In plumbing and piping, there’s often the need to connect several pipes together. However, there’s also the need for said job to be done as efficiently as possible – without sacrificing the workmanship quality. 

Enter PVC pipe saddle tees – a quick, efficient, reliable, and inexpensive way to achieve this goal. Today, we’ll explore different types of tee fittings, paying particular attention to saddle tee and Inserta Tee®, which became the go-to choice and the golden standard in modern-day water-related infrastructure.

What are tee fittings?

As the name suggests, tee fittings are “T” shaped pipe adapters used to join three pipes of the same or different diameters, typically for the purpose of creating a branching connection in the existing pipeline. 

What are the different tee fittings?

Tee fittings come in many varieties, depending on their purpose, application, and the type of the system they’re used in, with some of the most common being:

• Equal (straight) tee – Used to connect three pipes of the same diameter, as all three outlets are of the same size;
• Reducing tee – One or two outlets are smaller in diameter than the main pipe, allowing for the connection of undersized pipes;
• Barbed tee – Used for flexible tubing, usually in low-pressure systems;
• Threaded tee – Used for easy connection in threaded pipe systems;
• Welded tee – Typically used in high-pressure systems to create a permanent connection by welding a tee to the pipes;
• Flanged tee – Features flanges that allow the tee to be easily connected and disconnected from the piping system.
• Compression tee – Typically used in plumbing and gas systems, as it allows for tool-free installation due to featured compression fittings.

In addition, there are two specialized types of fittings that are of particular interest to us, due to their versatility, reliability, and affordability: Saddle tee and Inserta Tee®.

What is a saddle tee?

A saddle tee (sometimes called a “saddle fitting” or “saddle clamp”) is a specialized type of tee fitting used to create a branch connection in the main water line. It consists of three components:

• Saddle-shaped body that wraps around and fits snugly around the pipe;
• A branch outlet that allows for a new connection;
• Clamps that hold the fitting firmly in place.

This design is the main advantage of a saddle tee, as it allows for the creation of a branch connection without cutting, welding, or shutting off the main water line, making it ideal for tapping into existing waterlines.

What is an Inserta Tee?

Inserta Tee® is an ingenious take on a standard PVC pipe saddle tee by the US’s leading fitting manufacturer – Advanced Drainage Systems, Inc. (ADS). This connector features a three-piece build:

• Rubber, EPDM, or nitrile sleeve: Inserted into the pre-cut pipe to create a watertight, air-testable connection;
• PVC hub: Inserted into the installed sleeve, enabling the branching pipe to be easily and securely fitted into the opening;
• Stainless steel securing clamp: Tightens around the sleeve to hold the entire assembly firmly in place and prevent leaks.

This design makes Inserta Tees incredibly easy to install without using any specialized equipment or methods and with only minimal modifications to the main pipeline. Plus, they are compatible with a variety of pipe materials, which is why Inserta Tees became the first choice for the creation of lateral connections in stormwater/wastewater and similar underground drainage applications.

Where can I find a high-quality PVC pipe saddle tee near me?

If you require top-tier water main and wastewater materials or high-end construction/utility equipment, Blair Supply Corp. is your premier destination. We’ve been in business since 1958 and have collaborated with hundreds of commercial, industrial, residential, municipal, and agricultural clients across thousands of projects. 

Rely on us to supply you with the exact type, size, and quantity of materials needed – and to do so in record time, regardless of whether your project is taking place in Maplewood Historic District, the larger Rochester area, or elsewhere in the U.S. Reach out to us today and secure a partnership that streamlines your work!