Shell DEP Version 46, released in , is a comprehensive update to Shell’s Design and Engineering Practices (DEPs), specifically focusing on critical process safety and technical standardization across oil, gas, and chemical facilities. In this context, "hot" primarily refers to hot-tapping —a high-stakes engineering technique for making new piping connections while a system remains under pressure—and hot service operations. Key Updates in Version 46
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Version 46 introduced several shifts in technical governance to align with international standards and improve operational safety:
: The update provides refined compliance checklists for "hot" operations, including pressure limitations and material selection to mitigate the risk of burn-through or hydrogen cracking.
The standard most closely associated with "hot" operations is , titled "Hot-Tapping on Pipelines, Piping and Equipment". Key requirements include:
: Shell DEPs are typically updated every February. Version 46 was the official 2022 issuance, superseded by subsequent versions like V47 (2023) and V48 (2024). Hot-Tapping Specifications (DEP 31.38.60.10)
: Extensive rewrites were performed to align with IEC 61511-1 Edition 2 , reducing overlap and focusing on Shell-specific "essential additions" to the international safety standard.