GripTight® Pipe Isolation Plug

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Isolate, Monitor Upstream Pressure, and Test Flange Weld Connections with One Simple to Use Tool

Put an end to the time-consuming conventional practice of filling and draining entire lines to test flange-to-pipe weld connections!  EST Group’s GripTight® Isolation Plug allows you to isolate and monitor potentially explosive vapors during hot work, then hydro-test new weld connections.

Integrating the functionality of a conventional Double Block and Bleed Plug with our GripTight gripper technology, GripTight Isolation Plugs provide increased operational safety by minimizing the risk of accidental blowouts/expulsions unexpected upstream pressure.

Its dual-port design creates a positive pressure barrier between the seals - safely isolating hot work from any residual upstream gases. Perform flange weld testing with an Isolation Plug that protects both equipment and personnel!

PIPE ISOLATION TEST PRESSURE

  • 2250 PsiG (155 BarG) between the seals
  • Upstream pressures up to 1500 PsiG (103 BarG) - higher pressures available upon request

If the upstream pressure increases, then the GripTight Grippers actually use the pressure to increase their grip on the pipe. The greater the pressure, the greater the grip!

Size Range 3/4” to 48” NPS (DN20 to DN1200)  - larger sizes available upon request

Standard Seal Material Urethane - alternative materials available upon request

FEATURES & BENEFITS

  • Monitor potentially explosive vapors during hot work
  • Dual port system allows water/media to be circulated between seals, providing improved cooling during weld procedures
  • Gripper technology minimizes risk of accidental blowout/expulsion
  • Creates a positive pressure barrier between seals
  • Lightweight, aluminum and steel construction
  • Perform flange weld testing with less than a gallon (3.8L) of water - reducing fill times, and waste/treatment expenses
  • ASME PCC-2 Type IV Testing Device*

 

  

In need of a lower pressure isolation plug? Check out our Double Block and Bleed Test / Isolation Plug

*ASME PCC-2 (Article 503) - “Test Devices for Localized Pressure or Tightness Testing of Welded Repairs


PIPE Isolation plug - stats & features

GripTight Isolation Plug can isolate and monitor potentially explosive vapors during hot work and hydro-test new weld connections with one easy-to-operate tool. Its dual-port design creates a positive pressure barrier between the seals - safely isolating hot work from any residual upstream gases.

The GripTight Isolation Test Plug integrates a Double Block and Bleed plug with our GripTight gripper technology, ensuring operational safety and minimizing the risk of blowout/expulsion due to unexpected upstream pressure in the line.

APPLICATIONS & INDUSTRIES

  • Oil, Gas and Chemical Process Plants
  • Offshore Oil & Gas Platforms
  • Shipyards
  • Plant revamps and additions
  • Piping Systems, Spools, Pressure
  • Vessels with Flanged Connections
  • Flange Replacement Programs
  • Tie-In Work

PLUG DISASSEMBLE

To disassemble the plug and service the Seals, plug assembly and component parts of the plug must be removed in the following order:
  1.  Hex Nut
  2.  Hardened Washer
  3.  Front Support
  4.  Front Seal
  5.  Center Spacer
  6.  Rear Seal

FAQS

What is the standard seal material?

The standard seal material is Urethane. Alternative material including Neoprene, Fluoroelastomer, Silicone, EPDM, Natural Rubber, Nitrile Buna-N, and SBR Buna-S is available upon request.

How does the pipe isolation plug not overheat?

Dual-port systems can circulate water (or other media) between seals, providing increased cooling capabilities during pre/post-weld procedures.

What is the average time required to install a GripTight Isolation Plug and achieve a pressure test?

After the temperature of the weld area has decreased below 180°F (82°C), the Griptight Isolation Plug can be used to complete pressure tests in as little as 10 minutes from insertion to removal.

Does the pipe need to be in a specific condition before the GripTight Pipe Isolation Plug can be installed?

Yes. The GripTight Isolation Plug is designed for use in a seamless and welded pipe. In seam welded pipe or where corrosion, pitting, or scale is present, the pipe ID may require some preparation before plug installation and use.

What is pipe isolation?

A pipeline can be isolated by the use of an isolating joint. Our GripTight Isolation Plug has the technology to ensure a safe working environment, downline monitoring, and safe ventilation while saving time, cost and resources.

Will the GripTight Pipe Isolation Plug accommodate slight weld intrusion?

Yes. The plug is designed with increased clearance (up to 3/8” on larger size plugs) to allow the plug to be positioned over the weld for testing even when slight weld intrusion is present on the Inner Diameter of the pipe.

What is the average time required to install a GripTight Pipe Isolation Plug and achieve a pressure test?

After the temperature of the weld area has decreased below 180°F (82°C), the Griptight Isolation Plug can be used to complete pressure tests in as little as 10 minutes from insertion to removal.

What upkeep and storage conditions are required to preserve the quality and performance of the GripTight Pipe Isolation Plug?

The GripTight Isolation Plug requires periodic inspection of the O-Rings and Seals before testing. The compression shafts should be inspected, and anti-seize should be applied as needed. After a test has been completed, the compression nuts should be retracted so the seals can fully relax, allowing the Urethane Seals to return to their original size, preventing any permanent swelling and/or deformation.