Description
The Tees Short Outlet is engineered for high-density piping environments where space is at a premium and hygiene is critical. Standard sanitary tees often have a branch length that creates a significant “dead leg”—a stagnant area where fluid does not circulate effectively. The short outlet version significantly reduces the distance from the main flow path to the connection point, dramatically improving the “L/D” (Length to Diameter) ratio.
From a technical standpoint, the Tees Short Outlet is the preferred choice for constructing valve blocks and complex manifold systems. By shortening the outlet, the turbulent flow from the main pipe is better able to “scrub” the branch, making the Clean-in-Place (CIP) process much more effective and reducing the risk of bacterial colonies forming in stagnant zones.
Our Tees Short Outlet fittings are manufactured using high-precision forging or hydroforming techniques to ensure consistent wall thickness and a smooth transition between the header and the branch. This prevents “step” changes in flow, reducing pressure drop and shear stress on sensitive biological products.
Key Features of Tees Short Outlet
- Dead Leg Reduction: Minimizes the L/D ratio to meet stringent pharmaceutical guidelines.
- Compact Design: Ideal for tight spaces, skid-mounted equipment, and manifolds.
- Enhanced Cleanability: Reduced stagnant zones allow for more effective CIP/SIP.
- Premium Finish: Precision polished internals to prevent product adhesion.
- Durable Construction: Heavy-duty stainless steel for long-term industrial reliability.
Technical Specifications for Tees Short Outlet
- Material: AISI 316L Stainless Steel.
- Branch Length: Significantly shorter than standard ISO/DIN/SMS dimensions.
- Surface Finish: Internal Ra < 0.5 µm (Standard) or electropolished.
- Connection Types: Butt-weld for orbital welding or Tri-clamp.
- Standards: Compliant with ASME BPE (DT-4.1.2) and ISO hygienic standards.
Uses and Applications of Tees Short Outlet
- Valve Manifolds: Creating compact diversion and mixing clusters.
- Skid Fabrication: Fitting complex process systems into small footprints.
- Pharmaceutical Skids: High-purity distribution modules for WFI and purified water.
- Dairy Processing: Compact routing for pasteurizers and filling machines.
- Laboratory Equipment: Small-scale processing units with tight piping requirements.
Usage and Maintenance Recommendations for Tees Short Outlet
- Ensure that there is enough space for the welding head to reach the joint, as the outlet is shorter than standard.
- Prioritize these fittings at any point where a branch remains closed for long periods during production.
- Check gaskets regularly in clamped versions, as the proximity to the main flow can increase wear.
- Use these to replace standard tees in systems showing high microbial counts in branch lines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tees Short Outlet
What is the benefit of a short outlet over a standard one?
The main benefit is the reduction of “dead legs.” In the pharmaceutical industry, a dead leg is a space where bacteria can hide; the shorter the outlet, the easier it is to keep the area sterile.
Can I use an orbital welder on a short outlet tee?
Yes, but you must ensure the fitting is designed with a sufficient “tangent” length to accommodate the welding clamp. Our short outlet tees are designed with this in mind.
Are these more expensive than standard tees?
While the material cost is similar, the precision manufacturing and the specialized application often make them a more premium choice for high-performance systems.
