Socket-weld tees are a type of forged socket-weld pipe fitting featuring a T-shaped structure. All three ports are designed as sockets; the steel pipe is inserted into the socket, and the connection is completed by applying a fillet weld to the outer wall. They are used for flow splitting or merging in piping systems.
I. Structure and Connection PrincipleStructure: The fitting ports are machined with stepped sockets. The inner diameter of the socket is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the steel pipe, leaving an assembly clearance of 0.5–1 mm. The pipe is inserted into the socket and positioned against the step; no beveling is required, and the connection is sealed and secured by an external fillet weld.
Welding Type: Fillet weld (not butt weld). The weld leg size is generally at least half the pipe wall thickness; welding is performed only on the exterior of the fitting, not the interior.Classification
Equal Socket-Weld Tee: All three ports have the same size.
Reducing Socket-Weld Tee: The branch pipe diameter is smaller than the main pipe diameter; used for branching with a
change in size.2.Manufacturing and StandardsProcess: Closed-die forging from round bar or steel ingots → stress-relief heat treatment → CNC machining of sockets. As forged components, they possess a dense material structure, unlike castings.Applicable StandardsNational Standard (China): GB/T 14383-2022 "Forged Steel Socket-Welding and Threaded Fittings"International Standard: ASME B16.11 (most commonly used)Pressure Ratings: 3000#, 6000#, 9000# (corresponding to SCH80 and SCH160 heavy-wall piping)Common Materials: Carbon steel (A105, 20#); stainless steel (304, 316L); alloy steel (F22, F91); duplex steel, etc.Common Sizes: DN6–DN100 (1/8"–4"); widely used in engineering for small-bore, high-pressure pipelines (DN50 and below).3. AdvantagesSimple Installation: Pipes are inserted directly for positioning; no beveling is required. Assembly is convenient, allowing for installation in confined spaces and ensuring high on-site efficiency.High Strength and Pressure Rating: As forged parts, they offer high strength and pressure resistance, making them suitable for high-pressure operating conditions with excellent seismic and vibration resistance. The internal flow passage of the fitting is smooth, resulting in lower flow resistance compared to threaded tees; its compact dimensions make it suitable for instrumentation, sampling, and branch line applications.The fittings are forged and compatible with non-destructive testing (such as PT/MT—liquid penetrant and magnetic particle testing), ensuring controllable quality.