Branch Connections / SOC
Sockolet - Socket Weld Outlet
Socket-weld connection outlet optimized for small-diameter branch connections.
Technical Specifications
Key Features
- Socket weld connection
- Small-diameter branches
- Easy installation
- High pressure rating
- Compact design
- Standard dimensions
Applications
- Instrumentation taps
- Small service lines
- Measuring devices
- Pressure ports
- Control valve take-offs
- Sampling points
Design Features
- Socket chamber with root-weld prep
- Reinforced body
- Smooth flow transition
- Tight tolerance for sealing
- Test-certified
- Material traceability
Connection Performance
Dimension Table
| Branch Size | Run Size | Outside Diameter (mm) | Socket Depth (mm) | Wall Thickness (mm) | Weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1/4" | 1" | 13.7 | 6.4 | 3.4 | 0.05 |
| 1/2" | 2" | 21.3 | 8.7 | 3.7 | 0.12 |
| 3/4" | 3" | 26.7 | 9.5 | 4.0 | 0.18 |
| 1" | 4" | 33.4 | 10.2 | 4.3 | 0.25 |
| 1-1/2" | 6" | 48.3 | 12.7 | 5.1 | 0.45 |
| 2" | 8" | 60.3 | 14.3 | 5.5 | 0.68 |
Technical Notes
- 01Socket weld depth is critical.
- 02Clean mating surfaces before welding.
- 03Preferred for high-pressure services.
- 04Post-weld heat treatment may be required.
What are branch connection (olet) fittings?
Olet-type branch connection fittings are forged components that create a reinforced branch outlet from a run pipe without using a tee. Made to MSS SP-97, the most common types are the weldolet (butt-weld), sockolet (socket-weld) and threadolet (threaded). They are used from 1/2" to 24" under the ASME B31.1/B31.3 piping codes.
Olet types: weldolet, sockolet, threadolet, latrolet, elbolet
An olet body is integrally reinforced: its own wall section compensates the opening cut into the run pipe, so no reinforcing pad is needed. The type follows the branch pipe connection: the weldolet takes butt-welded larger branches; the sockolet (socket-weld) and threadolet (threaded) serve small branches, typically below 2". The latrolet makes a 45° lateral branch and the elbolet takes a branch off an elbow. For branches much smaller than the run — say a 1" outlet on an 8" line — an olet is faster and more economical than a reducing tee: the run stays uncut and one weld gives a reinforced outlet. Materials: forged carbon steel A105N, A350 LF2 for low temperature, A182 F304/F316 for stainless. Delivered with 3.1 certificates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Weldolet vs sockolet vs threadolet — what is the difference?+
The branch pipe connection: a weldolet is butt-welded (larger branches); a sockolet is socket-welded and a threadolet threaded (both typically for branches below 2").
When is an olet preferred over a reducing tee?+
When the branch is much smaller than the run (e.g. a 1" outlet on an 8" line): the run pipe stays uncut and a single weld gives a reinforced outlet, whereas a tee needs two run welds.
What are elbolets and latrolets for?+
A latrolet takes a 45° lateral branch off the run; an elbolet sits on the back of an elbow, usually for drain, vent or instrument connections.
Which standards cover olet fittings?+
Dimensions per MSS SP-97; branch end details per ASME B16.11 (socket/threaded) or B16.25 (weld bevel); system design follows the ASME B31.1/B31.3 piping codes.
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