Access to clean, safe water is essential, and keeping water distribution systems in top shape is more important than ever. When water lines serving critical facilities like hospitals or airports need repairs or develop leaks, shutting them down can be costly and disruptive.
Pacific Flow Control provides advanced solutions like hot tapping and line stopping to repair leaks and maintain AWWA Concrete Cylinder Pipe (CCP) systems without interrupting the water supply. Whether you need to fix a leak, install a new connection, or add a new chamber on PCCP, Pacific Flow Control has you covered.
Two main types of CCP are common in Canada:
1. AWWA C301 – Prestressed Concrete Cylinder Pipe (PCCP):
– Prestressed with high-strength steel strands for added durability.
– Includes a steel cylinder for extra reinforcement.
– Typically used for high-pressure applications in water transmission.
2. AWWA C303 – Bar-Wrapped Concrete Cylinder Pipe (BWCCP):
– Reinforced with helical steel bars around the concrete core.
– Flexible and durable, making it ideal for large-diameter water mains.
Why CCP Pipes Develop Leaks?
Even though AWWA C301 and C303 pipes are durable, they can leak due to:
– Corrosion
– External stress like soil movement
– Age-related wear and tear
– Water quality issues
– Pressure surges or ground movement
Regular maintenance and inspections can catch problems early, reducing the risk of leaks.
Working on Live PCCP Infrastructure.
Pacific Flow Control uses hot tapping and line stopping to repair leaks or make new connections without shutting down pipelines.
Hot Tapping:
Hot tapping, also called pressure tapping, is a technique used to connect a new branch or valve to an existing pressurized pipeline without shutting it down. It’s especially useful for pipelines made from materials like AWWA C301 and AWWA C303. Here’s a simplified overview of how it works:
Preparation: Technicians assess the pipeline and choose the connection point, making sure the pipeline can handle the process.
Drilling: A hot tapping machine drills into the live pipeline using a special cutter designed for the material and pressure.
Insertion: Once the hole is drilled, a valve or fitting is inserted and welded into place. This connection can be used for installing a branch line, monitoring point, or pressure relief valve.
Pressure Control: Throughout the process, technicians carefully manage the pressure to avoid fluid loss or disruption. The valve or fitting is sealed after the job is done.
Hot tapping allows new components to be installed or repairs made without stopping pipeline operations, keeping service interruptions to a minimum.
Line Stopping:
Line stopping is a method used to temporarily halt the flow in a pressurized pipeline for maintenance or repairs downstream. Here’s a simplified breakdown of how it works:
Preparation: Technicians assess the pipeline and select the stopping point, ensuring the material and pressure are suitable.
Isolation: A line-stopping fitting, inserted through a hot tap, is equipped with a sealing element like a mechanical stopper or inflatable bladder. This is positioned to block the flow when needed.
Activation: Once the fitting is secure, the stopper is activated to stop the flow of liquid downstream, isolating the section that requires work.
Work: Maintenance, repairs, or modifications are performed in the isolated section without interrupting the rest of the system.
Deactivation: After the work is done, the stopper is deactivated, allowing the flow to resume.
Both hot tapping and line stopping are specialized techniques that keep water systems running while essential repairs or maintenance are completed, minimizing service interruptions.
Why Choose Pacific Flow Control?
Pacific Flow Control is Canada’s leading contractor for hot tapping, line stopping, valve insertion, and emergency repairs. Here’s why we’re the best choice:
1. Expert team with extensive experience
2. Latest equipment and technology
3. High safety standards
4. Minimal disruption to services
5. 24/7 emergency response
6. Comprehensive solutions
7. Strong reputation across Canada
8. Commitment to environmental sustainability
We proudly serve Calgary, Edmonton, Metro Vancouver, Vancouver Island, and Interior BC.
For all your pipeline needs, trust Pacific Flow Control. We’re here to keep your water systems running smoothly, no matter the challenge.
