Saddle fittings

In the case of pipes with polyethylene coating, this can remain on the pipe in the area of the tapping fitting; removal is not necessary. The additional FZM coating on steel pipes serves as mechanical protection. Unless special tapping tools and fittings are used for FZM, this must be removed before tapping.

The retaining piece of the tapping fitting must be designed in such a way that damage to the corrosion protection is avoided; a wide design of the retaining piece reduces the surface pressure on the pipe.

Spiral drills made of tool steel (WS), high-speed steel (HSS) or with carbide cutting edges are suitable for avoiding long drill chips. Hole cutters made of WS, HSS or diamond-tipped are also suitable. All drill bits must be suitable for drilling steel pipes (see manufacturer's instructions).

The drilling device must allow for slow feed of the drill bit or cutter to prevent the cement mortar lining from breaking off in water pipes.