Insulated Tee is a specialized pipe fitting used to create a branch connection in an insulated pipeline system. It is relevant to underground district heating and cooling networks, where the pipeline layout may require a main line to supply a branch serving another building, distribution zone, or section of the network.
Unlike a conventional uninsulated tee, an insulated tee is intended for use within a pipeline arrangement that incorporates thermal insulation. Its design must accommodate both the branch geometry and the insulation system surrounding the connected pipes. The exact construction depends on the product configuration and the requirements of the project.
In district heating applications, the integrity of the insulation system is important because heat loss can affect network efficiency. For cooling systems, appropriate insulation helps limit unwanted heat transfer and supports the intended operating conditions. At branch connections, careful attention is also required to maintain insulation continuity and protect the surrounding system against moisture ingress.
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
|
Product Name |
Insulated Tee |
|
Product Type |
Pre-Insulated Tee |
|
Fitting Type |
Equal Tee / Reducing Tee |
|
Service Pipe Material |
Carbon Steel |
|
Insulation Material |
Rigid Polyurethane (PUR/PU) Foam |
|
Outer Casing Material |
Polyethylene (PE) |
|
Applicable Standard |
EN 448:2025, for applicable district heating systems |
|
Nominal Size |
Customization |
|
Branch Size |
Customization |
|
Insulation Thickness |
Customization |
|
Outer Casing Diameter |
Customization |
|
Operating Temperature |
Customization |
|
Connection Type |
Welded |
|
Application |
District Heating, Hot Water Distribution, Underground Pre-Insulated Piping Systems |
| Component | Material | Material Grade / Specification |
|---|---|---|
| Service Pipe | Carbon Steel | ASTM A106 Grade B / ASTM A53 Grade B |
| Fitting | Carbon Steel | ASTM A234 WPB |
| Insulation Layer | Rigid Polyurethane (PUR/PU) Foam | EN 253 / EN 448 |
| Outer Casing | Polyethylene (PE) | HDPE |
We provide solutions with steel service pipes, polyurethane (PUR/PU) foam insulation, and polyethylene (PE) outer casings to meet project specifications.
Strict control of raw materials, tee dimensions, insulation thickness, and outer casing quality helps ensure accurate fit-up, effective thermal insulation, and reliable performance in service. Customized specifications are available to meet the requirements of different piping projects.
1. District heating and hot-water distribution networks.
2. Underground pre-insulated pipeline systems.
3. District cooling pipelines with compatible materials and insulation.
4. Industrial heating and cooling distribution networks.
What is an insulated tee?
An insulated tee is a pre-insulated pipe fitting designed to connect branch pipes while reducing heat loss in hot water and district heating systems.
What materials are used for insulated tees?
Insulated tees typically consist of a steel service pipe, rigid polyurethane (PUR/PU) foam insulation, and a polyethylene (PE) outer casing.
Which standards apply to insulated tees?
EN 448 applies to pre-insulated fitting assemblies for directly buried hot water networks. The applicable standard depends on the project requirements.
Can insulated tees be customized?
Yes, we can customize insulated tees based on customer-provided specifications, drawings, and project requirements.
What applications are insulated tees used for?
Insulated tees are commonly used in district heating, hot water distribution, and underground pre-insulated piping systems.
How do insulated tees help reduce heat loss?
The polyurethane foam insulation helps reduce heat transfer, while the outer casing protects the insulation system from external influences.
Send us your drawings or requirements and get a fast quotation today.
