Branch (T-pipe) connections on pressurized water or air pipe systems are done with ease using NoTap. The part that is mounted on the pipe is called a clamp. After the clamp has been tightened to the pipe, a special bore tool is used to allow work to be carried out while the pipe is still under pressure. This eliminates the need to shut off or drain the system.

The NoTap clamp is available in two versions: with or without a check valve. The clamp with a check valve is used for smaller branch connections, installing an immersion pipe adapter and for blocking. The clamp without a check valve is used on branch connections where you want to maintain maximum flow. These clamps come in even larger dimensions than those with check valves.

The first step in making your branch connection with NoTap is to choose a clamp with the desired size outlet. Clamps are available for pipes from 14 - 335 mm OD. The outlet size varies depending on pipe size. Outlets available are 1", 1½", 2" and 2 ½".

The NoTap method combines a center drill bit with a hole saw. Once the center drill bit penetrates the pipe, a flow will start to run through the tooling and out through the flushing device. This will ensure that chips and pipe shavings are carried away from the flow inside the pipe.

Next, the hole saw will start to cut through the pipe. The hole saw will cut through the pipe and also other layers of deposits that might be coated to the inside of the pipe. Using a hole saw will ensure that a proper hole is opened in the pipe for desired flow. The threaded center drill bit drills itself into the portion of pipe that is cut out. This way the cut out portion of pipe is always retained (not lost in the pipe system).

When the hole saw has penetrated the pipe, simply retract (pull back) the drill until it stops. Then close the ball valve. Finally, unscrew the drill housing from the ball valve and make the necessary branch connection.