Mechanical/Saddle Tee?

TonKa

It occured to me a mechanical tee like what is used on sprinkler systems could be a simple way to add a branch off a steam main instead of welding a thredolet or cutting the pipe and threading for a standard fitting. The gasket would be no different than what would be used for a flange.

It seems like it would save time. Is this just another crazy idea or have others tried this?

Example part: https://www.supplyhouse.com/Gruvlok-390171155-3-x-1-1-4-7045-Clamp-T-with-FTP-Branch

mattmia2

Is it rated for steam and steam temps?

pecmsg

TonKa said:

It occured to me a mechanical tee like what is used on sprinkler systems could be a simple way to add a branch off a steam main instead of welding a thread-o-let or cutting the pipe and threading for a standard fitting. The gasket would be no different than what would be used for a flange.

It seems like it would save time. Is this just another crazy idea or have others tried this?

Example part: https://www.supplyhouse.com/Gruvlok-390171155-3-x-1-1-4-7045-Clamp-T-with-FTP-Branch

Easier way is Megapress for steam

EBEBRATT-Ed

gasket is not likely rated for steam

EdTheHeaterMan

The Submittal states this about the gaskets:

( _ ) Grade “E” EPDM (Green color code)
-40°F to 230°F (Service Temperature Range)(-40°C to 110°C)
Recommended for water service, diluted acids, alkalies solutions,
oil-free air and many chemical services.
NOT FOR USE IN PETROLEUM APPLICATIONS.

( _ ) Grade “EP” EPDM (Green and Red color code)
-40°F to 250°F (Service Temperature Range)(-40°C to 121°C)
Recommended for water service, diluted acids, alkalies solutions,
oil-free air and many other chemical services.
NOT FOR USE IN PETROLEUM APPLICATIONS.

Does steam qualify as "many other chemical services"? Since water is inert (when it comes to chemical compounds) I would think that this product would be just fine for steam. Since we are all talking about Steam at less than 3 PSI in most systems, I believe the gasket that is rated for 250° should stand up to the temperature just fine.

But there are inspectors that will fail you because you can't prove to them in writing that this is an acceptable use. ... Dah... it don't say STEAM... If that matters in this case

PC7060

@pecmsg - I like megapress as well but inserting a fitting inline on existing install can be a challenge. 

The saddle clamp looks like a simple modification. Be interesting to see how it performs

Gsmith

I've used these successfully to add main vents at the ends of existing steam mains. Get the EPDM gaskets, normal low pressure boiler steam doesn't go much above 215 deg. F., and vents don't get a lot of steam flow or condensate.

I've never used them for adding a branch line.

hot_rod

as long as it is rated for temperature and the type of fluid, but check with the manufacturer 
Plenty of Hydronics assembled with Vic fittings

EBEBRATT-Ed

I have done a lot of Vic on hot water.

Whatever they rate their gaskets at is false. They may rate their gaskets at 250 "newer quick vic couplings" and at 230 for the older stuff.

But in my experience if you run at 200 withing a couple of years the gaskets dry out and lose their flexibility then shut the system down and when it cools you will have a rain shower.

We did use Vic on a temp steam line and it worked ok but wasn't in service that long

Long Beach Ed

I've come across them many times on jobs. They are all leaking. Probably hold up for a few years but eventually the rubber hardens and they leak. We replace the gasket if the owner doesn't want it fixed correctly.