What is a wet tap?

A wet tap refers to a connection made under pressure, which allows for the addition of a new service line to an existing piping system without shutting down the flow. This method is particularly important in maintaining service continuity in water supply systems, gas lines, or any pressurized system. The process involves a specialized tapping machine that makes a hole in the main pipeline while ensuring that it remains pressurized, often using a valve to control the flow during the operation. This technique minimizes service disruptions and the risk of spills or leaks.

The other options do not accurately describe a wet tap. A type of faucet would refer to a plumbing fixture for water flow, which is unrelated to the concept of tapping into a main line. A method for draining water pertains to evacuation processes, while a tool for digging is not relevant to connecting services within pressurized systems. Thus, the primary significance of a wet tap lies in its ability to facilitate new connections safely and efficiently without interrupting existing services.