DRAINAGE & PLUMBING
PRESSING THE CASE FOR FLAME-FREE JOINTING
Press fit systems have seen significant growth over the last two years, with a recent report highlighting the rise of flame-free jointing in the UK’s pipes and fittings sector. BMJ looks at what factors are driving the trend.
P
ress fit plumbing technology is gaining real momentum amongst plumbers and installers. That was one of the findings of the 2018 Pipes & Fittings Market Report, published by AMA Research earlier this year. AMA’s findings signalled a clear shift across the sector, with more installers than ever adopting press fit systems. AMA researchers picked up that the drivers behind this seem to be the considerable savings made on installation time, although they also found that health and safety considerations were also a factor - hot works such s soldering require propane and, therefore, a hot work permit
“Merchants are well aware that some installers remain steadfast in their loyalty to soldering copper joints on-site,” says Antony Corbett, product manager for Geberit. “Yet soldering can sometimes be difficult to implement during a project – site conditions or safety regulations, for example, can mean that hot works may simply be unsuitable for the job at hand. Press fit can, therefore, offer a much safer alternative to conventional pipework connection method,” he says.
Corbett adds that it’s important for merchants to understand that pressing solutions, such as Geberit Mapress, feature a pressing jaw with jaw guide ensuring a long-lasting connection when marked up and pressed correctly. “Most leading manufacturers also offer product innovations including pressing indicators which offer easy identification of both material and unpressed joints during the installation process, as well as end caps for enhanced cleanliness,” he says.
The pressing matter of productivity
Pressing systems also offers greater efficiencies than other jointing methods, Corbett adds. “For one thing, no requirement for hot works means no cooling down period, which can add unnecessary time to any soldering job. Pressing is also straightforward and fast - simply cut to length, deburr, mount the fitting and press. In fact, according to BSRIA, press fit systems can take 30% less time to install than their traditional counterparts; this can, on average, help reduce the cost of jobs by approximately 27% compared to methods such as screwed or threaded systems.”
Training in new systems such as press fit is, of course, essential, for those using the products and those selling them. Corbett says; “ Our free product training, for example, looks at just this as well as covering both the supply side and drainage side. Merchants should be able to provide information to installers on the tools required to make the switch and ways they can manage the inevitable cost of new equipment.” Another important consideration, he adds, is the technical support. Geberit also offers a ProApp, where installers can view product specifications, installation instructions and video content.
Surge in growth
“When we consider just what press fit systems have to offer, it’s no surprise that they are seeing a surge in growth,” he continues. “Clean, reliable, easy to use – the technology can really
December 2018
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net
improve efficiency and productivity for installers. With product development constantly evolving, forward thinking installers are always be on the lookout for more innovative and cost-effective ways of working.”
The bottom line
So, what does Corbett believe this all means for merchants? “It’s simple,” he says. “Always being open to suggesting the more innovative and effective products and systems can help boost working practices and help improve efficiency for the installer. Time is, after all, a precious commodity and it is only natural that working smarter can increase profit all-round. With product development constantly evolving, not to mention manufacturers taking on board learnings from the European market, efficiencies and enhancements can be achieved by selling the right products and materials.
“It’s reassuring to see merchants and installers keeping an open mind and a keen eye out for newer ways of working.” . BMJ
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