Threaded Pipe Cross, Female PT Four Ways
Branches a threaded line in four directions from one point, with female PT taper threads on all four ports. Equal cross in 202, 304 or 316 stainless steel, 1/8″ to 3″, Class 150.
Product overview
A stainless steel pipe cross splits a threaded line four ways from a single point: one fitting, four female taper threads at right angles to each other. It does the work of two tees and the nipple between them, with four joints instead of eight and the branches already square to one another when it leaves the mould. That is why it turns up where space is tight and joints are counted: distribution manifolds, instrument take-offs, skid piping.
Ours is shell mold cast in our own plant in Taiwan in 202, 304 or 316 stainless steel and machined after casting, as an equal cross with the same size on all four ports. Sizes run 1/8″, 1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″, 3/4″, 1″, 1-1/4″, 1-1/2″, 2″, 2-1/2″ and 3″. The threads are PT taper threads. PT is the Japanese designation for the 55° taper thread that BSPT, R and Rc also describe; it seals on the thread with tape or sealant. It is not the same as NPT, which is a 60° thread and should not be mated with it even where the nominal sizes look alike. If your line is NPT, tell us with the inquiry; NPT is made to order.
The pressure class is 150. On stainless threaded fittings that number is a class designation, not a limit of 150 psi; the working pressure depends on temperature and is set by the fitting standard the class belongs to. For water, air and general fluid lines at ordinary temperatures it carries more than the pipe around it.
One honest note on the engineering. A cross does not divide flow into four equal streams; the straight-through path takes more than the two side branches. Where the branches only need supply, as in a manifold or a gauge take-off, that does not matter. Where four outlets must see the same flow, size the branches for it or use two tees with a spacer. Choose 304 for water, air and general service, 316 where chlorides are present, and keep every fitting in the run the same grade. This cross matches our stainless steel hex pipe nipple, threaded 45 degree elbow and threaded pipe cap, so one take-off list covers the whole line.
- Model
- FT-CROSS
- Body
- 202, 304 or 316 stainless steel
- Size range
- 1/8″ to 3″
- Thread
- Female PT (BSPT) taper thread, all four ports
- Other threads
- NPT made to order
- Pressure
- Class 150
- Port
- Equal cross, same size on all four ports
Applications
Every fitting checked for size and thread.
Each fitting is checked for dimensions and thread before shipment.
When do I use a cross instead of two tees?
When two branches leave the run at the same point and space or joint count matters: a cross is one fitting and four joints, two tees and a nipple are three fittings and eight. Use two tees when you need a custom spacing between the branches or a valve or gauge between them.
Does a cross split the flow equally?
No. The straight-through path takes more flow than the side branches. For supply manifolds and gauge take-offs that is fine; if four outlets must match, size the branches for it.
What thread is it?
Female PT taper thread on all four ports. PT is the same 55° taper thread as BSPT and Rc. If your line is NPT, tell us with the inquiry; NPT is made to order.
Should I choose 304 or 316?
304 for water, air and general service. 316 where chlorides are present: brine, coastal sites, washdown, most chemicals. Keep the whole threaded run in one grade.
What sizes can I order?
1/8″, 1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″, 3/4″, 1″, 1-1/4″, 1-1/2″, 2″, 2-1/2″ and 3″, equal on all four ports. Mixed sizes in one order are fine.
Do you make the matching fittings?
Yes. Hex nipples, elbows, caps, couplings and the rest of the threaded stainless range in the same grades and sizes. Send one take-off list and we quote it as one.
