(a) Each welded branch connection made to pipe in the form of a single connection, or in a header or manifold as a series of connections, must be designed to ensure that the strength of the pipeline system is not reduced, taking into account the stresses in the remaining pipe wall due to the opening in the pipe or header, the shear stresses produced by the pressure acting on the area of the branch opening, and any external loadings due to thermal movement, weight, and vibration.

(b) The reinforcement required in a welded branch connection shall be determined by the rule that the metal area available for reinforcement shall be equal to or greater than the required area as defined in Rules for Reinforcement of Welded Branch Connections and examples 1 and 2 in Appendix 14-G of this Title.

(c) If a reinforcement member is required, and the branch diameter is such that a localized type of reinforcement member would extend around more than half the circumference of the header, then a complete encirclement type of reinforcement member shall be used, regardless of the design hoop stress, or a smoothly contoured wrought steel tee of proven design may be used.