Description
The Tees 176° is a specialized solution for complex piping layouts in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and food industries. While a standard tee sits at a perfect 180-degree straight line, the 176-degree configuration introduces a subtle but vital 4-degree “V” shape. This design ensures that when the tee is installed in a horizontal run, both incoming lines maintain a 2-degree slope toward the center or away from it, allowing for complete evacuation of the system.
Technically, the Tees 176° is a cornerstone of “Dead Leg” prevention and validated cleaning processes. In many high-purity systems, even a few drops of stagnant fluid can lead to microbial growth or batch contamination. By using these angled tees, engineers can design piping networks that are fully self-draining, meeting the strict requirements of ASME BPE and other international sanitary standards.
Manufactured from premium AISI 316L stainless steel, our Tees 176° fittings undergo rigorous surface treatment. The internal bore is typically electropolished to achieve ultra-low roughness values, ensuring that no residue can cling to the metal surface during Clean-in-Place (CIP) or Sterilize-in-Place (SIP) cycles.
Key Features of Tees 176°
- Optimal Drainage: 176-degree angle provides a natural 2-degree slope for gravity flow.
- Sanitary Compliance: Meets ASME BPE and EHEDG standards for sterile processing.
- High-Purity Material: Forged from low-carbon 316L stainless steel to prevent carbide precipitation.
- Ultra-Smooth Finish: Available with electropolished internals (Ra < 0.4 µm).
- Zero Retention: Specifically designed to eliminate “puddling” in horizontal headers.
Technical Specifications for Tees 176°
- Angle: 176° (resulting in a 2° slope per side).
- Sizes: Common in 1/2″ to 4″ diameters for process lines.
- Materials: Exclusively AISI 316L Stainless Steel.
- End Connections: Orbital butt-weld ends or sanitary Tri-clamp.
- Certification: Full heat traceability and MTRs (Material Test Reports) included.
Uses and Applications of Tees 176°
- Pharmaceutical Manufacturing: WFI (Water for Injection) loops and distribution.
- Biotech Reactors: Harvesting lines and sterile media transfer.
- Personal Care: Processing of high-end lotions and sterile cosmetics.
- Food & Beverage: Sensitive dairy and fruit juice processing.
- Vacuum Systems: Preventing condensate buildup in sterile vacuum lines.
Usage and Maintenance Recommendations for Tees 176°
- Verify the orientation during installation to ensure the slope aligns with the intended drain point.
- Use professional orbital welding to maintain the internal sanitary finish.
- Regularly inspect the joints for any signs of “haling” or rouge, common in high-purity water systems.
- Ensure the piping supports are calculated to maintain the 2-degree slope without sagging.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tees 176°
Why is it 176° and not 180°?
A 180° tee is perfectly flat. In horizontal runs, a flat tee allows liquid to sit at the bottom. The 176° bend creates a slight slope that uses gravity to pull every drop out of the fitting.
Is this used in standard industrial plumbing?
No. This is a specialized fitting for high-purity “hygienic” piping where microbial control is the priority.
Does it complicate the welding process?
Slightly. It requires more precise fit-up than a standard straight tee, but modern orbital welding heads are designed to accommodate these angles easily.
