Product Overview

The Inflatable Plug Tee is a critical fitting designed for pipeline contractors and operators to safely install isolation plugs or stoppers, facilitating bypass line installation, repair, and hot tap services on live oil, gas, chemical, and municipal pipelines, thereby eliminating costly downtime.

Core Advantages:

• Guaranteed Safety for Live Lines: Enables pipeline isolation and bypass work under pressure, adhering to strict ASME B31.3, B31.8, and GB design codes. Our equipment is built for zero-leak performance.

• Unmatched Operational Flexibility: Customizable for pressures from 4.0MPa to Class 900 and a wide temperature range (-20°C to 200°C). A versatile solution for diverse project specs.

• Robust & Reliable Construction: Fabricated from high-grade materials like Q345R and ASME A516 Gr.70, ensuring longevity and durability in harsh industrial environments.

• Complete System Readiness: Available as a full kit including welding tee + flange, blind flange, stopple fittings, seal rings, and fasteners. Get a turnkey solution from a single supplier.

Detailed Product Description

1. Installation: The Inflatable Plug Tee is welded onto the main pipeline.

2. Hot Tapping: A hot tap machine creates an opening through the tee under pressure.

3. Plug Insertion & Inflation: An inflatable pipeline plug or line stopper is inserted through the tee and inflated downstream, creating a secure seal.

4. Bypass or Repair: With the line section isolated, contractors can perform repairs, install valves, or connect a bypass line safely.

5. Decommissioning: Once work is complete, the plug is deflated, retrieved, and the tee can be permanently sealed with a blind flange.

Technical Specifications Table:

Core Component Breakdown:

• Tee Body (Full-Encirclement Split Tee): The main structural component that encircles the pipe, providing a reinforced outlet. Made from pressure-vessel grade steel.

• Outlet Flange: Allows connection to hot tapping machines, bypass lines, or valves. Precision-machined for perfect alignment.

• Sealing System: Includes high-performance gaskets and seal rings (e.g., spiral wound, elastomeric) designed for the specified pressure and media.

• Completion Fittings: Blind flanges, plugs, and stopple fittings for permanent or temporary sealing after the operation.

Core Problems Solved

Client Pain Points Addressed:

• “A pipeline leak means millions in lost production per day. How can we repair it without a total shutdown?”

• “Traditional welding for repairs requires costly and risky system depressurization.”

• “We need to tie in a new connection to a live high-pressure gas line. Is there a safe method?”

• “Finding reliable, code-compliant fittings for complex line stop and hot tap projects is a challenge.”

Application

• Scenario 1: Emergency Leak Repair – Isolate a damaged section on a high-pressure crude oil pipeline using an inflatable stopper deployed through the tee, install a bypass, and repair without stopping flow.

• Scenario 2: Planned Maintenance & Valve Insertion – Use the tee for hot tapping and line stop fitting installation to add a new valve section to a live natural gas transmission line.

• Scenario 3: Municipal Water & Gas Main Modifications – Facilitate non-disruptive connections and repairs in dense urban areas for public utility companies.

• Scenario 4: Plant Turnaround & Modification – Isolate specific sections of complex process piping within refineries or chemical plants for safe modification.

Comparative Advantage

Vs. Traditional “Shut-Down & Replace” Method:

Vs. Generic Fittings: Our tees are not just standard pipe fittings. They are engineered specifically as Pipeline Isolation Fittings and Hot Tapping and Plugging Fittings, with precise machining, certified materials, and a design focused on the unique stresses of line stop operations.

Certifications, Safety & Quality Standards

• Design & Manufacturing: All equipment is designed per ASME B31 and GB codes. Material traceability and mill certificates are provided.

• Quality Assurance: Our factory operates under strict quality control systems. Each fitting undergoes dimensional inspection and non-destructive testing (NDT) as required.

• Safety by Design: The full-encirclement design reinforces the pipe. Components are rated for the specified pressure-activated sealing duties.

Customer Testimonials & Success Cases

Trusted by Leading Pipeline Operators and Service Companies Worldwide.

Case Study: Gas Transmission Line Bypass Installation

• Client: A major national gas company.

• Challenge: Required to install a new section on a 24″ Class 600 gas line without interrupting supply to critical downstream customers.

• Solution: JSW provided custom-designed Inflatable Plug Tees and technical support for a hot tap stopple bypass operation.

• Result: The line stop fitting installation was completed successfully in 36 hours under full pressure. The client avoided an estimated 7-day shutdown, saving over $2M in potential revenue loss.

Service & Support Ecosystem

1. Pre-Sales & Engineering Support: Our experts provide free consultation to ensure the Inflatable Plug Tee meets your specific hot tap and line stop requirements.

2. Comprehensive Training: We offer training on the proper use of pipeline plugging components and systems.

3. After-Sales Guarantee:

   • Support for installation and commissioning.

   • A global network of service partners for critical spares and field assistance.

4. Flexible Commercial Options: Direct purchase from the manufacturer, or inquire about our for sale and project-based pricing models.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: Can this tee be used for both hot tapping and plugging/stopple operations?

A: Absolutely. The Inflatable Plug Tee is specifically designed as a dual-purpose fitting. The outlet allows for hot tapping machine connection to create an opening, and subsequently, for the insertion and inflation of an isolation plug or mechanical pipeline plugging device to stop flow.

Q2: What information do you need to provide a quote or custom design?

A: To provide an accurate price and design, we require: Pipeline OD & wall thickness, design pressure & temperature, pipeline content (oil, gas, etc.), applicable design code (ASME/GB), and preferred material. Contact us with your project specs.

Q3: Do you offer complete Hot Tapping and Line Stop packages?

A: Yes, JSW is both a manufacturer of key fittings like the Inflatable Plug Tee and a supplier of integrated solutions. We can provide or source complementary equipment like hot tap machines, plugging heads, and bypass systems for a complete turnkey service.

JSW Brand Introduction

JSW Pipeline Services is a premier manufacturer and supplier of specialized equipment and solutions for the global pipeline industry. We don’t just sell tools; we deliver confidence for critical line stop, hot tapping, and repair projects.

As a leading company in this field, our dual role as equipment fabricator and solution provider gives us unique insight. We understand the challenges faced by pipeline contractors and operating companies, which is why every Inflatable Plug Tee we produce is engineered for reliability, safety, and performance.

Ready to discuss your next pipeline isolation or modification project?
Contact JSW today for a competitive quote, detailed technical drawings, and a partnership that ensures your project’s success.