How do press fittings fit into the next HVAC/R project?

HVAC/R insights

• The training center is the latest addition to RLS’s 80,000-square-foot headquarters facility and will serve as a one-stop-shop for engineers to learn about evolving industry trends, and how to successfully implement press fittings to maximize their businesses.
• Sean Kelleher, director of engineering for RLS, highlighted the fact that trends, such as safety and environmental issues, have driven the market for press fittings.

Rapid Locking System (RLS) celebrated the grand opening of its training center and mobile showroom April 18 in St. Louis. The training center positions RLS as a leader in heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R) education.

The center allows for engineers to learn about evolving industry trends, and how to successfully install and implement press fittings. Training center visitors can participate in live press fitting demonstrations, receive a training certification and behind-the-scenes tour the RLS facility.

Figure 1: The RLS mobile showroom features a virtual reality aspect that will allow users to tour the RLS facility and create their own virtual press fitting without ever setting foot in the actual building. Courtesy: Consulting-Specifying Engineer

Separately, a mobile showroom vehicle is equipped to travel, and features a virtual reality aspect that will allow users to tour the RLS facility and create their own virtual press fitting without ever setting foot in the actual building.

At the event, Sean Kelleher, director of engineering at RLS, spoke to Consulting-Specifying Engineer.

Traditional braze connections require high-temperature flame and the use of braze alloy that melts above 1,000°F. Press connections, on the other hand, use a press tool like plumbing or HVAC/R fittings and eliminate the need for heat and flame.

Common misconceptions about press fittings include concerns about strength and safety. Press fittings are designed to hold higher pressures and have been in the market for about 10 years, with field data and feedback supporting their effectiveness. Compatibility with different fluids is also a concern, but press fittings can be used with various fluids, including refrigerants.

Figure 2: The commitment by RLS to a training center allows the company to continue to invest in fostering growth and innovation within the HVAC/R industry. Courtesy: Consulting-Specifying Engineer

According to Kelleher, there are specific types of projects that benefit from specifying press fittings in various building types. “Retrofit or repairs, especially in historic buildings, is a good project to consider. Also, high-traffic areas can be more easily updated because they don’t have to be evacuated,” he said.

Kelleher also pointed to mission critical facilities or areas with high-dollar equipment as good candidates for press fittings.

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