Can I use Propress on ZoomLock Fittings?
It has been reported that pipe connections are always considered one of the most essential elements in HVAC and refrigeration applications. ProPress and ZoomLock are their breakthroughs in joining copper pipes; they provide an innovative, flame-free way to join them quickly. However, a common question arises: Can the ProPress tools be used on the ZoomLock fittings? As a result, this article will cover the compatibility between the ProPress and the ZoomLock system, the ProPress and ZoomLock differences, and how to utilize each best.
What is ProPress?
ProPress is an exclusive system that is generally used for plumbing and heating. It entails the application of a hydraulic pressing tool to connect unique fittings onto pipes to seal them in a manner that prevents leakage and does not require soldering or brazing. ProPress is fast, efficient, and safe. An ideal example is the iCrimp Copper Tubing Press Tool for 1/2,3/4,1-inch ProPress Copper Fittings.
What is ZoomLock?
Zoom Lock is a PTC system, especially for HVAC/R applications similar to Autolock. It is essential at this point to state that ZoomLock fittings are designed to work with refrigerants and the pressures and temperatures that accompany them. As with ProPress, ZoomLock also applies a pressing tool to lock the fittings, but it is optimized specially for the requirements of refrigerant systems.
Can ProPress Be Used on ZoomLock Fittings?
Compatibility Issues
The short answer is no; ProPress tools and fittings have not been built to be compatible with ZoomLock systems. Here's why:
- Design Specifications: The design specifications defining ProPress and ZoomLock fittings are different because of the roles each is assigned to play. ProPress fittings are created for water and heating systems; ZoomLock fittings are designed for refrigerants.
- Tool Compatibility: The pressing tools and jaws used for ProPress and ZoomLock differ. Applying a ProPress tool on a ZoomLock fitting may cause a connection that is not as fully sealed as it should be and, therefore, may develop leaks or system failure.
- Pressure and Temperature Ratings: ZoomLock fittings are designed to measure refrigeration applications' pressure and temperature levels. These differ from the pressures and temperatures of plumbing and heating systems where ProPress is utilized.
Ensuring Proper Use
Therefore, when making the connections, it is crucial to use the right tools and fitting on the intended systems. The interconnectivity of tools and fittings from different systems poses a significant threat to the installation's performance and safety.
Safe way of using ProPress and ZoomLock
Using ProPress
- Choose the Right Fittings: The specified ProPress fittings must be for use in plumbing and heating systems. An example of a water pipe fitting using the ProPress tool is the iCrimp Copper Tubing Press Tool ProPress Copper Fittings.
- Proper Pipe Preparation: Saw the pipes smoothly and remove sharp edges; the edges should not contain debris.
- Follow Manufacturer Instructions: One should follow the manufacturer's guidelines on pressing and securing the fittings.
Read more: How Reliable is Propress?
Using ZoomLock
- Use the Right Tools: Use ZoomLock pressing tools, such as iCrimp Plumbing Pressing Tool Kit Works for Zoomlock Copper fittings, which are pressing jaws intended for use with ZoomLock fittings.
- Prepare Pipes Correctly: As for material conditioning, the same remarks could be made as for ProPress: cut face must be clean and free from burrs.
- Verify Connections: This can be done using a Go/No-Go gauge to ensure the connections fit adequately and offer the correct specification.
Bottom line
ProPress and ZoomLock are flame-free connection techniques, though they are not interchangeable, and while ProPress has been used in pipe systems, ZoomLock has been primarily used in electrical applications. It is advised against using the ProPress on ZoomLock fittings as the design, compatibility of tools, and application may vary significantly.
The tools and fittings that are called for should always be used appropriately depending on the type of system in use. For HVAC or refrigeration applications, use ZoomLock, and for plumbing/heating applications, employ ProPress. iCrimp offers different tools for your specified connections and fittings.
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