Socket Weld Fittings

Socket Weld Fittings

A Socket Weld is a pipe attachment detail in which a pipe is inserted into a break area of a valve, fitting or Flange. Construction costs are typically lower for socket weld joints than with butt weld joints. Socket weld fittings can also be substituted for threaded fittings and have a smaller risk of leakage. Unlike standard butt weld fittings, socket weld fittings are typically used for small pipe diameters, NPS 2 or smaller. With socket weld fittings, a specially sized pipe is inserted into the recessed area of a socket weld joint. Socket weld fittings are used simultaneously with ASME Pipe and they are available in the same size range. The weld bead joins the inner socket surface with the outer pipe surface. Socket weld fittings are available in class 3000, 6000 and 9000. The fittings available include: elbows, reducers, tees, crosses, laterals, couplings, caps and socket welding reducer inserts.

The main disadvantage of these fittings is they tend to leave the pipe interior with hard to clean surfaces. There are mainly used for lines conveying flammable, toxic, or expensive material where no leaking can happen. As a result, their use in transporting food materials should be avoided.