In high-pressure systems a small mistake can have big consequences. Even a quality high-pressure tee can become a safety risk if not installed correctly.
Taboo: Forceful Alignment
When installing pipes do not use bolts to force them into line if they are not perfectly aligned. This puts a lot of stress on the tee. Can cause it to crack under high pressure.
Taboo: Neglecting Post-Weld Heat Treatment (PWHT)
For walled alloy steel tees heat treatment after welding is a must. If not done the area around the weld can become brittle and prone to cracking.
Taboo: Superficial Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)
All welded joints of high-pressure fittings must be thoroughly tested. Since tees have a shape and uneven stress even tiny pores can cause cracks.
Taboo: Overlooking Erosion Monitoring
At a high-pressure tee the fluid flow changes direction sharply causing erosion on the inner wall. Regularly check the wall thickness at the arc of the high-pressure tee to prevent failure due, to erosion.
