When the strength of pressure pipe is compromised by modification, physical damage, or defect, Topaz provides weld-on reinforcement solutions. Carbon steel tees, saddles, and sleeves can be supplied from stock, or with non-stock items, can be supplied with a short lead time.

For hot taps on existing systems, a branch fitting of some sort must be attached to the header pipe, a valve is installed on the fitting, and then the tap is performed through this assembly. A Weldolet® and weld neck flange is one choice for the branch connection. If however, branch size to header size ratio or reinforcement considerations dictate selection of an alternative fitting, Topaz offers several from which to choose.

Weld-on tapping tees are two part, full encirclement tees with a flanged branch outlet on one half of the split saddle. The size, ANSI rating and bore of the flanged outlet is specified by the customer, and the saddle portion of the tee is sized to fit over the header O.D.

Full encirclement saddles are somewhat similar in appearance to tapping tees, but perform a more limited function. The full encirclement saddle is split in half with a side outlet, but the outlet has no flange and is sized to fit around a separately welded branch pipe. The full encirclement saddle is not intended to hold internal pressure like the tapping tee, but rather to reinforce the branch to header connection.

Reinforcing saddles are like full encirclement saddles in that they only reinforce the branch to header connection. The reinforcing saddle however, is a single piece forged skirt which fits around the branch pipe and only saddles over the top of the header in the immediate area around the branch.

Full encirclement sleeves are split longitudinally into two identical halves, with no side outlet in either part. The sleeves are sized to fit snugly around steel pipe, and when properly installed, strengthen weakened pipe sections. Full encirclement sleeves are available in pressure holding or reinforcing only styles, and can be supplied in short or long lengths.