Press Connection Plumbing Technology from Viega

Viega leading the way with press connection technology

Plumbers using copper piping the world over have always relied on soldering for all types of installations. But over more than 20 years, German plumbing engineering company Viega has revolutionised pipe systems press connection technology as a faster and safer alternative. We take a look at why pressing is becoming the preferred industry connection method here in Australia.

Established almost 120 years ago in Germany, family owned installation technology manufacturer Viega is leading the way internationally when it comes to press connection technology. In the mid-1990s and in the year 2000, Viega revolutionised the market twice in quick succession: first with the introduction of the Propress system, then with the Smart Connect-Feature. And the company hasn't stopped there.

Now used in millions of applications around the world, not only in sanitation, heating and gas applications, but also in industrial facilities such as compressed air, cooling waters and process media, press connection technology is recognised as the modern-day alternative to traditional soldering here in Australia. Less time, less money, less risk and less hassle. And here's why.

Quick and cost-effective
With Viega's Propress technology, work can be completed up to 75 per cent more quickly than using conventional soldering procedures. Ultimately, only three steps are required: cut the pipe, press and finish. Laborious preparation and finishing work such as drying pipes and removing traces of fire and solder is no longer required.

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"And what's more, where previous soldering installations may have required at least two plumbers to carry out the work, press connection is more often than not a one-man job. Work can be carried out rapidly," says Robert Hardgrove, Technical Manager / Strategic Projects for Viega in Australia.

Safety first
As any professional plumber will know, there are jobs where due to the risk of fire, soldering is not an option. And in confined or awkward spaces, it can be difficult or even hazardous.

"As a cold applied solution, press fitting connection offers a safer and cleaner alternative to hot works and allows a secure connection even where space around the pipe is limited," says Robert.

Reliable
Viega's double pressing technique - one before the seam and one after - guarantees long lasting stability in the pipe system. And the Smart Connect-Feature technology included in products across the Viega range also ensures maximum leak detection. Unpressed connections are guaranteed to be noticed when filling the installation.

"With our Smart Connect-Feature, any inadvertently unpressed joints are identified during leak testing or when the system is filled for the first time. This reliable method of detecting any issues during installation it also vital to prevent costly remedial work after the project is completed," explains Robert.

viega smart connect feature

Neat and efficient
With the Viega system, there is only one tool for all applications - the Viega Pressgun. Unlike soldering, there's no oxygen or gas cylinder, no burner and no soldering accessories to transport and maintain. Viega Pressguns are light, quick, safe and require minimal maintenance.

Versatile
And thanks to the flexible articulated press jaws, they can easily be used in even hard to reach installations without causing a fire hazard. Assembly work in hard to reach places is considerably easier as the press tool can be applied into almost any angle required with its 180° pivoting head.

"We have Pressguns for a huge range of requirements," adds Robert. "For example, the compact Pressgun Pico is ideal for dimensions up to 28mm. Weighing only 2.5kg, it's particularly handy and practical. And the Pressgun 5 is one of the smallest and lightest press tools on the market for XL connections - and it certainly packs a punch."

Why use press connection technology?
- Tried and tested all around the world
- Up to 75% quicker than soldering
- Assemble in three steps with no preparation or finishing works required
- Cold connection technology with no risk of fire
- Long-term reliability and stability
- 100% reliable leak detection
- There's a press tool for every installation
- No running costs for solder, oxygen and gas bottles
- Ideal solution for hard to reach jobs

www.viega.com.au