The manufacturer of mechanical pipe-joining systems, Victaulic, introduces the Style 422 Stainless Steel Mechanical-T Bolted Branch Outlet, a mechanical solution that creates a direct branch connection at any location a hole can be cut in pipe. The Style 422 mechanical tee enables safer, more efficient installation and maintenance and ensures long-term reliability.
A branch connection can be created in three steps: cut a hole in the pipe, install the mechanical tee, and join the grooved outlet to the branch piping with a Victaulic coupling. Welding is not required, reducing installation time and costs and eliminating fit-up issues and safety concerns as well as the need for pickling and passivation. With a union at the joint, the grooved outlet simplifies maintenance compared to welded branch connections.
The Style 422 mechanical tee contains a “holefinder” locating collar and pressure-responsive gasket, ensuring long-term reliability. The hole in the pipe is oversized to receive the locating collar, which secures the outlet in position and prevents the tee from moving once installed. The pressure-responsive gasket seals on the outside diameter of the pipe, providing leak-free operation.
The Style 422 mechanical tee is available in sizes ranging from 3×2 inches (80×50 millimeters) to 8×4 inches (200×100 millimeters). All sizes are rated at 300 psi (2,065 kPa) working pressure on Schedule 10S and 40S stainless steel pipe. The Style 422 may also be used on high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe. The tee is supplied with a stainless steel outlet housing and galvanized ductile iron strap and is available with an EPDM or nitrile gasket.