Abstract: The device subject of this disclosure pertains to an insulated pipe or vessel including a single piece inspection plug device having a plug component attachable to an insulating structure and forming an aperture for access to an insulated pipe or vessel, a strap component attaching a lid component to the plug component, and that the lid component can be inserted into the aperture. Also disclosed is a method of providing access to a pipe covered with insulating material and a metal jacket comprising cutting a hole in the metal jacket and inserting the bottom of the plug component into the hole and further including inserting screws or clips through at least one pilot hole. The method may include pressing a skirt of the plug component to form an outer seal of the plug to the metal jacket and/or holding the plug component to the metal jacket using at least one flexible locking ring on the bottom of the plug component.

Abstract: The device subject of this disclosure pertains to an insulated pipe or vessel including a single piece inspection plug device having a plug component attachable to an insulating structure and forming an aperture for access to an insulated pipe or vessel, a strap component attaching a lid component to the plug component, and that the lid component can be inserted into the aperture. Also disclosed is a method of providing access to a pipe covered with insulating material and a metal jacket comprising cutting a hole in the metal jacket and inserting the bottom of the plug component into the hole and further including inserting screws or clips through at least one pilot hole. The method may include pressing a skirt of the plug component to form an outer seal of the plug to the metal jacket and/or holding the plug component to the metal jacket using at least one flexible locking ring on the bottom of the plug component.

Abstract: The present invention is an inspection port that is self-locking and self-sealing when inserted in smooth, embossed, or corrugated metal jackets which contain an insulation layer around process equipment such as reactors, heat exchangers, distillation towers, storage tanks, and pipelines. The inspection port is made from an elastomeric material and includes a tubular body having an outer flange and two locking ridges which are positioned to form a short section for gripping non-corrugated metal and a long section for gripping corrugated metal.