Long Tangent Fittings

Description | Advantages | Uses | Specs

Uses

Tangent pipe fitting elbows are easier to jog or fixture for welding because you are always welding straight to straight. Internal weld alignment rings (aka “backing rings”) can only e used with tangent pipe fittings. Tangent pipe fitting ends can be flanged (slip-on) without fouling. It is common in process piping units for fittings to be in close proximity. With the longer tangent fittings some welds are eliminated.

In piping systems requiring radiographic examination, eliminating welds is very cost effective. In systems requiring high purity, the elimination of welds also eliminates areas highly susceptible to contamination. Tangent pipe fittings can be roller grooved (Sch. 5 and Sch. 10) or cut grooved (Sch. 40 and higher) for installation using mechanical couplings. Welding is totally eliminated in this application.

Tangent pipe fittings can be welded in place utilizing “slip over” sleeve couplings. This changes the welding type from buttwelding (higher skill required) to fillet welding (lower skill required). Good fillet welds can be made four to seven times faster than good buttwelds, fillet welds require less skill and are visually verifiable. Only radiograph can verify the integrity of a good buttweld.

In retrofit situations ANSI B16.9 dimensioned buttwelding fittings can be cut out and replaced with tangent pipe fittings. In many cases the pipe can be reused without dis-assembly.