“An unequal pipe tee, also known as a reducing tee, is a type of pipe fitting used in plumbing and piping systems to join three pipes of different diameters at a 90-degree angle. The name “”unequal”” or “”reducing”” comes from the fact that the three branches of the tee have different dimensions, allowing for the connection of pipes with different sizes.
A typical unequal pipe tee has one inlet (larger-sized pipe) and two outlets (smaller-sized pipes). The larger-sized pipe is connected to the main line, while the two smaller-sized pipes are used for branching off to other sections of the system. These tees are available in various material types, such as PVC, copper, stainless steel, and others, to suit different applications and media.
The dimensions of the unequal pipe tee are usually specified in terms of the outside diameter (OD) of the pipes it connects. For example, a 2-inch by 1-inch by 1-inch reducing tee would mean that the main inlet is for a 2-inch pipe, while the two outlets are for 1-inch pipes.
Unequal pipe tees are essential for systems that require a change in pipe size to accommodate different flow rates, pressure requirements, or to merge different pipe networks into a single line. Properly installed reducing tees ensure smooth flow and distribution of fluids or gases within the system. When installing a reducing tee, it is essential to follow industry standards and guidelines to ensure a leak-free and efficient piping system.”