How To Install Copper M Press Profile Fittings

Press fittings have become increasingly popular in plumbing and heating systems due to their quick, reliable, and flame-free installation process. Unlike traditional soldering or brazing methods, Press fittings use mechanical force to create a watertight seal, making them ideal for both residential and commercial applications.

There are various types of Press Fittings, but this guide will take you through everything you need to know about installing Copper M Press Profile fittings, including the tools required, step-by-step installation instructions, best practices, and common mistakes to avoid.

Raccordi a Pressare in Rame

Esplora i raccordi a pressare in rame Flowflex, perfetti per una vasta gamma di applicazioni, tra cui uso domestico, commerciale e industriale. Questi giunti senza calore, dal design esteticamente gradevole, garantiscono installazioni rapide ed efficienti. Con dimensioni che variano da 15 mm a 108 mm, offrono una soluzione affidabile ed economica. Clicca per scoprire la nostra gamma completa di raccordi a pressare in rame con profilo M.

Vedi la Gamma di Prodotti

What Are Copper M Press Fittings?

Copper M Press fittings are mechanical fittings designed to connect copper pipes without the need for heat or solder. These fittings use an innovative press tool to compress a sealing element, usually made of EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer), between the pipe and the fitting, creating a strong and durable seal.

The key components of a Copper M Press fitting connection include:

• The Fitting Body: Made from copper, the body is designed to fit around the pipe and is often marked with indicators showing where to place the press tool.

• The Sealing Ring: Typically made from EPDM, the sealing ring is compressed during installation to form a watertight seal.

• The Copper Pipe: Manufactured to BS EN 1057 standards.

Advantages of Copper M Press Profile Fittings

• Fast and Easy Installation
  The installation of Press Fittings is very quick, saving time compared to other methods like soldering, brazing or using Compression Fittings.

• Minimal Training Required
  Unlike more traditional methods, Press Fittings are easy to learn and use.

• No Flame Required
  Since no heat is used, Press fittings are ideal for installations in areas where flames are restricted or pose a fire risk.

• Reliable and Leak-Proof
  When installed correctly, Press fittings provide a secure, leak-proof connection that meets industry standards.

• Can Be Installed When Wet
  No need to drain water out of the system during installation

• Environmentally Friendly
  Copper, Brass and Steel are all highly recyclable materials, making metal Press Fittings an environmentally friendly option for your project.

• Neat, Aesthetic Appearance
  Press fittings offer a sleek, professional look that is great when aesthetics are important. Their streamlined design blends seamlessly with the pipework, making them suitable for visible applications in both residential and commercial settings.

• Versatile Applications
  Press Fittings are suitable for hot and cold water, heating systems, compressed air, and some gas applications (depending on the type of o-ring used).

• Reduced Risk of Installation Errors
  The precision of the press tool minimises the risk of errors during installation. The tool’s built-in safety features, such as press indicators, ensure that each fitting is correctly compressed, resulting in a secure and leak-proof connection.

Installing Copper M Press Fittings

Preparing Your Copper Tube

Proper preparation of the pipes and fittings is essential for a successful installation. Follow these steps to prepare your materials:

Attrezzature

Strumenti

• Tagliatubi
• Utensile per Sbavare
• Protezione per le Mani

Rifornimenti

• Tubo in Rame

Fasi di Installazione

Taglia il Tuo Tubo alla Lunghezza Desiderata

Taglia il Tuo Tubo alla Lunghezza Desiderata

Taglia il tubo in modo netto lungo il diametro utilizzando un tagliatubi di qualità o un tagliatubi rotativo.

Taglia il Tuo Tubo con Precisione

Taglia il Tuo Tubo con Precisione

È importante assicurarsi che le estremità del tubo siano pulite e tagliate ad angolo retto. Non farlo potrebbe influire sulla qualità della giunzione. Se il taglio non è piatto o il tubo è troppo corto, potrebbe non raggiungere lo stop del tubo compromettendo l'integrità della giunzione. Se è troppo lungo, potresti introdurre tensioni nell'intero sistema.

Pulisci la Presa del Tubo

Pulisci la Presa del Tubo

Utilizzando il tuo utensile per sbavare, assicurati che l'interno del tubo sia liscio e non interferisca con il flusso.

Pulisci l'Esterno del Tubo

Pulisci l'Esterno del Tubo

Pulisci l'esterno del tubo, assicurandoti che non ci siano residui di tubo, sporco o granelli vicino alla giunzione. Non rimuovere tutti gli ossidi o qualsiasi materiale nelle zone di sovrapposizione di raccordi e tubo può interferire con l'azione capillare, riducendo la forza della giunzione saldata, portando a un guasto.

Allo stesso modo, una pulizia eccessiva può rimuovere troppo materiale, provocando una vestibilità allentata e un guasto.

Connecting The Copper M Press Fittings

Once your pipes and fittings are prepared, follow these steps to complete the installation:

Attrezzature

Strumenti

• Press Tooling - 'M' Profile Jaws
• Press Gun

Rifornimenti

• Pipe
• M Profile Press Fittings

Fasi di Installazione

Check And Mark

Check And Mark

Before inserting the pipe, check the O-ring is present, lubricated and free from damage.

Insert the tube into the fitting up until it hits the pipe stop. Mark the insertion depth with a black marker on the tube to ensure the pipe has been fully inserted before pressing.

Make Sure Everything Is Clean and Free of Debris

Make Sure Everything Is Clean and Free of Debris

It is important that the outside of the pipe and the socket of the fitting are clean and free from debris. Any debris could damage the O-Ring on insertion.

Crimp The Fitting

Crimp The Fitting

Ensure you select the correct size jaw and that the jaw is M profile. The jaw must be placed square on the fitting and the joint is only complete when the mouth of the fitting is fully enclosed by the jaws.

After the press cycle is complete remove the jaws and check that the socket depth marking on the pipe has remained in place, adjacent to the now pressed mouth of the fitting.

Best Practices and Tips

• Ensure Proper Alignment
  Misalignment of the pipe and fitting during pressing can lead to an incomplete seal. Always ensure the pipe is fully inserted and aligned correctly before pressing.

• Use the Right Press Jaws
  Each fitting size requires a specific press jaw. Using the incorrect size can lead to poor seals or damaged fittings.

• Keep Your Fittings Clean
  Dirt and debris can compromise the seal. Always clean the pipe and fitting thoroughly before assembly.

• Mark Your Fitting After Pressing
  Having a quick visual reference to show that you have pressed each fitting can be really useful when you come to commission your system.

• Regularly Maintain Your Press Tool
  Proper maintenance of your press tool, including calibration and jaw inspection, is essential for ensuring reliable connections.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Incomplete Pressing
  Failing to fully compress the fitting can result in leaks. Always ensure the press tool completes its cycle before releasing the jaws.

• Damaging the Sealing Ring
  Burrs, sharp edges, or improper handling can damage the sealing ring, compromising the seal. Always deburr and inspect the pipe ends.

• Using Incorrect Tools
  M Press fittings require specific tools for proper installation. Using the wrong tools can damage fittings and lead to poor connections.

Wrapping Up

Copper M Press fittings offer a fast, reliable, and flame-free solution for connecting copper pipes in plumbing and heating systems. By following the proper preparation and installation steps, using the correct tools, and adhering to best practices, you can achieve secure and leak-proof connections every time.