Introduction

Introduction to Aluminum Tees

An aluminum tee (aluminum tee fitting) is a type of pipe fitting used to divide a main pipeline into two or three branch pipelines. It is typically made from aluminum material and is widely used in liquid, gas, or powder transportation systems for pipeline diversion or merging.

Types

There are four main types of aluminum tees:

• Straight Aluminum Tee: All pipe diameters are the same, mainly used for flow splitting or merging applications.

• Equal-Diameter Elbow Aluminum Tee: One of the pipe diameters differs from the other two, typically used to change the fluid direction.

• Reducing Aluminum Tee: Also known as a reducing tee, where the main pipe and branch pipe have different diameters, suitable for applications requiring both flow direction change and larger flow capacity.

• Angled Aluminum Tee: The branch pipe is positioned at an angle relative to the main pipe, suitable for specific flow diversion requirements.

Specifications

Features

Features of Aluminum Tees

1.Lightweight & High Strength – Aluminum alloy has low density but high strength, making it ideal for lightweight applications.
2.Corrosion Resistance – The natural oxide layer on the aluminum surface enhances its resistance to oxidation and corrosion, making it suitable for humid or acidic environments.
3.Excellent Thermal Conductivity – Aluminum has superior thermal conductivity, making it ideal for heat exchange systems.
4.Easy Processing & Installation – Supports welding, threading, and flange connections for convenient installation and maintenance.
5.Eco-Friendly & Recyclable – Aluminum can be fully recycled, aligning with environmental sustainability goals.

Applications

• Plumbing Systems: Connects water pipes for branching or merging water flow.

• Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Systems: Used for refrigerant distribution or directional changes.

• Industrial Production Lines: Used for material transportation in automated production lines.

• Automotive Manufacturing: Applied in engine cooling systems, fuel lines, etc.

• Building Drainage Systems: Collects multiple drainage pipes into the main drainage system.

• Due to its lightweight, corrosion resistance, and cost-effectiveness, aluminum tees are highly practical in various engineering and industrial applications.

Process

Manufacturing Process of Aluminum Tees

1. Raw Material Preparation

Select appropriate aluminum alloys (e.g., 6061, 6063, 7075).

Procure aluminum tubes or bars and perform chemical composition analysis to ensure compliance with standards.

Cut aluminum materials to the required size.

2. Forming Process

Depending on the specifications, applications, and production requirements, aluminum tees can be formed using different processes:

(1) Hydraulic Bulging Process (for Seamless Aluminum Tees)

Uses a hydraulic press to place the aluminum tube into a mold and inject high-pressure fluid.

The pressure expands the pipe within the mold to form a tee shape.

Suitable for seamless tees with uniform wall thickness and high strength.

(2) Hot Extrusion Forming (for Large-Diameter Aluminum Tees)

The aluminum billet is heated and placed into an extrusion mold.

A hydraulic or mechanical extrusion machine forces the aluminum into a tee shape.

Ideal for large-diameter, high-strength aluminum tees.

(3) Welding & Assembly Process (for Custom Aluminum Tees)

Precision cutting equipment is used to cut the main and branch pipes to the required sizes.

Pipes are welded together using TIG welding (Tungsten Inert Gas welding) or MIG welding (Metal Inert Gas welding).

Heat treatment is applied after welding to relieve stress and improve weld quality.

3. Heat Treatment (Optional)

Solution treatment and aging treatment enhance the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of aluminum tees.

Required for high-performance applications such as aerospace and automotive manufacturing.

4. Precision Machining

CNC machining is used for end trimming, internal and external surface finishing, ensuring dimensional accuracy.

Turning, milling, and drilling processes are performed to accommodate various connection methods (threaded, flanged, etc.).

Deburring and polishing ensure a smooth, defect-free surface.

5. Surface Treatment

Based on application needs, aluminum tees undergo different surface treatments:

Anodizing: Enhances corrosion resistance and appearance, commonly used in food and pharmaceutical industries.

Spraying/Sandblasting: Improves wear resistance and enhances surface hardness, widely applied in automotive and aerospace industries.

Polishing: Reduces fluid resistance and enhances smoothness, suitable for high-end applications.

6. Quality Inspection

Dimensional Inspection: Conducted using calipers, coordinate measuring machines (CMM), etc., to ensure precision.

X-ray Testing: Examines weld areas for defects.

Pressure Testing: Ensures resistance to liquid or gas pressure.

Corrosion Resistance Testing: Salt spray tests verify performance in harsh environments.

7. Packaging & Delivery

Products are cleaned to remove any residual contaminants.

Anti-corrosion treatments and protective packaging (e.g., plastic sealing, wooden box packaging) are applied as needed.

Labels and specifications are marked before final inspection and shipment.