Volex 16mm Brass Press-Fit Equal Tee Pipe Fitting
Plumbing Pipe Fitting (Equal Tee) · Yellow Brass (Copper-Zinc Alloy)
Purity: 0K / Non-Gold (Brass Alloy)
Type
Plumbing Pipe Fitting (Equal Tee)
Purity
0K / Non-Gold (Brass Alloy)
Gold Type
Yellow Brass (Copper-Zinc Alloy)
Weight
80 - 110 grams
Description
An industrial plumbing component designed for heating and potable water systems. This is a Volex brand equal tee, utilized to split or combine the flow of three 16mm multilayer pipes. While it possesses a yellow-gold color, it is an architectural/plumbing brass alloy rather than a precious metal item.
Key Features
Stainless steel press sleeves, visual inspection windows in the plastic rings, and DZR (Dezincification Resistant) brass body.
Color & Finish
Dull matte yellow-gold hue on the brass body with a sand-cast texture; mirrored chrome/nickel finish on the stainless steel sleeves
Hallmarks & Stamps
Brand stamp 'VOLEX'; Size stamp '16'; Batch/Date code '09/21 104'; Material indicator 'CW617N' (typically found on such brass items)
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 70mm x 50mm; fitting for 16mm PEX-AL-PEX piping
Gemstones & Inlays
None (Transparent plastic positioning rings and rubber O-rings internally)
Clasp & Closure
Press-fit mechanical connection (Requires hydraulic or manual press tool)
Chain & Links
N/A (Rigid T-junction geometry with internal sealing rills)
Craftsmanship Details
Precision-machined internal grooves with a sand-cast external body and laser-engraved identification marks.
Authentication Indicators
Laser-etched Volex logo; clear, high-contrast industrial stamping; standardized 16mm diameter sleeves.
Origin & Maker
Volex (a brand under the Wieland Group or Marla), originating likely from Europe or Asia
Era & Period
Modern (21st Century Industrial Plumbing)
Age Estimate
Manufactured in September 2021 (based on '09/21' stamp)
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift from traditional soldering to high-efficiency, flame-free mechanical press-fit technology in modern construction.
Condition Notes
Excellent / New (Unused condition with no signs of tool crimping or water residue).
Value Estimate
$5.00 - $12.00 USD (Commercial hardware retail price; negligible precious metal value).
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry until installation to prevent surface oxidation; avoid contact with acidic cleaners; use specified press jaws for installation.
Similar Items
Copper solder tees, bronze threaded fittings, or PEX-insert plastic fittings.
Interesting Facts
Brass is often mistaken for gold by novices due to its density and color, but it is actually a copper-based alloy. Brass has natural antimicrobial properties suitable for water transport.