Insert Valve in Full Pipe 2

[RichKeller]

I need to close off a pipe coming out of a tank in order to replace the pipe. The tank is always full so the pipe is always full (can't take out of service). Are there any specialty valves that will clamp on the pipe, then either pinch off the pipe (10" 304 SS) or cut through/close of pipe? Thanks.

 

[MikeHalloran]

You couldn't fish a basketball into the pipe through the tank vent?



Mike Halloran
NOT speaking for
DeAngelo Marine Exhaust Inc.
Ft. Lauderdale, FL, USA

 

[pennpoint]

RichKeller
Whats the fluid??
Water??? I hope!!
Using CO2 to freeze the fluid (at -109F) a short distance from the tank. Cut the line, down a bit from the frozen plug and insert the valve. Don't overheat the freeze plug, this would be a very bad time for that to occur.
Re-attach the piping and allow the plug to thaw.
CAUTION: Do not freeze near an elbow however.

Done Deal

Good Luck
pennpoint

 

[pennpoint]

RichKeller

Here's what I'am talking about:

http://www.contractorstools.com/whrexpipefreezering.html

http://www.plumbingwarehouse.com/coldpipefreezingkit.html

There are larger capacity systems out there.. Just takes a search.

Best Regards

pennpoint

 

[RichKeller]

Appreciate everyone's help with this. Some excellent solutions! Forgot to mention it's wastewater so feezing is an option. Thanks again!

 

[packdad]

As has been stated, if there's room, a freeze seal is probably your best option, although piping from the seal back to the tank would have to remain in place (obviously). There are companies that specialize in installing freeze seals, and they can mobilize very quickly. I know Team Industrial Services does hot taps and leak repairs - I can't recall if they do freeze seals.

 

[jte]

Rich-

Some good ideas for you have been posted. Either a mechanical seal (line stop) or a freeze plug may be good. Team Inc is one source of these services, FlowServe

http://www.flowserve.com/srvnrepair/line_stop.asp

is another and TDWilliamson

http://www.tdwilliamson.com/hottaptdw/plugging/stopple.htm

http://www.tdwilliamson.com/hottaptdw/freeze.html

is another.

Both line stops and freeze plugs have their advantages and disadvantages.

Be careful with freeze plugs with regards to brittle fracture. Another issue with a freeze plug is that you must be able to completely stop the flow in the pipe. A small trickle through your block valve will make it nearly impossible to form the plug.

jt