Press fitting technology is a mechanical, solderless method of tube joining. No torches or solvents are required to make the permanent water-tight seal.
What is the procedure for soldering near a ProPress connection?
Stay at least three tubing diameters away from the press connection. If three tubing diameters is not possible, installer should take proper precautions to keep the ProPress joint cool while soldering.
- Wrap the joint with a cold wet rag.
- Fabricate solder joint prior to installing the press fitting making sure tubing is cooled before installing fitting.
- Use "spray type" spot freezing product.
As an inspector, how do I know if I am looking at a good joint?
Pressure test, same as a solder joint.
With what are the sealing elements in ProPress fittings lubricated?
The seals are lubricated with an NSF-61 approved silicone oil. If it is necessary to lubricate the seals in the field, use water only. Do not use other lubricants. In particular, DO NOT use any petroleum-based lubricants (petroleum and EPDM are incompatible).
How long will the EPDM seal last?
When properly installed, the EPDM seal and connection will last as long as the copper tubing with which it is joined (50+ years). This is confirmed in the NSF 61 test report.
What is the warranty for ProPress?
ProPress fittings carry a 50-year warranty against defects in material and workmanship from the manufacturer, Viega.
Can you turn a pressed fitting on the tube without damaging the integrity of the joint?
Yes. The fitting can be turned (not by hand) after pressing and will not effect the integrity of the joint. As a general rule of thumb, if the fitting is turned more than 5° it should be repressed to restore the resistance to rotational movement.
What level of turbulence is caused by ProPress fittings and will it cause premature wear in copper tubing?
The long radius of ProPress elbows reduces the turbulence typically experienced with traditional short radius fittings. Not reaming the ID of the tubing is the largest contributing factor to turbulence and premature wear of any piping system and would be a concern in any copper joining system.
Is ProPress approved for underground use?
Yes. ProPress can be used underground, but users must obtain approval from the authority having jurisdiction.
Can a user solder the female "C" end of a ProPress fitting?
This is not a recommended practice and constitutes improper use of the product. The recessed groove that normally houses the EPDM seal will interfere with the capillary action that normally draws solder into and around the tubing.
What are the flow rates through ProPress fittings?
Because of the long radius the flow rate is better than standard short radius solder fittings. Flow rates and flow rate calculations are the same as those used for solder fitting installations.
What if a user presses a fitting that does not contain a seal?
A fitting should never be installed without a seal.
How do ProPress joints hold up to freezing temperatures?
Copper water systems, both soldered and pressed, should not be allowed to freeze. When water freezes it expands and will damage the tubing or the system.
What should a user do if a ProPress system leaks?
In general, ProPress fittings only leak due to one of three reasons:
- The fitting was never pressed.
- The copper tubing was not properly inserted.
- The pressing jaws were not properly aligned over the fitting.
With the first situation, confirm tubing is properly installed and press. It is not necessary to drain the system to do so. In the second and third situation, the user must cut out the fitting and re-install properly.
Is ProPress compatible with the cleaning agents used to disinfect a new water distribution system?
Yes. However, it is recommended that you contact your local District Manager or Viega Tech Support for consultation.
Is an OD deburr required if I use a displacement-type cutter wheel?
Yes, deburring is required to prevent cutting the sealing element.
What is the Smart Connect Feature®?
Never miss another connection - Viega fittings have an indentation that helps the installer detect unpressed fittings when step-tested with water or air. Viega's Smart Connect Feature is a patented enhancement included in all Veiga fittings.
