Abstract: The disclosed method & apparatus are for forming a fluid connection or tap through the wall of a pipeline, particularly intended for “hot tapping” of subsea pipelines. The method comprises fitting a connecting piece having a mounting surface which extends around the tap location and at least partially over the tap location and a connecting wall (2h) which surrounds the tap location to provide an opening adapted for subsequent connection of a conduit to complete a fluid connection. The connecting piece is bonded to the pipeline by friction stitch welding performed inside said opening. The material at the tap location is removed (AC indicates after cutting) to define an aperture and provide said fluid connection surrounded closely by the weld between the connecting piece and the wall.

Abstract: The disclosed method & apparatus are for forming a fluid connection or tap through the wall (1) of a pipeline, particularly intended for “for tapping” of subsea pipelines. The method comprises fitting a connecting piece (2) having a mounting surface which extends around the tap location (2g) and at least partially over the tap location (2n) and a connecting wall (2h) which surrounds the tap location to provide an opening (2k) adapted or subsequent connection of a conduit to complete a fluid connection. The connecting piece is bonded to the pipeline by friction stitch welding performed (4, 6) inside said opening. The material at the tap location is removed (AC indicates after cutting) to define an aperture and provide said fluid connection surrounded closely by the weld (6) between the connecting piece and the wall.