Hot Tapping UK

At RDS Pipeline Isolation LTD, we are experts in pipeline isolation solutions. We have over 20 years of experience carrying out hot tapping, pipe freezing and various other pipework for both domestic and commercial clients in the UK. Also, we take pride in our ability to develop a unique solution for each client’s pipeline issues. We understand that it may be difficult to put trust in strangers to carry out work on your property. For this reason, we strive to ensure that we provide excellent customer service, always offering full transparency in the work we are carrying out.

Unrivalled Hot Tapping

No matter how big or small the job may be, we work tirelessly to provide an efficient and cost-effective service. Our main aim is full customer satisfaction. Because of this, we have built a great relationship with all of our clients. Additionally, this has allowed us to develop a sound reputation within the industry. Hot tapping is a method of cutting a hole into a ‘live’ pipeline without interrupting the pipeline flow. It can be performed safely on most metallic pipes containing hazardous and flammable products. We use our diverse range of professional equipment to ensure the work is completed to a high standard. When carrying out hot tapping, our dedicated team provide excellent communication. Our goal is to provide each customer with an unrivalled service.

So, if you are looking for hot tapping in the UK, please do not hesitate to get in touch to find out how we can assist you!

What Is Hot Tapping?

Hot tapping is a way of cutting a hole into a live pipe so a new connection can be added without shutting anything down. It is also called pressure tapping or under-pressure drilling. The cut is made through a sealed valve, so the pipe stays in service and the flow keeps going from start to finish.

Think of it like fitting a new tap to a water barrel without emptying it first. A sealed fitting goes on the pipe, a valve goes on top, and the cutting happens behind that valve, so nothing can escape. For the full technical walkthrough, our guide on how hot tapping a pipe works explains each stage in detail.

The Hot Tapping Process, Step by Step

Every hot tapping job follows the same seven stages.

1. Survey the pipe. We check the pipe material, size, wall thickness, pressure and what is flowing inside it. The minimum wall thickness for hot tapping tells us whether the job can go ahead safely.
2. Fit the saddle. A tapping saddle or split tee is welded or clamped onto the outside of the live pipe.
3. Fit the valve. A hot tap valve is bolted onto the saddle. This is the gate that keeps everything sealed.
4. Pressure test the fittings. The saddle and valve are tested before any cutting starts.
5. Cut the hole. The hot tapping machine is fitted to the valve. A pilot drill and cutter go through the open valve and cut a clean hole in the pipe wall.
6. Remove the coupon. The cutter pulls back, holding the cut-out disc of pipe (the coupon) so nothing falls into the line.
7. Close the valve and connect. The valve is shut, the machine comes off, and your new pipework is connected.

Want to know what each tool does? Take a look inside the hot tapping machine.

Pipe Materials We Can Hot Tap

Our hot tapping equipment can handle most pipes found in UK buildings and networks, including:

• Stainless steel and carbon steel
• Ductile iron and cast iron
• Copper
• MDPE and other plastics
• Asbestos cement and concrete cylinder pipes
• GRP and GRE pipes

If a new fitting needs welding onto the pipe, our onsite welding team handles it as part of the same job.