Liquid CO₂ for Pipe Freezing: the ultimate solution for maintenance and repairs

Liquid CO₂ is a highly effective, cost-efficient way to freeze pipes for repairs and alterations. By creating a temporary in-line ice plug, engineers can isolate a section of pipe without draining the entire system—cutting downtime, labour, and water waste. Thanks to its very low temperature (about −78.5 °C), CO₂ forms a solid plug rapidly, so work can be completed swiftly with minimal disruption.

CO₂ pipe freezing is versatile, working on a wide range of pipe sizes and materials—including metals and plastics. It is non-toxic, leaves no chemical residue, and avoids the clean-up associated with salt or additive-based methods. With portable cylinders and dedicated freezing kits now widely available, setup is straightforward and user-friendly.

How liquid CO₂ pipe freezing works

Liquid CO₂ is fed into a specially designed jacket wrapped around the pipe. On release, the CO₂ flashes to dry ice, quickly pulling the pipe wall down to around −78 °C. Water inside the pipe freezes at that point, forming a solid ice plug that seals the line until work is complete.

Why choose CO₂ for pipe freezing?

• No draining required: isolate locally and keep the wider system running.

• Minimal kit: a CO₂ cylinder and a suitable freezing kit are usually sufficient.

• Multi-material capability: effective on iron, copper, lead, steel, and many plastics.

• Safe and reliable: pressure rise is minimal when done correctly.

Key benefits

• Rapid results: ultra-low temperature creates an ice plug quickly.

• Cost-effective: avoids draining, refilling, and re-balancing large systems.

• Environmentally considerate: reduces water wastage; no residues left behind.

• Low risk of damage: when properly executed, pipe integrity is maintained.

Common applications

• Valve replacement: freeze in line and swap defective valves without a full shutdown.

• System modifications: add branches, tees, or meters while the rest of the system stays live.

• Emergency repairs: quickly isolate a leak to carry out remedial work.

Step-by-step guide

1. Prepare the pipe: ensure it’s clean and static (no flowing water).

2. Fit the jacket: wrap the freezing jacket at the desired freeze point.

3. Connect the CO₂: attach the high-pressure hose from the cylinder to the jacket.

4. Freeze: inject liquid CO₂; the jacket cools the pipe and forms the ice plug.

5. Carry out the work: replace components or make modifications.

6. Thaw naturally: allow the plug to melt and restore normal flow.

Essential equipment

• Qwik-Freezer™ pipe freezing kit: easy to use and effective for creating reliable ice plugs.

• CO₂ cylinder: supplies the freezing agent via a high-pressure hose.

• Freezing jacket: wraps the pipe at the freeze location.

Is CO₂ pipe freezing safe?

Yes—provided correct procedures are followed:

• Wear insulated gloves and safety goggles when handling CO₂.

• Ensure good ventilation to prevent CO₂ build-up.

• Follow the relevant Safety Data Sheets (SDS), e.g., Adams Gas Safety & Storage guidance.

How long does it take?

Timings depend on pipe diameter and water temperature. As a rough guide:

• 25 mm (1-inch) pipe: ~5 minutes

• 100 mm (4-inch) pipe: up to ~40 minutes

CO₂ pipe freezing vs other isolation methods

• CO₂ pipe freezing: quick, cost-effective, minimal downtime; requires CO₂ and correct setup.

• Draining and refilling: no special equipment, but time-consuming and wasteful.

• Mechanical pipe stops: reusable and reliable, but expensive and usually require full shutdown.

Where to buy CO₂ for pipe freezing

For high-quality CO₂ cylinders, visit Adams Gas:

• Rent-free gas cylinders

• Nationwide delivery

• Expert advice on gas selection and usage

Summary: why liquid CO₂ is best for pipe freezing

• No need to drain systems

• Forms a secure in-line ice plug

• Works across a range of pipe materials

• Safe, clean, and cost-effective

• Minimises downtime and water waste

For dependable pipe-freezing solutions, source your CO₂ cylinders from Adams Gas.