery on your next project.
HOT TAP SIZES AND CAPABILITIES
Sizes (existing and outlet):
10mm - 1200mm+
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Pipe Materials: Steel, ductile iron, cast iron, PVC, HDPE, asbestos cement and concrete cylinder pipe.
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Lead Times: We stock 300+ tapping sleeves to reduce lead times.
This section of cut out pipe, or "coupon" is 580mm (23") in diameter and 40mm (1.75") thick. Our equipment is capable of drilling diameters up to 1,500mm (60") and thicknesses greater than 100mm (6").
On steel pipe, fittings may be bolted on or welded on, as seen here.
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Completed Hot Taps
Over the last 80 years, N.S. Pawliuk & Son Contracting Ltd. has installed thousands of hot taps across Canada - and even some in the United States. Here are some examples:
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Existing 1200mm AWWA C-301 (Concrete Cylinder Pipe) x 900mm Outlet
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Existing 500mm SDR 26 x 500mm Outlet
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Existing 1-1/4" standard wall steel pipe x 1-1/4" outlet
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Existing 300mm DR11 HDPE x 150mm Outlet