Critical Transmission Pipeline Isolation Without Service Interruption – SmartStop®

How TEAM’s SmartStop® Technology Enabled Leak-Free Double Block and Bleed Isolation While Maintaining Full Pipeline Throughput

When operators of critical natural gas transmission pipelines face unexpected valve failures, shutting down the pipeline is often not an option. Lost production, interrupted energy delivery, and significant transportation revenue losses can quickly escalate into millions of dollars in risk.

TEAM was recently called upon by a major North American natural gas transmission operator to solve exactly this challenge. Using TEAM’s SmartStop® line stopping technology, the project was completed safely without interrupting gas delivery to one of the largest metropolitan markets in North America.

The Challenge: A Critical Valve Failure on a Major Gas Transmission Pipeline

A leading natural gas transmission operator was preparing to install a new pig trap on a 24-inch transmission pipeline operating at approximately 900 psi and transporting nearly 425 million standard cubic feet of natural gas per day (425 MMSCFD) into the New York City market.

The original execution plan relied on an existing inline valve to isolate the work area. However, during project preparation, the valve failed to achieve a complete seal, eliminating the ability to safely isolate the pipeline.

Normally, this type of failure could require a pipeline shutdown. In this case, shutting down the pipeline was simply not possible.

The transmission line represented one of the primary natural gas supply routes into New York City, where continuous delivery was essential to meet customer demand. An outage would have interrupted service, delayed construction activities, and resulted in substantial transportation revenue losses.

The operator required an alternative solution capable of delivering:

• Positive double block and bleed isolation
• Zero product leakage
• Continuous gas flow
• No interruption to downstream customers
• Safe working conditions for pig trap installation

The Solution: SmartStop® Double Block and Bleed Isolation

TEAM engineered and deployed a dual 24-inch SmartStop® isolation system designed specifically for high-pressure transmission pipeline applications.

The solution included:

• Two 24-inch ANSI Class 600 TEAM Pipeline Series Line Stop Fittings
• Two precision 24-inch hot taps
• Dual SmartStop® isolation heads
• Full-size 24-inch internal bypass system

After completing the hot taps on opposite sides of the failed valve, TEAM deployed two SmartStop® heads to establish a true dual double-block-and-bleed (DBB) isolation around the work zone.

Unlike conventional line stop methods that often require external bypass piping, SmartStop® incorporates an internal full-bore bypass, allowing product to continue flowing directly through the isolation equipment.

The result was uninterrupted pipeline operation while the isolated section remained completely sealed for maintenance activities.

Maintaining 100% Pipeline Throughput

One of the most significant advantages of the SmartStop® system was its size-on-size internal bypass configuration.

Because the internal bypass matched the pipeline diameter, the operator maintained:

• 100% pipeline capacity
• Approximately 425 MMSCFD of uninterrupted natural gas flow
• No external bypass installation
• No additional hot taps
• Minimal operational disruption

This capability allowed the pipeline operator to continue serving downstream customers while construction crews safely installed the new pig trap.

The project also established a new operational benchmark for SmartStop®, representing the highest flow-rate deployment of the technology to date.

Results

TEAM maintained leak-free double block and bleed isolation continuously for five days, allowing the customer to complete the installation safely and on schedule.

Project Outcomes

• Leak-free dual double block and bleed isolation
• Five days of continuous isolation
• Approximately 425 MMSCFD maintained throughout the project
• 100% pipeline throughput
• Zero service interruptions
• Zero injuries
• Zero environmental releases
• Zero safety incidents
• No transportation revenue loss
• Successful installation of the new pig trap

By eliminating the need for a pipeline shutdown, the customer avoided significant operational and financial impacts while maintaining reliable natural gas delivery to one of North America’s largest energy markets.

Why SmartStop® Makes the Difference

Traditional isolation methods often require operators to reduce flow, install temporary bypass systems, or schedule costly outages.

TEAM’s SmartStop® technology provides a safer, more efficient alternative by enabling:

• Positive mechanical double block and bleed isolation
• Full-flow internal bypass capabilities
• Live pipeline maintenance
• Reduced project risk
• Lower outage costs
• Faster project execution
• Enhanced worker safety
• Reliable isolation on critical transmission infrastructure

For transmission operators where continuous product delivery is essential, SmartStop® provides a proven solution that minimizes downtime while maintaining operational integrity.

The TEAM Advantage

Critical infrastructure requires proven technology and experienced execution.

TEAM’s integrated pipeline maintenance capabilities combine SmartStop® line stopping, hot tapping, specialty mechanical services, and asset integrity expertise to help pipeline operators complete complex maintenance safely without disrupting operations.

Whether installing new facilities, replacing valves, modifying piping systems, or performing emergency repairs, TEAM helps operators:

• Maintain continuous pipeline operations
• Reduce outage costs
• Improve worker safety
• Protect the environment
• Preserve transportation revenue
• Execute projects with confidence

Looking for a Reliable Pipeline Isolation Solution?

When shutting down a transmission pipeline isn’t an option, TEAM delivers proven isolation solutions that keep critical energy infrastructure operating safely and efficiently.

Contact TEAM to learn how SmartStop® technology can help maintain pipeline integrity while eliminating unnecessary downtime.

Let’s Keep Your Operations Moving. Connect with us today.