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Taps, Branches & Fittings ยท Taps, Branches & Fittings

Round saddle tap on spiral

Branch from spiral main

ConnectionSaddle fastened/sealed
SupportIndependent branch support

Before you start

  • Confirm the saddle tap size, spiral-main diameter, branch angle, and approved saddle profile.
  • Inspect the saddle curve against the actual spiral diameter before cutting.
  • Check for spiral seams, joints, hangers, and reinforcement near the opening.
  • Support the cookie and protect the inside of the spiral from metal debris.

Tools and materials

Round saddle tap matched to the spiral diameter, layout template, marker, approved cutting tools, clamps, approved fasteners, sealant, branch support, and deburring tools.

Lay it out

  1. Mark the branch centerline on the spiral main.
  2. Fit the saddle to the outside diameter and trace the opening.
  3. Keep the opening clear of the spiral seam and transverse joints.

Set and support it

  1. Support the spiral main so it cannot rotate during cutting.
  2. Clamp the saddle evenly to the curved surface.
  3. Install the first branch hanger before loading the tap.

Make the connection

  1. 1

    Cut the opening while controlling the cookie.

  2. 2

    Deburr and clean the opening.

  3. 3

    Set the saddle onto the spiral and align the outlet.

  4. 4

    Clamp both sides until the saddle sits evenly on the curved surface.

  5. 5

    Install approved fasteners evenly around the saddle.

  6. 6

    Seal the complete perimeter.

  7. 7

    Connect and support the branch without rolling the main.

Check the install

  • The saddle matches the spiral diameter.
  • The flange contacts the main evenly.
  • The spiral main remains round and does not roll.
  • The branch aligns without side pull.
  • The saddle perimeter is fully sealed.

Common mistakes

  • Using a saddle made for a different main diameter.
  • Cutting across the spiral seam.
  • Fastening one side first and leaving the opposite side gapped.
  • Letting the branch roll the main.

Stop and ask

Stop if the saddle profile does not match the spiral diameter, the opening conflicts with the seam or joint, or the branch cannot be supported without rotating the main.