Press fit now available at Special Metric Materials!
Special Metric Materials is pleased to announce that we now stock the full range of M-Press fittings, further strengthening our comprehensive offering of tubes, pipes, and fittings for industrial and commercial applications.
This blog provides an overview of press fit technology, its advantages, how it integrates with our wider product range, and a practical guide to installation.
Press fittings are a modern pipe connection solution designed to create secure, permanent joints quickly and reliably. By using a mechanical press tool to compress the fitting onto the pipe, installers can achieve a strong, leak-free connection without welding, soldering, or threading.
This makes press fit systems an increasingly popular choice across industries such as manufacturing, HVAC, utilities, and process engineering.
What are press fittings?
Press fittings are precision-engineered pipe fittings that incorporate a sealing element—typically an O-ring—within the fitting. When the fitting is pressed onto a compatible pipe using a calibrated press tool, the fitting permanently deforms around the pipe, locking it in place and compressing the seal.
Press fit systems are commonly used with materials such as stainless steel, carbon steel, and copper, and are suitable for a wide range of applications, including:
- Compressed air systems
- Water distribution
- Heating and cooling systems
- Industrial process pipework
What are the advantages of press fittings?
Press fit technology offers several clear benefits over traditional jointing methods:
- Speed of installation: Connections can be made in seconds, significantly reducing labour time.
- Consistent quality: Each joint is formed using controlled pressing force, reducing variability and installer error.
- No hot works: No welding or soldering means improved site safety and no need for hot work permits.
- Clean installation: No flux, filler materials, or swarf contamination.
- Reliable sealing: Integrated sealing elements provide long-term leak resistance.
- Reduced downtime: Faster installation helps keep projects on schedule and systems operational sooner.
Press fittings within the SMM range of tubes and fittings
At Special Metric Materials, our new press fit range of products complements our extensive stock of:
- Stainless steel and carbon steel tubes
- Metric and imperial pipe systems
- Traditional compression and threaded fittings
- Flanges and specialist components
By adding the complete M-Press range to our inventory, we can now support customers who require both modern press fit solutions and traditional pipework components from a single, reliable supplier. This simplifies procurement and ensures compatibility across entire piping systems.
Overview of M-Press and their credentials
M-Press is a well-established manufacturer of high-quality press fit fittings, recognised for their robust design, consistent performance, and compliance with industry standards. Their products are engineered for demanding industrial environments, with a strong focus on:
- Dimensional accuracy
- High-grade materials
- Reliable sealing technology
- Compatibility with industry-standard press tools
M-Press fittings are widely used across the UK and Europe in applications where safety, durability, and efficiency are critical.
How press fittings are installed in a piping system
Press fittings are installed by inserting a prepared pipe into the fitting until it reaches the insertion depth, then using a press tool to crimp the fitting around the pipe. The pressing process creates a permanent mechanical joint and compresses the sealing element to prevent leaks.
Correct preparation and tool selection are essential to ensure a secure and compliant connection.
Here is a step-by-step press fit installation guide
Below is a general guide to installing press fittings. Always follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions and site safety requirements.
- Cut the pipe
Cut the pipe square using an appropriate pipe cutter. Avoid angled or rough cuts. - Deburr and clean
Remove internal and external burrs and ensure the pipe end is clean and free from debris. - Check the fitting
Confirm the correct fitting size and ensure the sealing element (O-ring) is correctly seated and undamaged. - Mark insertion depth
Mark the correct insertion depth on the pipe to confirm full engagement. - Insert the pipe
Push the pipe fully into the fitting until it reaches the marked depth. - Position the press tool
Place the correct press jaw over the fitting, ensuring proper alignment. - Press the fitting
Activate the press tool to complete the joint. The fitting will permanently deform around the pipe. - Inspect the joint
Visually check that the press is complete and even, and that the pipe remains fully inserted.
Examples Where Press Fittings Are Ideal for Key Industries
Press Fittings in Water & Waste Systems
Press fittings are particularly effective in water treatment facilities and distribution systems, where corrosion resistance and leak-free joints are essential. Their rapid installation and reliable seals make them a preferred choice for clean and wastewater piping applications.
Industrial Process Piping and Press Fit Solutions
In process industries, such as manufacturing and heavy industry, systems often run at high pressure and require dependable joints. Press fit technology minimises downtime during installation and maintenance, helping keep production processes moving efficiently.
Food & Drink Production Lines
Stainless steel press fittings are ideal for the food and drink sector, where hygiene and ease of cleaning are priorities. The absence of flux, solder, and open flames ensures compliance with strict cleanliness standards and reduces contamination risk.
Renewable Energy Projects
Renewable energy applications, such as bioenergy, solar thermal, and heat recovery systems, benefit from press fittings due to their fast deployment and long-lasting performance, especially in environments where routine inspections and replacements need to be minimised.
Chemical & Pharmaceutical Piping Networks
For chemical and pharmaceutical industries, where piping systems may transport hazardous or sensitive fluids, the secure, consistent joints created by press fittings reduce leak risk and contribute to safer operations under stringent regulatory standards.
Building Services and HVAC Installations
In building services, including HVAC, heating, and cooling installations, press fittings are ideal because they speed up installation and avoid hot works (like welding), improving safety on site and helping installers meet tight construction schedules.
Why Choose Special Metric Materials for Press Fit Products?
With the full M-Press range now in stock, Special Metric Materials offers:
- Immediate availability of press fittings
- Technical knowledge and product support
- A complete solution alongside our tube and pipe stock
- Reliable supply for ongoing projects and maintenance needs
