Conex Bänninger leading the ‘press-fit’ revolution targeting apprentices at the start of their career

As part of this ongoing campaign, it has linked-up with HIP – the magazine for plumbing and heating apprentices – to take part in a series of ‘Meet the Manufacturer’ sessions with college lecturers to further highlight the advantages of press-fit and bring it to a new generation of apprentices.

HIP hosts nine of these annual regional events across the UK, offering manufacturers a platform to showcase and demonstrate their products to college lecturers. These sessions coincide with the HIP Learner of the Year and Female Skills Competition.

As part of this promotional activity with HIP, Conex Bänninger has sole sponsorship of the ‘press-fit’ range in its student handbook, which is distributed to colleges up and down the UK.

Conex Bänninger is the global leader in the manufacture of fittings, valves and accessories and has trained over 300 students to date on how to install >B< Press as part of its commitment to support the future of the industry.

Training has taken place at various educational establishments including The Energy Training Academy in Dalkeith, Scotland, Dudley College of Technology, Stoke-on-Trent College, and Walsall College.

Lisa Cox, Conex Bänninger’s National Sales Manager – UK and Ireland, commented: “Press-fit has helped to revolutionise the plumbing and heating sector due to the speed of installation when joining pipe compared to brazing. It is flame-free and therefore no hot-works licence or a subsequent fire watch is needed when working on site. Whilst brazing has its place and apprentices are taught this in colleges, many going forward will convert to press-fit.

“Our >B< Press fittings are available in copper and copper alloy and are quick and easy to install thereby reducing installation time and cost.”

An innovative 3-point press system (up to 54mm) ensures a secure, permanent leak-free joint suitable for multiple applications. Within its innovative design is an unpressed joint indicator that assists in identifying any unpressed joints. If any joints have been missed, it provides installers with a ‘safety-net’.

Compatible with a range of press tools and jaws, >B< Press fittings are suitable for multiple applications including: drinking water, hot water heaters, local and district heating, chilled and cooling water and rainwater.

Lisa Cox concluded: “Any company or installer can undertake >B< Press training from us either through Teams, booking and attending a session at our training HQ or we can provide on-site training.”