Patent ID: 8360155
Filing Date: 2013-01-29
Classification: F16L

Abstract:
1. A method of plugging and draining a portion of a subsea pipeline, comprising: coupling together at least two body portions to form a body having a passage through the body, the passage at least partially surrounding at least a portion of the subsea pipeline at least substantially lengthwise within the body; securing the body to the subsea pipeline; activating a first seal located on the passage wall between a first end of the body and a first port located on the body, the first port being in fluid communication with the passage; activating a second seal located on the passage wall between the first port and a second port located on the body, the second port being in fluid communication with the passage, wherein activating the second seal comprises translating a ring located on the passage wall between the first and second seals, wherein translating the ring comprises moving the ring along the passage wall when the first seal is activated so that the second seal is activated; tapping into the subsea pipeline through the second port; plugging flow in the subsea pipeline with a plugging head inserted through the second port; and removing fluids from the subsea pipeline through the first port.