Saep 311

Engineering Procedure
SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections Document Responsibility: Piping Standards Committee 17 March 2013
Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

Table of Contents 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 Scope............................................................. 2 Conflicts and Deviations................................. 2 References..................................................... 2 Definitions....................................................... 4 Responsibilities.............................................. 5 Limitations on Hot Tap and Stopple Applications........................ 8 Safety Requirements...................................... 9 Technician Certification:............................... 11 General Design Requirements..................... 11 Limitations on Materials................................ 12 Limitations on Flow and Pressure during Hot Tapping................ 12 Documentation............................................. 13 Installation and Welding of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections............... 15 Pressure Testing and Inspection.................. 16 Stoppling...................................................... 21
Appendix A Applicable Forms........................... 25
Previous Issue: 13 September 2009
Next Planned Update: 17 March 2018 Page 1 of 29
Primary contact: Al-Nasri, Nadhir Ibrahim on +966-3-8809603

CopyrightSaudi Aramco 2013. All rights reserved.
Document Responsibility: Piping Standards Committee Issue Date: 17 March 2013 Next Planned Update: 17 March 2018
SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections
Scope 1.1 This SAEP provides procedures for the installation of hot tap connections to piping and pipelines while in service. Hot tap connection to other equipment such as tanks are not within the scope of this document. Also included is procedure for plugging pipes through hot tapped connections (stoppling). This SAEP is not intended to detail all aspects of safety and operation. It does not include adequate information to enable it to be used as an instruction manual or GI. The equipment manufacturer's instruction manuals and data sheets will also need to be referenced and utilized. API RP 2201 may be used as guideline for planning and conducting hot tap operation. The document is not intended to be used to determine the requirement of hot tap. The work to be performed after the hot tap and stopple operation is not within the scope of this document.
1.2 1.3
1.4
Conflicts and Deviations 2.1 Any conflicts between this Procedure and other applicable Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedures (SAEPs), Engineering Standards (SAESs), Materials System Specifications (SAMSSs), Standard Drawings (SASDs), or industry standards, codes, and forms shall be resolved in writing by the Company or Buyer Representative through the Manager, Consulting Services Department of Saudi Aramco, Dhahran. Direct all requests to deviate from this Procedure in writing to the Company or Buyer Representative, who shall follow internal company procedure SAEP-302 and forward such requests to the Manager, Consulting Services Department of Saudi Aramco, Dhahran.
2.2
References 3.1 Saudi Aramco References Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedures SAEP-302 SAEP-310 Instructions for Obtaining a Waiver of a Mandatory Saudi Aramco Engineering Requirement Pipeline Repair and Maintenance
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Saudi Aramco Engineering Standards SAES-L-101 SAES-L-150 Regulated Vendor List for Pipes, Fittings and Gaskets Pressure Testing of Plant Piping and Pipelines
Saudi Aramco Materials System Specification 02-SAMSS-006 Hot Tap and Stopple Fittings
Saudi Aramco Standard Drawing AB-036719 Reinforcement of Welded Branch Connections
Saudi Aramco Forms and Data Sheets SA-7235-ENG SA-7627-ENG Hot Tap Data and Checklist Hot Tap/Stopple and Reinforcement Calculation Request
Saudi Aramco General Instructions GI-0002.100 GI-0002.102 GI-1780.001 3.2 Work Permits Safety Precautions for Pressure Testing Atmosphere-Supplying Respirators
Industry Codes and Standards American Petroleum Institute API STD 598 API RP 2201 Valve Inspections and Test Procedures for Welding or Hot Tapping on Equipment Containing Flammables
American Society of Mechanical Engineers/Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code ASME SEC VIII D1 Pressure Vessels
Pipelines Research Council International (PRCI) PR-185-617 PR-185-816 NG-18 Report # 175 Criteria for Hot-Tap Welding (catalogue # L51548) Review of Procedures for Welding unto Pressurize Pipelines (catalogue # L51601) Proof Testing of the Pre-Hot-Tap Branch Connection (catalogue # L51561e)
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Document Responsibility: Piping Standards Committee Issue Date: 17 March 2013 Next Planned Update: 17 March 2018 Commentary Note:
Referencing to PRCI reports is intended for expanding knowledge and to locate sources of many of the technical basis for the requirements of this procedure. It is not intended to be a mandatory document.
Definitions Hot Taping: Hot tapping is technique of attaching bolted or welded branch connecting to a pipe while it is in service. It is performed using specialized equipment for cutting a bore in a pipe. Lock-o-Ring Flange and Plug: This is a special flange and plug assembly designed to allow the recovery of the hot tap valve while the pipeline is under pressure. The L-o-R plug has an o-ring seal on its circumference and can be lowered into the bore of the L-o-R flange, using a hot tap machine. The L-o-R flange has retractable segments that can be advanced into a groove in the circumference of the plug above the o-ring. These segments retain the plug in position so that the valve can be depressurized and removed and replaced with a blind flange or permanent valve. Sandwich Valve: This is a gate valve designed to have a short face to face dimension used as a temporary valve for stoppling. They are also used for hot tapping when the connection will only be used temporarily or when the reach of the hot tap machine is insufficient to complete a hot tap through a conventional valve. These valves cannot be operated unless the pressure is equalized across the gate. Stopple: A stopple is an articulated pipe plugging device, normally inserted through a stopple split tee with a full line size hot tapped opening, while the line is pressurized. Saudi Aramco has stoppling equipment for pipe sizes from 1 to 60. Stopple Split Tee: A stopple split tee is a fitting designed with dimensional requirements to suit the stopple plugging head. These fittings shall be purchased in accordance with 02-SAMSS-006.
Responsibilities 5.1 The engineering group that prepares the calculations, design drawings and installation procedures is responsible for the hot tap design. The detailed hot tap installation design package shall be approved in writing by the facility Operations or Engineering Superintendents, or higher. The responsibilities and involvement of relevant organizations are detailed below. Initiating Organization 5.2.1 The initiating organization will be either one of the following:
5.2
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The Operations Engineering Organization when the work is being undertaken by the Operations Organization. Project Management with the approval of the Area Operations Superintendent and Operations Engineering General Supervisor / Superintendent in the case of tying in new installations, constructed by Project Management to existing facilities.
5.2.2
The initiating organization shall prepare a design package for each hot tap that will include fully dimensioned drawings, a materials list, Direct Charge Requisitions and welding procedures. The initiating organization shall appoint a Responsible Engineer to carry out the following duties and responsibilities: 5.2.3.1 Be responsible for the overall coordination of the hot tapping activities. This is to ensure that designers, constructors, N.A. Pipeline Maintenance Services Division, facility operations and/or engineering, project management and operation/project inspection staff cooperate closely during all phases of the hot tapping operations. Initiate form SA-7627-ENG, Hot Tap/Stopple and Reinforcement Calculation Request and complete form SA-7235-ENG, Hot Tap Data & Checklist in accordance with Appendices A.2 and A.3. Make all necessary arrangements for the preparation of the new connection. (i.e., location, excavation, scaffolding, pipe inspection, surface preparation, Installation, Welding & Testing). Arrange for a team, consisting of himself, Operations, the responsible inspector and a representative of the Hot Tap and Stoppling Unit, to survey the general hot tap location in order to specify and mark the hot tap locations and number (obtained from Form SA-7627-ENG) alongside each hot tap location. For stopple installation, make sure that the N.A. Pipeline Maintenance Services Division conducts pipe roundness check to ensure that it meets the requirements stipulated in Table 1 of Section 9.6 and mark the exact location of the stopple.
5.2.3
5.2.3.2
5.2.3.3
5.2.3.4
5.2.3.5
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5.2.3.6
Make available at the site a copy of the latest version of this procedure and the installation design package during the entire installation process. Revise existing Saudi Aramco drawings, P&IDs, or preparing new drawings, as may be required, because of the hot tap installation. Ensure that stopple or hot tap split tees with the L-O-Ring plug to be delivered to the N. A. Pipeline Maintenance Services Division shop in Dhahran to be checked prior installation.
5.2.3.7
5.2.3.8
5.3
N.A. Pipeline Maintenance Services Division/N.A. Pipelines Department The N.A. Pipeline Maintenance Services Division is responsible for the following: 5.3.1 5.3.2 5.3.3 5.3.4 Review and initial the design package. Review form SA-7235-ENG and ensure that the hot tap equipment required to perform the hot tap is available and validated. Perform the hot tapping and/or stoppling operation in accordance with this procedure and an approved detailed design package. Review and approve any Direct Charge Requisitions prepared as part of the design package for stopple sealing elements, hot tap tees, stopple split tees, or Lock-o-Ring flanges prior to issuing for purchase. Review and approve the alignment of split tee for stopple fittings.
5.3.5 5.4
Inspection Organization The responsible Inspection Unit shall be responsible for the following: 5.4.1 5.4.2 5.4.3 Review and concur with the design package prior to the start of the installation. Ensure that the connection is installed in accordance with the design package. Inspect and determine the minimum pipe wall thickness at the tie-in weld areas by a continuous UT scan along the lines to be welded and record this on the applicable form in Appendix A.1 of this procedure. Review the welding procedure specification (WPS) and ensure that it has been approved by Consulting Services Department.
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5.4.4
5.4.5 5.4.6
Approve the fit up of the branch connection/split tee to the pipe prior to welding. Inspect the branch connection/split tee, before and during the installation, for compliance with the approved drawings and welding procedures. Confirm that the hydrostatic test pressure for the branch connection is correct at the time of the test, as prescribed in Section 4 of Form SA-7627-ENG. Verify that calibrated pressure gauges and relief valve are properly installed for hydrotesting. Inform the Responsible Engineer if the seam weld or any other projection needs to be ground flush with the pipe surface to permit proper UT scanning or fit-up of the split tee or reinforcing sleeve. Scan the weld zone and 50 mm (2 inches) each side of it. Mark the inspected area permanently for future reference and identification. Consult with the Responsible Engineer and the responsible Operations Engineering Organization if ultrasonic readings indicate a lamination or evidence of hydrogen induced cracking (HIC) damage in order to relocate the hot tap position. CSD and the proponent group shall be notified of this condition.
5.4.7
5.4.8 5.4.9
5.4.10 5.4.11 5.4.12
5.5
Construction or Maintenance Organization The construction or maintenance or are responsible for ensuring that approved welding procedures and qualified welders are employed.
5.6
Consulting Services Department Approve the welding procedure specification (WPS).
5.7
Loss Prevention Department The Loss Prevention office responsible for the area where the hot tap or stopple activities will commence shall be notified and provided with procedures for review and be part of the site survey team.
5.8
OSPAS OSPAS shall ensure operation stability prior and during pipeline hot tap and
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stopple operation. OSPAS shall inform upstream and downstream facilities with ongoing work activities. 6 Limitations on Hot Tap and Stopple Applications 6.1 Welding and hot tapping shall not be allowed in the following cases. 6.1.1 The operating pressure of the pipeline may exceed the maximum operating pressure of any of the hot tap or stopple equipment and their components while it is installed.
Commentary Note: All hot tap and stopple equipment must be stamped with its maximum operating pressure and revalidated according to this procedure.
6.1.2 6.1.3 6.2
The pipe contains flammable materials below atmospheric pressure. The pipe contains a combustible mixture.
Welding and hot tapping shall not be performed in the following cases unless a detailed design and installation procedure has been approved by the Chairman of the Piping Standards Committee. 6.2.1 Hot taps on air lines with compressed air if there is any possibility of hydrocarbon contamination, unless the equipment being tapped is thoroughly cleaned and inerted prior to welding.
Commentary Note: Most industrial compressed air systems will have hydrocarbon contamination from compressor lubricating oil and will therefore required being inert.
6.2.2
The pipe contains any of the following: a) b) c) d) e) f) g) Liquid acids Caustic Elemental Sulfur Oxygen Chlorine Ammonia Potential toxic material that would be injurious to personnel by contact.
6.2.3
The material to be welded may suffer metallurgical or physical deterioration from heating or requires post weld heat treatment.
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6.2.4
The pipe has a corrosion or heat resistant lining such as metal lining or cladding. This restriction does not include internally coated piping but the damage that will result to the coating by hot tapping should be considered by the Operating Department.
6.2.5 6.3
The pipe or surface temperature is at or below zero degrees centigrade (0C).
Hot taps shall not be made directly upstream of sensitive equipments such as pump suction piping or control valves unless facilities exist to prevent chips and shavings from entering the equipment. Hot tap shall be performed only at 90 degree.
6.4 7
Safety Requirements 7.1 7.2 All work shall be in strict compliance with GI-0002.100, Work Permit System. The Operations Superintendent will assure that both Operations and the Installation Organization have the proper safety and fire protection equipment on site and in workable condition prior to the start of the job and that all relevant personnel are notified of the scheduled hot work. Precautions against H2S and other hydrocarbon or hazardous releases. 7.3.1 If a potential exists for a Hydrogen Sulfide release (or other toxic gas) at a work site, all personnel involved shall be provided with an appropriate breathing apparatus. (Refer to GI-1780.001, AtmosphereSupplying Respirators). The responsible operation representative or the work permit issuer shall make sure that a person certified as a gas tester shall continuously monitor the work site for the presence of hydrocarbons and hazardous gases during the work activity using calibrated instruments and established gas testing procedures. The number of gas testing instruments and locations shall be included in the procedure. 7.3.2 When welding on hydrocarbon lines, the fire watch personnel shall be clearly instructed that should a burn-thru occur, the fire jetting from the pipe shall not be extinguished. This is particularly important if the hydrocarbon contains H2S. If a burn-thru should occur, the Operations Superintendent should immediately be notified to advise further action.
7.3
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7.3.3
The chamber of the hot tap machine and valve shall be purged with nitrogen and discharged to a safe location after cutting the coupon, retracting the cutter and closing the tapping valve when any of the following exist: a) b) c) H2S concentration is greater than 10 ppm. Low wind conditions exist and a gas or liquid hydrocarbon release may create a hazard in the area or activate plant gas alarms. The work is in a confined area.
7.3.4
The work activities shall be planned such that the inserted stopple or plugging heads shall remain in the pipeline for shortest period. This is to minimize the possibility of deterioration of the sealing element and hydrogen damage to the stopple equipment.
7.4
Appropriate barricades and warning signs shall be posted around the worksite to minimize the number of personnel in the work area while performing the hot tapping operation. Operation and Loss Prevention shall determine the size of the area to be barricaded based on the size of the pipeline, the fluid being transported, and the operating pressure. Additional Safety Requirements for Stopple Operation 7.5.1 Initiating organization shall prepare a Job Safety Analysis (JSA) plan with all concerned parties including the Operation Organization, PMT, Loss Prevention, Fire Protection, N.A. Pipeline Maintenance Services Division and Construction Contractor prior to start of any work activities. A jobsite visit shall be conducted by responsible representatives from all concerned parties to review and evaluate the JSA plan. Facility Operations at work site shall ensure that the sequences of activities are carried out in accordance with an execution procedure per the engineering design package in a safe manner. During each activity, all personnel and equipment not directly involved with such activity shall be kept at a safe distance outside the barricaded area established under Paragraph 7.4 above.
Commentary Note: The work to be performed after the hot tap and stopple operation is not within the scope of this document. An engineering design package detailing the scope of work and all required safety measures shall be prepared.
7.5
7.5.2
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7.6
The initiating organization shall conduct an onsite safety meeting with all involved parties to review the stopple procedure prior to starting the work.
Technician Certification 8.1 Hot Tap/Stopple technician shall be certified by; the hot tap and stopple equipment manufacturers or Saudi Aramco approved certifier.
Commentary Note: Certified Saudi Aramco technician with minimum of 5 years of subsequent successful certification and minimum of 15 years experience in hot tap and stopple operation may certify new technicians based on approved tests by Saudi Aramco.
8.2
Hot Tap/Stopple crew shall have minimum of one certified technician to conduct the Hot Tap/Stopple operation.
General Design Requirements 9.1 Permanent hot tap connections shall be designed for the Maximum Allowable Operating Pressure for the equipment being tapped in accordance with the applicable ASME code. The dimensions of the connection, the hot tap valve, and the clearances shall be within the limits specified for the hot tapping equipment to be used. Hot-Tap and Stopple Unit should be contacted to provide this data prior to purchase of any fitting with an extended branch nipple. The minimum bore of the valve shall be large enough to pass the cutter. The valve seat lugs shall not restrict the opening. A tap equal to the nominal size of the header (such as required for stoppling of a pipeline) shall be made only when the accurate positioning of the cutter can be guaranteed. In hot tap cases other than those for stoppling purposes, the cutter should be at least one pipe size smaller than the pipe to be tapped. If the hot tap is to be used for stoppling the pipe, the hot tap crew shall take measurements and mark the tapping location prior to welding of split tee to ensure that the pipe out of roundness meets the tolerances in the following table:
9.2
9.3 9.4
9.5 9.6
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Table 1 Acceptable Header Diameter Out of Roundness for Stopple Installation

Header Size (Stopple Size) Up to 32 34 & Greater Maximum Acceptable out of Roundness Tolerance 0.125 0.4% of Header Diameter
9.7
Adequate support of the hot tap machine shall be provided to prevent overstressing of the pipe and/or fitting, particularly in cases where the hot tap sticker is not installed in a vertical position.
10
Limitations on Materials 10.1 10.2 Hot tap and stopple fittings shall be procured from an approved manufacturer per SAES-L-101. Any Direct Charge Requisitions prepared as part of the design package for hot tap tees, stopple split tees, or Lock-o-Ring flanges Stopple sealing elements shall be reviewed and approved by N.A. Pipeline Maintenance Services Division prior to issuing for purchase. Hot tap and stopple fittings shall comply with Saudi Aramco Materials System Specification 02-SAMSS-006.
10.3
11
Limitations on Flow and Pressure during Hot Tapping 11.1 The Maximum flow velocities during hot tapping shall be as follows: a) b) Liquid and two-phase 3.05 m/sec (10 ft/s) maximum Gas 9.10 m/sec (30 ft/s) maximum.
Commentary Notes: 1) Hot tap and stopple machine manufacturers have established the above maximum flow velocity in lines during the hot tapping operation. Higher velocities may cause spinning of the coupon on the pilot drill and subsequent loss of the coupon. If higher velocities cannot be avoided, the Hot Tap & Stopple Unit should be consulted as steps can be taken to ensure that the coupon does not become detached even at higher velocities. Small diameter hot taps (i.e., 2 inch and less) are normally performed with a drill which does not cut a coupon; therefore, no velocity restrictions apply.
2)
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11.2
Minimum flow is not mandatory during hot tapping operation. However, in cases where a pipeline has been cut or ingress of air has otherwise been allowed, the air must be removed from the pipeline by either putting the line in service with an adequate flow rate to sweep out or by other means such purging and venting to ensure that the air is displaced from the pipeline.
Commentary Note: When performing the coupon cutting operation for a stopple, flow in the pipeline to disperse the cuttings away from the stopple sealing area is advantageous but not essential. Moreover, minimum flow may be required in rare cases for cooling purposes for the hot tap cutter.
12
Documentation The appropriate forms shall be completed, distributed and documented as detailed in the section follows. 12.1 Form SA-7627-ENG, Hot Tap/Stopple and Reinforcement Calculation 12.1.1 12.1.2 The Responsible Engineer shall prepare a separate Form SA-7627-ENG for each hot tap operation. Each Form SA-7627-ENG shall be completed in sequence and by the organization identified:
Form Section # 1 2 3 4 5 Person/Organization Initiating Engineer Operations Engineer Responsible Inspection Unit Operation or Project Engineer Operation or Project Engineer
12.1.3
The Responsible Engineer shall forward the form, when Sections 1, 2, and 3 are complete, together with ultrasonic thickness measurements (Appendix A.1 of this SAEP), to the Project Engineer or responsible Operations Engineering Supervisor. The Project Engineer or the responsible Operations Engineering Supervisor shall perform the required calculations in accordance with Section 13 of this procedure and shall complete Section 4 of Form SA-7627-ENG.
12.1.4
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12.1.5 12.1.6
The responsible engineering shall obtain the appropriate approvals and endorsement on Form SA-7627-ENG. Drawings and specifications prepared by the responsible engineering shall include the length, diameter, wall thickness, flange rating and material of the new connection plus the type and dimensions of the connection reinforcement, if required (Refer to Std. Dwg. AB-036719). Welding Procedure Specifications shall be approved by the Consulting Services Department/Welding Unit. After the responsible engineering group has obtained the appropriate approvals, a record copy shall be retained in a permanent central file and the design package forwarded to the Responsible Engineer for construction. Once approval is obtained, the Responsible engineer shall distribute copies of each Form SA-7627-ENG to the following personnel: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 7) Operations Superintendent Hot Tap and Stopple Unit Operations Engineering Supervisor Construction/Maintenance Installation Crew Responsible Inspection Supervisor Project Manager (if appropriate)
12.1.7 12.1.8
12.1.9
12.2
Form SA-7235-ENG Hot Tap Data and Checklist: 12.2.1 The Responsible Engineer shall prepare and forward Form SA-7235-ENG Hot Tap Data and Check List to N.A. Pipeline Maintenance Services Division. The data entered in this form must be obtained from a site inspection of the hot tap connection.
12.2.2 12.3
Form Hot Tap and Stopple Measurement (Appendix A.4) is to be filled by Hot Tap technician and approved by a certified Hot Tap technician or the Unit Supervisor. Other Drawing Revisions The Responsible Engineer is responsible for revising and updating existing Saudi Aramco drawings, P&IDs and any other drawing affected as a result of the hot tap installation.
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12.4
13
Installation and Welding of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections 13.1 The minimum remaining wall thickness at the weld connection area shall not be below minimum thickness, Tm, as specified on the Safety Instruction Sheet (SIS), and in all cases, no less than 5 mm (0.2 inch).
Commentary Note: Welding of hot tap connections on pipe containing non-hazardous material such as water at less than 150 psig and below 65C when the wall thickness is below 5 mm (0.2 inch) may be undertaken provided the possibility of burn-through is recognized and the consequences accepted by the construction agent and proponent (this condition still requires a waiver to be processed thru CSD).
13.2
Existing welds under hot tap fittings or reinforcing pads (or sleeves) shall be ground smooth as required to ensure acceptable fit up. This is particularly important for stopple fittings where the outlet flange must be accurately centered on the pipe and a projecting weld would prevent this. If possible, the hot tap location should be selected such that no welds are located under the area to be cut by the hot tap cutter. For hardenable or high strength steels and for piping where pipe or fitting wall thickness requires preheat per the applicable ASME code, the Consulting Services Department shall be contacted for welding procedure approval. Welding on Pipelines under Pressure 13.4.1 The Form SA-7627-ENG shall specify the maximum internal pressure in the pipeline. The pressure in the pipe during welding shall not exceed that calculated by the following formula: Pmax = Where: Pmax = Maximum operating pressure of the pipeline during welding, psig S t OD = Specified minimum yield strength of the pipe, psi = Minimum measured wall thickness of the pipe at the weld area, inches. = Outside diameter of the pipe, inches.
13.3
13.4
2S(t 0.10) 0.72 OD
(1)
Commentary Notes: 1. The minus 0.10 inch wall thickness takes into account the molten and heat affected portion of the base metal which does not contribute to
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Document Responsibility: Piping Standards Committee Issue Date: 17 March 2013 Next Planned Update: 17 March 2018 pressure containment. 2.
For in-plant piping designed to ASME B31.3, replace S and F in the formula with the allowable stress in Table A-1 of ASME B31.3.
To ensure the wall thickness is thoroughly measured, a continuous UT scan shall be conducted around the circumference of the pipe weld areas. 13.4.2 In cases where a pipeline has been cut or ingress of air has otherwise been allowed, the air must be removed from the pipeline before welding can be performed. One method of removing the air is by putting the line in service with an adequate flow rate to sweep out or by other means such as purging and venting to ensure that the air is displaced from the pipeline. Once this has been achieved, welding can proceed with or without flow. The Hot Tap/Stopple shall be conducted within 90 days of the installation of the split tee.
13.4.3
14
Pressure Testing and Inspection 14.1 The Responsible Engineer shall ensure that the hot tapping equipment, the hot tap valve and branch connection have been pressure tested in accordance with this SAEP prior to commencing the actual hot tap operation. The appropriate Inspection Representative shall witness and approve all hydrostatic testing required for completion of the hot tap connection. Pressure Testing Media 14.3.1 Hot tap connections installed on hot lines where hydrostatic testing with water is not practical shall be hydrostatically tested using high temperature turbine oil or silicone fluid, as follows:
Line Temperature 93C to 290C 290C to 310C Commentary Note: Check that the hydrotest fluids used will not damage the soft seals in the hot tap valve, hot tap machine or other seals exposed to the test fluid such as the o-rings in Lock-o-Ring flanges. For example, EPDM seals used for steam and water service can be damaged by exposure to mineral oils. Pressure Test Fluid Turbine Oil Silicone Fluid 200
14.2 14.3
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14.3.2 14.3.3 14.4
Hot tap shall not be conducted for piping system operating at more than 310C. Pneumatic testing of hot tap connections is not permitted.
Hot Tap Machine 14.4.1 14.4.2 14.4.3 14.4.4 Shop pressure test every 6 months. Replace the boring bar and retaining rod main seals and hydrotest after the machine has been used on sour or highly corrosive fluids. Replace the boring bar and retaining rod main seals and hydrotest after it has been used on lines with operating temperatures in excess of 150C. A stamped brass tag/stencil shall be affixed to the hot tap and stopple equipments machine indicating the test pressure, maximum operating pressure and overhaul date. The pressure testing of the hot tap machine, will take place in the shop after the machine has been checked and worn parts replaced.
14.4.5 14.5
Hot Tap and Stopple Adaptors All adaptors shall be marked with their maximum operating pressure and test pressure. They must be visually inspected for corrosion or mechanical damage before use and shall be inspected by MPI or hydrotested every five years.
14.6
Hot Tap Valve 14.6.1 14.6.2 14.6.3 14.6.4 A body and high pressure seat test (on both sides) shall be performed in the shop on all hot tap valves prior to installation. Resilient (soft) seat valves shall have zero leakage. Valves with metal to metal seats shall meet the leakage criteria of API STD 598, Valve Inspection and Testing. A tag shall be attached to the valve indicating test date and test pressure.
Commentary Note: Sandwich valves only require the body test and a test of the seat on the hot tap machine side of the valve.
14.6.5
The seat of the hot tap valve shall be leak tested after installation by applying pressure through the branch connection boss. The test pressure shall be the expected line pressure during hot tapping plus 10%.
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Document Responsibility: Piping Standards Committee Issue Date: 17 March 2013 Next Planned Update: 17 March 2018 Commentary Note:
This valve seat test cannot be performed when hot tapping a weld boss because there is no room for the test connection. In this case, the hot tap valve will be seat tested on site immediately prior to installation.
14.7
Stopple Equipment 14.7.1 Stopple heads shall be disassembled and all components including bolts inspected by magnetic particle or dye penetrant for cracks subsequent to any use in sour service. Stopple heads shall be pressure tested for the following conditions: a) b) c) 14.7.3 Every five years. When the nose piece screws and/or the pin yoke is replaced. When the stopple head is modified.
14.7.2
The lip seal on the back of the sealing element shall be cut to ensure that the test pressure is exerted over the full area of the nose piece which will be the worst case scenario during actual usage. The length of each of the nose piece bolts must be measured with a micrometer before and after the pressure test to ensure that yielding has not occurred. An increase in bolt length will indicate that the test pressure and hence design pressure is incorrect or the bolt tightening torque is too high. The nose piece bolts shall be tested by magnetic particle inspection or dye penetrant subsequent to the pressure test. Stopple cylinders shall be pressure tested once a year.
14.7.4
14.7.5 14.7.6 14.7.7 14.8
Hot Tap Connections 14.8.1 For field fabricated branch connections (non-factory made split tees), the branch connection shall be pressure tested prior to installing the reinforcing pad or full encirclement reinforcement. The test pressure of the branch connection shall comply with SAES-L-150 requirements and shall not exceed the maximum pressure per Table-2 below Hot Connection Pressure Test Formulas. Table-2 utilizes with modification the results of PRCI Report # 175, Proof Testing of the Pre-Hot-Tap Branch Connection.
14.8.2
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14.8.3
In case that the calculated branch test pressure is less than the piping system test pressure, all welds of the pressure containing branch connection, longitudinal and circumferential welds, must be inspected by magnetic particle inspection. Also, the flange to branch weld must be inspected by100% radiograph. For testing purposes, the split tee (Types 3 and 9 of Standard Drawing # AB-036719) shall have a blind flange installed and pressure applied through the welding boss as shown on the Standard Drawing. During testing of split tee connections, the actual line pressure at the time of the test shall be confirmed from a calibrated pressure gauge on the pipeline close to the hot tap connection or by any other acceptable means to comply with SA-7627-ENG. This is very critical for split tee case and for stub-in connection Db/Dh larger than 0.5.
14.8.4
14.8.5
14.8.6
The reinforcing pad and reinforcing sleeve should not be subject to pressure testing as they are required to provide mechanical reinforcement and not to contain internal pressure.
Commentary Note: The weep hole in the pad or sleeve is required to prevent build-up of pressure under the reinforcement and to indicate leakage of the branch connection attachment weld. The weep hole must not be threaded, as this would encourage the installation of a plug, which would defeat its purpose.
Table 2 - Formulas for Maximum Hot Connection Pressure Test

Branch Connection Type Split Tee Type-3 & 9 Welded Stub-in Type 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, & 8 Welded Stub-in Type 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, & 8 Welding Boss 2 inches & smaller
Notes on Table 2: 1. 2. Branch connection types are per Standard Drawing # AB-036719. P is the calculated differential pressure across the pipe header per the ASME SEC VIII D1, paragraph UG-28. For this calculation, the test pressure is considered as an external pressure to the header and the value of L shall be
Db / D h All 0.30 or less More than 0.3 All
Formulae for Maximum Test Pressure Pb = Ph + 1.25 P Pb = 0.75 x P f Pb = Ph + 1.25 P Pb = 0.75 x P f
Applicable Notes 3 2 3
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the total length of the split tee or db the inside diameter of the welded stub-in connection. 3. The formula is P f = (16/3)(th/db) Sy which considers the header section subject to pressure test as a flat plate.
Commentary Note: A 0.75 factor has been introduce to insure that section will not be subject to yield. The formula gives very high pressure for testing compared to others for small branch connections. 4. Nomenclatures used in the table: P : Dh : Db : db th tb Ph Pb Pf Sy : : : : : : : The calculated differential pressure across the pipe header per the ASME SEC VIII D1, UG-28 Header outside diameter Branch outside diameter Branch inside diameter Header pipe wall thickness Branch pipe wall thickness Header pipe pressure Branch pipe test pressure Pressure for flat plate = (16/3)(th/db) Sy SMYS of header pipe material
Commentary Notes on Table 2: PRC Report # 175 Proof Testing of the Pre-Hot-Tap Branch Connection, 1989 contains detailed analysis of stress level in the hot tap joints under pressure testing.
14.9
Final Hot Tap Assembly Testing 14.9.1 After installation of the hot tap machine, a final leak test of the entire assembly shall be made with the hot tap valve in the open position by applying pressure through the branch connection boss. The test pressure shall be the expected line pressure during hot tapping plus 10%. After completion of the above tests, a bar stock plug shall be installed in the branch connection boss and seal welded.
14.9.2
15
Stoppling 15.1 General Notes 15.1.1 Stopples should be inserted in pipelines with no flow at the stopple location.
Commentary Note: Stopple plugging heads can only withstand a differential pressure once they are fully inserted in the pipeline. If any significant differential pressure develops before full insertion is achieved, the stopple insertion Page 20 of 29
equipment will be damaged and it may be impossible to retract the stopple head. The no flow condition is normally achieved on pipelines in service by diverting flow through a full flow bypass. Figure 15.1 shows a typical example of inserting the stopple with no flow condition.
STOPPLE
equalizing connection. open during insertion.
VALVE
Close valve before stopple insertion
Figure 15.1 Typical Example of Inserting the Stopple with no Flow Condition
15.1.2
When a section of pipeline is isolated with two stopples and a bypass, the downstream stopple shall be inserted first to divert flow through the bypass before inserting the upstream stopple. When retracting the stopple heads after pressure equalization, the upstream stopple shall be retracted first.
Commentary Note: Inserting the downstream stopple first will divert the flow from the pipeline to the bypass. Stopple heads can withstand a small differential pressure when inserted in the reverse direction of flow. Inserting the downstream stopple first uses this feature to create the small differential pressure required to divert flow to the bypass, which must be large enough and short enough to carry the full flow with minimal pressure differential.
BYPASS
FLOW
INSERT DOWNSTRAM STOPPLE FIRST
Figure 15.2 Sequence of Pipeline Isolation with Two Stopples
15.1.3
The bypass line size should be calculated. Table 3 provides recommended bypass, equalization line size and negative differential pressure allowed to remain within the design limits of the stopple fittings.
Page 21 of 29
Table 3 Recommended Bypass, Equalization Line Size and Negative Differential Pressure
15.1.4
The stopple fitting should be installed in location where the longitudinal seam weld is not at 12 o'clock position.
Commentary Note: The straight or spiral seam of the pipe can interface with the correct positioning of the stopple nose piece when the seam is at the top of the pipe at the location of the nose piece as shown Figure 15.3.
PIPE SEAM INTERFERENCE
PIPE
STOPPLE NOSE PIECE
Figure 15.3 Stopple Nose Location
Page 22 of 29
15.1.5
The stopple head should be fully inserted prior to depressurizing.

Commentary Note: Stopple is locked in position when a differential pressure is applied across the sealing element. Without this differential pressure, the line pressure can exert sufficient force on the insertion equipment to cause the stopple head to retract.
15.1.6
Stopples cannot be guaranteed to seal 100%. A small amount of leakage should be expected. The design package detailing the activities preceding the stopple isolation shall detail all safety measures. The following requirements shall be addressed as a minimum in the design package: 15.1.6.1 15.1.6.2 It is mandatory to measure the amount of leakage in the isolated section. It is mandatory to continuously purge the isolated section with nitrogen during the cold cut. A second isolation with a bleed may be needed based on the leakage rate. Before conducting any hot work, it is mandatory to install second isolation or barrier with a bleed connection for combustible or hazardous product. The second isolation could be a balloon, mud pack, sealing scraper, mechanical plug, or similar device. For the bleed size, SAEP-310 can be used as guideline.
Commentary Note: OIM Isolate a Section of a Live Hydrocarbon Pipeline for Section Removal shall be followed.
15.1.6.3
15.2
The maintenance/modification work shall be completed immediately as the pipelines shall not be left on operation against the stopple with an open end or to weld flange and blinded till work is ready for the final tie in.
17 March 2013
Revision Summary Major revision.
Page 23 of 29
Appendix A Applicable Forms

Appendix-A.1 Ultrasonic Thickness Measurements Hot Tap #_________________ J.O./W.O. ______________ PLANT #_______________ DWG. # ________________ Description (Job, Location, etc.) ____________________________________________
Diameter HEADER: _____________ STICKER _____________ Grade ______________ ______________ Schedule _____________ _____________ Flange Rating ____________ ____________
HEADER MEASUREMENTS (CONTINUOUS SCANNING) Point A Min:__________ Circle B Min:__________ Circle C Min:__________ Line D-D Min:__________ Line E-E Min:__________ 180 deg. from Pt. A Min:__________
Max.:_________ Max:__________ Max:__________ Max:__________ Max:__________ Max:__________
STICKER MEASUREMENT Min:__________ Max.:__________
LOCATION-------DESCRIPTION Point A------------Branch Center Circle B-----------Branch Diameter Circle C-----------Reinfr. Pad Dia. Line D-D---------Reinf. Sleeve Ends Line E-E----------Reinf. Sleeve Ends
C FLO W
A B
RESPONSIBLE INSPECTION UNIT:
INSPECTOR:
Page 24 of 29
Appendix A.2 Form SA-7627-ENG: Hot Tap/Reinforcement Data and Calculation Sheet
Page 25 of 29
Page 26 of 29
Appendix A.3 Form SA-7235-ENG: Hot Tap Data and Checklist
Page 27 of 29
Appendix A.4 Hot Tap and Stopple Measurements Form 1/ 2
Page 28 of 29
Appendix A.4 Hot Tap and Stopple Measurements Form 2/ 2
Page 29 of 29

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Engineering Procedure

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

Appendix A Applicable Forms........................... 25

Previous Issue: 13 September 2009

Next Planned Update: 17 March 2018 Page 1 of 29

Primary contact: Al-Nasri, Nadhir Ibrahim on +966-3-8809603

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

Saudi Aramco Standard Drawing AB-036719 Reinforcement of Welded Branch Connections

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

5.4.10 5.4.11 5.4.12

Consulting Services Department Approve the welding procedure specification (WPS).

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

6.1.2 6.1.3 6.2

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

The pipe or surface temperature is at or below zero degrees centigrade (0C).

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

Table 1 Acceptable Header Diameter Out of Roundness for Stopple Installation

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

2S(t 0.10) 0.72 OD

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

14.3.2 14.3.3 14.4

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

14.7.5 14.7.6 14.7.7 14.8

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

Table 2 - Formulas for Maximum Hot Connection Pressure Test

Db / D h All 0.30 or less More than 0.3 All

Formulae for Maximum Test Pressure Pb = Ph + 1.25 P Pb = 0.75 x P f Pb = Ph + 1.25 P Pb = 0.75 x P f

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

Close valve before stopple insertion

Figure 15.2 Sequence of Pipeline Isolation with Two Stopples

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

STOPPLE NOSE PIECE

Figure 15.3 Stopple Nose Location

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

The stopple head should be fully inserted prior to depressurizing.

Revision Summary Major revision.

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

Appendix A Applicable Forms

Max.:_________ Max:__________ Max:__________ Max:__________ Max:__________ Max:__________

STICKER MEASUREMENT Min:__________ Max.:__________

RESPONSIBLE INSPECTION UNIT:

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

Appendix A.3 Form SA-7235-ENG: Hot Tap Data and Checklist

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

Appendix A.4 Hot Tap and Stopple Measurements Form 1/ 2

SAEP-311 Installation of Hot Tap and Stopple Connections

Appendix A.4 Hot Tap and Stopple Measurements Form 2/ 2

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Max.:_ Max: Max: Max: Max: Max:__

STICKER MEASUREMENT Min: Max.: