Skip to main content

What is a Hot Tap and why do we use it?

In a world of marine salvage, one of the most sensitive challenges is the safe removal of hydrocarbons (such as fuel or oil) from a damaged vessel. If handled poorly, this process can lead to pollution, fire hazards, or even structural failure. That’s where the Hot Tap technology comes in.

Read more

Maximize efficiency,
minimize environmental impact

Originally sed in the natural gas industry, a Hot Tap is a specialized system that allows hydrocarbons to be extracted without directly opening or cutting into the vessel. Instead, a sealed valve is installed and a controlled drilling operation is carried out. No leakage involved.

Marine Masters has developed its own in-house Hot Tap system, custom-built for complex salvage environments. The process consists of three steps:

1. Valve installation
Custom-engineered bolts are drilled into the tank surface, allowing a valve to be securely attached. Even on curved or irregular structures.

2. Drilling through the valve
A second machine connects to the valve and drills a 4-inch hole directly into the tank. Because both sides are sealed, no hydrocarbon escapes during this stage.

3. Hydrocarbon removal
Pumps and hoses are connected to safely extract the contents of the tank to a secure location, for disposal or transfer.

Why do we use it?

Hot Tapping gives Marine Masters a clear operational edge. It enables our team to:

  • Work with precision in challenging environments.
  • Avoid full structural entry, especially when vessels are unstable or submerged.
  • Mobilize quickly with compact versatile equipment.
  • Maintain full control over liquid transfer, regardless of the location or tank conditions.

Because every salvage case is different, all key Hot Tap components (drill machines, valve systems, mounting tools) are designed and built in-house by Marine Masters. This allows for full flexibility in how the system is deployed and adapted per project.

From complex wreck removal to time-sensitive fuel extraction, it supports a focused, engineered response when and where it is needed most.

Want to know more

about our services?
Our experts are happy
to help you.

+31 6 86 81 34 13operations@marinemasters.nl