Copper Press vs Solder Ring Fittings

Discover the key differences between Copper Press and Solder Ring fittings, including their pros, cons, and best uses. Learn more here.

Last Updated: Sep 4, 2024

Choosing the right type of fitting is crucial for ensuring a secure, efficient, and durable plumbing or heating installation. Copper Press fittings and Solder Ring fittings are two popular options, each offering unique advantages depending on the application.

Understanding their differences can help you make an informed decision that best suits your project needs. This guide provides an in-depth comparison of Copper Press and Solder Ring fittings, detailing their features, benefits, installation processes, and ideal use cases.

What Are Copper Press Fittings?

Copper Press fittings are modern, flame-free connectors that use mechanical force to create a secure, watertight seal between the fitting and the pipe. These fittings are installed using a specialised press tool, which compresses the fitting around the pipe, ensuring a consistent and reliable connection.

Copper Press

Explore Flowflex Copper Press fittings, perfect for various applications including domestic, commercial, and industrial. These heat-free, visually appealing joints ensure quick, efficient installations. With WRAS approval and sizes ranging from 15mm to 108mm, they offer a dependable and economical solution. Click to see our full range of M-Profile Copper Press fittings.

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Key Features of A Copper Press Connection

  • The Fitting Body: Made from copper, the body is designed to fit around the pipe and is often marked with indicators showing where to place the press tool.

  • The Sealing Ring: Typically made from EPDM, the sealing ring is compressed during installation to form a watertight seal.

  • The Copper Pipe: Manufactured to BS EN 1057 standards.

Advantages of Copper Press Connections

  • Fast and Easy Installation
    The installation of Press Fittings is very quick, saving time compared to other methods like soldering, brazing or using Compression Fittings.

  • Minimal Training Required
    Unlike more traditional methods, Press Fittings are easy to learn and use.

  • No Flame Required
    Since no heat is used, Press fittings are ideal for installations in areas where flames are restricted or pose a fire risk.

  • Reliable and Leak-Proof
    When installed correctly, Press fittings provide a secure, leak-proof connection that meets industry standards.

  • Can Be Installed When Wet
    No need to drain water out of the system during installation

  • Environmentally Friendly
    Copper, Brass and Steel are all highly recyclable materials, making metal Press Fittings an environmentally friendly option for your project.

  • Neat, Aesthetic Appearance
    Press fittings offer a sleek, professional look that is great when aesthetics are important. Their streamlined design blends seamlessly with the pipework, making them suitable for visible applications in both residential and commercial settings.

  • Versatile Applications
    Press Fittings are suitable for hot and cold water, heating systems, compressed air, and some gas applications (depending on the type of o-ring used).

  • Reduced Risk of Installation Errors
    The precision of the press tool minimises the risk of errors during installation. The tool’s built-in safety features, such as press indicators, ensure that each fitting is correctly compressed, resulting in a secure and leak-proof connection.

Disadvantages of Copper Press Connections

  • Higher Initial Cost
    Press fittings and the required press tool are more expensive upfront compared to other more traditional methods.

  • Tool Dependency
    A specialised press tool is necessary for installation, which can be costly and requires maintenance.

  • Limited Access in Tight Spaces
    Press tools may have difficulty accessing fittings in confined spaces, making installation challenging in certain scenarios.

Best Use Cases For Copper Press Fittings

  1. Commercial and Industrial Plumbing
    Copper Press fittings are perfect for large-scale installations where speed and consistency are essential, providing a quick and reliable connection with minimal effort.

  2. Heat Free Installations
    Copper Press fittings are an excellent choice for installations where the use of an open flame is not permitted, ensuring a safe and efficient connection without the need for soldering.

  3. Low Skilled Installations
    Press fittings are perfect for commercial applications that require minimal specialised skills. Their user-friendly design and simple, secure connections make them suitable for a broad range of users.

What Are Solder Ring Fittings?

Solder Ring Fittings are a type of soldered fitting used primarily with copper pipes. These fittings consist of a simple fitting body that is pre-soldered by the manufacturer. The joint is made by heating the fitting and pipe with a torch, which releases the solder into the joint to create a strong, permanent seal.

Close up image showing the inside of a Solder Ring fitting

Solder Ring

Discover Flowflex Solder Ring Fittings, designed for quick and easy installation. Lead-free and pre-soldered, they fit perfectly in tight spaces, ensuring secure connections. Available in sizes from 8mm to 54mm, these fittings are WRAS approved and guaranteed for 25 years. Click to explore our high-quality, reliable solutions.

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Key Components of An Solder Ring Connection

  • Fitting Body: Made of copper or brass, designed to fit snugly around copper pipe manufactured to BS EN 1057 standards.

  • Copper Pipe: Copper tube manufactured to BS EN 1057 standards.

  • Solder: A metal alloy used to bond the fitting and pipe together when heated.

  • Flux: A chemical cleaning agent applied to the joint before soldering to prevent oxidation and ensure a strong and clean bond.

How Solder Ring Fittings Work

Solder Ring Fittings rely on capillary action. They are heated to point that allows solder inside the fitting to flow into the small gap between the fitting and the pipe, creating a secure and watertight seal, once cooled.

Performance of Solder Ring Fittings

Soldered Fittings made to BS EN 1254 standards can differ widely in performance depending on the solder type and fitting size. Flowflex Solder Ring fittings are lead-free, allowing them to withstand pressures up to 25 Bar under normal conditions.

For full specifications of Flowflex Solder Ring Fittings, please consult the technical documentation on the product page.

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Solder Ring

Advantages of Solder Ring Fittings

  • Strong, Permanent Joints
    Soldered joints create a durable, leak-proof seal that can withstand high pressure and temperature changes.

  • Can Support Higher Pressures
    Depending on the choice of solder, Capillary Fittings can reach pressure ratings of PN25.

  • Environmentally Friendly Material
    Copper is a sustainable and recyclable material, making capillary fittings an environmentally friendly option.

  • Compact Design
    Soldered fittings are sleek and low-profile, making them ideal for exposed installations where aesthetics matter or tight spaces where access is limited.

  • Cost-Effective
    Generally cheaper than other types of fittings, making them popular for large installations.

  • Highly Reliable
    Minimal risk of leaks when installed correctly due to the solid bond between the fitting and the pipe.

  • Speedy Installations
    Solder Ring Fittings come pre-soldered, making installation faster and easier compared to End Feed Fittings.

Disadvantages of Solder Ring Fittings

  • Requires Open Flame
    The use of a torch introduces safety risks, particularly in areas where flammable materials are present or where heat is restricted.

  • Higher Skill Level Required
    Proper soldering technique is crucial; poor preparation or overheating can result in weak joints or leaks.

Comparing Copper Press Fittings and Solder Ring Fittings

Copper Press Fittings

Solder Ring Fittings

Installation

Fast, flame-free installation using a press tool; no solder required.

Requires heating with a torch to melt the pre-installed solder and seal the joint.

Safety

No open flame needed, making them safer in confined or flammable areas.

Requires an open flame, which can pose fire risks in certain environments.

Skill Level

Easy to master; the press tool automates the sealing, reducing the chance of errors.

Easier than traditional soldering but still requires moderate skill to handle heating correctly.

Performance

Rated up to PN16.

Depending on the solder and conditions, it can be rated up to PN25.

Aesthetics

Neat, compact, and professional look that complements the Copper Pipe.

Clean, polished finish that blends well with copper pipes.

Maintenance and Reusability

Permanent once pressed; fittings are not designed for reuse.

Permanent fittings that are not reusable after installation.

Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between Copper Press and Solder Ring fittings depends on your project’s specific needs, budget, and the environment in which you’re working:

Choose Copper Press Fittings If:

  • You need a fast, flame-free installation with minimal downtime.

  • The project requires a sleek, professional finish.

  • You’re working on a large-scale installation where speed and reliability are crucial.

Choose Solder Ring Fittings If:

  • You prefer more traditional methods but want a simplified, cost-effective soldering process that’s easy to handle.

  • You need to reach higher pressure levels.

Conclusion

Copper Press and Solder Ring fittings each bring unique advantages to plumbing and heating installations. Copper Press fittings offer a modern, efficient, and flame-free solution, ideal for quick turnarounds and commercial settings. On the other hand, Solder Ring fittings provide a traditional, reliable, and cost-effective option with an easier installation process that can achieve higher pressure ratings, making them a strong choice for various applications.

By understanding the strengths and limitations of each type, you can make the best choice for your needs, ensuring a secure, efficient, and professional installation.

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