Hench & Zapster,
Hench, I re-read the original post and maybe you and pennpiper are correct. I read the post with something else in mind. I assume abba7114 will clarify if he doesn't get his answer.
Zapster, whether I'm off-track or not, let me answer your last question anyway.
For pressure, ASME B31.3 requires Area Replacement for the cut-out removed for a branch opening. The area to be replaced is basically the calculated header thickness required for pressure times the branch ID. This area is to be within the reinforcement zones defined in ASME B31.3, Fig. 304.3.3. Surplus wall thickness in the header and branch not already used for Pressure, Mill Tolerance, corrosion or other allowances can be applied towards the required area replacement as well as branch weld areas. In many low pressure systems, the area replacement is satisfied for stub-in connection without the addition of a reinforcement pad. The reinforcement zone is present whether you have a reinforcement pad or not.
The extent of this zone will vary case by case and need not extend any further than what it takes to meet your requirements and won't extend beyond what's defined in Fig. 304.3.3. Of course you may need to add a pad to meet the area replacement requirement.
This is loosely paraphrased so refer to your governing piping code for specific facts.
NozzleTwister
Houston, Texas