Minitap was Designed with the Following Criteria
Compact
The aim was to be able to complete hot tap connections within a 1m2 workspace to save time and operational cost.
Conventional hot tapping machines are equipped with an elongated drive shaft which makes it difficult to fit these machines into environments where several other service pipes are present. This is common in current underground verge environments, where several service providers will compete for available space.
As most service connections will require a valve to control the new connection, this will in some cases then require the installation of elbows and branch connections to enable a level service valve installation. This is particularly difficult where new connections need to be connected to pipes installed using horizontal directional drilling (HDD), as these pipes need to be installed horizontal to the service valve.
Minitap offers over 400mm (16 inches) of cutter travel from a 600mm (24 inch) machine length. Being able to install the service connection in this confined area allows the valve to be installed close to the feeder pipe, and simplifies the connection, saving time and cost to the contractor.
Robust
Services contractors must deal with a wide variety of factors during service installations. This includes:
- All kinds of weather conditions – high heat, rain, and snow.
- Confined and difficult-to-reach areas, often inside active construction sites.
Minitap was designed as a fully enclosed, man-portable unit, allowing it to be used effectively and efficiently. This reduces time-consuming mobilisation and demobilisation times.
Powered by a standard hydraulic power pack and low maintenance requirements, it delivers a robust solution that is proven to maximise uptime.
Safe
Like most construction related activities, worker safety is a key priority.
Minitap was designed with specific safety features to protect the user. These include:
- A fully enclosed machine with no exposed revolving components.
- A cam based locking ring, to ensure a safe connection to the valve adaptor.
- A secure safety pin to provide a physical and visual confirmation of the valve adaptor lock.
- Adjustable hydraulic relief settings to ensure safe cutter operation.
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