Threaded fittings or press fittings: which solution is more economical?
Anyone connecting pipes today has the choice between different joining methods. Threaded fittings and press fittings are often in direct competition with each other. Both systems fulfill their task, but they do so in different ways and with different economic costs. This article shows which solution is actually more economical in which situation.
Threaded fittings: proven technology with clear strengths
The threaded fitting has been in use for generations. The connection technology is simple, robust and requires no special tools. A pipe cutter, a thread cutter and sealing material are all that is needed for installation. This is a considerable advantage for plumbing companies working with existing installations: the parts are available everywhere, the installation is familiar and the apprentice can join in after a short briefing.
Threaded fittings made of malleable cast iron in accordance with DIN EN 10242 are also mechanically very resilient and can be installed even in difficult spaces because no pressing machine needs to be moved. For warehousing, this means less capital tied up in tool stock.
Press fittings: speed and secure connection
Press fittings create a form-fit connection in seconds. Pressing with the electric pressing tool is fast, reproducible and, if carried out correctly, tight. For new build installations with many similar connection points and long straight pipe sections, this is a real time saver.
The AQUAGAS-V system from HS Fittings, for example, is designed for copper pipes in accordance with DIN EN 1057, is double DVGW-certified for drinking water, heating and gas and uses the V-contour, which can be processed with numerous commercially available pressing tools. The “unpressed and leaking” safety feature reliably indicates unpressed connections before the pressure test.
The economic comparison in practice
In a direct cost comparison, press fittings are often initially more expensive in terms of material. However, this changes when you consider the entire assembly process. Press fittings are quicker to prepare, and connections can be made in half the time under favorable conditions. For large projects with high volumes, this time advantage outweighs the higher material costs.
Threaded fittings, on the other hand, are more economical when it comes to individual connections, when working in existing buildings or when the pipe system makes subsequent conversions likely. Threads can be loosened and resealed. A crimped connection is permanent and cannot be loosened.
Susceptibility to errors and installation safety
Threaded connections are prone to errors if the thread is not cut cleanly or the sealing material is applied incorrectly. Leaks due to insufficient hemp or incorrect PTFE tape are a well-known problem. Press fittings do not have this risk, but they do have another risk: forgotten or incorrectly executed pressing. The “unpressed and leaking” safety principle of AQUAGAS V addresses precisely this risk and makes it visible during the pressure test.
Conclusion: Decide on threaded fittings or press fittings depending on the application
Neither threaded fittings nor press fittings are the better choice across the board. The decision depends on project size, stock situation, tool availability and installation conditions. HS Fittings offers both systems in proven quality. We will be happy to discuss which solution is right for your project. Get in touch and tell us about your requirements.
