Tapping valves are often used when working on a steam, refinery or sewer pipe to install other valves or repair pipeline. Keeping a tapping valve in place eliminates downtime, because water will flow smoothly around it. Information on installation varies from valve to valve, and is usually available from the manufacturer.

There are both wet and cold types of tapping valves. The cold kind is usually bolted in, while hot tapping valves are welded to the surface of the pipe. Which type you use depends on what kind of pipe you're operating on and what it carries. The tapping process requires a sleeve and sometimes an epoxy.

1. Generally speaking, you should always choose tapping valves made of the same metal as your pipe. This prevents the pipes from expanding and shrinking at different rates, compromising the sealed connection.

2. Applying tapping valves usually requires a tapping machine to create a seal around the pipe area you plan to divert. This prevents the pipe's contents from leaking.

3. Tapping valves can be used to install flow meters and sensors, as well as in construction applications. That way, you can install a flow meter without interrupting daily applications.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find tapping valves for heat sensitive applications

Pipes like hydrogen, natural gas, steal and brine usually require hot tapping valves. These can be added without interruption to normal functions on most pipes. Hot tapping is usually performed on stainless steal, carbon, galvanized steal, copper and brass pipes. Generally, a hot tap is welded on to ensure an air-tight fit, but in welding-prohibited operations it can be bolted on.

I recommend: Check out Pro Tapping's tapping valves list, or buy from U.S. Pipe Valve & Hydrant Division.

Purchase wet tapping valves for water and sewer work

Wet taping valves, or corporation tapping valves, are usually used on water systems and sewer pipelines. These can be installed under working pressure, without diverting the main flow of the water. Wet tapping is generally used on ductile iron, cast iron, transite, concrete pipe and polyvinyl chloride.

I recommend: Buy from a tapping valves provider like Central States Group, or check out American Flow Control's selection.

Buy a tapping valves machine

Tapping valves machines create an airtight seal around the area you intend to apply a tapping valve. They also help apply the tapping valve. There are many different kinds of tap valve machines available, and which one you select depends on the type of pipe you're working with, the materials you're using, and what type of valve you selected. Tap machines are used mainly with hot taps.

I recommend: Get a tap machine from EA Services, or buy one from IFT.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Some tapping valves have raised edges specifically designed to fit only the same size and brand of tapping sleeve. Its a good idea to buy your sleeves and valves at the same time from the same manufacturer to avoid mismatches.