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Melbourne student block turns to >B< MaxiPro as the pipework jointing solution

Date:
2019
Product:
>B< MaxiPro
Contractor:
AusCool Air Conditioning and Mechanical Services
Client:
GSA
Location:
Melbourne, Australia
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Background

When AusCool Air Conditioning and Mechanical Services was appointed to install a new air-con system in a 21-storey student block in Melbourne, it turned to Conex Bänninger’s press fittings as the pipework jointing solution.

Products

The mix of studio, multi-bedroom and duplex apartments were developed by global construction company GSA and will house more than 300 students. The block also includes a gym, laundry and cinema.

Andrew Hume, Director of AusCool, said: “When setting out on a job such as this one, cost of labour and the speed of installation are important factors for us to consider. Using press as an alternative to brazing or solder makes our workload lighter and allows us to work quickly, efficiently and save money at the same time.

“With the cost of labour these days, it is important for us to find the most cost-effective way of working by looking out for innovative products that reduce the amount of time we spend on a site.

“We were tasked with installing more than 40 Mitsubishi air conditioning units across the large student complex and specifying Conex Bänninger’s >B< MaxiPro meant that we didn’t have to wheel any large gas bottles around the site for welding and nitrogen purging.

“It eliminated the risk of fire on site and as we didn’t have to wait for hot works permits, we were able to start work at the site straight away.”

AusCool specified up to 1,000 >B< MaxiPro fittings to connect the extensive pipework throughout the development.

As a mechanical joint, >B< MaxiPro has been designed to eliminate the need for a nitrogen purge during the jointing process. It has been engineered to cope with high operating pressures that are required in air conditioning and refrigeration installations, allowing for up to a maximum 48 bar, with a permanent maximum operating temperature range of -40°C to 121°C.

>B< MaxiPro has the benefit of a 3-point press, with one press on each side of the bead and the third compressing the O-ring, giving installers peace of mind that they have provided a secure and leak-free joint.

Andrew added: “We haven’t been using Conex Bänninger’s range of press fittings for very long, but we have had a great experience so far. We will continue to use the products, particularly >B< MaxiPro.

“Our team of engineers have liked working with the >B< MaxiPro range and particularly enjoy that it speeds up our time working on a job, especially one as large as GSA’s student accommodation in Melbourne. The fittings are simple and easy to use, which meant my team were able to complete >B< MaxiPro joints with ease.

“Conex Bänninger’s press fittings have allowed us to stay a few steps ahead of our competitors. >B< MaxiPro speeds up our lead time, which is attractive for construction companies that look to use our services.

“We worked closely with Conex Bänninger’s Specification Manager Nick Ryan throughout the entire process. He helped us understand the process and benefits of press fit. We’re looking forward to working with him again.”

AusCool Air Conditioning and Mechanical Services is based in Melbourne and  focuses on HVAC installations for commercial, retail and local authority properties in and around Melbourne.

Launched by Andrew in 2004 from his garage, the company now employs more than 75 full-time staff, as well as numerous sub-contractors.