What should be done after cutting pipes for a Halon 1301 system?

After cutting pipes for a Halon 1301 system, it is essential to swab out the pipe. This is critical as cutting can produce metal shavings, debris, or contaminants that may remain inside the pipe. Any foreign material left inside can interfere with the system's performance, potentially causing blockages or malfunctions when the system is activated. Properly cleaning the interior of the pipe ensures that the Halon 1301 can flow unobstructed within the system, maintaining its reliability and effectiveness in a fire suppression scenario.

While leaving the pipes uncleaned would pose a risk of contamination, painting the ends could potentially seal in debris and isn't a substitute for cleaning. Cutting the pipes again would not address the cleanliness issue and would only increase the risk of additional shavings or debris. Thus, swabbing out the pipe is the necessary step to ensure safety and functionality in the Halon 1301 system.