DIS 8.6.

ENGINEERING PROCEDURES

SECTION 8 - TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT

SUBSECTION 8.6 - FLOW STOPPING EQUIPMENT -
OPERATION AND
MAINTENANCE
MODULE 8.6.1 - IRIS STOP OPERATIONS

NOVEMBER 1990

J181 ( Rev 11/97 )

.
 DIS 8.6.1

CONTENTS

Page

FOREWORD v

BRIEF HISTORY vi

1. SCOPE 1

2. REFERENCES 1

3. GENERAL 1

4. INSPECTION AND PREPARATION OF BAGS AND INFLATION EQUIPMENT 6

5. INSTALLATION 6

6. STOPPING OFF 7

7. RECOMMISSIONING 11

8. EQUIPMENT INSPECTION PRIOR TO STORAGE AFTER USE 12

TABLES

1 Pressure limitations of mains for iris stop operations 2

FIGURES

1 General arrangement of iris stop equipment including critical dimensions

and hole sizes 4

2 Diagram of sub-assemblies with equipment list for a double stop-off 8

APPENDICES

A THE USE OF REDUCED SIZE IRISES 13

B SECONDARY BAG HOLE POSITIONS FOR NON-E20 BAGS 14

C NOTES FOR GUIDANCE IN THE EVENT OF BAG FAILURE 15

D BAG INFLATION PRESSURES 18

E OILS AND THEIR EFFECT ON INFLATABLE BAG STOPPER MATERIALS 19

J181 ( Rev 11/97 ) -i-

DIS 8.6.1

- ii - J181 ( Rev 11/97 )

 DIS 8.6.1

FOREWORD

This specification has been adopted by Transco and is an editorial revision of the former British Gas TransCo
specification BG/PS/DIS 8.6.1. It reflects the identity and organizational structure of Transco - a part of BG
plc.

This Transco specification has been approved for use throughout Transco.

Comments and queries regarding the technical content of this Transco specification should be directed to:

Lead Role Engineer

Transco
West Area Office
Glevum House
Bristol Road
Gloucester
GL2 6YA

Further copies of this Transco specification can be obtained from Dataform Print Management using the print
requisition form G004 quoting the Form Number of this Transco specification (not the designation) and your
cost code.

Transco specifications are revised, when necessary, by the issue of amendments or new editions. Users should
ensure that they are in possession of the latest versions by referring to the Transco Register of Engineering
Documents available on the Transco Information Library.

Contractors and other users external to Transco should direct their requests for further copies of Transco
specifications to the department or group responsible for the initial issue of their contract documentation.

Compliance with this specification does not confer immunity from prosecution for breach of statutory or other
legal obligations.

DISCLAIMER

This specification is provided for use by Transco and such of its contractors as are obliged by the terms of
their contracts to comply with this specification. Where this specification is used by any other party it is the
responsibility of that party to ensure that the specification is correctly applied.

J181 ( Rev 11/97 ) - iii -

DIS 8.6.1

BRIEF HISTORY

First published as BG/PS/DIS 8.6.1 November 1990

© BG plc 1990

This Transco specification is copyright and must not be reproduced in whole or in part by any means without
the approval in writing of BG plc.

- iv - J181 ( Rev 11/97 )

 DIS 8.6.1

ENGINEERING PROCEDURES
SECTION 8 - TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
SUBSECTION 8.6 - FLOW STOPPING EQUIPMENT -
OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE
MODULE 8.6.1 - IRIS STOP OPERATIONS

1. SCOPE
This Module 8.6.1 of the Transco Engineering Procedures *(formerly known as the Code of Practice for
Distribution) gives guidance on the use of iris stop equipment for stopping off cast iron, ductile iron and steel
mains up to and including 1200 mm nominal size.
* Hereinafter referred to as 'this Module 8.6.1'

2. REFERENCES
This Module 8.6.1 makes reference to the documents listed below. Unless otherwise specified the latest
editions of these documents, including all addenda and revisions, shall apply.

Transco specifications

E1 - Specification for combined drilling, tapping and service insertion

machines for use up to 2 bar

E19 - Specification for primary iris stop bags

E20 - Specification for secondary iris stop bags

F2 - Specification for main to service pipe fittings for use up to 2 bar

V4 - Specification for service isolation valves up to 50 mm diameter

nominal bore

Engineering procedures:

Module 5.1 - Steel pipe systems

Module 5.2 - Ductile iron systems

Module 5.6 - Commissioning and de-commissioning of mains and services

Module 5.7 - Under pressure working.

3. GENERAL
3.1 The iris stop equipment shall comply with the latest design and all the associated equipment and
fittings used during a stopping off operation should comply with the following relevant Transco specifications:

E1

E19

E20

F2

J181 ( Rev 11/97 ) -1-

DIS 8.6.1

V4.
3.2 When cut out work is carried out on jointed mains at medium pressure, the thrust generated by the
mains pressure on the bag may be high enough to uncouple the joints. Consideration shall be given to
restraining the pipework using concrete anchor blocks or a transportable load bearing frame clamped to the
main either side of the cut out section.

3.3 The maximum mains operating pressures at which iris stops may be used with E19 and E20 bags
are given in Table 1.

It is important to note that to stop off a main at operating pressures in excess of those given in Table 1 and
where pressure reduction is not practicable, it will be necessary to use an alternative stopping off system in
accordance with approved codes of practice and manufacturer's recommendations.

It is sometimes necessary to use a smaller iris than the main being worked on, e.g. when the internal diameter
of the main is too small to accommodate the nominal size of iris. This is permissible, but only with a reduction
in operating pressure compared to the full size iris. Appendix A details the safe operating pressures when
using smaller irises. In these circumstances the size of the bag shall be equal to or larger than the internal
diameter of the main.

TABLE 1 - Pressure limitations of mains for iris stop operations

Secondary bags which are designed to pre- E20 specification may be used on low pressure stopping off
operations except on 42 in. and 48 in. mains when mains pressure must be below half the maximum iris stop
operating pressure. As most of these bags are shorter in length, the distance 'B' between the iris and the
secondary bag holes should be reduced (see Appendix B).

3.4 Before a programmed stopping off operation is undertaken, the operating pressure of the main
should be reduced to the lowest level at which adequate supplies can be maintained.

3.5 A work programme shall be prepared and should include schedules of all necessary safety and
operational equipment and of all operational procedures. This programme should include contingency plans
for the possibility of bag failure and the availability of upstream and downstream line valves
(see Appendix C).

3.6 Details of the general arrangement, the size of drilled or drilled and tapped holes required and
critical dimensions are shown in Figure 1.

-2- J181 ( Rev 11/97 )

 DIS 8.6.1

3.7 Bag inflation pressures are given in Appendix D.

3.8 Oils can have a deleterious effect on the bag bladders. If it is established that oils are likely to be
present in the main or if mains treatment with rubber swellants has been practised, reference shall be made to
Appendix E.

3.9 The drilling or drilling and tapping of the main, the installation and subsequent removal of the bag
tubes, the bypass connections, etc., and the plugging of the holes, shall all be carried out in accordance with
Module 5.7: Part B using an approved under pressure drilling machine. The drillings should not be close to a
socket joint thus ensuring that bags 'seat' in a clear section of main.

3.10 An adequate bypass shall be installed in accordance with Module 5.7: Part B, unless its omission is
specifically authorized by the Engineer or his representative.

3.11 A low resistance electrical continuity bond shall be fitted across all sections of pipe to be cut or
connected.

3.12 A separate source of inert gas shall be used for inflating each bag and for purging. Each source
shall have on its outlet a first stage pressure regulator. Care must be taken when using an inert gas from a high
pressure source to prevent the over-chilling of the equipment which could occur during high volume flows.

3.13 It is recommended that the pressure of the inert gas at the inlet to the second stage inflation head
regulator is at least twice the gas mains pressure to ensure efficient inflation of the bag.

The second stage regulator shall have an integral creep relief valve adequately sized to protect the bag from
over-pressurization.

A valve must be fitted on the immediate outlet of the second stage regulator to allow rapid deflation of the
bags when required.

3.14 A vacuum pump or aspirator may be used to assist deflation of bags of 600 mm nominal size and
larger.

3.15 A minimum of one spare full inert gas cylinder shall be available on site and ready for use. If the
operation occurs at two or more widely separated locations, the provision of a spare cylinder may be
necessary at each location to allow rapid bottle changes if required.

J181 ( Rev 11/97 ) -3-

DIS 8.6.1

NOTE - The numbers within the bags indicate the 'insertion' sequence; the
numbers below the bags indicate the 'withdrawal' sequence.

FIGURE 1 - General arrangement of iris stop equipment including critical dimensions

and hole sizes

-4- J181 ( Rev 11/97 )

 DIS 8.6.1

CRITICAL DIMENSIONS AND HOLE SIZES

NOTES TO FIGURE 1

1. Before secondary bags are installed, purge from gas to inert gas between the primary bags from the
downstream end.

2. During re-commissioning, purge new main section from air to inert gas before secondary bags are
removed.

3. During re-commissioning, rider to purge new main section from inert gas to gas between the primary bags
from the downstream end after the secondary bags have been removed.

J181 ( Rev 11/97 ) -5-

DIS 8.6.1

3.16 Mains pressure gauges shall be fitted. Pressure recorders may be fitted at the discretion of the
Engineer/Supervisor. Such gauges and/or recorders shall be positioned as shown in Figure 1.

3.17 The iris stop sub-assemblies and the minimum quantities of each assembly required for a double
stop off are shown in Figure 2.

3.18 The operation of iris stop equipment shall be undertaken by trained operators.

4. INSPECTION AND PREPARATION OF BAGS AND INFLATION EOUIPMENT

4.1 Before commencing installation of the iris stop equipment in accordance with clause 5, all bags and
inflation equipment shall be tested and inspected in accordance with the requirements of 4.2 to 4.7 inclusive.

At least two spare primary and two spare secondary bags shall be available in addition to those to be used,
taking due regard of the iris site locations and different mains diameters. One of these primary bags should be
assembled in a spare bag tube and jack assembly ready for emergency use. Similarly, one of these secondary
bags should be assembled on to a spare secondary inflation tube.

4.2 The operation of all gauges and recorders shall be checked. The Engineer should satisfy himself of
their performance.

4.3 The bags shall be attached to the inflation tube connection in accordance with the manufacturer's
instructions.

4.4 All bags shall be inflated, de-pressurized and re-inflated to their recommended differential inflation
pressure (see Appendix D) and the bags shall remain inflated for a period of at least five minutes prior to use.

4.5 Whilst the bags are inflated, each bag shall be carefully inspected for damage or faults, and
soundness of all connections shall be tested using leakage detection solution.

4.6 Whilst each bag is inflated, the inert gas supply at the inlet to the inflation head regulator assembly
shall be disconnected and a check made to ensure that there is no leakage through the non-return valve.

4.7 The primary bags should be fully deflated then folded to facilitate withdrawal into the bag tube. The
folded bag should be temporarily fastened to the guide springs using light elastic bands, then retracted into the
bag tube. Tighten up the pointer/'O' ring lock plate to hold the bag inflation tube in position.

5. INSTALLATION
5.1 The procedure for the installation of the iris stop equipment is detailed in 5.2 to 5.18 inclusive. The
general layout and critical dimensions are given in Figure 1. Saddles, slide valves and chains shall be used in
conjunction with under pressure drilling machines for the hole positions 'C', 'D' and 'E' and work shall be in
accordance with Module 5.7.

5.2 Drill and, where necessary, tap holes at position 'E' and temporarily install plugs when appropriate.

5.3 Drill and, where necessary, tap holes at positions 'C' and 'D' and leave saddles and slide valves in
place. The H-strut should be used during the setting up of these two holes to ensure that it can be correctly
installed later on.

5.4 All pipe drilling coupons from positions 'C', 'D' and 'E' should be recovered. The
Engineer/Supervisor shall be informed of any not retrieved before proceeding. It is essential that no coupons
are left in a position where a bag or iris is to be located.

5.5 Whenever practicable an internal inspection shall be made of the bottom of the main for cleanliness
and freedom from any debris that could impair the efficiency of the bag seal. If cleaning of the main is
necessary, this should be done by a method approved by the Engineer/Supervisor.

-6- J181 ( Rev 11/97 )

 DIS 8.6.1

5.6 Drill and, where necessary, tap holes for the bypass. Assemble the bypass in accordance with
Module 5.7, checking that it is free from internal blockage. Upon assembly, purge and gas the bypass and,
before fully opening the main bypass valves, check all joints for gas tightness with leakage detection solution.

5.7 Install the pressure recorders and/or gauges on to the main.

5.8 Check that the mains pressure is not more than the permitted maximum given in Table 1.

5.9 Fit pressure boxes at positions 'D' and temporarily bolt up.

5.10 Test the operation of the iris for smooth opening. Operate the iris several times to determine the
force required to fully open the mechanism.

5.11 Close the irises and lower them, with the jacking gear fitted, into the pressure boxes at positions 'D'
and bolt up.

5.12 Slide the jacking screws and nuts on to the bag tubes and lock into position against the locating
shoulders.

5.13 Locate the complete primary bag units on to the slide valves at positions 'C'. Attach the inflation
head assemblies to the primary bag tubes.

5.14 Fit H-struts between the iris and bag tube assemblies and securely bolt up. Wherever practicable
the H-strut should be installed below the flanges of the two slide valves. This will facilitate the removal of the
bag tube assembly without disturbing the iris assembly whenever replacement of a primary bag is required.

5.15 Pump grease into the grease nipples of both the iris jack and primary bag tube jack units.

5.16 Re-check tightness of all bolts and joints.

5.17 Fit vent pipes and flame traps on to the pressure boxes at position 'D' and ensure all vent valves are
closed.

5.18 Install continuity bonds across all sections of pipe to be cut or connected.

6. STOPPING OFF
6.1 Check that the mains operating pressure is not more than the specified maximum (see Table 1).

6.2 The Engineer shall determine the direction of gas flow for the bag insertion sequence.

Ensure bypass line valves are fully open.

Equalize the pressure across each of the primary bag and iris slide valves.

J181 ( Rev 11/97 ) -7-

DIS 8.6.1

FIGURE 2 - Diagram of sub-assemblies with equipment list for a double stop-off

-8- J181 ( Rev 11/97 )

 DIS 8.6.1

EQUIPMENT LIST FOR A DOUBLE STOP-OFF OPERATION

J181 ( Rev 11/97 ) -9-

DIS 8.6.1

6.3 Open the slide valves at positions 'D' and wind down the upstream and downstream irises until they
sit on the bottom of the main. Note the position of the indicators and ensure correct alignment of the
equipment. Rotate the iris blades into the open position and close them to prove their satisfactory operation,
then re-open the blades fully.

6.4 Open the upstream primary bag tube slide valve and wind down the bag tube until seated. Note the
position of the indicator and ensure correct alignment of the equipment. Slacken the pointer/'O' ring lockplate,
insert the primary bag into the main (see Figure 1). Connect differential pressure gauge and fully inflate the
primary bag to actual mains pressure plus appropriate differential inflation pressure (see Appendix D) whilst
carefully monitoring the mains recorders (or gauges) at the ends of the proposed cut out section.

6.5 Ensure that stable and adequate pressure conditions have been obtained before proceeding to the
downstream position.

6.6 Repeat the primary bag insertion and full inflation at the downstream position as at the upstream
position detailed in 6.4.

6.7 Open the vent valves on the pressure boxes at positions 'D' to reduce the pressure between the
irises. If large volumes are involved, separate venting from suitable vent pipes installed on the main may be
necessary.

6.8 On venting, a differential pressure will build up across the bags; this will tend to move each bag
into position against the iris.

6.9 Check that the bags are in position against the mechanical support of the iris by gently attempting to
rotate the operating lever of the iris in the direction to close. No movement will be possible if the bag is in
position. Do not apply excessive force.

6.10 If the primary bags are not in position against the irises and/or unacceptable quantities of gas are
passing the bags, momentarily deflate the primary bags, ensuring that the inflation pressure in the bags
remains above the mains operating pressure. This will move the bags into position against the irises. The bag
pressure must not be dropped to line pressure as this can result in the bag being forced through the annular
gap around the iris blades and the bag can fail on re-inflation. Re-inflate the bags to the recommended
pressure, i.e. actual mains pressure plus appropriate differential inflation pressure. Tighten the pointer/'O' ring
lockplate to eliminate gas leakage from the top of the bag tube.

6.11 Gas flow at the vents should now cease, or at least be reduced to an acceptable level. Allow this
situation to be maintained for 10 min to ensure both primary bags maintain the seal and hold their set
pressure.

6.12 Commence inert gas purge (using separate cylinders to those used for bag inflation) into the iris
pressure box vent at the downstream position. Monitor the atmosphere at the upstream vent on the iris
pressure box to ensure safe working conditions prevail between the primary bags. Care must be taken to
ensure that the pressure between the bags during the purge does not exceed 1/3rd of the pressure in the live
main.

6.13 Remove the plug at the upstream position 'E' and insert the secondary bag and support tube, fit the
secondary strut and fully inflate the bag to the actual mains pressure plus appropriate differential inflation
pressure (see Appendix D).

6.14 Remove the plug at the downstream position 'E' and insert the secondary bag (do not inflate)
together with the support tube and fit the secondary strut.

6.15 Discontinue the purge and open the downstream iris pressure box vent immediately before inflating
the downstream secondary bag to the actual mains pressure plus appropriate differential inflation pressure
(see Appendix D).

- 10 - J181 ( Rev 11/97 )

 DIS 8.6.1

6.16 Ensure all bags are holding their recommended set pressures for at least five minutes. The cut out
operations may then proceed in accordance with Modules 5.1, 5.2 and 5.7.

6.17 All bag pressures shall be monitored frequently, together with the mains pressure either side, to
ensure the bag inflation pressures are maintained at their recommended pressure throughout the operation. It
is imperative that any fluctuations in mains pressure are compensated by increasing or decreasing the
bag pressures to ensure the recommended differential inflation pressures are maintained.

6.18 The inert gas cylinder pressure gauges shall be monitored frequently to ensure adequate reserves
exist to maintain bag inflation.

7. RECOMMISSIONING
7.1 The Engineer shall recheck the direction of gas flow to determine upstream and downstream
conditions (the upstream and downstream position may have changed during the operation).

Purge air from the section of new main between the secondary bags via the support tubes by introducing inert
gas at the downstream position. Care must be taken to ensure that the pressure in the section of the main being
purged does not exceed 1/3rd of the pressure in the live main.

The flow of inert gas should be regulated so as to prevent undue cooling of the secondary bags.

7.2 When purging has been completed, deflate the downstream secondary bag, remove the secondary
strut and withdraw the support tube. Carefully withdraw the bag from the main and plug the hole.

7.3 Repeat 7.2 for the upstream secondary bag position.

7.4 Assemble a purge rider from the downstream main side to the vent connection of the pressure box
on the downstream iris (see Figure 1). Consideration may be given by the Engineer to use a rider from the
bypass instead of the main.

7.5 Close the vent on the downstream pressure box and purge to gas between the primary bags via the
rider in accordance with Module 5.6. The rate of gassing the new section must be monitored to ensure that the
gas supply pressure is not adversely affected.

7.6 Monitor the vent on the upstream iris pressure box until the purge is complete. Close the vent valve
and allow the section of main to pressurize to the downstream line pressure; leave the purge rider open.

7.7 Test all joints for soundness in accordance with Module 5.7.

7.8 Fully deflate the downstream primary bag, remove the differential pressure gauge, slacken the
pointer/'O' ring lockplate and carefully withdraw the bag into the bag tube. Disconnect the inflation head
assembly. Retract the bag tube from the main using the jacking screw and close the slide valve. Remove the
bag tube assembly. If the bag is missing, report the fact to the Engineer.

7.9 Valve off and disconnect the purge rider from the main to the pressure box on the downstream iris
assembly.

7.10 Close the downstream iris, withdraw it into the pressure box and close the slide valve.

7.11 Repeat the operation to remove the upstream primary bag and iris (see 7.8 and 7.10).

7.12 Dismantle the vent and remove the irises and pressure boxes.

7.13 Plug the iris and primary bag holes under pressure and remove their slide valves and saddles.

7.14 Whilst monitoring mains pressure, valve off the bypass, depressurize, purge and dismantle the
bypass.

J181 ( Rev 11/97 ) - 11 -

DIS 8.6.1

7.15 Remove the bypass valves and plug the holes.

7.16 Valve off and disconnect the mains pressure gauges and recorders.

7.17 Remove the valves and plug the holes.

7.18 Remove the continuity bond.

7.19 Test all plugs for soundness.

8. EQUIPMENT INSPECTION PRIOR TO STORAGE AFTER USE

8.1 All equipment shall be cleaned, dismantled and inspected. The primary bags must be removed from
their bag tubes; all primary and secondary bags must be inflated and inspected for damage.

8.2 Any damaged bag shall be returned to the Engineer.

8.3 Bags which have been overpressurized shall be destroyed.

8.4 Any secondary bag which has been exposed to mains pressure, due to a primary bag failure, shall
be thoroughly examined for any damage.

8.5 The seals on the tubes and machines shall be checked and replaced as necessary.

8.6 All gauges and recorders shall be checked and recalibrated if necessary.

8.7 The equipment shall not be returned to storage until it is fully serviceable.

- 12 - J181 ( Rev 11/97 )

 DIS 8.6.1

APPENDIX A
THE USE OF REDUCED SIZE IRISES
When flow stopping is required in a main size for which no iris is available, it is possible to use an iris which
is smaller than the nominal size. However, it is essential that the following precautions are taken:

a) The mains operating pressure must not exceed the value given in Table A.1.
b) The reduced size iris must be positioned centrally in the main.
c) The primary bags must be sized to match the main (not the iris).
d) The appropriate primary bag differential pressure must be selected from Table A.1.

TABLE A.1 - Safe operating pressures for reduced size irises

J181 ( Rev 11/97 ) - 13 -

DIS 8.6.1

APPENDIX B
SECONDARY BAG HOLE POSITIONS FOR NON-E20 BAGS
When secondary bags which are designed to the pre-E20 specifications are used on low pressure stopping off
operations, the dimension 'B' between the iris and secondary bag holes (see Figure 1) should be reduced to the
dimensions given in Table B.1.

TABLE B.1 - Drilling distances for pre-E20 specification secondary bags

- 14 - J181 ( Rev 11/97 )

 DIS 8.6.1

APPENDIX C
NOTES FOR GUIDANCE IN THE EVENT OF BAG FAILURE
C.1 INTRODUCTION
C.1.1 The notes given in C.l.2 to C.l.7 inclusive are provided for guidance on action to be taken in the
event of unintentional bag deflation.

C.1 .2 The preplanning of an operation shall include for the provision of all necessary emergency
equipment.

C.1.3 The failure may be observed by an increased volume of gas venting or by an examination of the bag
inflation gauges indicating a reduction of bag inflation pressure.

C.1 .4 In the event of a failure occurring, the safety of personnel must be the first consideration and may
involve the evacuation of the workings.

C.1 .5 It is essential that all safety instructions and codes of practice are fully observed during the
subsequent operations.

C. 1.6 The inflation pressure of the remaining bags shall be checked immediately and monitored frequently
during emergency action to restore the situation. Adjustment should only be made if it is clear that failure to
do so will create a greater hazard.

C.1 .7 With due regard for the potentially hazardous situation which may be developing, protection should
be afforded to the main (see clause C.2), if practicable, before attempting to deal with the deflated bag(s).

C.2 PROTECTION OF GAS SUPPLY

The emergency action to be taken at the various stages of progress of cutting is detailed in Table C.1.

C.3 CHECK CAUSE OF DEFLATION

C.3.1 The deflation of the bag may have occurred because of defective inflation equipment, a defective or
ruptured bag, or both.

C.3.2 Care must therefore be exercised when attempting to reinflate a bag when initial checks have
indicated the replacement of defective inflation equipment (see Table C.2).

C.3.3 If the bag has been successfully reinflated as a result of the actions in Table C.2, monitor the bag
pressure for five minutes and, if there is no evidence of the bag deflating, the cut out may proceed. If the
checks indicate a defective bag, proceed to clause C.4.

J181 ( Rev 11/97 ) - 15 -

DIS 8.6.1

TABLE C.1 - Emergency procedures

TABLE C.2 - Check procedure for suspect inflation equipment

- 16 - J181 ( Rev 11/97 )

 DIS 8.6.1

C.4 REPLACEMENT OF DEFECTIVE BAG

C.4.1 The secondary bag is considered to be that bag on either side of the cut out which is nearest to the
cut out; conversely the primary bag is that bag farthest from the cut out.

C.4.2 The withdrawal and replacement of a defective bag must be carried out in accordance with this
Module.

C.4.3 Care must be taken not to disturb the remaining bags which are providing the gas seal.

C.4.4 The appropriate sequence of actions to be carried out is given in Table C.3.

C.4.5 When the defective bags have been replaced and the seal of the system as a whole has been proved
to be satisfactory, the cut out may proceed.

TABLE C.3 - Procedure to replace faulty bags

J181 ( Rev 11/97 ) - 17 -

DIS 8.6.1

APPENDIX D
BAG INFLATION PRESSURES
The inflation pressure of primary and secondary bags is the sum of the actual mains operating pressure and
the differential inflation pressure given in Table D.1.

In no case shall the actual mains operating pressures during stopping off exceed that given in Table D.1.

TABLE D.1 - Differential inflation pressures for bags above mains operating pressure

- 18 - J181 ( Rev 11/97 )

 DIS 8.6.1

APPENDIX E
OILS AND THEIR EFFECT ON INFLATABLE BAG STOPPER MATERIALS
E.1 GENERAL
Bag bladders in their working condition are thin, highly stressed, membranes of rubber and any local
weakening may be sufficient to cause failure.

The mechanical properties of rubber are considerably reduced if it has been contaminated by oil. Oils may be
present in a gas main for a number of reasons, but principally as a result of gas conditioning (see clauses E.2
and E.3). Yarn swellants tested (see clause E.4) do not have a deleterious effect on rubber.

Oils present in the liquid phase or in the highly saturated phase (over 50%) are likely to cause premature
failure of bags. Therefore, if it has been established that oils may be present, the main must be tested
internally to determine if any liquid is present.

If it is determined that a problem may exist, two methods which should prevent contamination of the bladder
are as follows:

a) To use an impervious outer cover for the bag (such as a polyethylene bag).
b) To seal the seams and stitching holes of impervious bag casings having determined that the
sealant does not affect rubber. This method is not suitable for canvas and similar materials
(see clause E.5).

If it is considered that neither method is suitable for a given application, reference should be made to GRTC*
for guidance.
* The Gas Research & Technology Centre, Loughborough, Leicestershire.

E.2 GAS CONDITIONING - THE EFFECT ON BAG MATERIALS

E.2.1 General
The two methods of gas conditioning with oils are vaporization (see E.2.2) and fogging (see E.2.3).

E.2.2 Vaporization
Vaporization should present few problems since the conditioning fluid is only likely to be present in the liquid
phase in the main immediately downstream of the conditioning equipment.

E.2.3 Fogging
E.2.3.1 Fogging of low boiling point oils such as distillate is similar to vaporization and no problems should
be experienced except in the immediate vicinity of the fogging equipment, unless the quantities of oil injected
are not adequately controlled to prevent oversaturation.

E.2.3.2 The fogging of heavy oils is likely to cause the major problem. The travel of fog particles is limited
and therefore this form of treatment is usually confined to specific mains systems although some 'blanket'
treatment is practised.

J181 ( Rev 11/97 ) - 19 -

DIS 8.6.1

E.3 RUBBER SWELLANTS - OILS TESTED

E.3.1 Light oils
The following light oils will cause swelling of rubber:

a) Distillate.
b) Kerosene.
c) White spirit.

E.3.2 Heavy oils

The following heavy oils will cause swelling of rubber:

a) Carnea 2l.
b) GMO 60.

E.4 YARN SWELLANTS - GLYCOLS TESTED

The following glycols will cause swelling of yarn:

a) Diethylene glycol (DEG), e.g.:

1) ICI Weasel.
2) UC Uniseal.
3) ICI Fogging Fluid Fl.
4) UC Carboseal.
b) Monoethylene glycol (MEG).

E.5 SUITABLE SEALANT FOR BAGS, SEAMS AND STITCHING HOLES

A suitable sealant is Bostick 2064. Stitching around the neck of the bag must not be sealed as this will trap air
between the casing and bladder and prevent correct inflation of the bag.

E.6 ANAEROBIC JOINT SEALANTS

Anaerobic joint sealants all cure within 24 h of injection, therefore, provided bags are installed more than 24h
after sealant injection, there is no risk of uncured sealant existing in the main.

Cured sealant will not attack the bag materials unless contact is maintained for several months.

- 20 - J181 ( Rev 11/97 )