Taps, Branches & Fittings ยท Taps, Branches & Fittings
Rectangular 45-degree shoe tap
Directional branch
ConnectionFastened/sealed shoe tap
SupportBranch support
Before you start
- Confirm the 45-degree shoe tap orientation, branch size, airflow direction, and branch centerline.
- Check the main-duct face for seams, reinforcement, joints, and nearby fittings.
- Verify there is room for the shoe body and branch support.
- Support the cookie before the last cut.
Tools and materials
Rectangular 45-degree shoe tap, layout tools, approved cutting tools, clamps, square, level, approved fasteners, sealant, branch support, and deburring tools.
Lay it out
- Mark the opening and shoe orientation from the approved branch route.
- Confirm the shoe points with the airflow and not against it.
- Check the full fitting body for clearance before cutting.
Set and support it
- Support the main as needed before opening the duct face.
- Hold the shoe flush and square with clamps.
- Provide branch support so the fitting does not carry the branch weight.
Make the connection
- 1
Cut the opening cleanly while controlling the cookie.
- 2
Deburr and clean the opening.
- 3
Set the shoe into place with the directional throat facing correctly.
- 4
Square the branch throat and align the branch centerline.
- 5
Clamp the flange flush to the main.
- 6
Fasten evenly around the flange.
- 7
Seal the full flange after fastening.
- 8
Connect and support the branch.
Check the install
- The shoe faces the intended airflow direction.
- The fitting is square and flush.
- The branch centerline continues cleanly.
- The main face is not distorted.
- The flange is fully fastened and sealed.
Common mistakes
- Installing the shoe backward.
- Cutting before checking the full fitting clearance.
- Fastening a cocked fitting to a bellied duct face.
- Letting the branch hang from the shoe.
Stop and ask
Stop if the directional orientation is unclear, the shoe conflicts with structure or reinforcement, or the branch route requires twisting the fitting.