What are stainless steel reducers?
Stainless steel reducers are pipe fittings that connect two pipe sections with different nominal diameters. They enable a controlled transition between different pipe diameters within a piping system and are an indispensable connecting element in plant and pipeline construction.
WITTE HiTEMP offers a large range of seamless and welded reducers in concentric and eccentric designs. All reducers are made of proven high-temperature-resistant materials and are designed for use in thermally and chemically demanding processes.
Concentric and eccentric reducers: what is the difference?
When selecting the right reducer, the design is crucial. Basically, a distinction is made between two versions:
The concentric reducer has a common centre point. Both connections lie on the same centre axis. This design is particularly suitable for vertical pipelines and wherever symmetrical flow routing is desired.
The eccentric reducer, on the other hand, has an offset centre point. One side runs straight, the other is tapered. As a result, either the top or the bottom of the pipeline remains flush. This design is preferred in horizontal lines to avoid air pockets or to allow the line to drain completely.
When do you use an eccentric reducer and when a concentric one?
A concentric reducer is the right choice when the centre axis of the pipeline is to be maintained. Typical applications are vertical line sections, pump inlets and outlets in vertical arrangements, and systems that require symmetrical flow routing.
An eccentric reducer is used when the pipeline runs horizontally and complete drainage or venting must be ensured. In the food, pharmaceutical and process industries, the eccentric design is therefore often the preferred solution, as it is more hygienic and prevents dead zones in the system.
Which materials are available at WITTE HiTEMP?
● 1.4841 | AISI 314
● 1.4845 | AISI 310S/H
● 1.4878 | AISI 321H
● 1.4835 | 253 MA
● 1.4876 | Alloy 800
● 1.4828 | AISI 309
We permanently stock the following materials for delivery at short notice:
● 1.4841 | AISI 314
● 1.4845 | AISI 310S/H
● 1.4878 | AISI 321H
● 1.4835 | 253 MA
Many dimensions are also available. We can provide further dimensions and special materials through our worldwide network. We will be happy to advise you on availability, dimensions and delivery times.
To which standards are the stainless steel reducers manufactured?
Our stainless steel reducers are manufactured and certified to the common international standards. All parts are supplied as standard with inspection certificates to EN 10204 and meet DIN/EN as well as ASME requirements. The following standards are available:
● EN 10253-4 A/B and EN 10253-3 for stainless steel pipe fittings
● ASTM A 403 and ASME B16.9 for international use
● Manufacture to drawing from bar stock for individual special requirements
Individual testing and documentation to customer-specific requirements are available on request.
Are seamless or welded reducers better?
For most industrial applications, welded stainless steel reducers offer a fully adequate solution that complies with the relevant standards. Seamless reducers are preferred where particularly high pressures, strongly fluctuating loads or safety-critical processes are involved. WITTE HiTEMP offers both versions and will advise you on the right choice for your specific application.
