Patent ID: 7588178
Filing Date: 2009-09-15
Classification: F16L,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A method of forming a tap through a metallic first wall at a desired tap location, the method comprising: fitting against the metallic first wall a metallic connecting piece which comprises (i) a metallic mounting surface formed so as to fit directly against the metallic first wall and (ii) a metallic connecting wall surrounding the tap location providing an opening adapted for subsequent connection of a metallic conduit to complete said fluid connection, the material of said metallic mounting surface further extending at least partially within said opening; bonding the material of the metallic connecting piece to that of the metallic first wall by means of a welding operation performed through said opening, the resulting weld surrounding the tap location and being surrounded in turn by the metallic connecting wall; and subsequently removing the material of the metallic first wall at the tap location thereby to define an aperture and provide said conduit to complete said fluid connection surrounded by the weld between the metallic connecting piece and the wall.