Secure your pipeline with Wellube’s Trusted Pipe Freezing Service.
Pipe freezing is a method of modifying and repairing pipes. Pipe freezing cools the pipe’s exterior for a long enough time for the fluid within the pipe to solidify. The frozen fluid separates a piece of the pipe, allowing operations to be completed more quickly.
When shutdown valves are not available in the pipeline area that needs repair, pipe freezing is a useful instrument. Pipe freezing allows for repairs in remote locations. Because pipe freezing can segregate individual parts of a pipeline, the entire pipeline system may not need to be shut down. Pipeline freezing is efficient for small-diameter pipes. However, large-diameter pipes (150 mm or larger) may necessitate specialised equipment and considerations.
The temperature of the pipeline must be dropped below the freezing point of the fluid it is carrying to carry out the procedure. This is performed through the use of a refrigerant. Although multiple freezing methods may be necessary for different types of pipe materials and fluids, introducing liquid nitrogen to the pipeline is a popular method. After the cooling process has commenced, the fluid within the pipe will begin to produce an ice plug. The ice block keeps the remaining fluid in the pipe from flowing, allowing for repairs or other pipeline adjustments.