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The Pressfit Piping System
The Need
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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 Pressfit Tools
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The Technology
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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. |
Pressfit Components
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The Benefits
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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).
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Status
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More widespread use of the Pressfit system is
expected in the future due to its great benefits. |
Barriers
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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.
References
- Victaulic: 'Pressfit System', 1992.
- Victaulic Web page.
Disclaimer Statement
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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. |
MMS04/LHM
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