Pressing pipes is pretty routine work for plumbers and other tradesmen. Over a billion press fittings are installed in the United States annually. Various tools are used to modify and form pipes into multiple shapes to accommodate each project’s needs.
Why Use a Press Tool for Copper and Black Pipe?
At AcmeTools.com, we always look for ways to make our work more efficient while speeding up productivity without sacrificing quality. Additionally, the press method creates a secure connection between copper or black pipe joints much more efficiently than solder or open flame.
The press tool uses a press-to-connect method to create a quick, reliable, completely watertight seal. You never need to worry about the joint or the repaired pipe bursting at the pressed location. Moreover, using a press tool allows you to work in tighter spaces than you could reach with traditional pipe repair tools. The pressing tool will enable you to repair leaks on all plumbing pipes in tight spaces.
Types of Press Tools
- Ridgid RP 340 – One of the smaller press tools, this lightweight model maximizes uptime vs the RP 330B and offers more than 400 presses per charge.
- Milwaukee M18 Force Logic Long Throw Press Tool – The sleek inline design of the M18 makes maneuvering around pipes easy. The press indicator on the M18 lets you verify a fitting’s connection to ensure a quality fit.
- Dewalt 20 V Max Press Tool – This little tool has a pivoting head that rotates 320 degrees to help facilitate working in tight spaces. The onboard lighting provides excellent task lighting and communicates with an off-board computer for recording crimping data.
Press Jaws
Press jaws are available in various sizes to ensure you can consistently achieve the perfect seal. Ensure the jaws you purchase are designed to work with the type of press tool you own. One of the best options for plumbers who need a press tool and press jaws is to purchase a press tool kit. Most kits include the press tool and a variety of jaws, too.
How-To Guide for Joining Copper or Black Pipes Together:
- Measure and cut the pipe to the desired length.
- Deburr the inside of the pipe.
- Measure the depth of the sockets to be pressed.
- Mark the pipe to match the depth of the joint.
- Fit the pipe into the joint to the depth marked to ensure it is inserted fully.
- Choose the jaw that is the proper size for your joint and fit it onto the pressing tool.
- Place the jaws of the press tool over the bead of the fitting.
- Keep the tool square.
- Begin the crimping process.
- Release when the crimp is complete.
