Olets

Branch connection fittings, commonly referred to as allow a smaller "branch" pipe to be extended from a larger (or same sized) pipe run. Branch fittings are preferred whenever a non-reinforced miter-branch is satisfactory to withstand the internal pressure requirements.

Inventory

First Distributors can typically provide  for a same-day or next-day delivery. 

Large quantities, custom sizes, and special alloys (Alloy 20, Monel, Hastelloy, Inconel, Titanium, etc) may be subject to a longer lead time for delivery.

Size Range:1/4" to 36" Run Diameter, 1/4" to 2” Branch Diameter
O-Let Style:Weldolet, Threadolet, Sockolet, lateralolet, nippolet, elbolet
Standard Materials:A105, 304 SS, 316 SS
Exotic Alloys:A20, C276, Duplex 2205, Duplex 2507, Monel, Inconel 600, Inconel 625, Incoloy 800, Incoloy 825

Weldolets

A weldolet is a type of branch connection fitting designed to provide a reinforced outlet from a run pipe. It is contoured to match the curvature of the header pipe and is welded directly to the pipe, creating a strong, integral connection.

Key Benefits of Weldolets:

  • Reinforced branch connection (stronger than stub-in)
  • Smooth flow transition
  • Reduced stress concentration
  • Ideal for high-pressure and high-temperature service

Common Weld-o-let Applications

  • Gas pipelines
  • Petrochemical plants
  • Power generation
  • High-pressure piping systems

Other Types of Branch Fittings (Olets)

In addition to weldolets, we supply a full range of branch connection fittings:

Sockolets

  • Socket weld connection
  • Ideal for smaller pipe sizes
  • Common in moderate pressure systems

Threadolets

  • Threaded outlet connection
  • Used in low-pressure or non-critical systems
  • No welding required

Latrolets

  • Designed for 45-degree lateral connections
  • Butt weld outlet

Elbolets

  • Used to create branch connections from elbows
  • Maintains system integrity at directional changes

Nipolets

  • Combination fitting (olet + nipple)
  • Common for valve take-offs and drains

Weldolet vs Other Branch Fittings

Fitting TypeConnectionBest Use Case
WeldoletButt weldHigh pressure / critical service
SockoletSocket weldSmaller branch connections
ThreadoletThreadedLow-pressure systems
LatroletButt weld45° branch connections
ElboletButt weldConnections off elbows

A Guide To Branch And Run Size

The dimensions for a branch fitting are a common source of confusion.  When specifying the dimensions for an o-let, the first dimension will indicate the diameter for the branch, and the second dimension will be the diameter of the run.  As the image shows, the main pipe onto which the branch connection is welded is usually called the run (or header), and the pipe to which the branch connection provides extends is referred to as the branch (or outlet) size.

However, as can be seen in this image, the curvature beneath the O-let provides a "saddle" that is suitable for mounting on a range of "run" sizes.  The chart below indicates the run size ranges, by outlet diameter, for Bonney Forge (XH and STD),(3000#), and (3000#).  This chart also illustrates the importance of specifying the run diameter for the o-let application when ordering o-lets.

Branch Outlet Sizes

1/8¼3/81/2¾11-1/41-1/222-1/233-1/2456
3/83/81/21/2¾11-1/41-1/212-1/233-1/2456
1/2½1-3/43/411-1/41-1/222-1/233-1/24568
1-3/41-3/42-1/2-1-1/411-1/2-1-1/41-1/222-1/233-1/2456810
2-1/2-1-1/42-1/2-1-1/4
36-3
1-1/2-1-1/42-1/2-222-1/234-3-1/245681014-12
36-336-3flat2-1/2-25-32-1/23-1/2-34-3-1/25568101016
flatflat8-312-63-1/2-35-46-56681014-121418
36-1036-105-48-612-810-881014-1220-1618-1622-20
flatflat10-618-1024-1418-1212-1014-1220-162222-2028-24
36-1236-2036-2636-2018-1420-1636-2436-2428-2436-30
FlatFlatFlatFlat36-2036-24FlatFlat36-30Flat

Common Manufacturers

Approved Branch Fittings ManufacturersCountry
Bonney ForgeCanada/Italy
Capitol CamcoUSA
Phoenix ForgeUSA
IMFUSA