ASTM A403 WP304/WP316 Stainless Steel Equal Tee

1. Product Description
This equal tee is a butt-welding pipe fitting manufactured to ASTM A403 and ASME B16.9, designed to branch or combine fluid flow in a pipeline system. All three outlets are of the same nominal size, ensuring uniform flow distribution. Made from austenitic stainless steel grades WP304/WP304L and WP316/WP316L, it offers excellent corrosion resistance and is suitable for corrosive, high-temperature, and critical piping applications. Both ends are beveled for butt welding.

2. Key Specifications

• Material: ASTM A403 WP304/304L, WP316/316L (austenitic stainless steel)

• Chemical Composition (WP304): Cr 18–20%, Ni 8–11%

• Chemical Composition (WP316): Cr 16–18%, Ni 10–14%, Mo 2–3%

• Mechanical Properties: Tensile strength ≥515 MPa, Yield strength ≥205 MPa

• Nominal Size: 1/2” – 24” (DN15 – DN600) seamless; larger sizes available in welded construction

• Wall Thickness / Schedule: SCH10S, SCH40S, SCH80S, SCH160, XXS

• Connection: Butt Weld (Beveled End)

• Standards: ASTM A403, ASME B16.9, MSS SP-43 (for light-wall stainless)

• Surface Treatment: Pickled, passivated, or solution annealed

3. Applications
Widely used in petroleum, chemical processing, power generation, natural gas, water treatment, shipbuilding, and construction . The WP316 grade is particularly suitable for chloride-bearing and acidic environments, such as offshore and chemical processing systems .

4. Product Advantages

• WP304 offers general corrosion resistance with good weldability and formability

• WP316 provides superior pitting resistance due to molybdenum content, ideal for harsh chemical environments

• Low-carbon “L” grades (304L/316L) prevent sensitization and intergranular corrosion after welding

• Seamless construction available, reducing potential leak paths

• Smooth inner bore minimizes turbulence and pressure loss

• Manufactured to ASME B16.9 for dimensional consistency and interchangeability

5. Product Functions
The equal tee divides a single flow into two branches or merges two flows into one, maintaining system pressure integrity. The equal-size outlets ensure balanced flow distribution without diameter reduction. Butt welding creates a continuous, leak-resistant joint capable of withstanding pressure, temperature fluctuations, and vibration.

6. Instruction for Use

• Verify tee size, schedule, and material grade match the pipeline specification (fitting grade must match pipe grade) .

• Inspect the beveled ends for cracks, dents, or deformation before installation.

• Clean the pipe ends and tee bevels; remove oil, rust, and debris.

• Align the tee with the pipe; control misalignment within allowable tolerance.

• Perform tack welding at multiple points to secure alignment.

• Complete butt welding using qualified WPS. Recommended filler metals: ER308L for WP304, ER316L for WP316 .

• Inspect the weld and perform pressure testing as required.

7. Precautions

• Do not subject the tee to impact or drop during storage and handling.

• Keep stainless steel tees away from contact with carbon steel or dissimilar metals to prevent galvanic corrosion.

• Ensure the pipeline is depressurized and drained before installation or maintenance.

• Do not use damaged or deformed fittings; inspect bevels for cracks before welding.

• Match filler metal to base metal: ER308L for 304, ER316L for 316 .

• Verify that the test report includes heat number, chemical analysis, mechanical properties, and heat treatment type .

8. Shipping Information

• Standard export packing: wooden case or plywood pallet, with plastic film or bubble bag wrapping .

• Dispatch within 7–30 days depending on order quantity .

• Shipping methods: sea freight, air freight, or express courier depending on quantity and destination.

• Tracking number provided upon dispatch.

9. Payment Terms

• T/T (bank transfer): 30% deposit, 70% balance before shipment.

• L/C at sight accepted for larger orders .

• PayPal / Western Union for sample orders.

• All prices are quoted EXW or FOB unless otherwise specified.

10. Packaging

• Each tee is wrapped in plastic film or bubble bag.

• Multiple pieces are packed in sturdy wooden cases or plywood pallets .

• Desiccant is added for sea shipments to prevent moisture.

• Beveled ends are protected with covers to prevent damage during transport.

• Custom labeling and marking available upon request.

11. Return & After-Sales Policy

• 7-day return or exchange for quality defects (buyer bears return freight unless the defect is verified as our responsibility).

• Custom-made or non-stock items are not eligible for return unless defective.

• Warranty period: 12 months from delivery for manufacturing defects .

• Claims for shortage or damage must be reported within 3 working days of receipt with photo evidence.

• Technical support available for welding procedures, material selection, and installation guidance.