INDUSTRY COMMENT Training – the key to success T


In this article, Ged Grimes, the UK business unit director, Conex Bänninger looks at the popularity of press fitting over more traditional methods. However, the need for product training is of paramount importance to ensure that systems are installed correctly


here is no mistaking the ‘sea-change’ that has taken place in recent years as installers increasingly appreciate the advantages of


press-fitting over such long- established jointing methods such as brazing (which has the associated inherent risk that comes with flame), requiring the necessary safeguards to be put in place. Whilst press technology has been proven in the heating and plumbing sector since the 1980s, it is still relatively new for air conditioning and refrigeration. Whilst traditional methods still have a role to play in the market, the speed of installation – up to three times faster with press-fit – is a major benefit. Just as importantly, installers don’t need to obtain a hot works permit with press, thereby resulting in major savings in time and money.


Not only that, but press is a much cleaner installation process due to the ease and simplicity of it. However, that said, it is still vital to have undertaken the correct training.


That is why Conex Bänninger has been at the forefront of providing training opportunities to the industry to impart the relevant skills, knowledge and support to installers. This includes a training centre, providing ‘face-to-face’ tuition, as well as the establishment of an ‘online’ training portal. Our online training portal enables the participant to learn at their pace and, once successful, can download a certificate which can be used to provide a customer with additional reassurance they are employing a skilled trade person. They also have access to their online ID, which they can show on the move via their mobile phone. Whilst face-to-face training is often a preferred option for some, others prefer the online ‘portal’


method as they can complete the course in their own time.


Why training matters


We all strive to get it right first time, but things don’t always go to plan. There can be various reasons for this but recognising a mistake and knowing how to correct it is key to keeping the customer happy and ensuring a first-class job is undertaken.


This is why making high-quality training available to installers is so vital. For example, a joint may not have been missed and not pressed, therefore it is critical that the system is pressure tested before handing over to the customer. By filling the system to atmospheric pressure first, and visually checking all the joints, means that all unpressed fittings can be identified and crimped to avoid any potential issues in the long-term once a system is running at working pressure.


Using a fitting that is specifically designed to leak if the joint hasn’t been crimped is a great fail-safe measure, providing peace-of- mind to the installer, who can then check all the joints and go back and press any that might have been missed.


Choosing the correct tube for a job and cutting to size with a proper pipe cutter is essential. The tube then needs to be deburred inside and out to ensure no debris is left in the pipework and that it has a smooth finish. The next step is to use a depth gauge or the fitting socket, simply mark the depth of the fitting with a marker pen. This gives a visual guide that the tube will go into the socket at the correct depth.


Once the tube has been marked to the correct depth, take the fitting and put it into the jaw. Press the joint using a press machine to achieve the perfect joint.


Supporting the training industry


Conex Bänninger is one of a number of manufacturers that has donated products to The Energy Training Academy in Dalkeith, Scotland, which opened its doors in February this year.


This state-of-the-art Academy is helping to produce the apprentices of tomorrow by putting youngsters on a pathway to employment, as well as upskilling experienced energy engineers. An LCL Award-approved training centre, it was the first in the country to operate as a social enterprise, meaning any profits will be re- invested back into the community. Conex Bänninger was delighted to support such an important initiative, both by providing products that can used for practical installation purposes,


8 BUILDING SERVICES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER DECEMBER 2023


but also working in partnership with the Academy where our expert technical team have the opportunity from time-to-time to share their expertise and Best Practice with students.


One of the biggest challenges facing the HVAC industry is a skills shortage. The opening of the first social enterprise, Energy Training Academy in Scotland, is another vital step forward in helping our sector tackle this.


The 12,000ft2 facility, which could see up to 100 new engineers attain the necessary qualifications each year, includes three industry leading lecture rooms that can each accommodate up to 15 students. There’s also a number of interactive areas to help trainees learn more about the benefits of renewable technologies, including heat pumps and solar energy.


Read the latest at: www.bsee.co.uk


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