Known for its exceptional durability and corrosion-resistance, stainless steel is used in a vast range of applications. From kitchen appliances to buildings and bridges, this versatile alloy is everywhere.
Stainless steel is often used for press-fit piping because its unique properties make it a reliable option for various applications and environments.
In this article, we unpack what press-fit is and which applications are most suited to stainless steel press-fit.
What is stainless steel?
Stainless steel is a steel alloy containing at least 10.5% chromium. It is known for its functionality and is widely used as a reliable and hygienic option for piping applications in healthcare, food and beverage, industrial gas, and more. It is widely used for its unique combination of characteristics:
- Strong
- Durable
- High tensile strength
- Resistant to extreme temperatures
- Recyclable
- Low maintenance
- Corrosion resistant
Stainless steel's ability to withstand the test of time and maintain its integrity has earned it a well-deserved reputation as a reliable choice for many applications.
What is press-fit?
Designed to simplify and reduce installation time, press fit is an easy-to-use, modular piping system requiring no hot works. Instead, the joins are pressed together using a battery-powered tool that uses hydraulic force to create a mechanical interlock. Press-fit joints are leak-free, secure, and permanent – even in high-pressure or high-temperature applications.
Furthermore, stainless steel press-fit eliminates the need for open flame or heat, further enhancing overall safety and ease of installation. This helps reduce the overall installation costs and time spent on hot work permits.
The strength of a press-fit connection is created through a two-stage deformation process. Firstly, radial deformation compresses the O-ring in the toroidal chamber to ensure the pipe is hermetically sealed. Then, the geometric deformation of both the fitting and tube creates a mechanical interlock which is resistant to lateral and rotational movement.
Benefits of stainless steel press-fit piping
If you think press-fit piping sounds like a good option, the next decision to make is which material is right for your application. Below, we have highlighted the key reasons why stainless steel could be the right choice.
1. Corrosion resistance
Due to the chromium it contains, stainless steel press-fit has high corrosion-resistance. This means it has an extremely low susceptibility to rust and is well protected from environmental factors, some chemicals, and moisture.
2. Durability and longevity
Stainless steel press-fit has excellent durability and withstands high temperatures and pressure without deformation or failure. In comparison to other piping materials, like galvanised or PVC, it is less prone to cracks, leaks, and fractures, and offers a more reliable and longer-lasting performance.
3. Hygienic
Stainless steel has a smooth and non-porous surface, making it easy to clean and resistant to bacterial growth. This makes it one of the most hygienic materials for press-fit applications like those in the food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and healthcare industries. Whilst press-fit can be used in a hygienic environment, it is important to note that press-fit is recommended for general service pipelines, not for pipelines carrying food products.
4. Thermal resistance
Stainless steel has among the lowest thermal conductivity of any metal, making it suitable for high-temperature applications. This means it can maintain its structural integrity and performance at extreme temperatures.
Common applications for stainless steel press-fit piping
Stainless steel press-fit piping is a cost-effective and efficient choice for a wide variety of industries:
- Food and beverage
- Pharmaceutical
- Manufacturing
- Industrial
- Mining
- Marine
- Fire protection
Hot and cold water
Due to its high levels of corrosion-resistance, strength, and longevity, stainless steel press-fit is one of the most effective solutions for hot and cold water systems. With reliable leak resistance, it also ensures efficient water distribution and reduces the potential for water contamination and waste.
In these water systems, it is common for the pipes to expand and contract due to temperature fluctuations. Stainless steel can allow for this and accommodate thermal changes without compromising the connection’s integrity.
Compressed air
Due to the reliable seal it provides, stainless steel press-fit is a reliable and efficient piping system for compressed air. The seal minimises the risk of leaks and energy waste, and ensures system performance is consistent. However, it is important that the press-fit fittings are rated to the pressure requirements to ensure safe and effective operation.
Industrial gases
Due to its high corrosion-resistance, stainless steel press-fit is often used for various industrial gas applications. Common examples include oxygen, nitrogen, and hydrogen, which can be corrosive to other materials.
Stainless steel prevents leaks and failures caused by corrosion. However, some highly reactive gases may require specialised fittings for optimal safety and performance so check compatibility first or ask our experts.
Chemical lines
Reliable and leak-free connections are vital for chemical lines, both in terms of safety and efficiency. Firstly, it is critical to ensure compatibility of a chemical with each piping system. It is important to check the material safety data sheet to determine the exact composition of a chemical to confirm compatibility.
It is also critical to consider system factors such as the operating, maximum, and minimum temperatures because chemicals will react differently at varying temperatures.
Whilst stainless steel is not compatible with all chemicals, it is compatible with a wider range of chemicals than most materials, making it more suitable for these applications. More specifically with press-fit, it is also important to consider the compatibility of the O-ring seal with the chemical.
Oil lines
When combined with fluoroelastomer (FKM) seals, stainless steel press-fit provides enhanced leak resistance for oil lines. The durability and corrosion-resistance of stainless steel means it can come into contact with various types of oils, lubricants, and fluids. This allows pipes to effectively contain and transport oil with no risk of leakage.
In this application, it is important to also consider the operating pressure of the oil system. Some oil systems operate at high pressures, around 40 Bar. Not all press-fit systems have approval to operate at this pressure so it is important that appropriate testing and certification is provided.
Fire sprinkler systems
When protecting against fire, sprinkler system failure must be avoided at all costs. Stainless steel is a durable and reliable solution for this application due to its ability to withstand high temperatures and retain the integrity of each joint.
In addition, its resistance to corrosion makes stainless steel a preferred option for corrosive environments and its hygienic benefits make it a great solution for fire sprinklers in food and beverage plants.
The aesthetic appeal of a press-fit connection compared to a threaded or roll groove connection also make it attractive for fire sprinklers in a highly visible situation.
Europress stainless steel press-fit
Here at Waterworks, we’ve supplied Europress pipes and fittings since 2013. Europress is suited to a vast range of industries and can lead to project savings of up to 30%. The Europress range is a top-quality example of press-fit piping, and is available in carbon steel as well as stainless steel.
It uses a specialised hydraulic pressing tool that applies pressing jaws or chains, sometimes called pressing collars, over the crimp-end and joining the pipe in a single step. While it doesn’t replace welded systems, it does offer an efficient alternative for general services such as:
- Hot and cold water reticulation and transfer
- Potable water
- Fire sprinklers
- Compressed air
- Industrial gases
- Chemical lines
- Oil and lubricant lines
- Vacuum
- Glycol
Key benefits of Europress include quick modular installation, reduced downtime, reliability, and safety. Europress has built a solid reputation as a high-quality European product which installers can trust.
Click below to discover the full range of tubes, fittings, flanges, valves, brackets, and tooling available in the Europress range.
