Stainless Steel Tees play an indispensable role in creating reliable and efficient pipeline networks. With a vast range of materials, grades, dimensions, and finishes, they cater to various industrial applications.
Stainless Steel Tee, often referred to as SS Tee Fittings, is one of the most widely used pipe fittings in various industries for connecting pipelines at a 90-degree angle. Available in Equal Tee and Reducing Tee designs, these fittings ensure an efficient and leak-proof connection of pipes while maintaining durability and resistance to corrosion. Stainless Steel Pipe Tees are widely used in industries such as petrochemicals, oil & gas, pharmaceuticals, food processing, water treatment plants, and shipbuilding due to their superior performance, versatility, and long service life.
Types of Stainless Steel Tee
- Stainless Steel Equal Tee
The Equal Tee is designed with three outlets of the same diameter, creating a perfect “T” junction in the pipeline. It allows even distribution of fluids or gases without pressure drops and is suitable for a wide range of applications. - Stainless Steel Reducing Tee
Reducing Tee fittings feature a branch outlet that is smaller in diameter compared to the main run. They are used to connect pipes of different sizes and ensure a smooth flow of media between varying diameters. - Fabricated and Seamless Tee
- Seamless Tees are produced from seamless pipes and are ideal for high-pressure environments.
- Fabricated Tees are manufactured by welding separate pipe pieces, offering cost-effective solutions for low and medium-pressure applications.
Grades and Materials of Stainless Steel Tee
- Stainless Steel Tees are available in a wide variety of materials and grades to suit specific industry requirements:
- Austenitic Stainless Steel: SS 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 321, 347
- Ferritic Stainless Steel: SS 409, 410, 430
- Martensitic Stainless Steel: SS 420, 431
- Duplex & Super Duplex Stainless Steel: UNS S31803, S32205, S32750, S32760
- Precipitation-Hardening Stainless Steel: 17-4PH
- Special Alloys: Alloy 20, Inconel, Monel, Hastelloy (available on request)
These grades provide varying levels of corrosion resistance, temperature tolerance, and strength, making them suitable for diverse applications.
Applications of Stainless Steel Tee
- Oil & Gas Industry – Pipeline networks for crude oil, natural gas, and petrochemical products.
- Chemical Processing Plants – Corrosion-resistant tees for handling aggressive chemicals.
- Water Supply Systems – Distribution of potable and industrial water.
- Pharmaceutical and Food Industry – Hygienic stainless steel tees for contamination-free transfer.
- Power Generation Plants – Steam and condensate piping systems.
- Shipbuilding & Marine Industry – Saltwater-resistant fittings for ship pipelines.
Benefits of Stainless Steel Tee Fittings
- High Corrosion Resistance: Ensures long-term reliability in harsh environments.
- Excellent Durability: Withstands high pressure and temperature variations.
- Leak-Proof Connections: Provides secure connections, minimizing maintenance.
- Wide Range of Sizes & Dimensions: Available from 1/2" to 48" (custom sizes on request).
- Compliance with International Standards: Manufactured as per ASTM, ASME, DIN, and ISO specifications.
- Ease of Installation: Suitable for welding, threading, or socket-welding connections.
Manufacturing Standards and Dimensions
SS Tee Fittings are manufactured in accordance with various international standards such as:
- ASME B16.9 – Factory-Made Wrought Buttwelding Fittings
- ASME B16.11 – Forged Fittings (Socket-Weld & Threaded)
- MSS-SP-75 – High-Strength Wrought Butt-Welding Fittings
- DIN & ISO Standards – For European and international markets
Dimensions typically range from 1/2 inch to 48 inches, with wall thicknesses from Sch 10 to Sch XXS, accommodating different pipeline specifications.
Surface Finishes and End Connections
Stainless Steel Tees are available in various surface finishes:
- Pickled and Passivated for improved corrosion resistance
- Matte, Brushed, and Mirror Finishes for aesthetic and hygienic applications
- Shot Blasted or Sandblasted for heavy-duty industrial applications
End connections include Butt-Weld, Socket-Weld, and Threaded ends, offering versatility for different piping systems.
