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The Pressfit Piping System
The Pressfit Tools
Pressfit Components
The Need
In the piping installation industry, it is generally accepted that the tradeoff between the installation efficiency or productivity and the reliability of the installed system is very significant. More specifically, to ensure water tightness and joint rigidity, contemporary pipe installation technologies require tedious procedures for the connection and jointing of pipes. This reduces the installation speed and hence the productivity.
The Technology
The new piping installation system, called "The Pressfit System" (patented), comprises an innovative concept from Victaulic. It offers economy, speed, and reliability for joining small diameter pipes for fire protection, heating/air conditioning, process piping, plant utilities and many other services. (Victaulic 1992).
The system incorporates Schedule 5 stainless steel pipes from 3/4 to 2-inch, with a set of Pressfit couplings, elbows, tees, reducers, and adapters (Victaulic 1992). This system allows pipe assembly in seconds through the use of a portable electric tool, Pressfit Tool, that connects the fitting on the pipe with a permanent mechanical attachment (housing). The Pressfit Tool is specifically designed and manufactured for securing Pressfit Products onto the pipe.
The Benefits
The benefits that can be realized from implementing Pressfit as a piping installation system are numerous. They encompass the following:
- Fast, and easy assembly which results in high on-site productivity.
- Economical Schedule 5 pipe that reduces handling, shipping, and installation costs.
- Integration with roll grooved pipes and standard products.
- Rigid engagement of fitting into pipe.
- Completeness of a versatile system.
- High pressure rating.
- High corrosion resistance of Schedule 5 pipe as compared to Schedule 40.
- High reliability.
- Light weight Schedule 5 pipe that weighs less than Schedule 10 and 40 pipe.
- Superior hydraulic performance of Schedule 5 pipe. (Victaulic 1992).
Status
More widespread use of the Pressfit system is expected in the future due to its great benefits.
Barriers
The Pressfit System is a very specific system that can be applied for Schedule 5 pipes only. In addition, Pressfit products can be used only with O-ring and non generic fittings. These barriers to wider implementation would be eliminated in case Schedule 5 pipes become more of an industry norm in the future.
Points of Contact
- Victaulic Company of America, P.O. Box 31, Easton, PA 18044-0031. Phone: (610) 559-3300, Fax: (610) 250-8817.
Refrences
- Victaulic: 'Pressfit System', 1992.
- Victaulic Web page.
Disclaimer Statement
Neither the Construction Industry Institute nor Purdue University in any way endorses this technology or represents that the information presented can be relied upon without further investigation.