Plumbing Connection 4-2015

39 / 116

PLUMBI
identified in AS 3688 (Water Supply – Metallic fittings and
end connectors) and the lack of connection between the
three documents is the issue.
Due to the nature of developing and amending Standards
over years at a time involving many people, industry
representatives and interests, technology often overtakes
these documents as products, innovation and experience
arise in the profession.
Standards are reviewed at a maximum of 10 year
intervals or sooner if deemed necessary to remain relevant;
from the 1st of May 2016 the NCC is using a 3-year cycle
for producing updates. This becomes problematic when
these same documents are a necessity for specifications,
inspections and complying with law, especially for disputes
and guidance.
In the case of stainless steel press-fit, the current
publications have overlooked this method of joining
despite the testing and historical evidence of stainless
press-fit being used successfully in hundreds of Australian
constructions, WaterMark approvals and becoming the
preferred method of installing pipework over the past 20
years.
WHAT’S THIS MEAN FOR YOU?
Both specifiers and installers need to be aware of the
implications arising from not only stainless press-fit but all
advances in methods and technology – the risk, despite the
success or performance, by not understanding the detailed
and complex processes that go on in the background of this
industry that provide you with a set of Standards and Codes
appropriate for you to work under.
Most of this work is done by a few very dedicated
volunteers, conversing with Standards Australia and the
Australian Building Codes Board. While it may look like a
simple paperwork amendment is required for an oversight
or improvement, such matters take time and lots of
documentation to amend.
After a lot of work within the industry to make
(what most would think is a minor update or amendment)
the appropriate correction in AS/NZS 3500.4:2015,
the extraordinary bureaucratic process in this case
means the required change was not included in in AS/NZS
3500.4:2015 and an amendment will not be published in
time for the 2016 amendment to the Plumbing Code of
Australia.
OXYSET
MOBILE BRAZING & WELDING SYSTEM
For more information call 1300 276 642 or visit
MAP//PRO
M
OXYG E N
The Bromic Oxyset is a trade grade mobile brazing
and welding system that utilises disposable oxygen
and Map-Pro cylinders. It is ideal for silver soldering,
brazing, heating and thin metal cutting. The set is
designed for ultimate portability so there is no need
to carry large industrial cylinders or use long gas
hoses to reach your job site. The set also eliminates
the need for expensive cylinder rentals or time
consuming paperwork when participating in rental
programmes.
NEW
Supplied with arrestors for blowpipe and
regulator ends
Easy one handed fuel and oxygen flow
adjustment
Supplied with two gauges on oxygen for flow
and contents and one gauge on the fuel regulator
showing contents