The new TDW SHORTSTOPP® Keyhole System is well suited for relocations, branching and repairs. SHORTSTOPP® and 3-WAY™ tees are available in a top seal, bolt-on design with a non-slip Buna-N gasket.
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The new keyhole system is the result of a joint development project between TDW and the Gas Technology Institute, (GTI). With the new TDW SHORTSTOPP® Keyhole System, an operator can reach down into an 18-inch minimum width hole to attach and seal bolt-on fittings to a 2-inch line, install a tapping valve, tap and plug the line to isolate a section for repairs while maintaining flow through a bypass. When line work is finished, completion plugs are installed into the fittings before the equipment is removed. Two holes and two fittings are required if a bypass is used.
Prior to the development of TDW's SHORTSTOPP Keyhole System, research from GTI indicated steadily growing popularity in keyhole technology and applications throughout the industry. As a result, TDW carefully studied existing keyhole equipment and the types of tasks performed in keyhole environments. Re-design and modification of existing TDW technology led to the creation of HT&P tools perfectly adapted for keyhole use. Specially constructed test facilities that accurately reproduced typical keyhole work sites allowed TDW to fine-tune their designs. Since June of 2005, the SHORTSTOPP Keyhole System has been demonstrated at numerous industry exhibitions and shows.
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A complete package of tools and equipment for hot tapping and plugging 2-inch steel and cast iron pipe through a keyhole is now available from T.D.Williamson. Additional work in the TDW test facility will result in new equipment for larger pipe sizes and different types of pipe material.
There are numerous advantages associated with performing hot tapping and plugging through an 18-inch hole with the SHORTSTOPP Keyhole System.
- Minimal excavation and restoration
- Negligible resurfacing expense
- Reduced heavy equipment and fuel use
- Less traffic disruption
- Fewer permits required
- No shoring protection required
- Less exposure of personnel to excavation hazards
- Overall job completion time
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