Saep 311

Engineering Procedure
SAEP-311 02 February 2021

Installation of Hot-tap and Stopple Connections
Document Responsibility: Piping Standards Committee
Contents
1 Scope ................................................................ 2
2 Conflicts and Deviations.................................... 2
3 References........................................................ 2
4 Definitions ......................................................... 4
5 Responsibilities ................................................. 4
6 Limitations on Hot-tap
and Stopple Applications................................... 8
7 Safety Requirements......................................... 9
8 Technician Certification ................................... 11
9 General Design Requirements ........................ 12
10 Limitations on Materials .................................. 12
11 Limitations on Flow and Pressure
during Hot-tapping and Stopple ...................... 13
12 Documentation ................................................ 13
13 Installation and Welding of Hot-tap
and Stopple Connections ................................ 15
14 Pressure Testing and Inspection ..................... 16
15 Stoppling ......................................................... 21
Revision Summary ................................................. 24
Appendix A – Applicable Forms.............................. 25
Previous Issue: 20 August 2020 Next Planned Update: 22 March 2023

Revised paragraphs are indicated in the right margin Page 1 of 28
Contact: Al Khoufi, Mohammed Salem (khoufims) on phone +966-13-8804532
©Saudi Aramco 2021. All rights reserved.
Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

Document Responsibility: Piping Standards Committee SAEP-311
Issue Date: 02 February 2021
Next Planned Update: 22 March 2023 Installation of Hot-tap and Stopple Connections
1 Scope
1.1 This SAEP provides procedures for the installation of hot-tap connections to
piping and pipelines while in service excluding the subsea pipeline. Hot-tap
connection to other equipment such as tanks are not within the scope of this
document.
1.2 Also included is procedure for plugging pipes through hot-tapped connections
(stoppling).
1.3 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.
1.4 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.
2 Conflicts and Deviations
2.1 Any conflicts between this document and other applicable Mandatory Saudi
Aramco Engineering Requirements (MSAERs) shall be addressed to the EK&RD
Coordinator.
2.2 Any deviation from the requirements herein shall follow internal company
procedure SAEP-302.
3 References
The requirements contained in the following documents apply to the extent specified in
this procedure.
3.1 Saudi Aramco References
Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedures

SAEP-302 Waiver of a Mandatory Saudi Aramco Engineering
Requirement
SAEP-310 Piping and Pipeline Repair
Saudi Aramco Engineering Standard

SAES-L-150 Pressure Testing of Plant Piping and Pipelines
©Saudi Aramco 2021. All rights reserved. Page 2 of 28

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 Safety Management Guide

SMG 06-003-2013 Job Safety Analysis
Saudi Aramco Forms and Data Sheets

SA-7235 Hot-tap Data and Checklist
SA-7627 Hot-tap/Stopple and Reinforcement Calculation
Request
Saudi Aramco General Instructions

GI-0002.100 Work Permit System
GI-0002.102 Pressure Testing Safety
GI-0002.709 Gas Testing Using Portable Gas Monitors
GI-0006.012 Isolation, Lock Out, and Use of Hold Tags
GI-1780.001 Atmosphere-Supplying Respirators
3.2 Industry Codes and Standards
American Petroleum Institute

API STD 598 Valve Inspections and Test
API RP 2201 Safe Hot-tapping Practices in the Petroleum and
Petrochemical Industries
American Society of Mechanical Engineers

ASME B31.3 Process Piping
American Society of Mechanical Engineers/Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code

ASME SEC VIII D1 Pressure Vessels
Pipelines Research Council International (PRCI)

PR-185-617 Criteria for Hot-tap Welding (Catalogue # L51548)
PR-185-816 Review of Procedures for Welding unto Pressurize
Pipelines (Catalogue # L51601)

NG-18 Report # 175 Proof Testing of the Pre-Hot-Tap Branch

Connection (Catalogue # L51561e)
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.
4 Definitions
Hot-tapping: Hot-tapping is technique of attaching bolted or welded branch

connection to a pipe while it is in service. It is performed using specialized equipment
for cutting a hole in a pipe.
Sealing 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 sealing plug
has an O-ring seal on its circumference and can be lowered into the bore of the sealing
flange, using a hot-tap machine. The sealing 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
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.
5 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.

5.2 Initiating Organization
5.2.1 The initiating organization will be either one of the following:

• The Operations Engineering Organization when the work is being
undertaken by the Operations Organization.
• Saudi Aramco Project Management Team (SAPMT) with the
approval of the Area Operations Superintendent and Operations
Engineering General Supervisor / Superintendent in the case of tying
in new installations, constructed by SAPMT 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.
5.2.3 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, Hot-tap and Stopple Division, facility
operations and/or engineering, project management, LPD,
FrPD, and operation/project inspection staff cooperate
closely during all phases of the hot-tapping operations.
5.2.3.2 Initiate form SA-7627, “Hot-tap/Stopple and Reinforcement

Calculation Request” and complete form SA-7235, “Hot-
tap Data and Checklist” in accordance with Appendices A.2
and A.3.
5.2.3.3 Make all necessary arrangements for the preparation of the

new connection. (i.e., location, excavation, scaffolding,
critical lifting operations, pipe inspection, surface
preparation, installation, welding, and testing).
5.2.3.4 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) alongside each hot-tap
location.
5.2.3.5 Ensure form SA-7627 is approved and signed by the

initiating organization as per section 5.2.1 of this document.

5.2.3.6 For stopple installation, make sure that the Hot-tap and
Stopple 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.
5.2.3.7 Make available at the site a copy of the latest version of this
procedure and the installation hot-tap and stopple design
package during the entire installation process.
5.2.3.8 Revise existing Saudi Aramco drawings, P&IDs, or

preparing new drawings, as may be required, because of the
hot-tap installation.
5.2.3.9 Ensure that stopple or hot-tap split tees with the L-O-Ring
plug to be delivered to the Hot-tap and Stopple Division
shop in Dhahran to be inspected prior installation.
Make sure to attach the valve and split tee NMR’s.
5.3 Hot-tap and Stopple Division/N.A. Pipelines Department
The Hot-tap and Stopple Division is responsible for the following:
5.3.1 Review and approve the hot-tap and stopple design package.
5.3.2 Review form SA-7235 and ensure that the hot-tap equipment required
to perform the hot-tap is available and validated.
5.3.3 Perform the hot-tapping and/or stoppling operation in accordance with

this procedure and an approved detailed design package.
5.3.4 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 sealing flanges prior to issuing for purchase.
5.3.5 Check and approve the alignment of split tee for stopple fittings prior
welding in the field.
5.3.6 If the hot-tap or stopple activities conducted by other than Hot-tap &
Stopple Division, the request should be evaluated by HT&SU and CSD
in case by case.
5.4 Inspection Organization
The responsible Inspection Unit (Operations Inspection / Project Inspection)

shall be responsible for the following:

5.4.1 Review and concur with the design package prior to the start of the
installation.
5.4.2 Ensure that the connection is installed in accordance with the design
package.
5.4.3 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.
5.4.4 Review the welding procedure specification (WPS) and ensure that it
has been approved by Consulting Services Department.
5.4.5 Approve the fit up of the branch connection/split tee to the pipe prior to
welding.
5.4.6 Inspect the branch connection/split tee, before and during the installation,
for compliance with the approved drawings and welding procedures.
5.4.7 Confirm that the header operating pressure is correct at the time of the
test based on the calculated test pressure as prescribed in Section 4 of
Form SA-7627.
5.4.8 Verify that calibrated pressure gauges and relief valve are properly
installed for hydrotesting and a copy of the calibration certificates are
made available at the site.
5.4.9 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.
5.4.10 Scan the weld zone and 50 mm (2 in) each side of it.
5.4.11 Mark the inspected area permanently for future reference and
identification.
5.4.12 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.
5.5 Construction or Maintenance Organization
The construction or maintenance are responsible for ensuring that approved

welding procedures and qualified welders are employed.

5.6 Consulting Services Department
5.6.1 Approve the welding procedure specification (WPS).
5.6.2 If the hot-tap or stopple activities conducted by other than Hot-tap &
Stopple Division, the request should be evaluated by CSD and HT&SU
in case by case.
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 the hot-tap and
stopple procedures by the initiating organization for review and be part of the
site survey team.
5.8 Oil Supply Planning and Scheduling Department (OSPAS)
OSPAS shall ensure operation stability prior and during pipeline hot-tap and
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 When 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 When the pipe contains flammable materials below atmospheric

pressure.
6.1.3 When the pipe contains a combustible mixture.
6.1.4 When the piping system operating at more than 310°C.
6.2 Welding and hot-tapping shall not be performed in the following cases.
6.2.1 Hot-taps on airlines 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) Liquid acids
b) Caustic
c) Elemental Sulfur
d) Oxygen
e) Chlorine
f) Ammonia
g) Potential toxic material that would be injurious to personnel by
contact. As stated on the Saudi Aramco Chemical Hazard
Bulletins (CHB).
6.2.3 The material to be welded may suffer metallurgical or physical

deterioration from heating or requires post weld heat treatment.
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 The pipe or surface temperature is at or below zero degrees centigrade

(0°C).
6.3 Hot-taps shall not be made directly upstream of sensitive equipment such as
pump suction piping or control valves unless facilities exist to prevent chips and
shavings from entering the equipment.
6.4 Hot-tap shall be performed only at 90 degree to the pipe access. (Perpendicular to
the pipe wall).
7 Safety Requirements
7.1 All work shall be in strict compliance with GI-0002.100, Work Permit System
and GI-0002.102, Pressure Testing Safely.
7.2 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.

In addition assure the preparation of emergency response plan that determines

the need for safety exclusion zones, emergency isolation points are healthy and
can sustain the flow without passing in case of stopple failure, communications
with effected parties, and anticipated credible scenarios.
The initiating organization shall prepare a Job Safety Analysis (JSA) plan with
all concerned parties.
7.3 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, strict compliance with GI-0002.100, Work Permit System,
GI-0002.709, Gas Testing Using Portable Gas Monitors and
GI-1780.001, Atmosphere-Supplying Respirators.
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.
7.3.3 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) H2S concentration is greater than 10 ppm.
b) Low wind conditions exist and a gas or liquid hydrocarbon release
may create a hazard in the area or activate plant gas alarms.
c) The work is in a confined area.
d) LEL concentration is greater than 50%
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.
7.5 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, Hot-tap and Stopple 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, evaluate and approve the JSA plan.
7.5.2 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.
7.6 The initiating organization shall conduct an onsite safety meeting with all
involved parties to review the stopple procedure, the job hazards and safety
precautions prior to starting the work.
7.7 The initiating organization shall develop a contingent emergency response and
evacuation plan and shall be approved by the proponent, FrPD, and LPD to
systemically response to a catastrophic incidents
8 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.

9 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.
9.2 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.
9.3 The minimum bore of the valve shall be large enough to pass the cutter, sealing
flange plug, guide bar. The valve seat lugs shall not restrict the opening.
9.4 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.
9.5 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.
9.6 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:
Table 1 – Acceptable Header Diameter

Out of Roundness for Stopple Installation
Maximum Acceptable out

Header Size (Stopple Size)
of Roundness Tolerance
Up to 32” 0.125”
34” & Greater 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 Hot-tap and stopple fittings shall be procured from an approved manufacturer in
the operating system.
10.2 Any Direct Charge Requisitions prepared as part of the design package for hot-
tap tees, stopple split tees, or sealing flanges Stopple sealing elements shall be

reviewed and approved by Hot-tap and Stopple Division prior to issuing for
purchase.
10.3 Hot-tap and stopple fittings shall comply with Saudi Aramco Materials System
Specification 02-SAMSS-006.
11 Limitations on Flow and Pressure during Hot-tapping and Stopple
11.1 The maximum flow velocities during hot-tapping shall be as follows:

a) Liquid and two-phase 3.05 m/sec (10 ft/s) maximum
b) Gas 9.10 m/sec (30 ft/s) maximum.
11.2 The maximum flow velocities during two stopples isolation insertion/retracting
shall be as follows:
a) Liquid 9.10 m/sec (30 ft/s) maximum
b) Gas 7.50 m/sec (24.6 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.
2) 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.
11.3 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 safe location 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, “Hot-tap/Stopple and Reinforcement Calculation”
12.1.1 The Responsible Engineer shall prepare a separate Form SA-7627 for
each hot-tap operation.
12.1.2 Each Form SA-7627 shall be completed in sequence and by the

organization identified:
Form Section # Person/Organization

1 Initiating Engineer
2 Operations Engineer
3 Responsible Inspection (Operations
Inspection/ Project Inspection)
4 Operation or Project Engineer
5 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.
12.1.4 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.
12.1.5 The responsible engineering shall obtain the appropriate approvals and
endorsement on Form SA-7627.
12.1.6 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).
12.1.7 Welding Procedure Specifications shall be approved by the Consulting

Services Department/Welding Unit.
12.1.8 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.
12.1.9 Once approval is obtained, the Responsible engineer shall distribute

copies of each Form SA-7627 to the following personnel:

1) Operations Superintendent
2) Hot-tap and Stopple Unit
3) Operations Engineering Supervisor
4) Construction/Maintenance Installation Crew
5) Responsible Inspection Supervisor
7) Project Manager (if appropriate)
12.2 Form SA-7235 “Hot-tap Data and Checklist”
12.2.1 The Responsible Engineer shall prepare and forward Form

SA-7235 “Hot-tap Data and Check List” to Hot-tap and Stopple
Division.
12.2.2 The data entered in this form must be obtained from a site inspection of
the hot-tap connection.
12.3 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.
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 in).
Commentary Note:
PRCI reports Catalogue L51548 and L51601 recommendations and technical

basis for hot-tap welding. It is not intended to be a mandatory document.
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.
13.3 For hardened 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.

13.4 Welding on Pipelines under Pressure
13.4.1 The Form SA-7627 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:
0.72×𝑆(𝑡−0.10)×2
Pmax = (1)
𝑂𝐷
Where:
Pmax = Maximum operating pressure of the pipeline during
welding, psig
S = Specified minimum yield strength of the pipe, psi
t = Minimum measured wall thickness of the pipe at the
weld area, inches.
OD = Outside diameter of the pipe, inches.
Commentary Notes:
1. The minus 0.10 inch (2.54 mm) wall thickness takes into account the
molten and heat affected portion of the base metal which does not
contribute to pressure containment.
2. For in-plant piping designed to ASME B31.3, replace S and 0.72 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.
13.4.3 The Hot-Tap/Stopple shall be conducted within 90 days of the

installation of the split tee.
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.

14.2 The responsible inspection representative shall witness and approve all hydrostatic
testing required for completion of the hot-tap connection.
14.3 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 Pressure
Temperature Test Fluid
93°C to 290°C Turbine Oil
290°C to 310°C Silicone Fluid 200
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 sealing flanges. For example, EPDM seals
used for steam and water service can be damaged by exposure to
mineral oils.
14.3.2 Pneumatic testing of hot-tap connections is not permitted.
14.4 Hot-tap Machine
14.4.1 Shop pressure test every year and shall not be used if not tested within
6 months.
14.4.2 Replace the boring bar and retaining rod main seals and hydrotest after
the machine has been used on sour or highly corrosive fluids.
14.4.3 Replace the boring bar and retaining rod main seals and hydrotest after it
has been used on lines with operating temperatures in excess of 175°C.
14.4.4 A stamped brass tag/stencil shall be affixed to the hot-tap and stopple
equipment machine indicating the test pressure, maximum operating
pressure, and overhaul date.
14.4.5 The pressure testing of the hot-tap machine, will take place in the shop
after the machine has been checked and worn parts replaced.
14.5 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 A body and high pressure seat test (on both sides) shall be performed
in the shop on all hot-tap valves prior to installation.
14.6.2 Resilient (soft) seat valves shall have zero leakage.
14.6.3 Valves with metal to metal seats shall meet the leakage criteria of
API STD 598, Valve Inspection and Testing.
14.6.4 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 actual line pressure during hot-tapping plus 10%.
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.
14.7.2 Stopple heads shall be pressure tested for the following conditions:
a) Every five years.
b) When the nose piece screws and/or the pin yoke is replaced.
c) When the stopple head is modified.
14.7.3 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.
14.7.4 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.
14.7.5 The nose piece bolts shall be tested by magnetic particle inspection or
dye penetrant subsequent to the pressure test.

14.7.6 Stopple cylinders shall be pressure tested once a year.
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.
14.8.2 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”.
14.8.3 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.
14.8.4 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.
14.8.5 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.
This is very critical for split tee case and for stub-in connection Db/Dh
larger than 0.5.
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. The weep hole should not be located at the high point or
upper part of the sleeve or pad.

Table 2 - Formulas for Maximum Hot Connection Pressure Test

Formulae
Branch Applicable
Db / D h for Maximum
Connection Type Notes
Test Pressure
Split Tee
All Pb = Ph + 1.25  P 
Type-3 & 9
Welded Stub-in
0.30 or less Pb = 0.75 x P f 3
Type 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, & 8
Welded Stub-in
More than 0.3 Pb = Ph + 1.25  P 2
Type 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, & 8
Welding Boss
All Pb = 0.75 x P f 3
2 inches & smaller
Notes on Table 2:
1. Branch connection types are per Standard Drawing # AB-036719.
2.  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
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)² 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 : The calculated differential pressure across the pipe header per the
ASME SEC VIII D1, UG-28
Dh : Header outside diameter
Db : Branch outside diameter
db : Branch inside diameter
th : Header pipe wall thickness
tb : Branch pipe wall thickness
Ph : Header pipe pressure
Pb : Branch pipe test pressure
Pf : Pressure for flat plate = (16/3)(th/db)² Sy
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%.
14.9.2 Nitrogen shall be utilized during leak test only for the hot-tap machines
that consist of balancing system.
14.9.3 Drain and depressurize after completion of the above tests, a bar stock
plug shall be installed in the branch connection boss and seal welded.
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
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. After depressurizing the
isolated section, a minimum two hours required before starting the
requested modifications. 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
INSERT DOWNSTREAM
STOPPLE FIRST
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.
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 interfere 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
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
and compliance with GI-0006.012, Isolation, Lock Out, and Use of
Hold Tag Procedure. The following requirements shall be addressed as
a minimum in the design package:
15.1.6.1 It is mandatory to measure the amount of leakage in the

isolated section.
15.1.6.2 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.
15.1.6.3 Before conducting any hot work, it is mandatory to install

second isolation or barrier with a bleed connection for
combustible or hazardous gas or liquid. 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.
15.2 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.
Revision Summary
17 March 2013 Major revision.
22 March 2018 This major revision is for the normal revision cycle, and requirements against company
needs according to latest related industry practices and operations lessons learned.
Changes include clarifying the responsibility of evaluating the hot-tap or stopple activities.
5 May 2019 Editorial revision to comply with content confirmation requirements.
2 July 2019 Editorial revision to extend NPU.
20 August 2020 Editorial revision to comply with SAEP-301.
02 February 2021 Editorial revision to update form SA-7627 in Appendix A.2 to the latest revision (06/18)

Appendix A – Applicable Forms
Appendix-A.1 – Ultrasonic Thickness Measurements
Hot-tap #_________________ Date Initiated ______________

J.O./W.O. ______________ PLANT #_______________ DWG. # ________________
Description (Job, Location, etc.) ____________________________________________
Diameter Grade Schedule Flange Rating Pipe Seam Type

HEADER: _____________ ______________ _____________ ____________ ____________
STICKER _____________ ______________ _____________ ____________
HEADER MEASUREMENTS
(CONTINUOUS SCANNING)
Point A Min:__________ Max.:_________
Circle B Min:__________ Max:__________
Circle C Min:__________ Max:__________
Line D-D Min:__________ Max:__________
Line E-E Min:__________ Max:__________
180 deg. from Pt. A Min:__________ Max:__________
STICKER MEASUREMENT
Min:__________ Max.:__________
LOCATION-------DESCRIPTION
Point A------------Branch Center

Circle B-----------Branch Diameter
Circle C-----------Reinf. Pad Dia.
Line D-D---------Reinf. Sleeve Ends
Line E-E----------Reinf. Sleeve Ends
RESPONSIBLE INSPECTION UNIT: _________________________________
INSPECTOR: ______________________ SIGNATURE: _________________ DATE: _________

BADGE # : _________________

Appendix A.2 – Form SA-7627: Hot-tap/Reinforcement Data and Calculation Sheet


Appendix A.3 – Form SA-7235: Hot-tap Data and Checklist

Saep 311

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Engineering Procedure

SAEP-311 02 February 2021

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

Previous Issue: 20 August 2020 Next Planned Update: 22 March 2023

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Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

2 Conflicts and Deviations

3.1 Saudi Aramco References

Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedures

Saudi Aramco Engineering Standard

©Saudi Aramco 2021. All rights reserved. Page 2 of 28

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

Saudi Aramco Materials System Specification

Saudi Aramco Standard Drawing

Saudi Aramco Safety Management Guide

Saudi Aramco Forms and Data Sheets

Saudi Aramco General Instructions

3.2 Industry Codes and Standards

American Petroleum Institute

American Society of Mechanical Engineers

American Society of Mechanical Engineers/Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code

Pipelines Research Council International (PRCI)

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Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

NG-18 Report # 175 Proof Testing of the Pre-Hot-Tap Branch

Referencing to PRCI reports is intended for expanding knowledge and to locate

Hot-tapping: Hot-tapping is technique of attaching bolted or welded branch

Stopple: A stopple is an articulated pipe plugging device, normally inserted through a

©Saudi Aramco 2021. All rights reserved. Page 4 of 28

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5.2 Initiating Organization

5.2.1 The initiating organization will be either one of the following:

5.2.3 The initiating organization shall appoint a Responsible Engineer to

5.2.3.1 Be responsible for the overall coordination of the hot-

5.2.3.2 Initiate form SA-7627, “Hot-tap/Stopple and Reinforcement

5.2.3.3 Make all necessary arrangements for the preparation of the

5.2.3.4 Arrange for a team, consisting of himself, Operations, the

5.2.3.5 Ensure form SA-7627 is approved and signed by the

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Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

5.2.3.8 Revise existing Saudi Aramco drawings, P&IDs, or

5.3 Hot-tap and Stopple Division/N.A. Pipelines Department

The Hot-tap and Stopple Division is responsible for the following:

5.3.3 Perform the hot-tapping and/or stoppling operation in accordance with

5.4 Inspection Organization

The responsible Inspection Unit (Operations Inspection / Project Inspection)

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5.5 Construction or Maintenance Organization

The construction or maintenance are responsible for ensuring that approved

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5.6 Consulting Services Department

5.6.1 Approve the welding procedure specification (WPS).

5.7 Loss Prevention Department

5.8 Oil Supply Planning and Scheduling Department (OSPAS)

6 Limitations on Hot-tap and Stopple Applications

6.1.2 When the pipe contains flammable materials below atmospheric

6.1.3 When the pipe contains a combustible mixture.

6.1.4 When the piping system operating at more than 310°C.

6.2.1 Hot-taps on airlines with compressed air if there is any possibility of

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