PHAM NEWS | FEBRUARY 2026 24 Pipes, Fittings & Valves


Designed to meet the needs of local heat networks


A new generation of Uponor Ecoflex VIP pipes has been launched by GF Building Flow Solutions for medium to large local heat distribution networks where reduced outer dimensions are important. The product builds on the


existing Ecoflex VIP range, combining flexible plastic carrier pipes with vacuum insulated panel technology to lower heat loss while reducing overall jacket size. Compared with systems using polyethylene insulation with similar performance, the new pipes are said to offer up to


60% lower heat loss and up to 70% smaller jacket dimensions. The product responds to


growing demand for more energy-efficient district and local heating systems. Heat losses in such networks can vary widely depending on scale and design, making insulation performance


a key factor. Flexible pre- insulated plastic pipes are commonly used in smaller and secondary networks where adaptability and ease of installation are required. The Uponor Ecoflex VIP pipes


use vacuum insulated panels, a technology also applied in aerospace, where achieving high insulation performance with minimal thickness is critical. The range covers single and twin pipe configurations for residential and commercial applications, supporting scalable network design with reduced space requirements. Smaller and more flexible,


the pipe is claimed to provide up to 50% installation time saving compared to steel pipe installation and up to 20% time saving compared to stiff pre- insulated pipes. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/226/30


One fittings range for both gas and water


WaterGas is the name of a new range of fittings from M-Press Fittings. Described as a unique product within the plumbing industry, WaterGas is a copper fitting that can be used for either water or gas installations, thereby saving the installer from needing to carry two ranges of fittings. WRAS and gas approved, the


fittings are available in sizes 15mm up to 54mm and also come with a


ID made easier with size and colour indication


Navigator has enhanced its portfolio with the introduction of a Kitemark and WRAS-approved press fit fittings range that includes a number of larger sizes. Sold as part of the MB brand, the range has proved to be useful in situations where assemblies are required, but hot works are not appropriate or even allowed on site. To further improve the product, the MB


press fit range for water now comes with a blue identification ring. Once pressed, the ring simply drops off, so the installer knows at a glance if the complete assembly has been pressed correctly and any unpressed joints can quickly be spotted.


50 year guarantee from the day of purchase. M-Press supply press fittings in


copper, brass, stainless steel 304 and 316, carbon steel and valves to 108mm


along with a range of press tools and accessories. The company was established in the UK in 2013 and now supplies over 1000 wholesalers and distributors in the UK and Ireland. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/226/31


Another innovation is the inclusion of the size of


the fitting on the identification ring, easy to spot and once again making life simpler for the installer. The new products are available ex stock from Navigator’s network of merchants. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/226/32


M-PRESS FITTINGS EW UNIVERSAL FITTING M-PRESS FITTINGS


WATER GAS FITTINGS NEW UNIVERSAL FITTING


No need to carry two types of fittings! No need to carry two types of fittings!


WATER GAS FITTINGS N


Copper press fittings for cold water projects


Now available from Conex Bänninger is the A Press Copper range, designed for drinking water and cold-water installation applications. The fittings are supplied with a 25-year guarantee and complement Conex’s established B-profile range. Press Copper fittings are compatible


with most M-profile press jaws and use a two-point press system to create a permanent, flame-free connection, removing the need for hot works during installation. The range is positioned for use by installers and contractors working on domestic and commercial projects.


Available in sizes from 15 to 54mm,


the fittings incorporate an unpressed- joint indicator O-ring to assist with identifying incomplete connections. The products are rated for operating pressures of up to 16 bar at temperatures of up to 110°C. The A Press Copper range is approved by WRAS and also holds DVGW certification. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/226/33


Frost protection for monoblocs WRAS Approved 01924 491797 info@mpressfittings.co.uk


ESBE has launched a frost protection valve for air source monobloc heat pumps, designed to prevent outdoor pipework from freezing during cold weather. The VTN102, part of the company’s VTN100 series, automatically drains water from the external circuit if temperatures drop below 3°C and closes again once the fluid rises above 4°C, without the need for manual intervention. The valve incorporates an axial sealing element with a piston


WRAS Approved


Now available from sizes 15mm to 54mm


Now available from sizes 15mm to 54mm


www.mpressfittings.co.uk


mechanism, which ESBE says maintains consistent compression and reduces the risk of sticking or leaking. An anti-vacuum feature allows air to enter the system during discharge, while the volume of water released is limited. The valve monitors water temperature directly in the circuit and operation is unaffected by ambient humidity. The VTN102 is designed for DN25 and DN32 pipe sizes (28 and 35mm) and


is available from ESBE and its approved distributors. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/226/34


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40