Mechanical Tapping Bands, mainly used for water pipes, come in two parts, with four bolts joining them around the pipeline. The Acu-Flow DCI tapping bands are the ultimate solution for connection of PE main pipelines to branch pipelines for cold water. Made from epoxy-coated ductile cast iron (DCI), these fittings come with an EPDM rubber seal, making a durable and leak free join. The upper and lower parts of the Acu-Flow tapping bands are lined with rubber to prevent rotational movement around the main pipe. Clamp saddles, or mechanical tapping bands are available to join onto 32 mm to 400 mm pipelines, with various off-take sizes.
Acu-Tech supplies Tapping Saddles, Clamp Saddles and Tapping Bands, for joining an outlet into an existing pipeline. These fittings ‘tap into’ the pipe, without requiring a cut and join in the main pipe. A variety of tapping fittings are available – a branch saddle electrofusion fitting for large diameter pipe, mechanical tapping bands which do not require welding, gas tapping saddles which allow tapping into a live gas pipeline.
Mechanical Tapping Saddle FAQs
Tapping saddles are also known as tapping tees, branch saddles, tapping bands, pressure tapping valves, clamp saddles, repair saddle, reinforcing saddle, stop-off saddle, spigot saddle, or electrofusion saddle.
What is the difference between a Tapping Saddle and a Tapping Band? A tapping band is usually cast iron, thinner, and for a smaller diameter pipe, and is known as a band because the fitting goes the whole way around the pipe. A tapping saddle only sits on top of the pipe, like a horse saddle. During installation, a support or strap is looped around the pipe, but this is removed when the fitting has been correctly attached.
What is the difference between a Branch Saddle and a Tapping Saddle?
A branch saddle is similar to a tapping saddle, but usually has a larger opening, to which a spigot fitting would be fitted. For example, a tapping saddle would be used for connecting a house, etc. whereas a branch saddle would be used for connecting a street main.