TC Fitting Size Chart: Tri-Clamp Flange Dimensions
TC sanitary fitting sizes can be confusing because the stated fitting size does not always match the measured outside diameter of the flange. Some TC fittings also share the same flange diameter even though their internal openings and tube sizes are different.
Use this TC fitting size chart to compare nominal sanitary fitting sizes with approximate tri-clamp flange diameters. It can help identify sanitary ferrules, clamps, gaskets, valves, reducers, spools and stainless steel TC fittings.
TC Sanitary Fitting Size Chart
| Nominal TC Size | Approximate Flange OD | Approximate Flange OD in Millimetres |
|---|---|---|
| 1/2" | 0.985" | 25.02 mm |
| 3/4" | 0.985" | 25.02 mm |
| 1" | 1.988" | 50.50 mm |
| 1 1/2" | 1.988" | 50.50 mm |
| 2" | 2.519" | 63.98 mm |
| 2 1/2" | 3.047" | 77.39 mm |
| 3" | 3.579" | 90.91 mm |
| 4" | 4.675" | 118.75 mm |
| 6" | 6.562" | 166.67 mm |
| 8" | 8.602" | 218.49 mm |
| 10" | 10.570" | 268.48 mm |
| 12" | 12.570" | 319.28 mm |
Dimensions are approximate identification references. Measurements can vary slightly by manufacturer, fitting standard, production tolerance and measurement method.
What Is a TC Sanitary Fitting?
A TC fitting is a sanitary clamp connection commonly used in food and beverage processing, dairy systems, pharmaceutical equipment, water treatment, chemical processing and other fluid-handling applications.
A complete TC connection normally consists of two matching sanitary ferrules, one compatible gasket and one clamp. The gasket fits between the ferrule faces while the clamp holds the connection together.
How Is TC Fitting Size Determined?
The nominal TC fitting size usually relates to the outside diameter of the sanitary tube connected to the ferrule—not the outside diameter of the flange.
For example, a 1 1/2-inch TC fitting has an approximate flange diameter of 1.988 inches. Measuring only the flange and assuming it should measure 1.5 inches will result in the wrong fitting size.
TC Sizes That Share the Same Flange Diameter
Some sanitary fitting sizes use the same outside flange diameter:
- 1/2-inch and 3/4-inch TC fittings both have an approximate 0.985-inch flange diameter.
- 1-inch and 1 1/2-inch TC fittings both have an approximate 1.988-inch flange diameter.
A clamp may fit both fittings within one of these shared flange groups, but the internal openings, ferrule bores and gasket openings can differ. Measure the tube or internal opening as well as the flange before selecting a replacement gasket or fitting.
How to Measure a TC Fitting
- Remove the clamp and gasket from the connection.
- Use a caliper to measure across the widest outside edges of the ferrule flange.
- Compare the flange measurement with the TC sizing chart.
- Measure the tube outside diameter or ferrule opening.
- Confirm both measurements before choosing a fitting, clamp or sanitary gasket.
Do Not Measure Only the Gasket
A used sanitary gasket may stretch, compress or become distorted. Measuring only the outside edge of the gasket can produce an inaccurate result.
For the best TC fitting identification, measure the stainless steel ferrule flange and the connected tube or internal opening. Then select a gasket designed for that specific nominal sanitary fitting size.
What Parts Are Needed for a TC Connection?
A standard sanitary clamp connection requires:
- Two compatible TC ferrules
- One correctly sized sanitary gasket
- One correctly sized clamp
The gasket creates the seal. The clamp supplies the pressure needed to hold the ferrules and gasket together. The clamp itself does not create the sanitary seal.
Choosing a TC Sanitary Gasket
TC gaskets are available in materials such as silicone, EPDM, PTFE and FKM. The correct gasket material depends on the liquid or gas being transferred, operating temperature, pressure, cleaning chemicals and intended application.
Matching flange diameters do not always mean two gaskets are identical. This is especially important with 1-inch and 1 1/2-inch sanitary fittings, which share a flange diameter but can use different internal gasket openings.
TC Fittings, Tri-Clamp and Tri-Clover
TC, tri-clamp and sanitary clamp are commonly used descriptions for this style of sanitary connection. Tri-Clover is a trade name associated with sanitary processing equipment and fittings.
When ordering replacement hardware, rely on the nominal fitting size, flange diameter, tube diameter and applicable connection standard rather than the name alone.
Shop TC Sanitary Equipment
Browse stainless steel TC fittings, sanitary clamps, gaskets, adapters, reducers, spools, valves, sight glasses and cleaning equipment available from Canuck Homebrew Supply.
Shop All TC Sanitary Equipment
If you are unsure which TC fitting size you require, compare both the flange diameter and tube opening with the chart above. Photographs and precise measurements can also help identify the correct sanitary fitting, clamp or gasket.