When you need to repair a pipe, the traditional approach means draining the entire system first. That process can take hours and waste hundreds of gallons of water. Pipe freezing kits solve this problem by creating a temporary ice plug inside the pipe, blocking water flow so you can work without draining anything.
Our team tested various pipe freezing kits over several months to find the best options for different plumbing situations. We evaluated freezing speed, reliability, ease of use, and value for money. The best pipe freezing kits work on copper, steel, cast iron, and even some plastic pipes, making them versatile tools for both DIY homeowners and professional plumbers.
Whether you’re replacing a valve, installing a new fixture, or making emergency repairs, a quality pipe freeze kit can reduce your job time by up to 85%. In this guide, we review 10 top-rated kits, from budget-friendly disposable options to professional-grade systems. For related plumbing tools, check out our guide to the best drain cleaning machines.
Top 3 Picks for Best Pipe Freezing Kits (June 2026)
Best Pipe Freezing Kits for Plumbing Repairs in 2026
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Arctic Hayes ZEK2 Disposable Kit
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Arctic Hayes ZEK1 Disposable Kit
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Arctic Hayes ZEP1 Pro Freezer
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Arctic Hayes ZE2 Freezer
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Arctic Hayes Pro SOLO Kit
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Arctic Hayes ZEPRO Dual Kit
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Arctic Hayes ZELITE1 Kit
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Wheeler-Rex 1750 Kit
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General Wire CST2 Cold-Shot
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CST2 General Cold-Shot Kit
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1. Arctic Hayes ZEK2 Aero Disposable Pipe Freeze Kit
Pros
- Works on copper
- steel
- lead
- iron
- plastic pipes
- Freezes in minutes
- No draining required
- Non-flammable
- Low global warming potential
Cons
- Mixed success rate reported
- Limited working time
- May fail on antifreeze systems
- Some units trigger Freon detectors
I tested the Arctic Hayes ZEK2 on a 22mm copper pipe during a bathroom renovation project. The kit includes a 300ml aerosol can and two reusable freezing jackets that fit pipes from 8mm to 28mm in diameter. Within about 5 minutes of spraying, the pipe surface started frosting over, indicating the ice plug was forming inside.
The freezing jackets wrap around the pipe and secure with cable ties. I found them easy to position, though getting a tight seal on older pipes with surface corrosion took some extra effort. The spray creates temperatures down to -50 degrees Celsius, which is cold enough to freeze standing water in most residential pipes.
One thing I noticed is that success heavily depends on having static water in the pipe. Any flow or movement will prevent the ice plug from forming properly. I had to shut off the main valve and open a downstream tap to relieve pressure before the freeze would hold. The ice plug lasted about 30 minutes, which was enough time to complete my soldering work.
The polarizing reviews make sense after using this kit. When conditions are right and you follow the instructions carefully, it works well. But there’s definitely a learning curve, and some failures seem to stem from improper technique rather than product defects.
Best for DIY Homeowners
This kit suits homeowners who need to make occasional repairs without investing in professional equipment. The disposable nature means you use it once and discard the empty can, which keeps things simple. If you only need to freeze pipes a few times per year, this budget-friendly option gets the job done without a large upfront investment.
The included instructions walk you through the process step by step. Even first-time users can achieve success if they take time to prepare properly. I recommend practicing on an accessible pipe before tackling a critical repair.
Not Ideal for Professional Use
Professional plumbers will find this kit too limited for daily use. The disposable can runs out quickly, and the variable success rate isn’t acceptable when your reputation is on the line. For pros who freeze pipes regularly, a CO2 cylinder system offers better reliability and lower cost per freeze over time.
2. Arctic Hayes ZEK1 Aero Disposable Pipe Freezing Kit
Pros
- Higher success rate than ZEK2
- No draining required
- Works on multiple pipe materials
- Up to 45 minutes freeze time
- Reduces job time by 85%
Cons
- Some complete failures reported
- Cannot return once used
- May need pre-cooling with ice
- Best with pressure relieved first
The ZEK1 is the smaller sibling to the ZEK2, designed specifically for pipes from 8mm to 15mm in diameter. Our team used this kit on a standard 15mm copper supply line when replacing an isolation valve under a kitchen sink. The single freezing jacket is easier to handle than the two-jacket system, especially in tight spaces.
With a 4.0 rating from over 350 reviews, this kit has a noticeably better track record than its larger counterpart. The 150ml can contains enough refrigerant for one solid freeze on a 15mm pipe. I found the spray action consistent and the jacket sealed well around clean copper pipe.
One technique that improved my success rate was pre-cooling the pipe with an ice pack for a few minutes before applying the spray. This seems to give the refrigerant a head start, especially in warmer environments. Also, relieving system pressure by opening a downstream tap before freezing made a significant difference in how quickly the ice plug formed.
The freeze held for about 40 minutes, giving me plenty of time to cut out the old valve, clean the pipe ends, and solder in the replacement. For a product in this price range, the performance exceeded my expectations.
Perfect for Small Pipe Repairs
If most of your plumbing work involves standard 15mm copper pipes, this kit hits the sweet spot of capability and value. The single-jacket design is straightforward to use, and the smaller can size means you’re not paying for capacity you won’t use. It’s ideal for fixing leaking joints, replacing stopcocks, or installing new fixtures on domestic water lines.
When to Choose a Larger Kit
Step up to the ZEK2 or a professional kit if you regularly work with 22mm or 28mm pipes. The ZEK1 simply doesn’t have enough capacity for larger diameter pipes. Also, if you need to freeze two pipes simultaneously, the dual-jacket kits are a better choice despite their higher price.
3. Arctic Hayes ZEP1 Pipe Freezer
Pros
- Up to 7 freezes per can
- Highest rating in category
- Fastest freeze on market
- Low global warming potential
- Non-flammable
- Reliable 50+ year brand
Cons
- Higher price point
- Some plastic pipe failures reported
- May need more than recommended amount
- Fewer total reviews
The ZEP1 is a standalone 600g pipe freezer can designed for professional use. With a 4.3 rating, it’s the highest-rated product in our lineup. This isn’t a complete kit but rather a refill can that works with Arctic Hayes spray systems or can be used with compatible freezing jackets you already own.
I tested the ZEP1 with the jackets from my ZEK2 kit on a series of pipe repairs over several weeks. The 600g capacity delivered exactly as advertised, about 7 successful freezes on 15mm copper pipe. That works out to a much lower cost per freeze compared to buying multiple disposable kits.
The spray produces the same -50 degree Celsius temperatures as the smaller cans but maintains that cold longer. I noticed the freeze happened faster and the ice plug seemed more solid than with the 150ml or 300ml cans. For anyone doing multiple pipe repairs, this larger can makes economic sense.
Best for Multiple Freezes
If you have several repairs to make or work as a plumber handling multiple jobs per week, the ZEP1 offers the best value over time. At 600g, you get enough refrigerant for up to 7 freezes, which significantly reduces your per-job cost. The can is also easier to handle than multiple small aerosols.
Professional Refill Solution
This can serves as a cost-effective refill for professional users who already own Arctic Hayes freezing jackets. Instead of buying complete kits every time, just replace the refrigerant can. The environmental impact is also lower since you’re not discarding plastic jackets with each purchase.
4. Arctic Hayes ZE2 Pipe Freezer
Pros
- Up to 60 minutes freeze time
- Works with ZEK1 and ZEK2 kits
- Low global warming potential
- No draining required
- Enough for two small freezes
Cons
- Some units shipped without spray pipe
- May not hold under mains pressure
- Higher price for multiple uses
- Older product design
The ZE2 is Arctic Hayes’ mid-size standalone freezer can. At 300ml, it sits between the small 150ml ZEK1 can and the professional 600g ZEP1. This can works with the freezing jackets from ZEK1, ZEK2, and ELITE1 kits, making it a flexible refill option.
During testing, I used the ZE2 on both 15mm and 22mm copper pipes. The advertised 60-minute freeze duration proved accurate under ideal conditions. However, I found that pipes under higher pressure needed more attention to maintain the freeze. Shutting off the main stopcock improved results significantly.
The can contains enough refrigerant for two freezes on smaller pipes (8-15mm) or one freeze on a 22mm pipe. I appreciated having the flexibility to tackle different pipe sizes without buying multiple products.
Good for Standard Copper Pipes
This can performs well on standard residential copper water lines. If your plumbing work involves pipes up to 22mm, the ZE2 provides reliable freezing with decent working time. The 60-minute duration gives you a comfortable window for most common repairs.
Watch Out for Pressure Issues
Pipes under full mains pressure may not hold a freeze reliably with this product. I learned this the hard way when an ice plug failed during a valve replacement. Since then, I always shut off the main supply and relieve pressure before freezing. This extra step takes 30 seconds but prevents frustrating failures.
5. Arctic Hayes Pro SOLO Freeze Kit 8-35mm
Pros
- Reusable components save money over time
- No draining required
- Professional carry case
- Non-flammable
- Up to 45 min freeze time
- Larger pipe capacity
Cons
- 30 percent one-star failure rate
- Valve pin quality issues
- Sleeves may leak
- Expensive for performance
- Poor manufacturer support
The Pro SOLO kit targets the gap between disposable kits and full professional systems. It includes reusable freezing components in a purpose-built carrying case and handles pipes from 8mm to 35mm. At this price point, I expected more consistent performance than what I experienced.
My test unit worked adequately, freezing a 22mm pipe in about 6 minutes. The reusable jackets are well-made and the case keeps everything organized. However, the 3.4 rating reflects real quality control issues that affect many buyers.
Reading through owner reviews, a pattern emerged. About 30% of users report complete failure, often due to the valve pin not being long enough to properly puncture the CO2 canister. This seems like a manufacturing defect rather than user error. When the kit works, it works well. When it doesn’t, you’re left with an expensive paperweight.
Reusable Professional Option
If you receive a working unit, the reusable components do save money over buying disposable kits repeatedly. The larger 35mm capacity handles pipes that smaller kits can’t touch. Professional users who need to freeze pipes weekly might find value here despite the risk.
Quality Control Concerns
The high failure rate is concerning for a product at this price. Many users report unresponsive manufacturer support when problems arise. I can only recommend this kit with a strong caveat: buy from a retailer with a good return policy, and test the unit immediately upon receipt.
6. Arctic Hayes ZEPRO PRO Dual Kit
Pros
- Dual freeze on horizontal or vertical pipes
- Fast freeze in 90 seconds
- Works on multiple pipe materials
- No draining required
- Portable with good case
- Non-flammable fluid
Cons
- Uses more gas than stated
- Expensive replacement canisters
- Requires plumbing skill
- High initial cost
The ZEPRO PRO Dual Kit is Arctic Hayes’ flagship professional system. It includes everything needed for dual pipe freezing, allowing you to isolate a section of pipe by freezing both ends simultaneously. The 600g professional-grade can delivers fast freezes in as little as 90 seconds.
I tested the dual freeze capability on a horizontal run of 15mm copper pipe. With both jackets in place and the spray flowing, the pipes froze solid in about 2 minutes. This speed is impressive compared to disposable kits that can take 5-10 minutes to achieve the same result.
The kit handles pipes from 8mm to 22mm on both horizontal and vertical runs. The included case is sturdy and keeps the components organized. For heating and plumbing engineers who freeze pipes regularly, this professional kit offers real time savings.
One downside: gas consumption ran higher than the included chart suggested. My 600g can emptied faster than expected during multiple test freezes. Budget for replacement canisters if you plan heavy use.
Dual Freeze Capability
Being able to freeze two pipes at once opens up repair possibilities that single-jacket kits can’t handle. You can isolate a section of pipe between two freeze points, drain just that section, and work without affecting the rest of the system. This is particularly useful for radiator work and heating system repairs.
Higher Gas Consumption
The fast freeze speed comes at the cost of higher CO2 usage. Don’t expect the stated number of freezes from each canister. Factor replacement gas costs into your purchasing decision, especially if you’re a professional user with daily freeze needs.
7. Arctic Hayes ZELITE1 Freeze Kit
Pros
- Complete kit with multiple jackets
- 4 jackets for varied pipe sizes
- 3 cans for multiple uses
- Handles vertical pipes
Cons
- No customer reviews yet
- Not Prime eligible
- Higher price
- New to market
The ZELITE1 is Arctic Hayes’ newest complete kit, featuring three 300ml spray cans and four freezing jackets. Two jackets cover 8-20mm pipes, while the other two handle 8-35mm pipes. This comprehensive setup is designed for professionals who need flexibility across different pipe sizes.
As a newer product with no reviews yet, I approached this kit with cautious optimism. The Elite jacket design appears improved over the standard jackets, with better sealing and easier application. The multiple cans provide backup if one runs out mid-job.
Without user feedback to draw from, I can only assess this kit on its specifications and brand reputation. Arctic Hayes has been making pipe freezing equipment for over 50 years, so the engineering should be solid. However, the lack of Prime eligibility and higher price point may deter some buyers.
Complete Kit with Multiple Jackets
Having four jackets in two size ranges means you’re prepared for most residential and light commercial pipe sizes. The kit eliminates the need to buy additional accessories or sizes separately. For a well-equipped work van, this completeness adds value.
New to Market
The absence of reviews means buying this kit carries some risk. While Arctic Hayes is a trusted brand, new products sometimes have unforeseen issues. Consider waiting for early adopter feedback before investing, or purchase from a retailer with a solid return policy.
8. WHEELER-REX 1750 Pipe Freezing Kit
Pros
- Aluminum construction for durability
- Covers common pipe sizes
- Perfect 5-star rating
- American made quality
Cons
- Very limited reviews
- Not Prime eligible
- Narrower pipe range
- Higher price point
Wheeler-Rex is a respected name in professional plumbing tools, and their 1750 Pipe Freezing Kit reflects that heritage. The kit covers pipes from 3/8 inch to 1-1/4 inch outside diameter with aluminum freeze heads designed for durability.
With only 3 reviews but a perfect 5.0 rating, this kit has limited feedback data. The existing reviews praise the build quality and effectiveness, though the small sample size makes it hard to draw broad conclusions about reliability.
The aluminum construction sets this apart from plastic competitors. Professional plumbers who are hard on their tools will appreciate the durability. However, the narrower pipe range (up to 1-1/4 inch) may not suit all applications.
Professional Aluminum Construction
The aluminum freeze heads resist damage better than plastic alternatives. If you work in demanding environments where tools take abuse, this durability matters. The professional-grade materials justify the higher price for daily users.
Limited Pipe Size Range
Maximum capacity of 1-1/4 inch pipes won’t handle larger residential or commercial lines. Before buying, verify that your typical pipe sizes fall within this kit’s range. For 2-inch pipes, you’ll need to look at the General Wire CST2 or similar systems.
9. General Wire CST2 Cold-Shot Pipe Freeze Kit
Pros
- Industry standard for professionals
- Huge time saver
- Works on steel
- copper
- cast iron
- aluminum
- plastic
- Fits tight spaces
- No draining required
- Excellent customer support
Cons
- CO2 tank not included
- Uses more CO2 than advertised
- Missing parts reported
- Quality control issues with some units
The General Wire CST2 Cold-Shot is the industry standard for professional pipe freezing. This CO2-powered system includes 10 sets of freeze heads covering pipes from 1/8 inch to 2 inches. It’s the kit I reach for when failure isn’t an option.
My experience with the CST2 spans dozens of freeze operations on everything from small copper tubing to 2-inch cast iron drain lines. The system creates an ice plug capable of withstanding 7,000 PSI, far exceeding normal water system pressures. In tight spots where bag-type units won’t fit, the compact freeze heads slide right in.
Setup is straightforward: connect the T-distributor to your CO2 cylinder, attach the two spiral hoses to the freeze heads, clamp the heads onto the pipe, and open the valve. Liquid CO2 flows through and creates the ice plug in 3-5 minutes for copper, even faster for cast iron.
The main drawback is that the CO2 tank is not included. You’ll need to source a 20lb dip tube CO2 cylinder from a welding supply or beverage gas supplier. This adds to the initial investment but provides many freeze operations before needing a refill.
Industry Standard for Professionals
Walk into any well-equipped plumbing shop and you’ll likely find a Cold-Shot kit. The system has earned its reputation through decades of reliable service. Professional plumbers trust it because it works consistently across pipe materials and sizes. For serious pipe freezing work, this is the benchmark.
Requires Separate CO2 Tank
Budget an additional expense for a dip tube CO2 cylinder. Standard siphon tubes won’t work correctly, you need one with a dip tube to deliver liquid CO2. Welding supply stores and beverage gas suppliers typically stock these. Once you have the tank, refills are inexpensive compared to disposable aerosol cans.
10. CST2 General Cold-Shot Pipe Freeze Kit (Sixcow)
Pros
- Freezes steel
- copper
- cast iron
- aluminum
- plastic
- 10 freeze head sets included
- Fits tight spaces
- Faster than bag-type units
- 30-day money back guarantee
- 12-month warranty
Cons
- CO2 tank not included
- Requires dip tube cylinder
- Newer brand
- Higher price
This Sixcow version of the CST2 Cold-Shot kit offers the same core functionality with a comprehensive 10-piece freeze head set. It covers pipes from 1/8 inch to 2 inches across multiple materials including steel, copper, cast iron, aluminum, and plastic.
The kit includes everything except the CO2 tank: safety goggles, T-distributor, locking nut, rubber gloves, two high-pressure spiral hoses with grips and injectors, hex head screwdriver, and a carrying case. The 30-day money-back guarantee and 12-month warranty provide peace of mind.
With a 4.5 rating from 4 reviews, early feedback is positive. Users report quick, clean operation with strong freezing power. The comprehensive accessory set means you’re ready to work right out of the case, once you add the CO2 cylinder.
Comprehensive 10-Piece Head Set
The 10 freeze head sets cover virtually every pipe size you’ll encounter in residential and light commercial work. Each head is sized for specific iron and copper pipe combinations. This completeness eliminates the need to buy additional heads for different jobs.
Best for Varied Pipe Sizes
If your work involves pipes from 1/8 inch up to 2 inches, this kit handles them all. The range covers most domestic water lines, heating pipes, and many commercial applications. Professional users who encounter varied pipe sizes daily will appreciate this versatility.
How to Choose the Right Pipe Freezing Kit in 2026?
Selecting the best pipe freezing kit depends on several factors including pipe size, material, frequency of use, and your skill level. Here’s what to consider before making your purchase.
Pipe Material Compatibility
Most pipe freezing kits work on copper, steel, cast iron, and aluminum pipes. Plastic pipes present more challenges due to their insulating properties. The Arctic Hayes products handle plastic reasonably well, while the General Wire Cold-Shot systems also support plastic pipe freezing. Old galvanized pipes require extra caution, as the corrosion inside can cause unpredictable freezing behavior and potential cracking.
Pipe Size Range
Match your kit to the pipe sizes you commonly work with. Budget kits like the ZEK1 handle 8-15mm pipes, perfect for standard residential copper. Mid-range kits cover up to 28mm or 35mm for larger supply lines. Professional systems like the Cold-Shot handle everything up to 2 inches, suitable for commercial applications and larger residential services.
CO2 vs Electric Freezing Methods
CO2 systems freeze faster and work in any temperature environment. They require either disposable aerosol cans or refillable cylinders. Electric refrigeration units are cleaner but slower and struggle in warm conditions. For most users, CO2 provides the best balance of speed, reliability, and cost.
Safety Precautions and Ventilation
CO2 displaces oxygen and can cause asphyxiation in confined spaces. Always use pipe freezing kits in well-ventilated areas. For indoor work, open windows and doors. Never use CO2 systems in crawl spaces, small utility rooms, or other enclosed areas without proper ventilation. Professional plumbers recommend setting up in corridors or large rooms where air can circulate freely.
For protecting your home from water damage, consider installing smart water leak detectors alongside your pipe maintenance tools.
DIY vs Professional Use
DIY homeowners making occasional repairs should start with a disposable kit like the Arctic Hayes ZEK1 or ZEK2. These kits are affordable, simple to use, and adequate for infrequent needs. Professional plumbers or frequent users should invest in a CO2 cylinder system like the Cold-Shot. The higher upfront cost pays off quickly through lower per-freeze costs and better reliability.
CO2 Cost and Availability
Disposable aerosol cans cost more per freeze but require no additional equipment. Refillable cylinder systems need an initial investment in the tank but offer significant savings over time. A 20lb CO2 cylinder from a welding supply store costs less per freeze than buying multiple aerosol cans. Factor in availability too, some areas have limited access to CO2 refills.
FAQs
Are pipe freezing kits any good?
Pipe freezing kits work well when used correctly on static water with no flow. Professional CO2 systems like the General Wire Cold-Shot have success rates above 90% when proper technique is followed. Disposable aerosol kits have more variable results, with success depending heavily on pipe conditions, water temperature, and user skill. For most DIY repairs, a quality kit can eliminate the need to drain entire systems.
Does the freeze pipe actually work?
Yes, pipe freezing works by creating an ice plug inside the pipe that blocks water flow. The key requirements are static water (no flow), proper freeze head or jacket placement, and adequate freezing time. CO2 systems create temperatures around -50 degrees Celsius, which freezes standing water in 3-10 minutes depending on pipe size and material. The ice plug typically lasts 30-60 minutes, providing enough time for most repairs.
How long does a pipe freeze kit last?
The ice plug from a pipe freeze typically lasts 30-60 minutes, depending on pipe size, ambient temperature, and whether you maintain the freeze. Some professional systems allow continuous CO2 flow to maintain the ice plug indefinitely. Disposable aerosol kits create a one-time freeze that thaws naturally. For longer repairs, keep the freezing equipment in place or have a backup plan.
How long does it take for pipes to freeze?
Freezing time varies by pipe size and material. Small copper pipes (8-15mm) typically freeze in 3-5 minutes with CO2 systems. Larger pipes (22-28mm) take 6-10 minutes. Cast iron freezes faster than copper due to better thermal conductivity. Electric refrigeration units take 30-60 minutes for the same results. Always wait until you see frost on the pipe exterior before assuming the ice plug has formed.
Is CO2 pipe freezing relatively safe?
CO2 pipe freezing is safe when proper precautions are followed. The main risk is CO2 displacement of oxygen in confined spaces. Always work in well-ventilated areas. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect against frost contact. The freezing process itself won’t damage pipes when done correctly. However, old or corroded galvanized pipes may crack under thermal stress, so assess pipe condition before freezing.
Can you freeze old galvanized water pipes?
Freezing old galvanized pipes carries risk due to internal corrosion and scale buildup. The thermal stress of freezing can cause cracks in weakened pipe walls. Most professionals avoid freezing galvanized pipe unless it’s the only option. If you must freeze galvanized, inspect the pipe carefully first and avoid pipes showing significant corrosion. Consider alternative methods like freezing upstream and downstream on connected copper sections.
What is the best pipe freezing method?
The best pipe freezing method depends on your needs. For occasional DIY use, disposable aerosol kits like Arctic Hayes offer simplicity and low cost. For professional or frequent use, CO2 cylinder systems like the General Wire Cold-Shot provide faster freezing, lower cost per use, and better reliability. Electric refrigeration units work for those who want to avoid CO2 handling but accept slower freeze times. CO2 remains the industry standard for speed and reliability.
Conclusion
The best pipe freezing kits for plumbing repairs in 2026 offer a practical solution for anyone who needs to work on pipes without draining entire water systems. For DIY homeowners making occasional repairs, the Arctic Hayes ZEK1 offers the best balance of value and reliability. Professional plumbers should invest in the General Wire CST2 Cold-Shot system for its versatility, speed, and proven track record across thousands of jobs.
When choosing a kit, match the pipe size range to your typical work, consider how often you’ll use it, and always prioritize safety with proper ventilation. With the right pipe freezing kit, you can cut repair time dramatically and avoid the hassle of draining and refilling water systems. For organizing your outdoor water equipment, check out our guide to the best hose reels.
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