Stub-in or Stub-on

We talked about using Straight Tees and Reducing Tees as a way to make branches from a line. For low
pressure (or reasonably low pressure) there is another way to make branches from a line. This method
uses only pipe. It is normally used only for low pressure/low temperature applications where the branch is
reducing. The ASME B31.3 (and other piping B31 Code sections) recognize two basic versions of the
pipe to pipe branch. One method is where the run pipe has a hole cut the outside diameter of the branch
pipe. This opening is then beveled for a "full penetration weld" The branch pipe is saddle cut (with no
bevel) to match the I. D. of the run pipe. They are then fitted together and welded. The second method is
where the diameter of the hole in the run pipe is the same I. D. as the I. D. of the branch pipe. This hole
does not get a bevel. The end of the branch pipe is saddle cut to fit the run pipe and is then beveled for a
full penetration weld. With the first method, the branch pipe is inserted in the run pipe. With the second
method, the branch pipe is set on the run pipe. Both are still commonly referred to as "Stub-ins" Both of
these can come non-reinforced (as described above) or reinforced. The reinforced version is normally
only required for higher stress situations. The reinforcement is a "ring" plate cut from some scrape run
pipe or the same material as the run pipe. At the center is a hole the same size as the branch pipe. If cut
from flat plate it is then shaped to fit around the run pipe. The width of the ring is normally one half the
diameter of the branch pipe. The ring is intended to replace the material that was removed when the hole
was cut in the run pipe. A small diameter hole (1/4" NPT) is normally drilled (and tapped) in the ring to act
as a vent during the welding process and to allow for Hydrotesting of the welds. The ring is then welded
to the branch pipe and the run pipe with full penetration welds. The small hole is fitted with a plug after
work is completed.
Which one is preferred ? For branching of one size lesser of run pipe, stub-on is preferred. For
other branching less than one size of run pipe stub-in is preferred. The design is based on ANSI
B31.3.

Reinforced Branch Connection Set-On type

Where a Reinforced Branch Connection is required?
With large pipe dimensions, it is customary, to form a TEE intersection by cutting a hole
in the straight run (the header) and welding in the leg perpendicular (the branch), this is
called a STUB-IN.
Similarly, nozzles are installed on pressure vessels by cutting a hole in the side of the
vessel and welding in an appropriately sized pipe to form the nozzle. These
intersections ensure a "hole weakening" on the vessel or piping system, due to the
metal removed and the stress concentration created.
In critical systems, this weakness must be compensated, and can be restored with a
Reinforcing Pad, to strengthen the piping branch connection or the pressure vessel
nozzle.

Branch Connection with Reinforcing Pad (Set-On type)

Dimensions Reinforcing Pad

For the dimensions of a reinforcing pad you can handle as rule:
1. Material = same material as the run pipe
2. Width = half a diameter of the branch pipe (at least 50 mm)
3. Thickness = same thickness as the run pipe, with a min. of 3 mm
and a max. of 20 mm
However, it is customary for most companies a so-called Branch table handling. This
document defined the methods, which must be applied, if a branch (with or without a
reinforcing pad) in a run pipe must be made. It is also usually present a specification
that defines own dimensions, because each company has their own criteria. (e.g. type
of product, pressure and temperature, national regulations, local markets)

Installation of Reinforcing Pad

Below an example for the assembly of a reinforcing pad.
• Determine the location of the branch, and make a round hole in the run pipe where the
diameter should be equal to the inside diameter of the branch.
• Finish the branch equal to outside diameter of run pipe and make a welding bevel of
around 30°.
• Place the branch with a gap by about 3 to 4 mm about the hole location on the run
pipe, and tack weld the branch on a sufficient number of places. Then the new branch
can be completely welded.
• If de weld is ready, depending on the requirements Non Destructive Examination
(NDE) must be done.
• Then the reinforcing pad can be placed by slide him over the branch. The pad must be
positioned so that around the branch, is overall the same open space, and that the pad
is fully in line with the run pipe. Tack weld the pad on a sufficient number of places, and
after that the pad can be inside and outside fully welded; depending on the prescribed
quality requirements, then again NDE must be done. Attention! -- Cited as a flange at
the branch pipe is welded, you must obviously make sure that the ring is placed earlier.
You will not be the first and probably not the last, with a reinforcing pad in his hands,
and discovered that the sequence of action was not entirely correct.

Weep-Hole
On a number of images, you might be have seen a round hole in the reinforcing pad.
This is a "Weep Hole" and may have multiple functions. Sometimes also called Tell Tale
hole or Vent hole.
Opinions about the use of this hole varies, and therefore I give 2 possible uses of a
weep hole:
• By threading the hole, a test gauge can be thread for a "air/soap" test to check for
leakage. The thread, mostly1/4" NPT will be used.
• Weep holes serves as a vent during welding for entrapped gasses and prevents the
reinforcing pad from becoming a "jacketed" vessel.
Weep holes in reinforcing pads shall be sealed upon completion of pressure test.

NPT is the best known and most widely used connection where the pipe thread provides both the
mechanical joint and the hydraulic seal. NPT has a tapered male and female thread which seals with
Teflon® tape or jointing compound.
ASME B1.20.1 covers dimensions and gaging of NPT pipe threads for general purpose applications.

ASME B31.3, in paragraph 328.5.4 says:

A vent hole shall be provided at the side (not at the crotch) of any pad or saddle to
reveal leakage in the weld between branch and run and to allow venting during welding
and heat treatment.