Extracted Copper Tee's

T-Drill forming extracted tee'sExtracted tee's or "pulled tee's" as they're sometimes called, is a method of forming a smaller branch in a larger diameter copper pipe. They are permitted for use under the 2010 National Plumbing Code of Canada, with the following stipulations:

  1. Only types K and L copper may be used because they have an adequate wall thickness. Type M and DWV is not permitted.
  2. The branch formed must be at least one pipe size smaller in diameter.
  3. Special tools designed for extracting tees must be used.
  4. The end of the pipe forming the new branch must be prevented from penetrating into the flow of the existing pipe.
  5. The new joint has to be brazed or silver soldered. Soft solder is not permitted.

Hand Formed Extracted Tee

Extracting a tee was common place in the past when labor was often cheaper than purchasing expensive manufactured copper tee fittings. In those days; pulling a tee involved cutting a small hole, repeatedly heating the pipe to anneal the copper and slowly forming the tee with a couple simple hand tools. An older friend I worked with demonstrated the process seen below. Thanks Marc!

Annealing the copper pipe Forming the extracted tee Finished extracted tee

Power Tool for Extracting Tees

T-Drill makes a handy tool set that really speeds up the process. It uses a special drill bit that once it pierces the pipe it extends out arms from the bit and when retracted will form a perfect tee. It also comes with a tool to form the branch end and dimple the pipe to prevent it from penetrating to far into the pipe.