Tube-to-Header
TTHC
Tuff Tube Header Connection
For tube-to-header connections in HRSG and boiler applications.
Learn moreProducts
The Tuff Tube Transition Product Family
Patented Connection Technology for Tube-to-Header, Tube-to-Tube and Tube-Termination Applications
The Tuff Tube Transition product family was developed to simplify critical HRSG and boiler pressure-part connections. Using sleeve-type and self-aligning connection geometry, TTT products are designed to reduce the installation challenges associated with conventional open-root butt welds, back-purging and difficult fit-up.
TTHC — Tube-to-Header|TTPS — Tube-to-Tube|Tuff Plug — Tube Termination
Choose the connection
Three products, three connection challenges
Tube-to-Tube
TTPS
Tuff Tube Purgeless Sleeve
For tube-to-tube tie connections in HRSG and boiler tube applications.
Learn more
Tube Termination
TP
Tuff Plug
For terminating pipe ends, long-neck nozzle chemical cleanouts and boiler tubes.
Learn more
Header replacement
TTHCs can be incorporated into new and stubbed replacement header assemblies through the TTT Header Integrity Program.
Tube-to-Header
TTHC
Tuff Tube Header Connection
Tube-to-Header Connection Technology
The Tuff Tube Header Connection (TTHC) was developed to address one of the most challenging areas in HRSG and boiler pressure parts: the connection between a relatively thin-walled tube and a substantially heavier header.
Conventional tube-to-header configurations can create a significant thermal-fatigue difference at the connection, with the Heat Affected Zone (HAZ) at the tube-to-header weld becoming a vulnerable area. The TTHC changes the connection geometry to reduce that thermal-fatigue gap and provide a stronger, more secure connection.
Why TTHC?
Reduced thermal-fatigue difference
Designed to address the transition between thin tube material and the heavier header.
No back-purging of the TTT weld joint
Eliminates the purge setup associated with conventional open-root weld configurations.
Simplified connection geometry
Uses TTT connection geometry rather than a conventional open-root butt-weld approach.
Faster installation
Designed to reduce repair and installation time and associated plant downtime.
Header integration
TTHCs can be incorporated into new/stubbed replacement header assemblies as part of the TTT Header Integrity Program.
Tube-to-Tube
TTPS
Tuff Tube Purgeless Sleeve
Tube-to-Tube Connection Technology
The TTPS Tuff Tube Purgeless Sleeve is designed for tube-to-tube tie connections in HRSG and boiler tubes. It uses a sleeve-type connection with lap-joint geometry and fillet welds, providing an alternative to conventional open-root tube butt welds.
The TTPS is self-aligning and designed to simplify fit-up, particularly in applications involving thin-wall tubing and high-alloy materials where preheat, alignment and purge requirements can make conventional tie-ins time-consuming and difficult.
Why TTPS?
- 01
No back-purging of the TTPS weld joint
Designed to eliminate tube-purge requirements at the TTT connection, including high-alloy applications.
- 02
Lap-joint / sleeve geometry
Uses fillet welds rather than a conventional open-root tube butt weld.
- 03
Self-aligning fit-up
Designed to remove the difficulty of aligning thin tube edges during tie-in work.
- 04
High-alloy applications
Source materials identify applications including P22, P91 and molybdenum-containing alloys.
- 05
Preheat-friendly fit-up
The self-fitting arrangement is designed to avoid cold tack welds prior to the required preheat sequence.
- 06
Heavier sleeve section
The source product description states the TTPS sleeve is typically a minimum 1.5 times the original tube-wall thickness.
For high-alloy work, the source material notes preheat temperatures up to 450°F and identifies the self-aligning fit-up as an advantage before welding.
Tube Termination
TP
Tuff Plug
Self-Aligning Tube & Pipe Termination
The Tuff Plug (TP) is a self-aligning TTT component with a backing shaft designed for terminating pipe ends, long-neck nozzle chemical cleanouts and boiler tubes.
The Tuff Plug applies the same practical TTT philosophy to termination work: simplify fit-up, eliminate the conventional open-root butt-weld configuration and remove the need to back-purge the TTT weld joint.
Tuff Plug applications & benefits
- Pipe-end termination
- Long-neck nozzle chemical cleanouts
- Boiler-tube termination
- Self-aligning fit-up
- No open-root butt weld
- No back-purging of the Tuff Plug weld joint
- Available in multiple material specifications and grades, including P22, P91 and carbon steel
Tuff Plug applications are reviewed case by case. Contact TTT about your particular termination application so the appropriate component can be identified.
Product application
One product family — three connection challenges
| Product | Application | Connection type | Primary use |
|---|---|---|---|
| TTHC | Tube-to-Header | TTT header connection | Repairs, stubbed headers and replacement header assemblies |
| TTPS | Tube-to-Tube | Sleeve / lap-joint connection | Tube repairs, tie-ins and header field connections |
| Tuff Plug | Termination | Self-aligning termination connection | Pipe ends, chemical cleanouts and boiler tubes |
Engineered for the application
Materials & application-specific engineering
TTT products are application-specific components. Material selection, dimensions and connection requirements should be determined for the actual tube/header material, dimensions and project conditions. Source product materials specifically identify Carbon Steel, P22 and P91 among applicable grades.
These are engineered pressure-part components rather than generic off-the-shelf fittings. Send your project information so the correct component can be selected or manufactured.
Ordering
Minimum order quantity
Minimum quantities apply per model number.
TTT components are engineered for the specific application. Required tube/header dimensions, material specifications and project information are reviewed through the Request for Quote process so the appropriate model can be identified or engineered.
Minimum order quantities will be confirmed with your quotation.
Need drawings, installation information or help identifying the correct TTT component?
Prepare before the outage
Be ready before the next tube failure.
An unplanned tube failure is not the time to begin identifying connection requirements.
TTT can work with plant personnel in advance to identify the appropriate TTHC, TTPS and other required components for specific HP, IP and LP HRSG sections.
With the connection requirements established and appropriate components available on site, repair teams can respond without beginning the component-selection process after the outage has already started.
01
Identify
Review tube/header dimensions, materials and likely repair locations.
02
Engineer
Determine the appropriate TTT connection models for the identified applications.
03
Stock
Maintain an application-specific TTT spares package on site for planned or emergency repair work.
Related solutions
Where TTT connections go next
Final call to action
Which TTT connection fits your application?
Send us your tube/header information and project requirements. We can help identify the appropriate TTT product and determine what additional engineering or project information is required.