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Split Tee

Split Tee

High-pressure Branch Connection For Hot Tapping Pipelines

Split tees provide robust, corrosion-resistant branch connections for hot tapping in industrial piping, ensuring durability and safety in boiler systems and petrochemical pipelines.

Split Tee

High-pressure Branch Connection For Hot Tapping Pipelines

Split tees provide robust, corrosion-resistant branch connections for hot tapping in industrial piping, ensuring durability and safety in boiler systems and petrochemical pipelines.

Split Tee
Industrial Piping
Corrosion Resistance

Split Tee, also known as a hot tapping tee, is a specialized pipe fitting designed to create branch connections on live pipelines without interrupting flow. Compliant with ASME B16.9 and ASME B16.25 standards, split tees provide exceptional corrosion resistance and strength for industrial piping systems. Made from materials like carbon steel (ASTM A234 WPB), stainless steel (ASTM A403 WP304/316L), or alloy steel (A234 WP11), they are suited for high-pressure and high-temperature applications in oil and gas, petrochemical, and power generation industries, ensuring reliable boiler pipeline protection.

The split tee features two symmetrical halves that encase the pipeline, secured by bolting or welding, enabling hot tapping or line-stop operations. This design eliminates external reinforcements, enhancing resistance to cyclic and thermal loads. Available in sizes from 2” to 60” (DN50 to DN1500) with wall thicknesses from SCH 40 to SCH 160, split tees can be customized with 3LPE or epoxy coatings for improved corrosion resistance. They withstand pressures up to 2500 psi and temperatures up to 600°C, making them ideal for pipeline wear solutions in demanding environments.

Split tees undergo stringent testing, including hydrostatic, ultrasonic, and weld inspections, to ensure compliance with industry standards. With tensile strengths of 415-585 MPa (A234 WPB) and yield strengths of 240 MPa, they offer robust performance in corrosive environments, such as those with hydrogen sulfide or acidic fluids. The seamless or welded construction ensures minimal flow disruption, and the hot tapping capability reduces downtime in critical systems like refineries and subsea pipelines.

Unlike standard tees, split tees are tailored for hot tapping, providing flexibility for retrofitting existing pipelines. Their corrosion resistance, enhanced by stainless steel or protective coatings, makes them suitable for harsh conditions. They support complex piping layouts with butt-weld, flanged, or threaded end connections, meeting diverse project needs.

Split tees address challenges like pipeline corrosion, wear, and operational continuity in high-throughput systems. Their robust design and hot tapping functionality make them a preferred choice for engineers seeking reliable industrial piping solutions for boiler pipeline protection and other critical applications.

Split Weld Tee 2-3 Piece Fittings
Chemical Composition of Split Tee
Element ASTM A234 WPB (%) ASTM A403 WP316L (%)
Carbon (C) 0.30 max 0.03 max
Manganese (Mn) 0.29-1.06 2.00 max
Phosphorus (P) 0.050 max 0.045 max
Sulfur (S) 0.058 max 0.03 max
Silicon (Si) 0.10 min 0.75 max
Chromium (Cr) 0.40 max 16.0-18.0
Nickel (Ni) 0.40 max 10.0-14.0
Molybdenum (Mo) 0.15 max 2.0-3.0
Mechanical Properties of Split Tee
Property ASTM A234 WPB ASTM A403 WP316L
Tensile Strength, min (MPa) 415-585 515
Yield Strength, min (MPa) 240 205
Elongation, min (%) 22 30
Hardness, max (HBW) 197 217

Key Features & Benefits

Versatile Flow Diversion

Allows for efficient splitting or combining of fluid flows in complex piping layouts.

Structural Integrity

Designed to maintain the strength and integrity of the piping system.

Wide Range of Sizes

Available to suit various pipe diameters, pressure ratings, and fluid compatibility.

Reduced Pressure Drop

Smooth internal contours minimize turbulence and pressure loss.

Ease of Installation

Different connection types offer flexibility in installation.

Durability & Longevity

Manufactured from high-quality materials for long service life.

Types of Pipe Tees

By Opening Size & Functionality

Equal Tee

Description: All three openings are equal in diameter.

  • Consistent design
  • Easy fabrication
  • General fluid distribution
Reducing Tee

Description: One opening is smaller than the others.

  • Flow/pressure reduction
  • Different branch diameters
  • Optimized flow control
Barred Tee

Description: Internal bars to prevent pig entry.

  • Ensures pigging integrity
  • Protects branch lines
  • Common in oil & gas
Wye Tee (Lateral)

Description: Branch connection at an angle (e.g., 45°).

  • Smoother flow transition
  • Reduced turbulence
  • Lower pressure drop
Sanitary Tee

Description: Curved branch for clean-out plug.

  • Prevents blockages
  • Facilitates cleaning
  • Used in waste lines
Cross Tee

Description: Four equal-sized female openings.

  • Four-way connections
  • Not for high-pressure systems
  • Specialized applications

Materials & Grades

Material Type Standards & Grades Characteristics Applications
Carbon Steel ASTM A234 WPB, A420 WPL6, A105 High strength, cost-effective, good weldability General industrial piping, oil & gas, power generation
Stainless Steel ASTM A403 WP304/304L, WP316/316L, WP321, WP347 Excellent corrosion resistance, hygienic properties Chemical processing, food & beverage, pharmaceutical
Alloy Steel ASTM A234 WP1, WP5, WP9, WP11, WP22, WP91 Enhanced strength, high-temperature resistance High-temperature and high-pressure services
Carbon Steel

Robust & Economical

Stainless Steel

Corrosion Resistant

Alloy Steel

High Performance

Split Tee
Install pipe tee

Install pipe tee

Split Tee Applications

The basic application of the Split Tee is a connector that can be used in the middle of two pipes to allow them to join together.

  • Equal Tee-For Balanced Flow
  • Reducing Tee-For Flow Diversion and Size Adjustment
  • Lateral Tee-For 45° Branch Connections
  • Barred Tee-Used in Pigging Systems
  • Sweep Tee-For Smooth Flow Transitions

Understanding the various pipe tee types allows engineers and contractors to make more informed decisions based on flow requirements, space limits, and material compatibility. Newzel Industries offers a diverse range of pipe tees in several grades, including SS 304, 316, and 321, all fabricated with accuracy to meet your industrial requirements. Contact us today for an estimate or technical assistance in determining the optimal pipe tee type for your project.

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