BSEE-MAY21-P26-27 Pipes Valves Fittings_Layout 1 22/04/2021 14:52 Page 27
PIPES, VALVES & FITTINGS
Improved quality and consistency
When welding and soldering, the quality and consistency of the connection often rely on the skills of the installer. However, the design of press connections ensures a strong, reliable and uniform connection. The press tool will apply the correct level of pressure and will automatically release when the connection is complete. The nature of the method means that the connection is either fully pressed and secured - or missed entirely. Also, products that feature a double pressing before and after the sealing element will create a permanent seal that better resists torsional and longitudinal forces.
It is important to specify a system that will leak when tested because installers run the risk of the unpressed connection holding during testing, for it to only fail once the building has been completed and occupied.
This can result in expensive remedial work later on. Reliable systems that will leak should a connection not be made properly have to be selected to ensure quality work. For example, Viega has implemented its SC-Contur technology into all of its fittings. This ensures that there is a visible escape of water from the connection when the system is filled for the first time. Additionally, the technology also allows for dry testing with inert gas where a measurable drop in pressure will occur if a connection has been missed. In the event that a connection has not been completed, the missed fitting can be pressed immediately. This avoids the need to drain the section completely – an additional step that can be quite time-consuming.
Enhanced health and safety
Lastly, modern press connections eliminate several health and safety concerns. In 2019, the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) Bulletin advised that the manganese released from welding is a human carcinogen. As such the HSE introduced stricter regulations when it comes to welding, which includes more protection, further training and monitoring. However, all of the additional health and safety measures increase time, labour and costs.
Also, as a cold-applied system, press connections avoid the need for hot works and as such can be used in any area of a building. This overcomes the issues faced when installing pipework in areas with a higher risk of fire or combustion.
Simplifying the installation process across a project by using the press connection method offers significant benefits for not only the M&E teams but for the overall construction as well. Press connection technology is suitable for a wide range of applications and materials, while
BSEE
delivering greater on-site flexibility, simplified training requirements and reduced equipment needed on site. These benefits, in addition to the improved health and safety requirements, contribute to the speed and success of the install.
www.viega.co.uk
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BUILDING SERVICES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER MAY 2021 27
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