Apparatus and method for removing and replacing a feedthrough connector

Abstract

An apparatus for removing a feedthrough connector mounted in an internally-threaded access opening in a wall of a pressurized vessel includes an elongated hollow sleeve defining a chamber and having upper and lower opposite open ends. A flange mounting an O-ring is fixed on the lower open end of the sleeve for sealably attaching the sleeve to the vessel wall about the access opening thereof and the connector mounted therein. A cap is sealably mounted to the upper open end of the sleeve for closing the same, but is removable for opening the upper sleeve open end. A tool shaft extends through the cap and is vertically reciprocally movable relative to the cap and through the sleeve chamber between upper and lower sleeve ends. The shaft is operable for engaging the connector, unthreading the same from the wall access opening and lifting the connector to the upper sleeve end. Removal of the cap will remove the shaft and connector engaged therewith from the sleeve. A gate valve mounted to the sleeve inbetween its upper and lower ends is actuatable to sealably close the chamber so as to divide it into upper and lower portions sealed from one another and to open it to allow communication between the upper and lower chamber portions. A vent valve connected in communication with the sleeve about the gate valve is operable to bent atmosphere external of the sleeve with the upper chamber portion thereof.