5.4　Branch Connection

5.4.1　For the piping with PN≤25，direct connection can be used provided that the reinforcing requirements are met.For piping with PN＞25，the branch connection shall adopt tees.

5.4.2　Auxiliary reinforcement in the form of stiffening rings，plates，and ribs should not be used for tees.

5.4.3　Type of tees for main piping may be selected according to Table 5.4.3.

5.4.4　The strength of tees shall meet the reinforcement requirements specified in 6.4 of this code.For stubs，forged tees，and welded tees，area compensation method should be used for determining the strength；for hot extruded tees，the pressure-area method should be used.

5.4.5　The confluence or divergence tees for main steam and reheat steam piping of the units at or above subcritical parameters should be skew tees or"Y"type tees.