Our “Fittings” tab has a lot to choose from, including a dozen different brands and just as many connection methods. So you’re probably asking yourself “Where do you start? Which brands can you trust with a secure hold for potable water, fire sprinkler systems, fuels, gases, and lubricants?” Don’t get pressed—just read this blog to relieve the pressure!
For those who are interested in a new plumbing system, Viega has a compact housing called a MANABLOC. This comes in two styles: crimp and PEX Press. Several competitor brands have tools for crimping, but only Viega manufactures a PEX Press tool specific to their MANABLOCs. Installation is simple, as you position the tool over the press sleeve and tubing, squeeze down to close the jaws, and continue ratcheting until the tool automatically releases.
Fittings compatible with this tool contain zero lead, and their bronze material provides the installer (and homeowners) peace of mind because of its strong dezincification properties. These can be utilized in plumbing and heating applications. Viega PEX Press fittings have a 10-year limited warranty.
Ready to become a part of the non-metal fittings movement that several companies, including Viega and Uponor, have created product lines for? Check out Viega’s PEX Press polymer fittings! These also have zero lead and a Smart Connect feature, meaning installers can easily identify if there are any unpressed connections. PEX Press polymer items are suitable for use in potable water and radiant heat systems. Polymer is less corrosive and not affected by minerals in the water, making them a reliable substitute. Viega lists them with the same limited warranty as PEX Press bronze fittings and notes their origin as U.S.A.
PROPress
There are several types of Viega PROPress products to fit your every need in the plumbing and heating industry: PROPress, PROPress SS, and PROPress G. The original PROPress is used on copper pipe for potable water, fire sprinkler systems, and compressed air. PROPress SS works solely with stainless steel pipe (hence the “SS”). This version is used for water, acidic chemicals, fuels, and gases. Also used with copper pipe, but for fuel oils and fuel/non-fuel gases, the PROPress G is an option if you are working with any of those systems.
For all of these fittings, they are available in sizes 1/2” to 2”, except for the original PROPress, which can go up to 4”. Not only can these be used with many types of systems, but they also come in any size you could possibly need for each job!
Disclaimer: Please note that, as of July 1, 2019, the use of the copper PROPress G fittings are no longer approved by American standards. Viega’s product management stated, “This decision is based on changes in test methodology for CSA 6.32 / ANSI LC-4. Press-connect metallic fittings for use in fuel gas distribution systems and affects fittings and valves in section 1.2 for the 2019 Viega Product Guide.” The issue is not that the product doesn’t work; it lies in the updating of national standards regarding the use of copper.
Similar to their PROPress siblings in the Viega family, there are multiple versions of the MegaPress. These fittings work with steel/black iron pipe unless noted otherwise. Each type has a letter or two that identifies what application each fitting is engineered for. For example, MegaPress G works for oils, fuel/non-fuel gases, and lubricants. (Fun fact: they are also approved for underground usage.) MegaPress XL works on the same systems, but comes in—as you might have guessed—larger sizes (2-1/2” to 4” to be exact).
The one MegaPress product that works with stainless steel pipe will have “SS” attached to its title. Typical uses include low pressure steam, lubricants, non-potable water, compressed air, and acidic chemicals. A key feature in this product is what kind of stainless steel works for different kinds of systems. SS316 can be used with potable water whereas SS304 cannot.
Besides the difference in metals, the sealing elements account for one of the main differences between the PROPress and MegaPress fittings. Each style has a colored dot (or sticker) on them to help installers determine which type of application these are used for.
- EPDM symbolizes used with potable water, hydronic heating, fire sprinklers, and compressed air. This seal will have green and orange markings.
- HNBR represents propane, diesel, and fuel oil applications. These are marked with the color yellow.
- FKM indicates solar, steam, chemical, and compressed air uses. Such is marked with white.
Hopefully this post gives you an idea where to start in sifting through the hundreds of fittings on our website. As always, feel free to contact us if any of your questions weren’t answered above! Click here to view the variety of Viega pex press/ copper press/MegaPress fittings and compatible tools on our website.
