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PLUMBING CONNECTION
AUTUMN 2015
It is important to consult with the manufacturer of the
fittings to determine which tools they warrant to be used
on their system. It is also important to note that the profile
of fittings is not the same across the board; for example, B
Press and Viega use a 3 point press, whereas the Kempress
fitting is a 2 point press.
For a step-by-step visual of the joining process, please
see page 52.
With so many benefits provided by copper press-fit
systems, let’s take a look at the four available in Australia.
ZETCO
After two years in development, Zetco Valves recently
launched its new range of press-fit ball valves in sizes
15mm to 50mm, specifically designed for Australian copper
tube sizes.
Zetco Press-fit is a range of ball valves, designed and
manufactured with a built-in press connection. This
results in fewer joints, less mess and major savings
through reduced installation time. The integral connection
eliminates the use of additional fittings which means fewer
leak points for every valve. The range is manufactured under
Zetco’s high standards in Italy. Rigorous design and testing
has taken place to ensure that Zetco’s premium quality is
evident in this new range.
The gas ball valves are certified by the Australian Gas
Association (AGA) to AS 4617 and tested to DVGW VP614.
The water valves are WaterMarked by IAPMO R&T Oceana
to AS 5830.1. The press-fit ends have been tested to
AS3688 and the material composition complies with
AS2345.
With the press-fit connections built into the valve, the
new range can be used with existing V-profile tools from
Viega®, Rothenberger® and KemPress®, offering flexibility
while avoiding costly outlay on new tools.
Zetco Valves warrants that the joint pressed by a Viega®,
Rothenberger® or KemPress® V-Profile tool will not leak
for a minimum period of 25 years provided it is installed
according to the installation instructions provided with
every valve. Installation instructions can also be found on
the Zetco website.
CONEX >B<PRESS
Conex Bänninger was launched >B< Press in December
2011 to satisfy a growing demand for press-fit systems in
Australia.
Conex >B< Press is a versatile press-fitting system for
use with hard, half-hard and soft copper tube, providing
a secure, long-life, leak-proof joint. They are available in
Copper and Red Brass and are suitable for use with copper
tube to EN 1057.
>B< Press is installed with a mechanical press tool with
a compatible jaw to fit each size of fitting required. When
pressure is exerted through the press tool the joint is
permanently made and the fitting cannot be dismounted or
re-used. >B< profile has the advantage of a 3 Point Press,
which includes two mechanical presses either side of the
bead and one hydraulic press crimping the o-ring. They
claim this provides a more secure joint.
Conex has also developed a unique pressing indicator, a
specially designed EPDM o-ring. It has a reduced section
in two positions, causing leaks at low pressures when not
pressed (from 0.1 to 5.0 bar). When the fitting is pressed,
the o-ring material compresses, filling the gaps, securing a
leak-free path.
Therefore there is no need to go to full test pressure to
check that all fittings have been pressed. This >B< Press
feature is available in fittings sized 12-108mm and suitable
for hot and cold water applications.
Warranty is 25 year guarantee against faults caused
by defective manufacture of the fittings. It does not
cover faults arising from incorrect installation. The
warranty covers installation with type A and B copper tube
JOINING COPPER
IMAGE 1:
Zetco’s recently launched range of press-fit ball
valves.
IMAGE 2:
>B< Press is installed with a mechanical
press tool with a jaw to fit each size of fitting required.
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