Enabling flame-free pipe joining in seconds

Victaulic, the world's leading manufacturer of mechanical pipe joining systems, introduces Vic-Press, a flame-free press system that joins pipe in a matter of seconds. Vic-Press, the industry’s first ANSI Schedule 10S pipe sized press-to-connect system designed for off-the-shelf ASTM A-312 Schedule 10S stainless steel pipe, is an industrial-grade solution for quickly and reliably joining small-diameter piping systems. Vic-Press offers increased strength and durability and improved flow characteristics compared to light-wall tube systems; safer, more efficient pipe assembly than welding, threading and flanging; and meets or exceeds industry standards.

Vic-Press is used with standard Schedule 10S stainless steel pipe, which offers increased strength and durability and eliminates the need to stock specialty pipe. The pipe-wall thickness of ANSI Schedule 10S pipe is up to double that of light-wall tube, and as a result, Vic-Press offers a superior life cycle, up to three times the end-load performance, up to twice the bend-load performance, up to a 52% increase in available flow, and up to a 23% reduction in pressure drop per 100 linear feet (30 meters) of pipe over tube-sized systems.

The Vic-Press system is quick, simple and safe to install. Pipe is cut to size and deburred, marked for visual verification, and inserted into a lubricated coupling, fitting or valve. The Victaulic PFT510 handheld pressing tool is used to press the component onto the pipe-end, providing a positive mechanical interlock and creating a rigid, permanent, leak-tight joint. Patent-pending press detection technology enables the installer to confirm any unpressed joints as the system is filled. The Vic-Press system requires 70% fewer man-hours than welding to install, and significantly reduces rework. No flame or arc is required as with welding, reducing risk to workers and surroundings.

With pressure tolerances up to 500 psi (3450 kPa), Vic-Press exceeds ANSI class 150 standards. Vic-Press meets ASME B31.1, 31.3 and 31.9 support requirements. The system is also ANSI/NSF 61 certified for potable water up to 180 degrees Fahrenheit (82 degrees Celsius).

The Vic-Press system is available for ½ to 2-inch (15-50 millimeter) Type 304/304L and Type 316/316L pipe. Vic-Press products feature Grade “H” HNBR gaskets, suitable for services up to 210 degrees Fahrenheit (98 degrees Celsius). Alternative materials, including EPDM, fluoroelastomer and silicone, are available for services up to 250 degrees Fahrenheit (121 degrees Celsius). Vic-Press is ideal for a number of wet and dry industrial and commercial applications, including potable water, oil, compressed air, lubricated air, noncombustible gases and general chemical services.