As all pipeline engineers know, hot-tapping or welding onto in-service pipelines is an essential but high-risk operation. The key concerns are worker safety and the ongoing integrity of pipelines after welding is complete. Hydrocarbons in the pipe can escape or ignite during the procedure, injuring welders. Afterward, welded areas may be weakened by hydrogen cracking in the heat-affected zones. You need to address the challenges of hot-tapping with accurate calculations that minimize the risk associated with the process.