What is a Propress Fitting?
Propress fittings have become one of the best choices for trade professionals when making pipe connections. It’s one of the innovations in the plumbing industry that has gained massive adoption in recent years due to its convenience and reliability. This post explains what Propress fittings are, what they are used for, and why you should consider using them over other traditional methods.
What are Propress fittings, and what are they used for?
Propress is a type of mechanical fitting used to make pipe connections in HVAC and plumbing systems. These fittings could be used in commercial, residential or industrial applications. Propress fittings work with a variety of pipe materials such as copper, steel, PEX and stainless steel. These fittings also feature an EPDM O-ring that enhances the integrity of a connection by making it air and water-tight for decades.
To install Propress fittings, you’ll need a unique tool called a Propress tool. An example of such a tool is the iCrimp IWS-1632AF Copper Tubing Press Tool for Propress copper fittings. As highlighted above, Propress fittings are pretty versatile and can be used in a wide range of applications, from plumbing systems, HAVC systems, and fire sprinkler systems to medical gas systems.
Read more: How Can I Install PEX B Fittings?
How Do You Install Propress Fittings?
Installing Propress fittings is a straightforward process and does not require a high level of knowledge and skill. Here is a brief guide on how to do it:
1. Preparation
Preparation entails choosing a pipe and Propress fittings of the appropriate size. It also involves cutting the pipe to the desired length and deburring the ends of the cut pipe to remove any sharp edges or burrs.
2. Position Propress fittings for pressing
The next step is to mark the depth of insertion for the fitting on the pipe. You should then slide the fitting onto the end of the cut pipe. Also, ensure the Propress fittings are fully inserted and aligned with markings.
3. Press the fittings with a Propress Tool
Open the jaws of your Propress tool and place it over the fitting. Ensure the jaws are well aligned with the fittings before pressing. Then, squeeze the handles of the Propress tool to apply pressure on the fitting and create a secure and tight connection.
4. Inspect the connection
After making a press connection, visually inspect its quality before making more connections. You can also do a pressure test to check for leaks.
What are the Benefits/Advantages of Propress fitting?
Are you wondering why you should probably use Propress fittings? Here are the key benefits of these types of fittings:
1. Saves time and money
Installing Propress fittings is pretty easy: it doesn’t require a high skill level. As a result, you can install these fittings more quickly than traditional methods such as soldering, which tend to be tedious and time-consuming. Reduced installation means you can save significantly on labor, especially on major projects. Also, Propress fittings are pretty easy to work with, even in tight spaces.
2. Secure, reliable and durable connections
For decades, Propress fittings have been used in various industries and have been proven to create secure, reliable, and durable pipe connections. When quality Propress fittings are installed using the right tools, they can last for decades before a repair/replacement is required.
3. No fire hazard
Making connections using Propress fittings doesn’t require brazing, often posing a fire risk. As a result, Propress stands out as an ideal alternative to soldered joints, especially in buildings/areas where open flames or sparks are prohibited.
4. Versatility
You can get Propress fittings that work with copper, stainless steel or PEX pipes, making them versatile and valuable in most plumbing work in various industries.
Bottom line
Propress fittings have made a significant impact on the plumbing industry. They are reliable, and installing them is pretty easy and fast compared to alternatives such as soldering. Above all, these fittings easily create secure and tight connections.
Whether a professional plumber or DIYer, you can easily achieve efficiency with a Propress fitting. However, proper Propress tools are required to make quality pipe connections. iCrimp is the best platform for buying Propress copper tools suitable for different pipe sizes.
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