Reducing Tee, Slip x Slip x FPT PVC Schedule 40 2-1/2" x 1/2" (402-287)

The 402-287 is a Schedule 40 PVC reducing tee with 2-1/2-inch slip (socket) connections on both run ends and a 1/2-inch female pipe thread (FPT) outlet on the branch. The two 2-1/2" run-end sockets accept standard 2-1/2" Schedule 40 or Schedule 80 PVC pipe via solvent cement, maintaining a permanent, pressure-rated inline run, while the 1/2" FPT branch receives a 1/2" male-threaded fitting, instrument, valve, plug, or injection fitting. Representing the most aggressive branch reduction in the standard 2-1/2" run sub-series of the 402 matrix, the 402-287 is the fitting of choice when a large-diameter main pipeline needs a minimal-bore threaded tap — for pressure sensing, chemical injection, air relief, temperature monitoring, or a drain port — without a separate downstream reducing bushing and without disturbing the cemented main run on either side of the fitting.

At this run-to-branch size differential, the 1/2" FPT branch is firmly in instrumentation and injection territory. Buyers specifying this combination are almost exclusively solving a sensing, dosing, or relief function at a large-diameter main — not routing a secondary flow-carrying circuit — and the description and applications content reflects that. The mixed slip-slip-FPT configuration preserves the core serviceability advantage of the 402 series: the cemented 2-1/2" run is permanent and undisturbed on both sides, while the 1/2" FPT branch can be broken and reassembled independently at any time for instrument replacement, sensor calibration, injection fitting service, or port reconfiguration without cutting into the main pipe run. A threaded cap or plug installed in the FPT branch during commissioning also allows the port to be sealed and later opened when the branch connection is needed — a practical advantage in phased installations or systems designed with future monitoring or dosing points in mind.

Manufactured from rigid, high-impact PVC compound, the 402-287 conforms to ASTM D2466 dimensional standards and is rated for continuous cold-water pressure service. Apply a medium-bodied PVC primer and standard-bodied PVC cement per ASTM D2564 to both 2-1/2" run-end sockets; apply PTFE thread tape or an approved pipe thread sealant to any male-threaded fitting before engaging the 1/2" FPT branch. Do not overtighten the threaded connection, as PVC threads can crack under excessive torque.

Specifications:

Industries & Applications:

• Municipal & Commercial Plumbing — Adds a minimal-bore 1/2" threaded tap to a permanent 2-1/2" cemented supply or service main for pressure gauge connections, air relief valve ports, drain plugs, or small-bore instrument tie-ins in commercial plumbing systems where the main run must remain undisturbed and branch access must be independently serviceable.
• Water Treatment & Distribution — Used on 2-1/2" Schedule 40 distribution headers, filter manifold runs, and treatment system mains where a 1/2" threaded branch port is required for chemical dosing injection points, sample collection valves, pressure transducer taps, or air relief connections without interrupting the cemented large-bore main run.
• Irrigation & Agricultural Systems — Installed on 2-1/2" mainline runs at pump station headers, filter assembly manifolds, and zone distribution points where a 1/2" threaded branch is required for pressure gauge connections, fertigation injection quills, flow sensor ports, or solenoid pilot connections at large-bore cemented system mains.
• Industrial Process Piping — Provides a minimal-bore serviceable threaded branch on a permanent 2-1/2" Schedule 40 PVC process line for chemical injection fittings, pressure transducer ports, bypass bleed taps, or temperature sensor connections in corrosion-resistant systems where the large-bore cemented run must remain permanently bonded and branch access must be threaded for routine maintenance.
• Pool & Spa Equipment Rooms — Adds a 1/2" threaded branch to 2-1/2" cemented Schedule 40 circulation or return header piping for pressure gauge assemblies, air relief valve taps, chemical injection ports, or small-bore sensor connections that require independent disconnection without disturbing the large-bore cemented run.
• HVAC & Chilled Water Systems — Provides a 1/2" threaded instrument, sensor, or drain tap on a 2-1/2" Schedule 40 PVC drainage or secondary piping run in commercial mechanical systems where a minimal-bore serviceable branch must be introduced at a large-diameter cemented main for monitoring, venting, or condensate drainage functions.