Introduction: Why Cold Cutting Matters
In hazardous environments, pipeline cutting, cutting off vessels, or structural components should be very accurate and safe. Conventional hot work processes like welding or torch cutting are associated with hazards of fire and sparks, and heat distortion. In sectors such as oil and gas, petrochemicals, refining, and offshore, such risks are not acceptable.
This challenge is overcome by cold cutting. Cold cutting has safe, spark-free, and heat-free cutting options; it uses pressurised hydraulically or pneumatically powered machines. At PTS Group, we provide specialised cold cutting services that are depended upon by industries all over the world. Our experience allows us to undertake projects under the most problematic conditions in a secure, accurate, and timely way.
What Is Cold Cutting?
Cold cutting is a kind of mechanical cutting that does not require the use of flames, heat, or sparks. In precision machines, the machine is fastened to or positioned next to the workpiece, and a cutting blade or jet does the work without chemical alteration of the material.
Key Benefits:
Heat-Affected Zone (HAZ): Strength and integrity of the material are not compromised.
Spark-proof: Necessary when explosive or flammable conditions are involved.
Precision: Cuts and bevels come to a millimeter.
Environmentally friendly: No fumes, hazardous byproducts, or form vibration.
This combination renders cold cutting to be one of the safest and most multipurpose ways of pipeline and industrial modifications.
Types of Cold Cutting Services at PTS Group
PTS Group provides a complete line of cold cutting options to suit a variety of operational needs.
1. Pipe Cold Cutting (Clamshell Cutters)
Pipe cold cutting, the most common cold cutting technique of pipelines, is also commonly referred to as clamshell cutting.
How it works: A split-frame cutter clamps around the pipe. Cutting tools spin around the perimeter of the product, leaving neat, straight, and/or beveled edges.
Capabilities:
Pipe diameter as small as 1 inch and up to 36 inches
Compatible with carbon steel, stainless steel, and ductile iron
Straight and bevel cuts in a single stroke
Applications:
Plant turnaround pipeline tie-ins
Before replacement, Emergency pipe isolation
Weld prep beveling in hot tapping or line stopping projects
Benefits: The small size allows it to be used in tight areas, refineries, and offshore facilities.
2. Abrasive Water Jet Cold Cutting
Abrasive water jet cutting offers unparalleled flexibility to large or thick structures.
The mechanics: An ultra-high-pressure stream of water (as much as 60,000 PSI) is combined with a fine abrasive substance (such as garnet). The jet can penetrate through steel, concrete, and composites with no heat generation.
Advantages:
Makes 150 mm concrete or 100 mm steel cuts
Works on Unconventional shapes, Pots, and Tanks
Safe in hazardous, explosive, or flammable environments
Considerations:
Needs wastewater control
Most applicable for use in static applications such as tank cutting or access to vessels
3. Diamond Wire Saws
In the case of subsea structures, which are cylindrical, the diamond wire saw is the most suitable tool.
The mechanism: A wire rope with a diamond coating goes around the object of work. Embedded diamonds grind through steel or concrete as they move.
Applications:
Offshore decommissioning of pipelines
Cutting of caissons, piles, and large diameter subsea pipes
Subsea ROV integration of projects
Pros: Can work with reinforced materials and makes smooth and even cuts underwater.
Industries with Cold Cutting
Cold cutting is a flexible service used across a wide range of industries:
Oil & Gas: General maintenance, shutdowns, or pipeline isolation in refineries & plants.
Petrochemical Sites: Hot work permits free pipe modifications.
Power Generation: Power Generation: Cutting and prepping HP steam or boiler piping.
Marine & Offshore: Subsea decommissioning, Offshore platforms work.
Heavy Industry & Construction: Piercing through tanks, steel work, and reinforced concrete.
Why PTS Group?
Selecting the exact cold cutting partner is essential. PTS Group is the integration of innovative technology with over 30 years of practical experience.
1. Unrivalled Safety Standards
Our products and techniques are hazardous-environment friendly. No fires, no sparks, no danger of ignition.
2. Precision & Reliability
All the cuts are precise to the millimeter, making weld-ready surfaces with minimal rework.
3. Versatile Capabilities
We can deliver solutions to any size project. While we can provide a wide range of pipes, we also specialize in large structural pieces.
4. Offshore and Onshore Expertise
Our smaller equipment can be used in the refinery and plant, whereas our offshore equipment is suitable for subsea and platform work.
5. Integrated Pipeline Services
Our cold cutting services are often combined with our hot tapping and line stopping services and allow live pipeline modifications without shutting down the pipeline in question.
6. Years of Worldwide Experience
Our experience in pipeline and industrial services spans over 40 years, and we are trusted by the major operators around the globe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. When used with line stop or hot tapping, we can safely cut and modify live systems with little disruption.
Up to 6 (150 mm) concrete and 4 (100 mm) steel.
Yes. Cold cutting does not require a firewatch or, hot tapping permit, and it minimizes downtimes.
Conclusion: Cold Cutting with Confidence
Cold cutting has been the new gold standard of industrial cutting, which is safe and accurate. It ensures operations are safe without compromising efficiency, regardless of whether it involves pipelines, tanks, offshore structures, or plant equipment.
In the PTS Group, we provide cold cutting services that offer:
Explosive safety
High-precision results
Flexibility in work onshore and offshore
Decreased downtime, operational efficiency
Explore our full range of Cold Cutting Services or To discuss your project needs, contact our team. Your partner, PTS Group, will guarantee safety, accuracy, and unsurpassed experience- no matter the time.
